Hochschild Regulatory News (HOC)

19 Aug 2009 07:00



19 August 2009 

Hochschild Mining plc  Interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2009 

* Stake increased from 17% to 24% on 20 July 2009 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Highlights for the six months ended 30 June 2009 

($ millions, unless stated)	Six months ended 30 June 2009	Six months ended 30 June 2008	% change
Attributable silver production (koz)	9,250	7,443	24%
Attributable gold production (koz)	78	74	5%
Revenue	230.6	231.8	(1%)
Adjusted EBITDA1	100.2	107.7	(7%)
Attributable profit after tax (before exceptionals)	18.7	38.9	(52%)
Attributable profit after tax (after exceptionals)	24.7	32.7	(24%)
Earnings per share (before exceptionals)	0.06	0.13	(54%)
Earnings per share (after exceptionals)	0.08	0.11	(27%)

1 Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as profit from continuing operations before exceptional items, net finance costs, foreign exchange (loss)/gain and income tax excluding depreciation, amortisation and exploration costs other than personnel and other expenses

Commenting on the results, Eduardo Hochschild, Executive Chairman, said: 

"I am pleased to announce encouraging first half results showing strong production and effective cost management against a backdrop of lower year-on-year precious metal prices and continued economic uncertainty. Our exploration programme is delivering promising results and we have also secured a number of exciting opportunities which support our consolidation strategy, reinforce our strong geographical position in the Americas and strengthen our growth profile."

Miguel Aramburú, CEO, said:

"We have adapted and restructured quickly in the face of testing economic conditions and generated record production in the first half. Despite current market volatility, we remain positive about the fundamentals for precious metals and with our ongoing focus on costs and cash generation we look to the future with confidence." 

A presentation will be held at 9.30am (London time) on Wednesday 19 August 2009 for analysts and investors.

Dial in details as follows:

UK+44 (0)203 037 9098

A recording of the conference call will be available for one week following its conclusion, accessible from the following telephone numbers:

UK+44 (0)208 196 1998

Access code: 7521788# 

Enquiries:
Hochschild Mining plc
Isabel Lutgendorf, Head of Investor Relations	+44 (0)20 7907 2934
Finsbury
Robin Walker	+44 (0)20 7251 3801

About Hochschild Mining plc:

Hochschild Mining plc is a leading precious metals company listed on the London Stock Exchange (HOCM.L / HOC LN) with a primary focus on the exploration, mining, processing and sale of silver and gold. Hochschild has over forty years' experience in the mining of precious metal epithermal vein deposits and currently operates four underground epithermal vein mines, three located in southern Peru, one in southern Argentina and one open pit mine in northern Mexico. Hochschild also has numerous long-term prospects throughout the Americas. 

Forward looking statements

This announcement contains certain forward looking statements, including such statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In particular, such forward looking statements may relate to matters such as the business, strategy, investments, production, major projects and their contribution to expected production and other plans of Hochschild Mining plc and its current goals, assumptions and expectations relating to its future financial condition, performance and results. 

Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements typically containing words such as "intends", "expects", "anticipates", "targets", "plans", "estimates" and words of similar import. By their nature, forward looking statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will or may occur in the future. Actual results, performance or achievements of Hochschild Mining plc may be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to differences between the actual results, performance or achievements of Hochschild Mining plc and current expectations include, but are not limited to, legislative, fiscal and regulatory developments, competitive conditions, technological developments, exchange rate fluctuations and general economic conditions. These factors, risks and uncertainties are referred to in the section of this announcement entitled 'Risks' which, in turn, refers to matters disclosed in the Risk Management section of the 2008 Annual Report. Past performance is no guide to future performance and persons needing advice should consult an independent financial adviser.

The forward looking statements reflect knowledge and information available at the date of preparation of this announcement. Except as required by the Listing Rules and applicable law, the Board of Hochschild Mining plc does not undertake any obligation to update or change any forward looking statements to reflect events occurring after the date of this announcement. Nothing in this announcement should be construed as a profit or production forecast.

Chairman's Statement 

By the end of 2008, we were in the process of implementing a number of measures to prepare our business for the challenges associated with unstable precious metal prices and economic uncertainty. We aggressively focused on producing profitable ounces and despite challenging market conditions, we made a commitment to increase production, reduce unit cost per tonne and lower administrative expenses. 

I am pleased to say that we have delivered on all our promises during the first six months of the year: production increased by 17%, unit cost per tonne decreased by 10% and administrative expenses reduced by 34%. Silver prices, however, were on average 22% lower than the equivalent period last year. Whilst we cannot control precious metal prices, the measures taken at the end of 2008 demonstrate our ability to adapt quickly, restructure and efficiently plan for the future.

Interim Results 

With record first half production of 13.9 million attributable silver equivalent ounces, up 17% over the equivalent period in 2008, I am delighted to report that we are well on track to achieve our full year target of 28 million attributable silver equivalent ounces, comprised of 19.1 million ounces of silver and 148,200 ounces of gold. 

Despite lower silver prices, revenues were flat at $230.6 million, helped by increased production following the completion of capacity expansions at three of our five mines in the second half of 2008. Revenue was negatively impacted by higher commercial discounts associated with the sale of concentrate which resulted in the Group's announcing, in June 2009, a $25-30 million investment to convert Arcata's concentrate to doré, which commands much lower commercial discounts than concentrate. 

Our continued focus on operational efficiency and cost reduction has paid off with administrative expenses down by 34% during the period. I am also delighted to report a 10% decrease in unit cost per tonne across our underground mines (including Moris, our only open pit mine, unit cost per tonne decreased by 14%). These savings have been achieved as a result of the capacity expansions completed last year, the measures we have implemented to control costs and also the positive foreign exchange impact arising from the devaluation of local currencies. Despite the decrease in unit cost per tonne, cost of sales increased from $100.4 million to $124.6 million, as a result of the 17% production increase in the first half of the year. 

Pre-exceptional operating profit of $66.8 million was 17% lower than in H108 mostly due to the above effects and also the impact of the $18.0 million loss we have recorded on our forward sales contracts. As a consequence, we are reporting a pre-exceptional EPS of $0.06 for the first six months of the year. These results reflect a significant improvement on H208 when we recorded pre-exceptional operating profit and EPS of $5.9 million and $(0.05) respectively.

We have a healthy balance sheet with a period end cash balance of $58.9 million. This, in conjunction with cash generated from our operations, will allow us to pursue our growth strategy of maximising profit within our existing operations, implementing our exploration programme and continuing to deliver carefully selected acquisitions.

Current operations 

Production for the first half of the year was 17% higher than the equivalent period last year with particularly good results at Pallancata, Arcata and San José. 

 

In line with our focus on profitable ounces and our target of reducing unit cost per tonne, we have undertaken a number of projects which support operational efficiency. These include the plant expansions completed in the second half of last year which increased production capacity by 29% and also the successful construction of new power lines in Peru and Argentina ensuring delivery of a cost effective and reliable supply of energy. 

For further details on our progress in these areas, please see our Operational Review on page 6.  

Exploration

We are committed to expanding our reserve base with the aim of increasing future profitable production and we continue to dedicate significant investment to achieving a minimum mine life of four years at each of our underground operations. We are investing approximately $30 million in brownfield and greenfield exploration in 2009 and are already seeing promising results. 

The drill programme at Arcata, our flagship silver mine in southern Peru, is delivering positive results with the discovery of two new mineralised structures in close proximity to the property's existing Mariana vein. Also in southern Peru, we have identified a number of high grade veins which have the potential to complement production at our Pallancata operation. At San José in southern Argentina, we have reported successful results including a new mineralised structure located less than 1km from the high grade Huevos Verdes vein. 

In addition, we have two brownfield projects which are within our operational cluster in southern Peru. Azuca, where we are moving towards an initial economic assessment, is 100% owned and has an initial resource of 1.8 million tonnes with 327 g/t silver and 1.34 g/t gold. Preliminary results at Crespo, which was acquired as part of the Liam land package, show gold/silver deposits with high grade zones and we aim to have the first resource estimation on this project by the end of the year.

We are also focused on greenfield exploration and remain extremely positive about our project pipeline which currently has numerous opportunities in key mining districts throughout the Americas. Projects are at various stages of development and are subject to a rigorous evaluation process to ensure that investment is targeted towards quality assets that will ultimately be brought to production. We are particularly focused on our extensive land package in southern Peru and also in Chile where the Encrucijada land package is reporting some encouraging results. 

Acquisitions & investments 

We have secured a number of promising opportunities in the first half of the year which support our growth strategy. We have spent a total of $56.7 million which includes a further investment in Lake Shore Gold Corp. ("Lake Shore Gold"), our increased ownership in Gold Resource Corporation ("GRC") and the acquisition of 100% of Southwestern Resources. 

In February we invested $18.0 million in our strategic alliance partner, Lake Shore Gold, by participating in a financing exercise that raised approximately $57.0 million with the aim of furthering the company's development into production. 

The growth prospects for Lake Shore Gold are impressive, with production targets of 30,000 ounces of gold by the end of 2009, increasing to 100,000 in 2010 and 200,000 in 2011. The Company began processing development ore and low grade material in March 2009 and expects to reach commercial production from its Timmins mine in the second half of 2010. We currently have a 40% holding in Lake Shore Gold, which has a market capitalisation exceeding $620 million and remain extremely positive about our investment, which amounts to $182.2 million to date. 

Lake Shore Gold's most important assets are its 100% owned Timmins Mine, where advanced exploration work is progressing and its wholly owned Bell Creek Mill which is currently being expanded from 800 to 1,500 tonnes per day. In addition, the company has a 60% JV in Thunder Creek, an exciting exploration project. All are located in Timmins, one of the world's greatest mining districts, where approximately 75 million ounces of gold have been produced over the last century. 

We have also increased our stake in GRC from 5% to 24%1 for a total of $33 million bringing our total spend in the company, which has a current market capitalisation in excess of $200 million, to $38.0 million. GRC is a precious metals mining company with a number of 100% owned, high grade development projects in southern Mexico including the El Aguila project, which is scheduled to begin production in the second half of 2009 at 70,000 ounces of gold in the first year (4.2 million silver equivalent ounces). 

The Southwestern Resources land package consolidates our position in southern Peru by adding a number of early stage gold, silver and copper projects to our pipeline including the remaining 50% of a 282,000 hectare land package (Liam), 50% of the Millo project and a 48% interest in Zincore Metals Inc a listed mining exploration company with projects in southern Peru. 

In May, we also purchased the remaining 30% of Moris, our open pit operation in Mexico, from our JV partner, for a total consideration of $1.5 million. 

Dividend 

The Board has declared an interim dividend of $0.02 per ordinary share. We will keep the dividend policy under review, to ensure that we manage the business in a way that maximises long term shareholder return.

Board changes 

On behalf of the management team, I am delighted to welcome our new Non Executive Director, Fred Vinton, to the Board. Fred has over 30 years of banking and commercial experience and brings a wide range of knowledge and skills to Hochschild. 

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our employees for the hard work that has enabled Hochschild to progress its strategic goals, particularly during the challenges of the past year. 

Outlook

We remain focused on producing profitable ounces and are on track to deliver our 2009 production target of 28 million silver equivalent ounces, representing a year-on-year increase of 7%. In addition, Lake Shore Gold is targeting 30,000 ounces of gold in 2009 which would equate to 0.72 million attributable silver equivalent ounces. 

We are extremely excited about the investments we have made this year, particularly relating to the growth profiles of Lake Shore Gold and GRC, as well as our investment in the Southwestern Resources land package which adds a number of early stage gold and copper projects to our pipeline. We are also committed to replenishing our reserve base and extending the mine life of our underground operations to a minimum of 4 years, following the capacity expansions completed last year. 

Despite current market volatility, we continue to believe in the fundamentals for precious metals. 

With investment in acquisitions, a strong project pipeline and rigorous cost controls we remain confident about the long term growth prospects of the business. 

Eduardo Hochschild

Executive Chairman

____________________________________________________________________  

1 Stake increased from 17% to 24% on 20 July 2009 

  OPERATIONAL REVIEW 

During the first six months of 2009 ("H109"), we had six mines in operation, comprising five underground mines and one open pit mine. Total attributable production during this period was 13.9 million silver equivalent ounces, which represents an increase of 17% compared to the first six months of 2008. This comprises 9.2 million ounces of silver, up 24% and 78 thousand ounces of gold, up 5%. The significant production increase in H109 was primarily the result of the plant expansions at Arcata, Pallancata and San José, which were successfully completed in the second half of 2008. 

Results were particularly strong at Pallancata where both silver and gold production more than doubled compared to the equivalent period last year and at Arcata where silver and gold production increased by 37% and 58% respectively. San José also reported strong results in the second half with silver production increasing 24% and gold 41% year-on-year. 

The Company remains confident of reaching its full year target of producing 28 million attributable silver equivalent ounces, representing a 7% increase year on year, comprised of approximately 19.1 million ounces of silver and 148,200 ounces of gold. 

As previously reported, Selene's mine ceased production at the end of May due to the high level of capital expenditure required to extract profitable ounces. Selene's plant, which was upgraded during the year, will continue to process ore from Pallancata. The 2009 production target of 28 million silver equivalent ounces includes Selene's production through to June. 

As anticipated and previously disclosed, the average reserve grade at Ares is declining due to the geological nature of the deposit and the ageing of the mine. As a result of the higher grade variability associated with an ageing mine, the Group has taken a conservative approach and recorded an impairment charge of $1.2 million in respect of Ares. 

For detailed production tables, see Production Information on page 48.

Increasing operational efficiency 

The Company has reduced unit cost per tonne in the first six months of 2009 by 10% through capacity expansions, the positive foreign exchange impact arising from the depreciation of local currencies and also as a result of the measures implemented to control costs (including Moris, the Group's only open pit mine, unit cost per tonne decreased by 14%). These include the installation of new power lines in Peru and Argentina and other smaller scale initiatives: 

New power lines 

Hochschild successfully completed the construction of new power lines at its operations in Peru and Argentina in the first half of 2009, ensuring that each site has the most cost effective and reliable supply of energy. In Peru, a new 22 kilometre, 66 kV power line has been installed at Arcata which has increased the available energy supply following the plant expansion undertaken in 2008. At Selene, where the ore from Pallancata is processed, a new 74 kilometre, 60 kV power line has been installed, which is working in parallel with the existing 30 kV power line to provide energy to Selene and Pallancata. In Argentina, a new 130 kilometre, 132 kV power line and transformation station have been installed which connects the San José operation to the national grid, eliminating the need to use onsite generators as a primary source of energy. 

Operational initiatives

The Company's operational teams are motivated to improve efficiency and in H109 a number of measures have been implemented to support the Company's overall target of reducing unit cost per tonne.

All our underground operations have undertaken significant efforts to further improve their ore dilution control, mainly by replacing wood support by shotcrete, mesh, and bolts, redefining equipment types and sizes, improving drilling and blasting controls. 

In Peru, the Company is substituting dynamite with emulsion as the explosive used within the mine. 

At Arcata, the optimisation of recently installed column cells has resulted in a material improvement in the concentration ratio. 

In Argentina, the installation of a Merrill Crowe circuit in the mill, scheduled for completion in the second half of the year, will be used to recover 500,000 silver equivalent ounces which are currently locked up in tailing solutions. The cost of the unit is expected to be fully recouped after the retrieval of the 500,000 silver equivalent ounces. The Merrill Crowe circuit should also lead to higher overall metallurgical recoveries in the mill in the future.

Also at San José, reagents' usage has been significantly reduced as a result of optimisation of the leaching process with a corresponding reduction in costs. In our Moris mine in Mexico, a new hopper has been installed which supports the grinding process.

In addition to the initiatives above, negotiations with suppliers have resulted in competitive electricity prices in Peru and Argentina and lower transport costs in Peru. Staff training has been undertaken at all operations to ensure the delivery of key performance indicators which support productivity and efficiency in these areas. 

Conversion to doré

Also in June 2009, Hochschild commenced the project to convert 100% of Arcata's production to doré. Once completed, this project will improve operational efficiency, maximise revenue, lower working capital requirements and allow the Company to benefit from more stable commercial terms. Arcata produced approximately 10.5 million silver equivalent ounces in 2008 which were sold in the form of concentrate to third parties for smelting and refining. By converting Arcata's concentrate to doré, Hochschild will maximise net revenue as commercial discounts for doré are significantly lower than the discounts applied to concentrate. 

Arcata will also benefit from lower working capital requirements and greater certainty over its cashflow as the sales cycle for doré is shorter (10 days on a weighted average basis compared to 60 days for concentrate) and pricing is less volatile. In addition, selling expenses are expected to decrease as a result of lower transportation costs, handling and shipping expenses. 

The capital expenditure required to complete the project is expected to be in the region of $25 - $30 million with an approximate 2 year pay-back. The facilities and equipment necessary to convert Arcata's concentrate to doré will be installed at Hochschild's Ares operation, which already produces doré and is located approximately 16 miles from Arcata. This will enable the Company to leverage the existing infrastructure at Ares and thereby reduce operational risk. The project is scheduled to be completed in the second half of 2010.

 

Following the conversion of Arcata, three of Hochschild's operations will produce 100% doré (Ares, Moris and Arcata). San José currently produces both doré and concentrate and Pallancata produces 100% concentrate. Hochschild is evaluating the possibility of converting the production of its other operations into doré in the future. 

Securing future growth: acquisitions and investments

Hochschild continues to pursue its strategy of securing bolt-on acquisitions and strategic investments in key mining districts and in the first half has spent a total of $56.7 million. 

Hochschild increased its ownership interest in Gold Resource Corporation ("GRC"), a precious metals mining company with assets in southern Mexico, from 5% to 17% for a total consideration of $18 million (on 20 July 2009, Hochschild invested a further $15.0 million in GRC, increasing its stake to 24%). GRC has a number of high grade development and exploration projects, including El Aguila, which is scheduled to begin production in H209, at 70,000 ounces of gold in the first year (4.2 million silver equivalent ounces), subject to obtaining the remaining permits and regulatory approval. 

In March 2009, Hochschild invested $18.0 million in our strategic alliance partner, Lake Shore Gold Corp. ("Lake Shore Gold"), by participating in a financing exercise that raised approximately $57.0 million with an aim to further the company's development into production. The Company began processing development ore and low grade material in March 2009 and expects to reach commercial production from its Timmins mine in the second half of 2010. The prospects for this company continue to be very promising, particularly following impressive high grade results at Thunder Creek and Bell Creek. (Please see the Exploration Review for further details).

 

In May 2009, the Company completed its acquisition of Southwestern Resources Corp ("Southwestern"), for a total cash consideration of $19.2 million. The acquisition consolidates Hochschild's position in Liam, a 282,000 hectare land package around the Group's four existing Peruvian operations and enables it to leverage existing infrastructure and knowledge of the regional geology. 

The Southwestern land package adds several early stage gold and copper projects to Hochschild's pipeline in southern Peru, including 50% of the Millo project where Yamana is earning-in a 70% ownership by producing a prefeasibility study. Millo is located adjacent to Hochschild's 100% owned Azuca project and boasts high grade intercepts as previously announced by Southwestern. 

Hochschild has also purchased the remaining 30% interest in the Moris mine from its JV partner, EXMIN Resources Inc., for a total cash consideration of $1.5 million. 

For further details relating to exploration progress at Lake Shore Gold, the Southwestern land package and GRC, please refer to the Exploration Review on page 15. 

Reserves & resources 

In line with industry practice, Hochschild Mining will publish reserve and resource figures yearly (as at 31 December) as part of its full year results announcement in March. As at 30 June 2009, there have been no material changes to reserve and resource figures at our key sustaining mines Arcata, Pallancata and San José. 

As previously disclosed Selene's mine was closed in May 2009. Ares is an ageing mine with declining reserves and resources and Moris, our only open pit mine, has limited reserve and resource figures. However, at a Group level, there is no material change in total resource figures. 

The Group is committed to expanding its reserve and resource base with the aim of increasing future profitable production and continues to dedicate significant investment to achieving a minimum mine life of four years at each of its underground operations. 

FINANCIAL REVIEW 

Revenue

Revenue from continuing operations, net of commercial discounts was $230.6 million for H109

which represents a decrease of 1% on H108, primarily due to lower silver prices (H109: $13.2/oz compared to H108: $17.4/oz) and higher commercial discounts resulting from the Group's increased production of concentrate and the worsening terms relating to this. These effects were partially offset by the 17% increase in attributable production in the first half. 

Silver: Gross revenue from silver increased 3% in the first half of 2009 to $164.4 million (H108: $159.6 million) as a result of increased production following capacity expansions at Arcata, Pallancata and San José.

Gold: Gross revenue from gold increased 10% in the first half of 2009 to $93.5 million (H108: $85.3 million) also as a result of increased production following capacity expansions at Arcata, Pallancata and San José.

Commercial discounts: Commercial discounts primarily refer to refinery charges for processing mineral ore and are discounted from revenue on a per tonne or per ounce basis. In H109, commercial discounts were $22.9 million, representing a 60% increase on H108. This is a result of the Group's higher production of concentrate following the capacity expansions completed in H208 and also higher treatment charges due to a higher proportion of base metals in Arcata's concentrate. The ratio of commercial discounts to gross revenue increased from 6% in H108 to 9% in H109. 

Average realised sale prices 

	Six months to  30 June 2009	Six months to 31 December 2008	Six months to  30 June 2008
Silver ($/oz)	13.0	9.9	16.7
Gold ($/oz)	899.9	807.2	906.2

Costs

Total cost of sales increased 24% to $124.6 million as a consequence of higher extracted and treated tonnage and higher depreciation and amortisation expenses that were partially offset by lower unit costs.

Unit cost per tonne at the Group's underground operations has been reduced by 10% from $82.1 in H108 to $73.9 in H109. Including Moris, the Group's only open pit mine, unit cost per tonne decreased 14% to $53.1. These savings are a result of the economies of scale achieved by the capacity expansions completed last year, cost control measures as mentioned in the Operational Review and external factors such as the devaluation of local currencies mainly in Argentina and Mexico. 

Depreciation and amortisation within cost of goods sold increased 42% to $30.3 million as a consequence of the capacity expansions at Arcata, Pallancata and San José and the corresponding capital expenditure incurred in 2008.

 

Cash costs

Co-product cash costs include cost of sales, commercial deductions and selling expenses, less depreciation included in cost of sales. Silver/gold cash costs are total cash costs multiplied by the percentage of revenue from silver/gold, divided by the number of silver/ gold ounces sold in the year. 

Cash costs for the period increased from $7.01 to $7.47 per ounce for silver and from $381 to $518 per ounce for gold, mainly explained by the expected decline in extracted grades, particularly at Ares and Selene and higher commercial discounts due to less favourable market conditions.

By-product cash costs include cost of sales, commercial deductions and selling expenses, less depreciation included in cost of sales. Silver/gold cash costs are total cash costs less revenue from gold/silver, divided by the number of silver/gold ounces sold in the year. By-product cash costs for the period were $3.65 per silver ounce and ($284) per gold ounce. (H108: $1.27 per silver ounce and ($688) per gold ounce).

Administrative Expenses

Administrative expenses before exceptional items decreased by 34% to $23.5 million in H109 (H108: $35.7 million) as a result of the measures undertaken by management to reduce expenses and preserve cash, including a 34% decrease in professional fees and a 25% decrease in personnel expenses. Administrative expenses were also positively impacted by the devaluation of local currencies. 

Selling Expenses

Selling expenses increased by $4.9 million to $8.5 million as a result of the higher volume of concentrate sold at Arcata, Pallancata and San José as well as higher export duties in Argentina due to a higher amount of sales. Export duties in Argentina are levied at 10% of revenue for concentrate and 5% of revenue for doré.

Exploration Expenses

Exploration expenses, which primarily relate to greenfield exploration, decreased to $6.2 million in H109 (H108: $10.4 million) as a result of the Group's decision to reduce expenditure at the end of 2008. As described earlier in the statement, conditions have improved in 2009 and, as a result, a revised budget of $17.8 million for exploration expenses has been approved for the full year. 

In addition, the Group has committed $12.5 million in capital expenditure for the full year relating to its brownfield exploration. As a consequence, the Group's total exploration budget for 2009, including brownfield and greenfield, is expected to be approximately $30 million.

Profit from continuing operations

Profit from continuing operations before exceptional items, net finance costs and income tax decreased to $66.8 million (H108: $80.3 million) as a result of the effects detailed above. 

Impact of the Group's investments in joint ventures and associates 

The Group's share of the loss of equity accounted investments in joint ventures and associates resulted in a loss of $1.3 million which mainly relates to our investments in Lake Shore Gold ($0.8 million), Gold Resource Corporation ($0.2 million) and Pacapausa ($0.1 million). 

In February 2009, Hochschild participated in Lake Shore Gold's equity financing and maintained its ownership at 40% by investing a further $18.0 million in the company. In the first half, Hochschild increased its interest in Gold Resource Corporation from 5% to 17% for a total consideration of $18.0 million, adding a new operational cluster to the Group's portfolio. On 20 July 2009, the Company further increased its stake to 24% for a total consideration of $15.0 million. 

Adjusted EBITDA 

Pre-exceptional adjusted EBITDA decreased by 7% over the period to $100.2 million (H208: $107.7 million) driven by lower silver prices and higher cost of sales as a result of higher throughput due to plant expansions. Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as profit from continuing operations before exceptional items, net finance costs and income tax excluding depreciation, amortisation and exploration costs other than personnel and other expenses.

Adjusted EBITDA reconciliation 

$ thousands (unless otherwise stated)	Six months ended 30 June 2009	Six months ended 30 June 2008	% change
Profit from continuing operations before exceptional items, net finance costs and income tax	66,849	80,337	(17%)
Operating margin	29%	35%
Plus:
Depreciation in Cost of Goods Sold	30,276	21,263	42%
Depreciation in Administrative Expenses	385	509	(24%)
Exploration Expense	6,217	10,374	(40%)
Minus:
Personnel and other Exploration Expense	3,523	4,743	(26%)
Adjusted EBITDA	100,204	107,740	(7%)
Adjusted EBITDA margin	43%	46%

Finance income 

Finance income decreased by 30% to $3.7 million as a result of the Company's lower average cash balance (H109: $87.5 million compared to H108: $255.4 million) and lower interest rates.

Finance costs

Finance costs of $27.2 million (H108: $5.2 million) include an $18.0 million loss from the mark-to-market adjustments of the Group's forward sales contracts, (comprising $5.9 million realised losses and $12.1 million unrealised losses) and an interest expense of $7.7 million (H108: $4.5 million) related to the Company's debt facility. The Group has fixed the interest rate on this debt facility at 1.75% by entering into interest rate swap contracts. These swaps take effect in July 2009.

In response to the extreme market volatility in the second half of 2008, Hochschild announced in Q109 that it had sold forward 10.7 million silver equivalent ounces of its 2009 production in order to ensure a more stable cash flow which will fund operating capex and future M&A. 

This is comprised of 8.9 million ounces of silver and 30 thousand ounces of gold. As at 30 June, 4.6 million ounces of silver and 18 thousand ounces of gold were pending to be settled in H209 at average prices of $12.0/oz and $971.8/oz respectively. 

Foreign exchange losses 

The Group recognised a foreign exchange loss of $3.5 million (H108: $1.9 million loss) as a result of transactions in currencies other than functional currency. In the first half of 2009, the Group recorded a loss due to the devaluation of the Argentinean peso (10%). 

Income tax 

The Company's pre-exceptional tax rate was 31% in H109 (H108: 31%), however, the effective tax rate decreased to 14.1% (H108: 33%). This was driven mainly by non-taxable income of $13.9 million as a result of the gain recorded on the acquisitions of Southwestern Resources and Moris and the non-taxable income of $5.5 million relating to the exercise of the Gold Resource Corporation options. These positive effects were partially offset by the negative impact of converting the Company's tax base from local currency to US dollars.

Exceptional items Exceptional items totalled $5.7 million after tax (H108: ($6.1 million)).

 

Cash flow & balance sheet review: 

Cash flow

$ thousands	Six months ended 30 June 2009	Six months ended 30 June 2008	Year ended 31 December 2008
Net cash generated from operating activities	97,844	19,983	78,641
Net cash used in investing activities	(127,973)	(320,837)	(475,790)
Cash flows generated/(used) in financing activities	(26,816)	208,711	212,728
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents during the period	(56,945)	(92,143)	(184,421)

Total cash decreased from $116.1 million to $58.9 million driven by a $56.7 investment primarily in Lake Shore Gold, Gold Resource Corporation and Southwestern. Cash flow from operating activities increased to $97.8 million from $20.0 million as a consequence of the decrease in working capital from $106.2 million in H108 to $69.1 million in H109. Cash outflows used in investing activities decreased from $320.8 million to $128.0 million given that the Company's main plant expansions were successfully completed in the second half of 2008. 

Working capital: 

$ millions	As at 30 June 2009	As at 31 December 2008	Change
Trade and other receivables	135.2	162.0	(26.8)
Inventories	46.2	49.2	(3.0)
Derivative financial instruments	1.1	5.6	(4.5)
Income tax	5.0	14.3	(9.3)
Trade and other payables	(118.4)	(124.9)	6.5
Working capital	69.1	106.2	(37.1)

The Company's working capital position decreased from $106.2 million at 31 December 2008 to $69.1 million in H109. This was primarily a result of lower commercial receivables and the capital contribution from Minera Andes. The Company also recovered $15.0 million of VAT credits in Santa Cruz. In addition, inventories decreased by $3.0 million as a result of lower products in process particularly in Santa Cruz. This was partially offset by an increase of finished goods mainly in Arcata.

Net debt: 

$ thousands	As at 30 June 2009	As at 31 December 2008
Cash and cash equivalents	(58,923)	(116,147)
Long term borrowings	201,382	231,692
Short term borrowings less pre-shipment loans	82,212	48,410
Net debt / (net cash)	224,671	163,955

Net debt increased 37% due to the decrease in cash as a result of the M&A investments undertaken in H109, in line with the Company's growth strategy. The increase in short term borrowings is a result of the reclassification of part of the amount due to minority interest from long term to short term. 

Capital expenditure1

 

$ thousands	Six months ended  30 June 2009	Six months ended  30 June 2008
Arcata	10,779	19,149
Ares	976	5,793
Selene	12,084	9,282
Pallancata	9,977	7,724
San José	21,931	29,687
Moris	179	1,402
San Felipe	199	57,501
Other (including capital advances)	2,492	10,845
Total	58,617	141,383

1 Includes additions in property, plant and equipment balance sheet account and excludes increases in closure of mine assets. 

The Company continues to focus on producing profitable ounces and preserving cash. Capital expenditure totalled $58.6 million in the first half of the year, which represents a 59% decrease year on year (excluding investments in San Felipe, capital expenditure decreased 30%). The most significant reductions were recorded at Arcata, Selene and San José following the completion of the capacity expansions in the second half of 2008.

  

Dividends: 

Dividend dates	2009
Ex-dividend date	02 September
Record date	04 September
Deadline for return of currency election forms	08 September
Payment date	22 September

Dividends are declared in US dollars. Unless a shareholder elects to receive dividends in US dollars, they will be paid in pounds sterling with the US dollar dividend being converted into pound sterling at exchange rates prevailing at the time of payment.

  

EXPLORATION REVIEW

Highlights 

$30 million to be invested in brownfield and greenfield exploration in 2009 

Discovery of new mineralised structures at Arcata and San José

Positive drill results at Arcata, Pallancata and San José 

Encouraging first pass drill results at the North target in the Encrucijada project, Chile

Expansion of the Arista vein system at Gold Resource Corporation's El Aguila project

Outstanding intercept at Lake Shore Gold's Thunder Creek project (12.8 g/t Au over 83.4 metres) and discovery of a new high grade extension at Bell Creek

Exploration is a vital part of Hochschild's growth strategy and the Company continues to commit significant investment to its geology programme in order to increase reserves and resources at a low cost per ounce. 

Hochschild's exploration is focused on two areas; mine-site and near mine site exploration (brownfield) and early stage exploration (greenfield). 

BROWNFIELD EXPLORATION 

Hochschild remains committed to achieving its long term objective of a minimum 8 year total resource life, including a 4 year reserve life, at each of its underground operations (excluding Ares). 

Brownfield exploration includes near-mine exploration (± 5km radius from an existing operation) and also advanced stage projects, either located in one of the Group's existing clusters or in new mining friendly districts. Hochschild currently has four clusters: the highlands of southern Peru, the Argentine Patagonia, the Timmins region in Canada via its investment in Lake Shore Gold, and southern Mexico, via its investment in GRC. 

Peru 

Arcata - Hochschild's flagship silver mine has been in production for over 40 years and continues to deliver promising results. A new structure was identified through surface drilling from the recently defined brownfield programme this year, located 800 metres north of Mariana. Drill hole DDH121 intersected 2.7 g/t gold and 533 g/t silver over 0.7 metres. A second drill hole, 100 metres west, cut 0.7 metres with 0.2 g/t Au and 113 g/t Ag. Further drilling is underway to evaluate continuity of this mineralised structure. Underground horizontal drilling has also revealed a new mineralised structure 400 metres north of Mariana that does not outcrop on the surface. Results to date include DDH-524 with 0.7 metres at 4.6 g/t Au and 468 g/t Ag and DDH-550 with 0.6m at 1.7 g/t Au and 539 g/t Ag. 

Pallancata - Hochschild is undertaking a drill programme focusing on near-mine exploration within three kilometres of the current mine underground workings. The drill programme aims to define additional mineral resources and includes approximately 56 core drill holes (totaling approximately 16,428 metres) from surface. Several high-grade silver intercepts have been reported to date. Hochschild believes that these high-grade veins could potentially complement the current production at Pallancata. 

To date, 11 drill holes for a total of 3,638 metres have been completed, primarily in the Virgen del Carmen area. These results include the following drill intercepts (uncut grades; true widths not yet estimated):

VC09002: 0.7 metres grading 406 g/t silver and 1.6 g/t gold

VC09003: 0.8 metres grading 527 g/t silver and 2.2 g/t gold

VC09005: 1.5 metres grading 785 g/t silver and 1.5 g/t gold

Hochschild is also drilling in the Pallancata East area which is an extension of the main Pallancata vein structure, located to the east of the Suyamarca River. Assays are pending from three drill holes which have been completed and intersect the structure along its eastern continuation. The 2009 exploration drill programme will include an additional 4 drill holes totaling approximately 1,300 metres in the Pallancata East area. 

Assay results of completed brownfield exploration drilling programme at Pallancata: 

Drill Hole Number (depth-m)	From (m)	To  (m)	Intercept (m)	Gold (g/t)	Silver (g/t)	Target
VC09-001 (351)	332.6	332.8	0.2	1.3	563	Virgen del Carmen
VC09-002 (390)	327.0	327.7	0.7	1.6	406	Virgen del Carmen
VC09-003 (374)	197.0	198.7	1.7	0.6	89	San Javier
	329.4	330.1	0.8	2.2	527	Virgen del Carmen
VC09-004 (410)	89.0	89.4	0.4	3.5	421	San Javier
	379.3	380.3	1.0	0.2	56	Virgen del Carmen
VC09-005 (300)	239.4	240.9	1.5	1.5	785	Virgen del Carmen
VC09-006 (350)		211.4	0.9	1.9	222	Virgen del Carmen
VC09-007 (305)	130.4	130.7	0.3	1.0	383	San Javier
	183.9	184.9	1.1	0.4	76	Virgen del Carmen
VC09-008 (300)	238.5	239.8	1.3	Not yet available		Virgen del Carmen
DPRI-A01 (258)	245.8	246.1	0.3	0.1	27	Rina
DPRI-A02 (301)	92.5	93.7	1.2	0.8	344	Rina
	170.6	172.0	1.4	0.8	113
DPRI-A03 (301)	284.7	286.0	1.3	Not yet available		Rina

Plan detailing brownfield exploration targets at Pallancata: 

Please see image A in the PDF link below

http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/6618X_1-2009-8-18.pdf

Azuca - Azuca is a 100% owned project located in southern Peru, near the Group's existing operations. Azuca has an initial inferred resource of 1.8 million tonnes with 327 g/t silver and 1.34 g/t gold, as at December 2008. Hochschild aims to increase this resource and progress the project towards an initial economic assessment.

Crespo - the previous operator's drilling results suggest a potentially open pitable gold silver deposit with indications of higher grade zones. A tunnel is planned which will allow Hochschild to test continuity of higher grade structures and confirm grades obtained by previous drilling. The Company aims to determine a first resource estimation of this project in 2010.

Argentina 

San José - In April, Hochschild discovered a new mineralised structure at San José, located approximately 845 metres southwest from the Huevos Verdes vein. The structure, which does not outcrop on the surface, was discovered with the first drill hole of a programme of five 1,000 metre long diamond drill holes to be performed horizontally from existing underground workings. Results from core hole (SMJ-105) were 8.9 g/t gold and 517 g/t silver over 1.0 metre. Two surface core holes intersected the structure 40 metres in each direction, but did not confirm economic mineralisation. The target is open to the north west and in depth and will be drilled from underground, once preparation is complete, as we cannot explore from surface due to the presence of a small lake in the area. 

GREENFIELD EXPLORATION 

In addition to its existing operations, Hochschild has an extensive pipeline of projects at various stages of development. Projects enter the pipeline through internal discovery or via joint venture agreements and are subject to a strict evaluation process to ensure that they meet the Company's criteria for future production. Projects are located across the Americas, near to existing operational clusters and also in new, prospective areas where there is growth potential: 

Please see image B in the PDF link below

http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/6618X_1-2009-8-18.pdf

In the first six months of the year, Hochschild has spent a total of $6.2 million in this area and has reported significant success at its 100% owned projects, joint ventures and investments: 

Peru 

Southern Peru Cluster - Following the acquisition of Southwestern Resources in May 2009, Hochschild gained control over a significant land package surrounding its existing operational cluster in southern Peru, as detailed in the map below: 

 

Please see image C in the PDF link below

 

http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/6618X_1-2009-8-18.pdf

 

The acquisition includes a 282,000 hectare land package (Liam), the largest single claim block in southern Peru which has mineralisation systems including high sulphidation gold and silver projects such as Crespo, Queshca, Astana and Aluja and low sulphidation veins and disseminated gold and silver associated systems such as the Huacullo, Farallon and Ibel projects. 

The Southwestern acquisition also adds several early stage gold and copper projects to Hochschild's pipeline, including: Millo (a joint venture with Yamana Gold), Josnitoro and Sabina gold-silver properties and the Antay, Palpacachi, Alpacocha, Jasperoide and Cristo de los Andes (a joint venture with Antares Minerals) copper properties. 

Millo - Hochschild now owns 50% of the Millo project where Yamana is earning a 70% ownership by producing a prefeasibility study. Millo is located adjacent to Hochschild's 100% owned Azuca project with high grade intercepts as previously announced by Southwestern. Drill highlights include 20.3 metres of 317 g/t silver and 2.7 g/t gold in hole PTT-004, 17.3 metres of 162 g/t silver and 1.8 g/t gold in PTT-005 and 0.7 metres of 814 g/t silver and 27.1 g/t gold in PTT-007. Hochschild is confident about the potential for new projects within this land package in southern Peru and the synergies that may arise from using the Group's existing infrastructure. 

Chile 

Encrucijada - Encrucijada is a joint venture with Andina Minerals where Hochschild is earning a 51% stake by spending $3 million on exploration. Encrucijada is located in Region II in Chile, approximately 210 kilometres north of Copiapo, and is in the same geological district as the El Peñon mine which produced 0.4 million ounces of gold equivalent in 2008. Hochschild can further increase its ownership to 60% by investing an additional $3 million towards a feasibility study in a single project. A 10 hole (3,362m) fence was drilled at the north target of the property to evaluate concealed vein structures and a structural zone with various veins was identified. Drill highlights include multiple intercepts in hole ENC-09-005 (see map below) of which the best are 2.0 metres with 4.0 g/t Au (336 to 338 metres in depth) and 3.0 metres with 3.7 g/t Au (391 to 394 metres), 1.0 metres with 4.5 g/t Au (404 to 405 metres); the latter two intercepts are included in a 20 metre interval at 1.8 g/t Au. The discovery of this significant structural corridor with multiple veins in the same geological context as the El Peñon mine is very encouraging. From September 2009, drilling will focus on other targets in this project as well as to follow-up on the north target. 

Please see image D in the PDF link below

http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/6618X_1-2009-8-18.pdf

INVESTMENTS

Mexico 

Gold Resource Corporation - Continued exploration at El Aguila has outlined a new, high grade vein system, La Arista. The Arista vein system appears to be a series of parallel, en echelon veins which extends over 585 metres of strike length and 400 metres of vertical extent. 

Recent drill holes #109003 and #108044 results include: 

Hole #	Angle (deg)	From Meters	Length Meters	Au g/t	Ag g/t	Cu %	Pb %	Zn %	AuEq* g/t	AuEq_Oz Oz/tonne
109003	-55	333.75	0.75	31.70	2920	0.11	1.74	3.49	76.7	2.47
And		338.50	1.55	0.12	195	0.07	4.89	12.69	10.76	0.35
108044	-58	350.00	7.00	4.23	324	0.65	1.69	5.22	12.71	0.41
Assays by ALS Chemex, Vancouver, BC Canada Gold Equivalent (AuEq*) calculated at: Au $850/oz, Ag $12.00/oz, Cu $1.60/lb, Pb $0.55/lb, Zn $0.55/lb

GRC Longitudinal section map: 

 

Please see image E in the PDF link below

http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/6618X_1-2009-8-18.pdf

 

Canada 

In June, Lake Shore Gold Corp ("Lake Shore Gold"), in which Hochschild has a 40% investment, announced results for six new holes and one wedge hole (5,900 metres) as part of its ongoing 22,000 metre diamond drill programme at the Thunder Creek joint venture property, located immediately adjacent to Lake Shore Gold's 100%-owned Timmins Mine project. Lake Shore Gold holds a 60% interest in the Thunder Creek property, and is the operator of the joint venture with West Timmins Mining Inc. The results include wedge hole TC09-68b, which intersected the best widths and grades encountered to date at Thunder Creek. TC09-68b intercepted 12.6 g/t Au over 83.4 metres or 13.7 g/t over 77.5 metres, including 24.7 g/t over 13.0 metres, 38.2 g/t over 11.0 metres and 26.8 g/t over 8.5 metres. 

In addition, in July, Lake Shore Gold announced encouraging results at its 100% owned Bell Creek property. The most significant results are from wedge hole BC-09-24B which intersected 12.6 g/t over 11.7 metres within a broader intercept of 11.1 g/t over 13.8 metres. Included within the 12.6 g/t intercept were 24.7 g/t over 2.2 metres and 23.2 g/t over 1.5 metres. The results add a significant new dimension to the Bell Creek project identifying a large gold system at depth where drilling has demonstrated excellent grades and widths. The system, which plunges eastward towards the company's wholly owned Schumacher property, has now been identified to a total plunge length of 1,150 metres from surface and 500 metres along strike and remains open at depth and along strike. Drilling at Bell Creek is ongoing, and will be accelerated with five drills active on the property. In addition to the exploration success from surface drilling, work is progressing on the underground exploration programme at Bell Creek, including concurrent development of the ramp from surface to the Bell Creek mineralisation, and dewatering and refurbishment of the Bell Creek Shaft and Mine. Lake Shore Gold plans to develop Bell Creek into Lake Shore Gold's second mine complex in Timmins. 

Lake Shore Gold: Bell Creek's plan view and cross section:

 

Please see image F and G in the PDF link below

http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/6618X_1-2009-8-18.pdf

Risks

The principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group in respect of the year ended 31 December 2008 were set out in detail in the Risk Management section of the Business Review in the 2008 Annual Report and in Note 36 to the 2008 Consolidated Financial Statements. These risks continue to apply to the Group in respect of the remaining six months of the current financial year.

The key risks disclosed in the 2008 Annual Report were categorised as:

Financial risks which include commodity price risk and foreign currency risk; 

Operational risks including the risks associated with business interruption, reserve and resource replacement and the retention of key personnel;

Political, legal and regulatory risks; and 

Corporate Social Responsibility related risks including health and safety, environmental and social.

The 2008 Annual Report is available on www.hochschildmining.com 

Statement of Directors' Responsibilities The Directors confirm that, to the best of their knowledge, the interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 "Interim Financial Reporting" as adopted by the European Union and that the interim management report includes a fair review of the information required by Disclosure and Transparency Rules 4.2.7 and 4.2.8.  The Directors of Hochschild Mining plc are listed in the 2008 Annual Report and Accounts with the exception of Fred Vinton who joined the Board of Directors on 1 August 2009.

A list of current Directors is maintained on the Company's website which can be found at www.hochschildmining.com. For and on behalf of the Board

Miguel Aramburú Chief Executive Officer  18 August 2009

  Independent Review Report to Hochschild Mining plc 

We have been engaged by Hochschild Mining plc (the Company) to review the interim consolidated financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 30 June 2009 which comprises the interim consolidated income statement, the interim consolidated statement of comprehensive income, the interim consolidated balance sheet, the interim consolidated cash flow statement, the interim consolidated statement of changes in equity and the related notes 1 to 18. We have read the other information contained in the half yearly financial report and considered whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in the financial statements. 

This report is made solely to the company in accordance with guidance contained in ISRE 2410 (UK and Ireland) "Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity" issued by the Auditing Practices Board. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company, for our work, for this report, or for the conclusions we have formed.

Directors' Responsibilities 

The half-yearly financial report is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the directors. The directors are responsible for preparing the half-yearly financial report in accordance with the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the United Kingdom's Financial Services Authority. 

As disclosed in note 2, the annual financial statements of the group are prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union. The interim consolidated financial statements included in this half-yearly financial report has been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34, "Interim Financial Reporting", as adopted by the European Union. 

Our Responsibility 

Our responsibility is to express to the Company a conclusion on the interim consolidated financial statements in the half-yearly financial report based on our review. 

Scope of Review 

We conducted our review in accordance with International Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland) 2410, "Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity" issued by the Auditing Practices Board for use in the United Kingdom. A review of interim financial information consists of making enquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures. A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland) and consequently does not enable us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit. Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion. 

Conclusion 

Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the interim consolidated financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 30 June 2009 is not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34 as adopted by the European Union and the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the United Kingdom's Financial Services Authority. 

Ernst & Young LLPLondon 18 August 2009

Interim consolidated income statement

		Notes		Six-months ended 30 June 2009 (Unaudited)						Six-months ended 30 June 2008 (Unaudited)
				Before exceptional items		Exceptional itemsNote 7		Total		Before exceptional items		Exceptional items Note 7		Total
				US$ (000)
Continuing operations
Revenue		6		230,584		—		230,584		231,846		—		231,846
Cost of sales				(124,613	)	(6,918	)	(131,531	)	(100,380	)	—		(100,380	)
Gross profit				105,971		(6,918	)	99,053		131,466		—		131,466
Administrative expenses				(23,533	)	—		(23,533	)	(35,674	)	—		(35,674	)
Exploration expenses				(6,217	)	(1,049	)	(7,266	)	(10,374	)	—		(10,374	)
Selling expenses				(8,480	)	—		(8,480	)	(3,581	)	—		(3,581	)
Other income				3,268		14,517		17,785		1,022		—		1,022
Other expenses				(4,160	)	(825	)	(4,985	)	(2,522	)	(47	)	(2,569	)
Impairment of property, plant and equipment				—		(13,488	)	(13,488	)	—		—		—
Profit from continuing operations before net finance income/(cost), foreign exchange gain/(loss) and income tax				66,849		(7,763	)	59,086		80,337		(47	)	80,290
Share of post tax losses and negative goodwill of associates and joint ventures accounted under the equity method				(1,331	)	225		(1,106	)	(4,909	)	—		(4,909	)
Finance income		8		3,748		6,632		10,380		5,353		1,613		6,966
Finance costs		8		(27,196	)	—		(27,196	)	(5,223	)	(9,461	)	(14,684	)
Foreign exchange (loss)/gain				(3,498	)	—		(3,498	)	1,932		—		1,932
Profit/(loss) from continuing operations before income tax				38,572		(906	)	37,666		77,490		(7,895	)	69,595
Income tax expense		9		(11,878	)	6,575		(5,303	)	(24,386	)	1,754		(22,632	)
Profit/(loss) for the period from continuing operations				26,694		5,669		32,363		53,104		(6,141	)	46,963
Attributable to:
Equity shareholders of the Company				18,741		5,992		24,733		38,859		(6,141	)	32,718
Minority interests				7,953		(323	)	7,630		14,245		—		14,245
				26,694		5,669		32,363		53,104		(6,141	)	46,963
Basic and diluted earnings per ordinary share from continuing operations and for the period (expressed in U.S. dollars per share)		10						0.08						0.11

 

  Interim consolidated statement of comprehensive income

		Notes		Six-months ended 30 June
				2009 (Unaudited)		2008 (Unaudited)
				US$ (000)
Profit for the period				32,363		46,963
Other comprehensive income
Exchange differences on translating foreign operations				855		121
Change in fair value of available-for-sale financial assets				(162	)	(2,373	)
Change in fair value of cash flow hedges taken to equity.				1,074		—
Income tax relating to components of other comprehensive income				217		1,155
Other comprehensive income for the period, net of tax				1,984		(1,097	)
Total comprehensive income for the period				34,347		45,866
Total comprehensive income attributable to:
Equity shareholders of the Company				26,737		31,721
Minority interests				7,610		14,145
				34,347		45,866

Interim consolidated balance sheet

		Notes		As at 30 June  2009  (Unaudited)		As at 31December 2008
				US$ (000)
ASSETS
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment		11		528,321		488,984
Intangibles				2,559		2,668
Investments accounted under equity method				185,924		136,019
Available-for-sale financial assets				13,728		17,794
Trade and other receivables				28,327		38,304
Income tax receivable				967		802
Deferred income tax assets				19,335		20,795
				779,161		705,366
Current assets
Inventories				46,175		49,220
Trade and other receivables				106,849		123,726
Income tax receivable				11,431		14,470
Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss				18,221		5,569
Cash and cash equivalents		12		58,923		116,147
				241,599		309,132
Total assets				1,020,760		1,014,498
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Capital and reserves attributable to shareholders of the Parent
Equity share capital				146,466		146,466
Share premium				395,928		395,928
Other reserves				(248,827	)	(250,831	)
Retained earnings				201,198		182,612
				494,765		474,175
Minority interest				70,803		68,843
Total equity				565,568		543,018
Non-current liabilities
Trade and other payables				510		627
Borrowings		13		201,382		231,692
Provisions				34,934		37,687
Deferred income tax liabilities				10,773		15,839
				247,599		285,845
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables				77,735		82,291
Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss				17,073		-
Borrowings		13		100,212		98,070
Provisions				5,187		4,277
Income tax payable				7,386		997
				207,593		185,635
Total liabilities				455,192		471,480
Total equity and liabilities				1,020,760		1,014,498

Interim consolidated cash flow statement

		Notes		Six- months ended 30 June
				2009 (Unaudited)		2008 (Unaudited)
				US$ (000)
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations		16		106,061		31,650
Interest received				714		4,804
Interest paid				(7,236	)	(1,269	)
Payments of mine closure costs				(1,309	)	(623	)
Tax paid				(386	)	(14,579	)
Net cash generated from operating activities				97,844		19,983
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of property, plant and equipment				(71,204	)	(150,859	)
Acquisition of minority interest				(1,500	)	—
Investment in an associate		4		(35,993	)	(163,997	)
Acquisition of subsidiary		5		(19,246	)	—
Purchase of available-for-sale financial assets				—		(6,056	)
Purchase of software licences				(41	)	—
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment				11		63
Other				—		12
Net cash used in investing activities				(127,973	)	(320,837	)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds of borrowings		13		100,023		278,748
Repayment of borrowings		13		(131,807	)	(62,150	)
Transaction costs associated with borrowing				—		(2,408	)
Dividends paid				(6,147	)	(22,384	)
Capital contribution from minority shareholders				11,115		16,905
Cash flows (used in)/generated from financing activities				(26,816	)	208,711
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents during the period				(56,945	)	(92,143	)
Exchange difference				(279	)	7
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period				116,147		301,426
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period		12		58,923		209,290

Interim consolidated statement of changes in equity 

								Other Reserves
		Notes		Equity  share capital		Share premium		Unrealised gain/(loss) on available-for-sale financial assets and initial valuation of hedging		Cumulative translation adjustment		Merger reserve		Total other reserves		Retained earnings		Capital and reserves attributable to shareholders  of the Parent		Minority interest		Total Equity
				US$ (000)
Balance at 31 December 2007				146,466		395,928		1,862		2,628		(210,046)		(205,556)		229,202		566,040		50,008		616,048
Other comprehensive loss/income				-		-		(2,272)		(43,003)		-		(45,275)		620		(44,655)		(207)		(44,862)
(Loss)/profit for the year				-		-		-		-		-		-		(19,003)		(19,003)		5,489		(13,514)
Total comprehensive loss for 2008				-		-		(2,272)		(43,003)		-		(45,275)		(18,383)		(63,658)		5,282		(58,376)
Dividends				-		-		-		-		-		-		(28,331)		(28,331)		-		(28,331)
Adjustment to deferred consideration (a)				-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		1,220		1,220
Expiration of dividends payable				-		-		-		-		-		-		124		124		4		128
Capital contribution from minority shareholders				-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		12,329		12,329
Balance at 31 December 2008				146,466		395,928		(410)		(40,375)		(210,046)		(250,831)		182,612		474,175		68,843		543,018
Other comprehensive income/(loss)				-		-		1,123		881		-		2,004		-		2,004		(20)		1,984
Profit for the period				-		-		-		-		-		-		24,733		24,733		7,630		32,363
Total comprehensive income/(loss) for June 2009				-		-		1,123		881		-		2,004		24,733		26,737		7,610		34,347
Purchase of shares from minority interest				-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		(5,650)		(5,650)
Dividends		14		-		-		-		-		-		-		(6,147)		(6,147)		-		(6,147)
Balance at 30 June 2009				146,466		395,928		713		(39,494)		(210,046)		(248,827)		201,198		494,765		70,803		565,568
Balance at 31 December 2007				146,466		395,928		1,862		2,628		(210,046)		(205,556)		229,202		566,040		50,008		616,048
Other comprehensive (loss)/ income				-		-		(1,118)		121		-		(997)		-		(997)		(100)		(1,097)
Profit for the period				-		-		-		-		-		-		32,718		32,718		14,245		46,963
Total comprehensive income for June 2008				-		-		(1,118)		121		-		(997)		32,718		31,721		14,145		45,866
Capital contribution from minority shareholders				-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		853		853
Adjustment to deferred consideration				-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		1,220		1,220
Dividends		14		-		-		-		-		-		-		(22,184)		(22,184)		-		(22,184)
Balance at 30 June 2008				146,466		395,928		744		2,749		(210,046)		(206,553)		239,736		575,577		66,226		641,803

(a) This amount represents the increase in the minority interest's share of the assets of Pallancata, following the Group's investment during the year in accordance with the agreement signed with Minera Oro Vega S.A.C. 

Notes to the interim consolidated financial statements

1 Corporate Information

Hochschild Mining plc (hereinafter the "Company") is a public limited company incorporated on 11 April 2006 under the Companies Act 1985 as a limited company and registered in England and Wales with registered number 05777693. The Company's registered office is located at 46 Albemarle Street, London W1S 4JL, United Kingdom. Its ordinary shares are traded on the London Stock Exchange. 

The Group's principal business is the mining, processing and sale of silver and gold. The Group has three operating mines (Ares, Arcata, Pallancata) and a plant (Selene), located in Southern Peru, one operating mine (San José) located in Argentina and one operating mine (Santa Maria de Moris) located in Mexico. The Group also has a portfolio of projects located across Peru, Mexico, Chile, Argentina and Canada at various stages of development. 

These interim consolidated financial statements were approved for issue by the Board of Directors on 18 August 2009. 

2 Significant Accounting Policies

(a) Basis of preparation 

These consolidated financial statements set out the Group's financial position as at 30 June 2009 and 31 December 2008 and its financial performance and cash flows for the periods ended 30 June 2009 and 30 June 2008.

These interim consolidated financial statements of the Group for the six months ended 30 June 2009 have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ('IFRS') as adopted by the European Union. Accordingly, the interim consolidated financial statements do not include all the information required for full annual financial statements and therefore, should be read in conjunction with the Group's 2008 annual consolidated financial statements as published in the 2008 Annual Report.

The interim consolidated financial statements do not constitute statutory accounts as defined in section 240 of the Companies Act 1985. The financial information for the full year is based on the statutory accounts for the financial year ended 31 December 2008. A copy of the statutory accounts for that year, which were prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ('IFRS') as adopted by the European Union has been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The auditors' report under section 235 of the Companies Act 1985 in relation to those accounts was unqualified and did not include a reference to any matters to which the auditors drew attention by way of emphasis without qualifying the report and did not contain a statement under s237(2) or s237(3) of the Companies Act 1985.

The impact of the seasonality or cyclicality of operations is not regarded as significant on the interim consolidated financial statements.

The interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for certain classes of property, plant and equipment which have been re valued at 1 January 2003 to determine deemed cost and derivatives and available-for-sale financial instruments which have been measured at fair value. The financial statements are presented in US dollars ($) and all monetary amounts are rounded to the nearest thousand ($000) except when otherwise indicated.

(b) Changes in accounting policies and disclosures

The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the interim consolidated financial statements are consistent with those applied in the preparation of the consolidated financial statement for the year ended 31 December 2008, except for the adoption of the hedge accounting policy and the following interpretations:

Hedge accounting policy

The Group uses interest rate swaps to hedge its interest rate risks. These derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair value on the date on which the derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured at fair value. The fair value of interest rate swap contracts is determined by reference to market values for similar instruments.

For the purpose of hedge accounting, these hedges are classified as cash flow hedges as they are hedging exposure to variability in cash flows that is attributable to a particular risk associated with a highly probable forecast transaction. 

At the inception of a hedge relationship, the Group formally designates and documents the hedge relationship to which the Group wishes to apply hedge accounting and the risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge. The documentation includes identification of the hedging instrument, the hedged item or transaction, the nature of the risk being hedged and how the entity will assess the hedging instrument's effectiveness in offsetting the exposure to changes in the hedged item's fair value or cash flows attributable to the hedged risk. Such hedges are expected to be highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows and are assessed on an ongoing basis to determine that they actually have been highly effective throughout the financial reporting periods for which they were designated. 

Where the interest rate swaps meet the strict criteria for hedge accounting, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognised directly in equity, while any ineffective portion is recognised immediately in the income statement.

Amounts taken to equity are transferred to the income statement when the hedged transaction affects profit or loss, such as when the hedged financial income or financial expense is recognised or when a forecast transaction or firm commitment occurs.. 

If the forecast transaction or firm commitment is no longer expected to occur, amounts previously recognised in equity are transferred to the income statement. If the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised without replacement or rollover, or if its designation as a hedge is revoked, amounts previously recognised in equity remain in equity until the forecast transaction or firm commitment occurs. 

IFRS 8 'Operating Segments' applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009.

IFRS 8 replaces IAS 14 'Segment Reporting' upon its effective date. IFRS 8 defines an operating segment as the component of an entity: (a) that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses, (b) whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the entity´s chief operating decision maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance, and (c) for which discrete financial information is available. The effect of IFRS 8 is analysed in note 3.

IAS 23 Amendment, 'Borrowing Costs', applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009.

IAS 23 has been revised to require capitalisation of borrowing costs when such costs relate to a qualifying asset. A qualifying asset is an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale. In accordance with the transitional provisions in the Standard, the Group adopted this as a prospective change. Accordingly, borrowing costs which result in future economic benefits are capitalised on qualifying assets from 1 January 2009. No changes have been made for borrowing costs incurred prior to this date that have been expensed. 

IAS 1 'Presentation of Financial Statements', applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009.

The standard separates owner and non-owner changes in equity. The statement of changes in equity will include only details of transactions with owners, with non-owner changes in equity presented as a single line. In addition, the Standard introduces the statement of comprehensive income which presents all items of recognised income and expense, either in one single statement, or in two linked statements. The Group has elected to present two statements, being an income statement and statement of comprehensive income.

Other amendments that did not have any impact on the financial position or performance of the Group were:

IFRS 2 'Amendment to IFRS 2 - Vesting Conditions and Cancellations', applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009.

IAS 32 and IAS 1 Amendment 'Puttable Financial Instruments and Obligations Arising on Liquidation' , applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009.

IFRS 1 and IAS 27 Amendment 'Cost of an Investment in a Subsidiary, Jointly Controlled Entity or Associate', applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009.

2008 Annual Improvements to IFRS, applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009.

IFRIC 16 'Hedges of a Net Investment in a Foreign Operation', applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 October 2008.

(c) Comparatives

Where applicable, comparatives have been reclassified on the same basis as current period figures. 

3 Segment Reporting 

The Group's activities are principally related to mining operations which involve the exploration, production and sale of gold and silver. Products are subject to the same risks and returns and are sold through the same distribution channels. The Group has a number of activities that exist solely to support mining operations including power generation and services. Transfer prices between segments are set on an arm´s length basis in a manner similar to that used for third parties. Segment revenue, segment expense and segment results include transfers between segments. Those transfers are eliminated on consolidation.

For internal reporting purposes, management takes decisions and assesses the performance of the Group through consideration of the following reporting segments:

• Operating unit - Ares, which generates revenue from the sale of gold and silver

• Operating unit - Arcata, which generates revenue from the sale of gold, silver and concentrate

• Operating unit - Selene, which generates revenue from the sale of gold, silver and concentrate

• Operating unit - Pallancata, which generates revenue from the sale of concentrate

• Operating unit - San José, which generates revenue from the sale of gold, silver and concentrate

• Operating unit - Moris, which generates revenue from the sale of gold and silver

• Exploration, which explores and evaluates areas of interest in brownfield and greenfield sites with the purpose of extending the life of mine of existing operations and to assess the feasibility of new mines. The exploration segment includes expenses reflected through profit and loss and capitalised as assets. 

The Group's administration, financing, other activities (including other income and expense), and income taxes are managed at a corporate level and are not allocated to operating segments. 

Segment information is consistent with the accounting policies adopted by the Group. Management evaluates the financial information based on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted for use in the European Union.

The Group measures the performance of its operating units by the segment profit or loss that comprises gross profit and selling expenses.

Segment assets include the items that could be allocated directly to the segment.

  

(a) Reportable segment information

US$(000)
Six-months ended 30 June 2009		Ares		Arcata		Selene		Pallancata		San José		Moris		Exploration		Other		Adjustments and eliminations		Total
Revenue from external customers		26,792		59,447		9,311		57,824		62,086		15,047		-		77		-		230,584
Inter segment revenue		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		1685		(1,685)		-
Total revenue		26,792		59,447		9,311		57,824		62,086		15,047		-		1,762		(1,685)		230,584
Profit/(loss from continuing operations before income tax (1) (2)		8,850		30,489		(3,585)		26,930		18,282		4,947		(7,368)		(44,171)		3,292		37,666
Other segment information
Depreciation (3)		(1,661)		(6,305)		(4,660)		(3,613)		(9,524)		(2,187)		(6)		(1,280)		-		(29,236)
Non-cash expenses		(1,190)		-		(2,207)		-		-		-		(10,091)		-		-		(13,488)
Assets
Current assets		4,876		17,478		8,989		22,448		19,993		5,674		-		285		-		79,743
Capital expenditure		976		10,779		12,084		9,977		21,931		179		2,102		589		-		58,617
Other non-current assets		18,975		68,731		50,991		43,694		178,394		7,212		89,703		12,004		-		469,704
Total segment assets		24,827		96,988		72,064		76,119		220,318		13,065		91,805		12,878		-		608,064
Not reportable assets																412,696		-		412,696
Total assets		24,827		96,988		72,064		76,119		220,318		13,065		91,805		425,574		-		1,020,760

 

US$(000)
Six-months ended 30 June 2008		Ares		Arcata		Selene		Pallancata		San José		Moris		Exploration		Other		Adjustments and eliminations		Total
Revenue from external customers		53,037		62,824		27,382		25,885		48,809		13,858		-		51		-		231,846
Inter segment revenue		-		-		221		1,381		24,542		-		-		1,994		(28,138)		-
Total revenue		53,037		62,824		27,603		27,266		73,351		13,858		-		2,045		(28,138)		231,846
Profit/(loss) from continuing operations before income tax(1)		28,371		40,917		9,473		16,894		34,630		2,978		(10,397)		(46,252)		(7,019)		69,595
Other segment information
Depreciation (2)		(2,441)		(3,170)		(2,894)		(997)		(5,561)		(2,738)		(52)		(548)		-		(18,401)
Year-ended 31 December 2008
Assets
Current assets		9,149		22,560		6,859		26,552		25,448		4,867		-		1,115		-		96,550
Capital expenditure		10,438		43,977		47,226		14,619		80,398		2,234		63,386		48,993		-		311,271
Other non-current assets		9,271		31,743		12,681		29,668		108,048		7,354		11,714		(32,766)		-		177,713
Total segment assets		28,858		98,280		66,766		70,839		213,894		14,455		75,100		17,342		-		585,534
Not reportable assets		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		428,964		-		428,964
Total assets		28,858		98,280		66,766		70,839		213,894		14,455		75,100		446,306		-		1,014,498

 

 

(b) Geographical segment reporting

Based on the entity-wide disclosure stated in IFRS 8, the revenue for the period based on the country in which the customer is located is as follows:

		Six-months ended 30 June
		2009		2008
		US$(000)
External customer
USA		63,644		78,657
Peru		64,731		60,782
Mexico		-		14
Belgium		-		6,012
Canada		39,447		24,966
Germany		31,358		23,650
Switzerland		28,548		37,732
Korea		2,856		-
Chile		-		33
		230,584		231,846
Inter-segment
Peru		623		26,368
Mexico		1,062		1,770
		232,269		259,984

 In the periods set out below, certain customers accounted for greater than 10% of the Group´s total revenues as detailed in the following table:

		Six-months ended 30 June 2009						Six-months ended 30 June 2008
		US$(000)		% Revenue		Segment		US$(000)		% Revenue		Segment
Argor Heraus		28,548		12.4%		San José		37,732		16.2%		San Jose, Ares
International Commodities Inc.		38,996		16.9%		Ares, Arcata, Selene, Moris		-		-		-
Johnson Matthey		-		-		-		78,657		33.9%		Ares, Selene, Moris
Teck Metals Ltd. (formerly Teck Cominco Metals Ltd)		39,447		17.1%		Selene, Pallancata		24,966		10.8%		Arcata, Selene, Pallancata
Consorcio Minero S.A.		58,481		25.4%		Arcata, San José, Pallancata		47,440		20.5%		Arcata
Aurubis AG (formerly Nordeutsche Affinerie AG)		31,358		13.6%		Selene, San José, Pallancata		23,650		10.2%		Pallancata, San José

Based on the entity-wide disclosure requirements set out in IFRS 8, non-current assets, excluding financial instruments and income tax assets, were allocated based on the geographical area where the assets are located as follows:

		As at 30 June  2009		As at 31 December 2008
		US$(000)
Peru		256,875		252,122
Argentina		202,774		190,683
Mexico		46,913		47,979
Chile		58		59
Canada		25,610		-
USA		-		26
United Kingdom		184,574		136,802
Total non-current segment assets		716,804		627,671
Available-for-sale financial assets		13,728		17,794
Trade and other receivables		28,327		38,304
Deferred income tax assets		19,335		20,795
Income tax receivable		967		802
Total non-current assets		779,161		705,366

4 Acquisition of associate

Gold Resource Corporation 

In connection with a Strategic Alliance Agreement signed with Gold Resource Corporation, an underground precious metals mining company with a number of development projects in Mexico, the Group purchased 1,670,000 common shares (4.9%) for US$5,010,000 on 5 December 2008.

On 25 February 2009 the Group exercised its option to purchase a further 4,330,000 common shares for US$12,990,000 (US$3 per share). As a result of the acquisition of the second tranche, the Group held a 14.6% interest in Gold Resource Corporation and appointed one of the four directors, giving the Group significant influence over that company. In compliance with the Group's policy and IAS 28, the investment has been treated as an associate and accounted for using the equity method since 25 February 2009.

On 30 June 2009 the Group exercised its option to purchase an additional 5,000,000 common shares for a total cash consideration of US$20,000,000. 

The purchase was completed on two tranches: US$5,000,000 which closed on 30 June 2009 and a second tranche of US$15,000,000 which closed on 20 July 2009. Following the last two purchases the Group owns 23.9% interest in Gold Resource Corp (17.1% as at 30 June 2009).

5 Acquisition of subsidiaries

Southwestern Resources Corporation 

On 21 May 2009, the Group acquired 100% interest of Southwestern Resource Corp. ("Southwestern), a mineral exploration company with a number of gold, silver and base metals projects adjacent to the Group's operations in southern Peru. The acquisition has been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting 

The provisional fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities of Southwestern at the date of the acquisition were:

	Book value	Provisional fair value (a)
	US$(000)
Cash and cash equivalents	5,349	5,349
Available-for-sale financial assets	2,750	949
Investment in associate	598	1,669
Property, plant and equipment	11,286	24,266
Other assets	813	360
Deferred income tax liability	-	(2,959)
Other current liabilities	(581)	(581)
Net assets	20,215	29,053
Negative goodwill arising on acquisition		(9,807)
Total acquisition cost		19,246

(a) The fair values have been provisionally assessed and are subject to revision within twelve months from the date of acquisition.

The total acquisition cost of US$19,246,000 comprised a cash payment of US$19,056,000 and cost of US$190,000 directly attributable to the acquisition. 

From the date of the acquisition Southwestern has contributed a net loss of US$2,409,000. 

Minas Santa María de Moris 

On 5 June 2009 the Group acquired the remaining 30% interest in Minas Santa Maria de Moris from its former partner Exmin S.A. de C.V., obtaining full ownership of its subsidiary for a total cash consideration of US$1,500,000.

In compliance with the Group's accounting policy, the acquisition of the minority interest in Minas Santa María de Moris is recognised following the parent company model. Accordingly, the difference between the consideration paid of US$1,500,000 and the carrying value of the minority interest at the acquisition date of US$5,650,000 has been recognised as negative goodwill. The negative goodwill is included within the caption "other income" in the profit and loss statement and is disclosed as an exceptional item.

6 Revenue

		Six-months ended 30 June
		2009 (Unaudited)		2008 (Unaudited)
		US$(000)
Gold (from doré bars)		56,827		64,815
Silver (from doré bars)		35,309		55,507
Concentrate		138,371		111,473
Services		77		51
		230,584		231,846

The revenue from the concentrate sold, is split between the contained commodities on the following basis: 

		Six-months ended 30 June
		2009 (Unaudited)		2008 (Unaudited)
		US$(000)
Gold		31,916		18,898
Silver		106,361		92,538
Other minerals		94		37
Total concentrate		138,371		111,473

The total volume of gold and silver sold are as follows:

		Six-months ended 30 June
		2009 (Unaudited)		2008 (Unaudited)
		(in thousands of ounces)
Gold		99		92
Silver		10,906		8,842

  7 Pre-tax exceptional items1

The Group recognised the following pre-tax exceptional items:

		Six-months ended 30 June
		2009 (Unaudited)		2008 (Unaudited)
		US$(000)
Cost of sales
Exceptional bonus to mining workers2		(6,918	)	—
		(6,918	)	—
Exploration expenses:
Termination benefits3		(1,049	)	—
		(1,049	)	—
Other income:
Negative goodwill on acquisition of minority interest4		4,150		—
Negative goodwill on acquisition of subsidiary (refer to note 5)		9,807		—
Recovery of impairment of deposits in Kaupthing, Singer and Friedlander Bank		560		—
		14,517		—
Other expenses:
Loss on sale of property, plant and equipment		(20	)	(47)
Termination benefits of Selene mine5		(414	)	—
Electroperu contingency		(32	)	—
Write off of inventory6		(178	)	—
Obsolescence of supplies7		(181	)	—
		(825	)	(47)
Impairment of property, plant and equipment:
Impairment of Liam property (refer to note 11)		(10,091	)	—
Impairment of assets in Ares unit (refer to note 11)		(1,190	)	—
Impairment of assets in Selene unit (refer to note 11)		(2,207	)
		(13,488	)	—
Share of post tax losses and negative goodwill of associates and joint ventures accounted under equity method:
Negative goodwill on acquisition of Gold Resource Corp. (refer to note 4).		225		—
		225		—
Finance income:
Gain on sale of available-for-sale financial assets8		—		1,613
Gain from changes in the fair value of financial instruments9		6,632		—
		6,632		1,613
Finance cost:
Loss from changes in the fair value of financial instruments9		—		(2,757)
Impairment of available-for-sale financial assets10		—		(6,704)
		—		(9,461)

 

8  Finance income/cost before exceptional items

The Group recognised the following finance income/cost before exceptional items:

		Six-months ended 30 June
		2009 (Unaudited)		2008 (Unaudited)
		US$(000)
Finance income:
Interests on time deposits 1		530		3,930
Interests on loans to minority shareholders.		1,297		1,305
Interests on loans to third parties		—		45
Change in discount rate2		1,852		—
Others		69		73
		3,748		5,353
Finance cost:
Interest on bank loans and long-term debt		(7,693	)	(4,457	)
Unwind of discount rate		(47	)	(502	)
Loss from changes in the fair value of forward contracts3		(18,031	)	—
Loss from changes in the fair value of derivative instruments4		(554	)	—
Others		(871	)	(264	)
		(27,196	)	(5,223	)

 

1  Mainly corresponds to interest on liquidity funds. 

2 Corresponds to the gain arising on the reduction in the discount rate used to discount the VAT of Minera Santa Cruz.

3 Corresponds to the loss due to changes in the fair value of derivative instruments according to the contracts signed with Citibank, JP Morgan and INTL Commodities Inc. with the intention to remove the risk of the fluctuations in metal prices. From the total loss, US$5,926,000 corresponds to forward contracts settled during the period. At 30 June 2009 the Group holds forward contracts with Citibank and JP Morgan for a total of 4,634,394 ounces of silver at an average price of US$12/Oz and 18,000 ounces of gold at a price of US$972/Oz, to be settled between July and December of 2009. The unrealised loss recognised in respect of the outstanding forward contracts amounts to US$12,105,000.

4 Corresponds to the loss due to changes in the fair value of the zero cost collar contracts signed by Cia. Minera Ares during the period.  These contracts are over 2,200,000 ounces of silver, with a cap of US$17/oz for 1,400,000 ounces, US$19.5/oz for 400,000 ounces and US$19.95/oz for 400,000 ounces, and a floor of US$11.00/oz.The contracts expire from January to December 2010.

9  Income tax expense

		Six-months ended 30 June
		2009 (Unaudited)		2008 (Unaudited)
		US$(000)
Current tax from continuing operations		11,167		15,091
Deferred income tax relating to origination and reversal of temporary differences from continuing operations		(6,305)		6,649
Withholding taxes		441		892
Total taxation charge in the income statement		5,303		22,632

Amounts relating to items classified as exceptional items for the six-months ended 30 June 2009 and 30 June 2008 were a tax credits of US$6,575,000 and US$1,754,000 respectively.

  

10  Basic and diluted earnings per share

Earnings per share ("EPS") is calculated by dividing profit for the period attributable to equity shareholders of the Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the period. 

The Company has no potential dilutive ordinary shares. 

As at 30 June 2009 and 30 June 2008, earnings per share have been calculated as follows:

		Six-months ended 30 June
		2009 (Unaudited)		2008 (Unaudited)
Profit from continuing operations attributable to equity holders of the Company (US$000)		24,733		32,718
Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue ('000)		307,350		307,350
Basic earnings/(loss) per share from:
Before exceptional items (US$)		0.06		0.13
Exceptional items (US$)		0.02		(0.02)
Continuing operations (US$)		0.08		0.11

  11  Property, plant and equipment 

		Exploration and evaluation costs			Mining properties and development costs		Land and buildings		Plant and equipment(a)		Vehicles		Mine closure asset		Construction in progress and capital advances		Total
		US$(000)
Year ended 31 December 2008
Cost
At 1 January 2008		6,034			157,711		65,435		105,946		2,824		38,288		14,021		390,259
Additions		68,311			79,496		4,253		9,375		77		_		149,759		311,271
Change in discount rate of mine rehabilitation provision		_			_		_		_		_		3,113		_		3,113
Disposals		_			_		_		(120	)	(158	)	_		_		(278	)
Write-off		_			_		_		(24	)	_		_		_		(24	)
Change in mine closure estimate		_			_		_		_		_		280		_		280
Transfers and other movements		(2,960	)		768		30,748		68,535		746		_		(97,837	)	_
Sales during preoperating stage in Minera Santa Cruz		_			(125	)	_		_		_		_		_		(125	)
Foreign exchange translation difference		(10,905	)		(32	)	(43	)	(467	)	(69	)	_		(10	)	(11,526	)
At 31 December 2008		60,480			237,818		100,393		183,245		3,420		41,681		65,933		692,970
Accumulated depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2008		_			50,027		12,858		31,749		860		31,703		_		127,197
Depreciation for the year		_		19,732			7,697		13,729		455		730		_		42,343
Impairment(b)		15,754		10,076			754		6,286		105		943		788		34,706
Disposals		_		_			_		(54	)	(84)		_		_		(138	)
Write-off		_		_			_		(4	)	_		_		_		(4	)
Sales during preoperating stage in Minera Santa Cruz		_			(12	)	_		_		_		_		_		(12	)
Foreign exchange translation difference		_			_		2		(78	)	(30	)	_		_		(106	)
At 31 December 2008		15,754			79,823		21,311		51,628		1,306		33,376		788		203,986
Net book amount at 31 December 2008		44,726			157,995		79,082		131,617		2,114		8,305		65,145		488,984
Period ended 30 June 2009
Cost
At 1 January 2009		60,480			237,818		100,393		183,245		3,420		41,681		65,933		692,970
Additions(c)		2,797			20,999		185		8,076		143		_		26,417		58,617
Acquisition of subsidiary		_			23,800		_		466		_		_		_		24,266
Change in discount rate of mine rehabilitation provision		_			_		_		_		_		(1,171	)	_		(1,171	)
Disposals		_			_		_		(19)		(17)		_		_		(36)
Change in mine closure estimate		_			_		_		_		_		(187)		_		(187)
Write off (d)		(1,255)			(27,717)				(1,492)		(36)		(130)		_		(30,630)
Transfers and other movements		_			_		6,165		33,166		178		_		(39,509)		_
Foreign exchange translation difference		1,328			(442)		3		(157)		9		_		215		956
At 30 June 2009		63,350			254,458		106,746		223,285		3,697		40,193		53,056		744,785
Accumulated depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2009		15,754			79,823		21,311		51,628		1,306		33,376		788		203,986
Depreciation for the period					12,644		5,979		9,668		184		761		_		29,236
Impairment (b)		_			10,091		_		1,190		_		_		_		11,281
Write off( d)		(949)			(26,716)				(738)		(20)		_				(28,423)
Disposals		_			_		_		(1)		(4)		_		_		(5)
Foreign exchange translation difference		377			_		_		6		3		_		3		389
At 30 June 2009		15,182			75,842		27,290		61,753		1,469		34,137		791		216,464
Net book amount at 30 June 2009		48,168			178,616		79,456		161,532		2,228		6,056		52,265		528,321

  12  Cash and cash equivalents

		As at 30 June 2009  (Unaudited)		As at  31 December 2008
		US$ (000)
Cash at bank		223		171
Liquidity funds1		8,904		93,131
Current demand deposit accounts2		34,899		14,567
Time deposits3		14,897		8,278
Cash and cash equivalents		58,923		116,147

13  Borrowings

		As at 30 June 2009 (Unaudited)				As at 31 December 2008
		Non-current		Current		Non-current		Current
		US$(000)
Secured bank loans1		174,653		53,264		202,094		56,625
Amount due to minority shareholders2		26,729		46,036		29,598		40,409
Amounts due to related parties		-		912		-		1,036
		201,382		100,212		231,692		98,070

 

	As at 1 January 2009		Additions		Payments		Reclassification		As at 30 June 2009
	US$ (000)
Non-current	231,692		2,947		-		(33,257)		201,382
Current	98,070		105,187		(136,302)		33,257		100,212
	329,762		108,134		(136,302)		-		301,594
Accrued Interest:
Non-current and current	18,204		6,032		(4,495)		-		19,741
Net of accrued interest	311,558		102,102(a)		(131,807)		-		281,853

(a) US$2,079,000 corresponds to the addition of leases that do not affect cash.

 

14  Dividends Paid and Proposed 

	Amount
	Amount
	US$(000)
Year ended 31 December 2008
Total dividends paid during the year1	28,531
Total dividends declared after year-end and not provided for2	6,147
Six months ended 30 June 2009
Total dividends paid during the period2	6,147
Total dividends declared after period-end and not provided for	6,147

1 Corresponds to dividends paid and provided during 2008 of US$22,184,667 and US$6,147,005, and the payment of accrued dividends as at 31 December 2007 of US$200,000 to Dona Limited for dividends declared in 2006.

2 Corresponds to dividends declared after 31 December 2008 to Pelham Investment Corporation, Navajo Overseas Corporation and public shareholders. 

Dividends per share

A dividend in respect of the year ended 31 December 2008 of US$0.020 per share, amounting to a total dividend of US$6,147,005, was approved at the Annual General Meeting held on 26 May 2009. A dividend of US$0.020 per share, amounting to a total dividend of US$6,147,005 is to be proposed at the General Meeting on 18 August 2009. These financial statements do not reflect this dividend payable.

15  Related party transactions

During the period, there were no significant transactions between related parties, other than the normal arrangements the Group has with its related parties.

  

16  Notes to the cash flow statement 

		Six-months ended 30 June
		2009 (Unaudited)		2008 (Unaudited)
		US$(000)
Reconciliation of profit for the period to net cash generated from operating activities:
Profit for the period		32,363		46,963
Adjustments to reconcile group operating profit to net cash inflows from operating activities:
Depreciation		29,230		18,349
Amortisation of software licences		153		98
Loss on sale of property, plant and equipment		20		47
Impairment of property, plant and equipment		11,281		—
Impairment of available-for-sale financial assets		—		6,704
Gain on sale of available-for-sale financial assets		—		(1,613)
Negative goodwill generated in acquisitions		(4,150)		—
Negative goodwill generated in acquisitions of subsidiaries		(9,807)		—
Write off of property, plant and equipment		2,207		—
Share of post tax losses and negative goodwill of associates and joint ventures accounted under equity method		1106		4,909
Provision of obsolescence of supplies		361		—
Increase in provision for mine closure		1,116		—
Finance income		(10,380)		(5,353)
Finance costs (excluding impairment of available-for-sale financial assets)		27,196		7,980
Income tax expense		5,303		22,632
Other		4,616		128
Increase/(decrease) of cash flows from operations due to changes in assets and liabilities:
Trade and other receivables		14,720		(71,312)
Income tax receivable		2,874		(438)
Derivative financial instruments		748		(998)
Inventories		2,684		(8,233)
Trade and other payables		(5,241)		19,013
Provisions		(339)		(7,226)
Cash generated from operations		106,061		31,650

 

17 Commitments 

a) Mining rights purchase options

During the ordinary course of business, the Group enters into agreements to carry out exploration under concessions held by third parties. Generally, under the terms of some of the agreements, the Group has the option to acquire the concession or invest in the entity holding the concession. In order to exercise the option the Group must satisfy certain financial and other obligations over the agreement term. The options lapse in the event the Group does not meet the financial requirements. At any point in time, the Group may cancel the agreements without penalty, except in certain specific circumstances. The amount at 30 June 2009 that the Group would be required to pay if they were to cancel their agreements, is US$868,000 (30 June 2008: US$581,000).

The Group continually reviews its requirements under the agreements and determines on an annual basis whether to proceed with the financial commitment. Based on management's current intention regarding these projects, the commitments at the balance sheet date are as follows:

	As at  30 June  2009		As at  31 December  2008
	US$ (000)
Commitment for the subsequent twelve months	1,181		1,293
Later than one year	14,450		19,192

b)  Capital commitments

The future capital commitments of the Group are as follows:

	As at  30 June  2009		As at  31 December  2008
	US$ (000)
Peru	69,997		31,860
Argentina	7,968		14,112
Mexico	218		19
	78,183		45,991

18 Subsequent events

On 20 July 2009, the Group completed the acquisition of 3,750,000 shares in Gold Resource Corporation for US$15,000,000, which has previously been agreed on 30 June 2009. Following this transaction, the Group's interest in Gold Resource Corporation increased from 17.1% to 23.9%. 

  

Production Information 

TOTAL GROUP PRODUCTION1

	H1 2009	H1 2008	% change
Silver production (koz)	11,792	8,994	31%
Gold production (koz)	103.73	92	13%
Total silver equivalent (koz)	18,016	14,516	24%
Total gold equivalent (koz)	300.27	242	24%
Silver sold (koz)	10,906	8,842	23%
Gold sold (koz)	98.62	92	7%

1 Total production includes 100% of all production, including production attributable to joint venture partners at Moris, San José and Pallancata.  

ATTRIBUTABLE GROUP PRODUCTION1

	H1 2009	H1 2008	% change
Silver production (koz)	9,250	7,443	24%
Gold production (koz)	77.60	74	5%
Attrib. silver equivalent (koz)	13,906	11,865	17%
Attrib. gold equivalent (koz)	231.77	198	17%

1 Attributable production includes 100% of all production from Arcata, Ares and Selene, 60% from Pallancata, 51% from San José and 70% from Moris (the Company increased its stake in Moris from 70% to 100% in May 2009 therefore a portion of H1 production will be attributable).

QUARTERLY PRODUCTION BY MINE 

ARCATA

Product	H1 2009	H1 2008	% change
Ore production (tonnes)	311,506	228,561	36%
Average head grade silver (g/t)	540.84	554.90	-3%
Average head grade gold (g/t)	1.61	1.38	17%
Concentrate produced (tonnes)	11,388	8,376	36%
Silver grade in concentrate (kg/t)	13.39	13.49	-1%
Gold grade in concentrate (kg/t)	0.04	0.03	33%
Silver produced (koz)	4,970	3,633	37%
Gold produced (koz)	14.08	8.89	58%
Silver sold (koz)	4,174	3,550	18%
Gold sold (koz)	11.98	8.34	44%

ARES

Product	H1 2009	H1 2008	% change
Ore production (tonnes)	161,964	165,715	-2%
Average head grade silver (g/t)	89.25	191.90	-53%
Average head grade gold (g/t)	4.92	6.68	-26%
Doré total (koz)	425.04	937	-55%
Silver produced (koz)	399	900	-56%
Gold produced (koz)	24.16	33.75	-28%
Silver sold (koz)	395	1,078	-63%
Gold sold (koz)	23.65	37.66	-37%

SELENE1 

Product	H1 2009	H1 2008	% change
Ore production (tonnes)	109,893	176,868	-38%
Average head grade silver (g/t)	216.76	214.23	1%
Average head grade gold (g/t)	1.09	1.23	-11%
Concentrate produced (tonnes)	1,057	2,064	-49%
Silver grade in concentrate (kg/t)	18.55	15.83	17%
Gold grade in concentrate (kg/t)	0.09	0.09	0%
Silver produced (koz)	628	1,039	-40%
Gold produced (koz)	3.02	5.59	-46%
Silver sold (koz)	550	1,231	-55%
Gold sold (koz)	2.55	6.41	-60%

1 Selene was closed on 28 May 2009 therefore the figures do not represent a full six months of production 

PALLANCATA1

Product	H1 2009	H1 2008	% change
Ore production (tonnes)	375,840	134,410	180%
Average head grade silver (g/t)	302.75	339.64	-11%
Average head grade gold (g/t)	1.34	1.67	-20%
Concentrate produced (tonnes)	3,004	1,388	116%
Silver grade in concentrate (kg/t)	32.95	29.77	11%
Gold grade in concentrate (kg/t)	0.13	0.12	8%
Silver produced (koz)	3,182	1,329	139%
Gold produced (koz)	12.11	5.16	135%
Silver sold (koz)	3,190	1,187	169%
Gold sold (koz)	11.44	4.57	150%

1 The Company has a 60% interest in Pallancata.

SAN JOSE1

Product	H1 2009	H1 2008	% change
Ore production (tonnes)	238,170	120,500	98%
Average head grade silver (g/t)	413.80	652.57	-37%
Average head grade gold (g/t)	5.47	7.33	-25%
Silver produced (koz)	2,564	2,061	24%
Gold produced (koz)	34.64	24.55	41%
Silver sold (koz)	2,547	2,608	-2%
Gold sold (koz)	33.31	34.03	-2%

1 The Company has a 51% interest in San José.

MORIS1

Product	H1 2009	H1 2008	% change
Ore production (tonnes)	632,497	387,063	63%
Average head grade silver (g/t)	5.01	5.15	-3%
Average head grade gold (g/t)	1.37	1.63	-16%
Silver produced (koz)	49.57	32	55%
Gold produced (koz)	15.73	14.08	12%
Silver sold (koz)	50	34	47%
Gold sold (koz)	15.69	14.50	8%

1 The Company increased its stake in Moris from 70% to 100% in May 2009 therefore a portion of H1 production will be attributable. 

  Glossary 

Ag

Silver

Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as profit from continuing operations before exceptional items, net finance costs and income tax plus depreciation, amortization and exploration expenses other than personnel and other expenses 

Au 

Gold

Attributable after tax profit

Profit for the year before dividends attributable to the equity shareholders of Hochschild Mining plc from continuing operations before exceptional items and after minority interest

Attributable production  

Represents the Group's actual share of production (currently includes 100% of all production from Arcata, Ares and Moris, 60% from Pallancata and  51% from San José)

Average head grade

Average ore grade fed into the mill

Board

The board of directors of the Company

Company, Group or Hochschild

Hochschild Mining plc and its subsidiary undertakings 

Cu

Copper

Directors

The directors of the Company

Doré

Doré bullion is an impure alloy of gold and silver and is generally the final product of mining and processing; the doré bullion will be transported to be refined to high purity metal

Dollar or $

United States dollars

Effective Tax Rate

Income tax expense as a percentage of profit from continuing operations before income tax

EPS 

The per-share (using the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period) profit available to equity shareholders of the Company from continuing operations before exceptional items

eq

equivalent

Exceptional item

Events that are significant and which, due to their nature or the expected infrequency of the events giving rise to them, need to be disclosed separately

  GAAP

Generally Accepted Accounting Principles

g/t

Grams per metric tonne

IAS

International Accounting Standards

IASB

International Accounting Standards Board

IFRS

International Financial Reporting Standards

JV

Joint venture 

koz

Thousand ounces

kt

Thousand metric tonnes

ktpa

Thousand metric tonnes per annum

Listing or IPO (Initial Public Offering) or Global Offer

The listing of the Company's ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange on 8 November 2006

LSE

London Stock Exchange

LTIP

Long Term Incentive Plan

moz

Million ounces

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary shares of £0.25 each in the Company 

Pb

Lead

Silver equivalent 

Gold production multiplied by 60 added to silver production 

Spot or spot price

The purchase price of a commodity at the current price, normally this is at a discount to the long term contract price

t

tonne

Zn

Zinc

Shareholder Information 

1 Company website

Hochschild Mining plc Interim and Annual Reports and results announcements are available via the internet on our website at www.hochschildmining.com. Shareholders can also access the latest information about the Company and press announcements as they are released, together with details of future events and how to obtain further information.

2 Registrars

Enquiries concerning shareholdings, dividends and changes in personal details should be referred to the Company's registrars, Capita as detailed below.

By post:

Shareholder Services Department, Capita Registrars Limited, The Registry, 34 Beckenham Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 4TU

By telephone:

By fax: +44 (0)20 8639 2342

3 Currency option and dividend mandate

Shareholders wishing to receive their dividend in US dollars should contact the Company's registrars to request a currency election form. This form should be completed and returned to the registrars by 8 September 2009 in respect of the 2009 interim dividend.

The Company's registrars can also arrange for the dividend to be paid directly into shareholders' UK bank accounts. To take advantage of this facility in respect of the 2009 interim dividend, a dividend mandate form, also available from the Company's registrars, should be completed and returned to the registrars by 8 September 2009. This arrangement is only available in respect of dividends paid in UK pounds sterling. Shareholders who have already completed one or both of these forms need take no further action. 

4 Investor Relations

For investor enquiries please contact Jane Flynn, Investor Relations Associate, by writing to the registered office address (given below) or by telephone on 020 7907 2933 or by email at jane.flynn@hocplc.com.

5 Financial Calendar

Dividend dates	2009
Ex-dividend date	02 September
Record date	04 September
Deadline for return of currency election forms	08 September
Payment date	22 September

Hochschild Mining plc46 Albemarle StreetLondonW1S 4JL

Registered in England and Wales

Registered Number: 05777693

---

 

ENDIR XVLLFKVBZBBL