Form 20-F
Table of Contents

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 26, 2013

 

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 20-F

 

¨

REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(B) OR 12(G) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 OR

x

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 OR

¨

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 OR

¨

SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012

Commission file number: 1-14846

AngloGold Ashanti Limited

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

Republic of South Africa

(Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)

76 Jeppe Street, Newtown, Johannesburg, 2001

(P.O. Box 62117, Marshalltown, 2107)

South Africa

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

 

ME Sanz Perez, Company Secretary, Telephone: +27 11 6376306, Facsimile: +27 86 6750137

E-mail: rsanz@anglogoldashanti.com, 76 Jeppe Street, Newtown, Johannesburg, 2001, South Africa

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class   Name of each exchange on which registered

American Depositary Shares

  New York Stock Exchange

Ordinary Shares

  New York Stock Exchange*

6.00 Percent Mandatory Convertible Subordinated Bonds due 2013

  New York Stock Exchange
*

Not for trading, but only in connection with the registration of American Depositary Shares pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:

None

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report:

Ordinary Shares of 25 ZAR cents each

     383,320,962   

E Ordinary Shares of 25 ZAR cents each

     1,617,752   

A Redeemable Preference Shares of 50 ZAR cents each

     2,000,000   

B Redeemable Preference Shares of 1 ZAR cent each

     778,896   

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

   Yes  x No ¨

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the

Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

  

Yes ¨ No x         

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing

requirements for the past 90 days.

   Yes  x No ¨        

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was

required to submit and post such files).

  

Yes x No ¨         

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

 

(Check one): Large Accelerated Filer x

   Accelerated Filer ¨   

Non-Accelerated Filer ¨    

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

   U.S. GAAP  x

International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board ¨Other¨

 

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

   Yes ¨  No x        


Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS    Page

Presentation of information

   3

Certain forward-looking statements

   4

Glossary of selected terms

  
  

Mining terms

   5
  

Financial terms

   8
  

Currencies

   8
  

Abbreviations

   9

Part I:

Item 1:

  

Identity of directors, senior management and advisors

   10

Item 2:

  

Offer statistics and expected timetable

   10

Item 3:

  

Key information

  
   3A.       

Selected financial data

   10
   3B.       

Capitalization and indebtedness

   14
   3C.       

Reasons for the offer and the use of proceeds

   14
   3D.       

Risk factors

   14

Item 4:

  

Information on the company

   41
   4A.       

History and development of the company

   41
   4B.       

Business overview

   42
   4C.       

Organizational structure

   95
   4D.       

Property, plants and equipment

   96

Item 4A:

  

Unresolved staff comments

   121

Item 5:

  

Operating and financial review and prospects

   122
   5A.       

Operating results

  

123

   5B.       

Liquidity and capital resources

  

149

   5C.       

Research and development, patents and licenses, etc

   158
   5D.       

Trend information

   158
   5E.       

Off-balance sheet arrangements

   158
   5F.       

Tabular disclosure of contractual obligations

   158

Item 6:

  

Directors, senior management and employees

  
   6A.       

Directors and senior management

   159
   6B.       

Compensation

   166
   6C.       

Board practices

   172
   6D.       

Employees

   177
   6E.       

Share ownership

   179

Item 7:

  

Major shareholders and related party transactions

   186
   7A.       

Major shareholders

   188
   7B.       

Related party transactions

   189
   7C.       

Interests of experts and counsel

   189

Item 8:

  

  Financial information

  
     8A.     

Consolidated financial statements and other financial information

   190
       

Legal proceedings

   190
       

Dividends

   196
   8B.     

Significant changes

   196

 

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Table of Contents

Item 9:

    

The offer and listing

  
     9A.       

Offer and listing details

     197   
     9B.       

Plan of distribution

     197   
     9C.       

Markets

     198   
     9D.       

Selling shareholders

     198   
     9E.       

Dilution

     198   
     9F.       

Expenses of the issue

     198   

Item 10:

    

Additional information

  
     10A.     

Share capital

     199   
     10B.     

Memorandum of Incorporation

     202   
     10C.     

Material contracts

     213   
     10D.     

Exchange controls

     216   
     10E.     

Taxation

     217   
     10F.     

Dividends and paying agents

     221   
     10G.     

Statement by experts

     221   
     10H.     

Documents on display

     221   
     10I.      

Subsidiary information

     221   

Item 11:

    

Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk.

     222   

Item 12:

    

Description of securities other than equity securities

  
     12A.     

Debt securities

     229   
     12B.     

Warrants and rights

     229   
     12C.     

Other securities

     229   
     12D.     

American Depositary Shares

  
         

12D.3        Depositary fees and charges

     229   
         

12D.4        Depositary payments for 2012

     229   

Part II:

  

Item 13:

    

Defaults, dividend arrearages and delinquencies

     230   

Item 14:

    

Material modifications to the rights of security holders and use of proceeds

     231   

Item 15:

    

Controls and procedures

     232   

Item 16A:

    

Audit committee financial expert

     234   

Item 16B:

    

Code of Ethics and Whistleblowing Policies

     235   

Item 16C:

    

Principal accountant fees and services

     236   

Item 16D:

    

Exemptions from the listing standards for audit committees

     236   

Item 16E:

    

Purchases of equity securities by the issuer and affiliated purchasers

     236   

Item 16F:

    

Change in registrant’s certifying accountant

     237   

Item 16G:

    

Corporate Governance

     237   

Item 16H:

    

Mine Safety Disclosure

     237   

Part III:

  

Item 17:

    

Financial statements

     238   

Item 18:

    

Financial statements

     239 and F pages   

Item 19

    

Exhibits

     E pages   

 

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PRESENTATION OF INFORMATION

AngloGold Ashanti Limited

In this annual report on Form 20-F, unless the context otherwise requires, references to AngloGold, AngloGold Ashanti, the company, the Company and the group are references to AngloGold Ashanti Limited including, as appropriate, subsidiaries and associate companies of AngloGold Ashanti.

US GAAP financial statements

The audited consolidated financial statements contained in this annual report on Form 20-F for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 and as at December 31, 2012 and 2011 have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (US GAAP).

IFRS financial statements

As a company incorporated in the Republic of South Africa, AngloGold Ashanti also prepares annual audited consolidated financial statements and unaudited consolidated quarterly financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). These financial statements (referred to as IFRS statements) are distributed to shareholders and are submitted to the JSE Limited (JSE), as well as the London, New York, Australian and Ghana stock exchanges and are furnished to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Form 6-K.

Currency

AngloGold Ashanti presents its consolidated financial statements in United States dollars.

In this annual report, references to rands, ZAR and R are to the lawful currency of the Republic of South Africa, references to US dollars, dollar or $ are to the lawful currency of the United States, references to are to the lawful currency of the European Union, references to C$ or CAD are to the lawful currency of Canada, references to ARS and peso are to the lawful currency of Argentina, references to AUD and A$ are to the lawful currency of Australia, references to BRL are to the lawful currency of Brazil, reference to NAD and N$ are to the lawful currency of Namibia, reference to Tsh is to the lawful currency of the United Republic of Tanzania and references to GHC, cedi or ¢ are to the lawful currency of Ghana.

See “Item 3A.: Selected financial data – Exchange rate information” for historical information regarding the US dollar/South African rand exchange rate. On April 19, 2013 the interbank US dollar/South African rand exchange rate as reported by OANDA Corporation was R9.17/$1.00.

Non-GAAP financial measures

In this annual report on Form 20-F, AngloGold Ashanti presents the financial items “total cash costs”, “total cash costs per ounce”, “total production costs” and “total production costs per ounce” which have been determined using industry guidelines and practices promulgated by the Gold Institute and are not US GAAP measures. An investor should not consider these items in isolation or as alternatives to production costs, net income/(loss) applicable to common shareholders, income/(loss) before income tax provision, net cash provided by operating activities or any other measure of financial performance presented in accordance with US GAAP. While the Gold Institute has provided definitions for the calculation of total cash costs and total production costs, the calculation of total cash costs, total cash costs per ounce, total production costs and total production costs per ounce may vary significantly among gold mining companies, and by themselves do not necessarily provide a basis for comparison with other gold mining companies. See “Glossary of selected terms – Financial terms – Total cash costs” and –“Total production costs” and “Item 5A.: Operating results – Total cash costs and total production costs”.

Shares and shareholders

In this annual report on Form 20-F, references to ordinary shares, ordinary shareholders and shareholders/members, should be read as common stock, common stockholders and stockholders, respectively, and vice versa.

 

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CERTAIN FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this document, other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, those concerning the economic outlook for the gold mining industry, expectations regarding gold prices, production, cash costs and other operating results, return on equity, productivity improvements, growth prospects and outlook of AngloGold Ashanti’s operations, individually or in the aggregate, including the achievement of project milestones, the completion and commencement of commercial operations of certain of AngloGold Ashanti’s exploration and production projects and the completion of acquisitions and dispositions, AngloGold Ashanti’s liquidity and capital resources and capital expenditures and the outcome and consequence of any potential or pending litigation or regulatory proceedings or environmental issues, are forward-looking statements regarding AngloGold Ashanti’s operations, economic performance and financial condition.

These forward-looking statements or forecasts involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause AngloGold Ashanti’s actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. Although AngloGold Ashanti believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Accordingly, results and forecasts could differ materially from those set out in the forward-looking statements as a result of among other factors, changes in economic, social and political and market conditions, success of business and operating initiative, changes in the regulatory environment and other government actions, including environmental approval, fluctuations in gold prices and exchange rates, the outcome of pending or future litigation proceedings and business and operational risk management and other factors as determined in “item 3D.: Risk factors” and elsewhere in this annual report. These factors are not necessarily all of the important factors that could cause AngloGold Ashanti’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Other unknown or unpredictable factors could also have material adverse effects on future results. Consequently, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

AngloGold Ashanti undertakes no obligation to update publicly or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to events or circumstances after the date of this annual report or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except to the extent required by applicable law. All subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to AngloGold Ashanti or any person acting on its behalf are qualified by the cautionary statements herein.

 

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GLOSSARY OF SELECTED TERMS

The following explanations are not intended as technical definitions but should assist the reader in understanding terminology used in this annual report. Unless expressly stated otherwise, all explanations are applicable to both underground and surface mining operations.

Mining terms

 

 

All injury frequency rate: The total number of injuries and fatalities that occurs per million hours worked.

 

BIF: Banded Ironstone Formation. A chemically formed iron-rich sedimentary rock.

 

By-products: Any products that emanate from the core process of producing gold, including silver, uranium and sulfuric acid.

 

Calc-silicate rock: A metamorphic rock consisting mainly of calcium-bearing silicates such as diopside and wollastonite, and formed by metamorphism of impure limestone or dolomite.

 

Carbon-in-leach (CIL): Gold is leached from a slurry of gold ore with cyanide in agitated tanks and adsorbed on to carbon granules in the same circuit. The carbon granules are separated from the slurry and treated in an elution circuit to remove the gold.

 

Carbon-in-pulp (CIP): Gold is leached conventionally from a slurry of gold ore with cyanide in agitated tanks. The leached slurry then passes into the CIP circuit where carbon granules are mixed with the slurry and gold is adsorbed on to the carbon. The granules are separated from the slurry and treated in an elution circuit to remove the gold.

 

Comminution: Comminution is the crushing and grinding of ore to make gold available for treatment. (See also “Milling”).

 

Contained gold: The total gold content (tons multiplied by grade) of the material being described.

 

Cut-off grade (surface mines): The minimum grade at which a unit of ore will be mined to achieve the desired economic outcome.

 

Depletion: The decrease in the quantity of ore in a deposit or property resulting from extraction or production.

 

Development: The process of accessing an orebody through shafts and/or tunneling in underground mining operations.

 

Diorite: An igneous rock formed by the solidification of molten material (magma).

 

Doré: Impure alloy of gold and silver produced at a mine to be refined to a higher purity, usually consisting of 85 percent gold on average.

 

Electro-winning: A process of recovering gold from solution by means of electrolytic chemical reaction into a form that can be smelted easily into gold bars.

 

Elution: Recovery of the gold from the activated carbon into solution before zinc precipitation or electro-winning.

 

Gold Produced: Refined gold in a saleable form derived from the mining process.

 

Grade: The quantity of gold contained within a unit weight of gold-bearing material generally expressed in ounces per short ton of ore (oz/t), or grams per metric tonne (g/t).

 

Greenschist: A schistose metamorphic rock whose green color is due to the presence of chlorite, epidote or actinolite.

 

 

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Table of Contents

 

Leaching: Dissolution of gold from crushed or milled material, including reclaimed slime, prior to adsorption on to activated carbon.

 

Life of mine (LOM): Number of years for which an operation is planning to mine and treat ore, and is taken from the current mine plan.

 

Metallurgical plant: A processing plant constructed to treat ore and extract gold.

 

Metallurgical recovery factor (MetRF): A measure of the efficiency in extracting gold from the ore deposit.

 

Milling: A process of reducing broken ore to a size at which concentrating can be undertaken. (See also “Comminution”).

 

Mine call factor: The ratio, expressed as a percentage, of the total quantity of recovered and unrecovered mineral product after processing with the amount estimated in the ore based on sampling. The ratio of contained gold delivered to the metallurgical plant divided by the estimated contained gold of ore mined based on sampling.

 

Mineral deposit: A mineral deposit is a concentration (or occurrence) of material of possible economic interest in or on the earth’s crust.

 

Ore Reserve: That part of a mineral deposit which could be economically and legally extracted or produced at the time of the Ore Reserve determination.

 

Ounce (oz) (troy): Used in imperial statistics. A kilogram is equal to 32.1507 ounces. A troy ounce is equal to 31.1035 grams.

 

Pay limit: The grade of a unit of ore at which the revenue from the recovered mineral content of the ore is equal to the sum of total cash costs, closure costs, Ore Reserve development and stay-in-business capital. This grade is expressed as an in-situ value in grams per tonne or ounces per short ton (before dilution and mineral losses).

 

Precipitate: The solid product of chemical reaction by fluids such as the zinc precipitation referred to below.

 

Probable Ore Reserve: Ore Reserve for which quantity and grade are computed from information similar to that used for Proven Reserves, but the sites for inspection, sampling, and measurement are further apart or are otherwise less adequately spaced. The degree of assurance, although lower than that for Proven Reserves, is high enough to assume continuity between points of observation.

 

Productivity: An expression of labor productivity based on the ratio of grams of gold produced per month to the total number of employees in mining operations.

 

Proven Ore Reserve: Ore Reserve for which the (a) quantity is computed from dimensions revealed in outcrops, trenches, workings or drill holes; grade is computed from the results of detailed sampling and (b) the sites for inspection, sampling and measurement are spaced so closely and the geologic character is so well defined that size, shape, depth and mineral content of the Ore Reserve are well established.

 

Project capital: Capital expenditure to either bring a new operation into production; to materially increase production capacity; or to materially extend the productive life of an asset.

 

Recovered grade: The recovered mineral content per unit of ore treated.

 

Reef: A gold-bearing sedimentary horizon, normally a conglomerate band that may contain economic levels of gold.

 

Refining: The final purification process of a metal or mineral.

 

 

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Rehabilitation: The process of reclaiming land disturbed by mining to allow an appropriate post-mining use. Rehabilitation standards are defined by country-specific laws, including but not limited to the South African Department of Mineral Resources, the US Bureau of Land Management, the US Forest Service, and the relevant Australian mining authorities, and address among other issues, ground and surface water, topsoil, final slope gradient, waste handling and re-vegetation issues.

 

Seismic event: A sudden inelastic deformation within a given volume of rock that radiates detectable seismic energy.

 

Shaft: A vertical or subvertical excavation used for accessing an underground mine; for transporting personnel, equipment and supplies; for hoisting ore and waste; for ventilation and utilities; and/or as an auxiliary exit.

 

Short ton: Used in imperial statistics. Equal to 2,000 pounds.

 

Skarn: A rock of complex mineralogical composition, formed by contact metamorphism and metasomatism of carbonate rocks.

 

Smelting: A pyro-metallurgical operation in which gold is further separated from impurities.

 

Stope: Underground excavation where the orebody is extracted.

 

Stripping ratio: The ratio of waste tonnes to ore tonnes mined calculated as total tonnes mined divided by ore tonnes mined.

 

Stoping: The process of excavating ore underground.

 

Syngenetic: Formed contemporaneously with the deposition of the sediment.

 

Tailings: Finely ground rock of low residual value from which valuable minerals have been extracted.

 

Tailings dam (slimes dam): Dam facilities designed to store discarded tailings.

 

Tonne: Used in metric statistics. Equal to 1,000 kilograms.

 

Tonnage: Quantity of material measured in tonnes or tons.

 

Waste: Material that contains insufficient mineralization for consideration for future treatment and, as such, is discarded.

 

Yield: The amount of valuable mineral or metal recovered from each unit mass of ore expressed as ounces per short ton or grams per metric tonne.

 

Zinc precipitation: Zinc precipitation is the chemical reaction using zinc dust that converts gold in solution to a solid form for smelting into unrefined gold bars.

 

 

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Financial terms

 

 

Average number of employees: The monthly average number of production and non-production employees and contractors employed during the year, where contractors are defined as individuals who have entered into a fixed-term contract of employment with a group company or subsidiary. Employee numbers of joint ventures represents the group’s attributable share.

 

Capital expenditure: Total capital expenditure on tangible assets.

 

Discontinued operation: A component of an entity that, pursuant to a single plan, has been disposed of or abandoned or is classified as held for sale until conditions precedent to the sale have been fulfilled.

 

Effective tax rate: Current and deferred taxation charge for the year as a percentage of profit before taxation.

 

OANDA Corporation: An internet-based provider of forex trading and currency information services.

 

Rated bonds: The $700 million 5.375 percent bonds due 2020, $300 million 6.5 percent bonds due 2040 and the $750 million 5.125 percent bonds due 2022.

 

Region: Defines the operational management divisions within AngloGold Ashanti Limited, namely South Africa, Continental Africa (Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Namibia and Tanzania), Australasia, and the Americas (Argentina, Brazil and United States of America).

 

Related party: Parties are considered related if one party has the ability to control the other party or exercise significant influence over the other party in making financial and operating decisions.

 

Significant influence: The ability, directly or indirectly, to participate in, but not exercise control over, the financial and operating policy decision of an entity so as to obtain economic benefit from its activities.

 

STRATE: The licensed Central Securities Depository (CSD) for the electronic settlement of financial instruments in South Africa.

 

Total cash costs: Total cash costs include site costs for all mining, processing and administration, reduced by contributions from by-products and are inclusive of royalties and production taxes. Depreciation, depletion and amortization, rehabilitation, corporate administration, employee severance costs, capital and exploration costs are excluded. Total cash costs per ounce are the attributable total cash costs divided by the attributable ounces of gold produced.

 

Total production costs: Total cash costs plus depreciation, depletion and amortization, employee severance costs, rehabilitation and other non-cash costs. Corporate administration and exploration costs are excluded. Total production costs per ounce are the attributable total production costs divided by the attributable ounces of gold produced.

 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares: The number of ordinary shares in issue at the beginning of the year, increased by shares issued during the year, weighted on a time basis for the period during which they have participated in the income of the group, and increased by share options that are virtually certain to be exercised.

 

Currencies

 

$, US$ or dollar

  

United States dollars

     

ARS

  

Argentinean peso

     

A$ or AUD

  

Australian dollars

     

BRL

  

Brazilian real

     

or Euro

  

European Euro

     

C$ or CAD

  

Canadian dollars

     

GHC, cedi or ¢

  

Ghanaian cedi

     

N$ or NAD

  

Namibian dollars

     

Tsh

  

Tanzanian Shillings

     

ZAR, R or rand

  

South African rands

     

 

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Abbreviations

 

ADS

  

American Depositary Share

ADR

  

American Depositary Receipt

AIFR

  

All injury frequency rate

ASX

  

Australian Securities Exchange

Au

  

Contained gold

BBSY

  

Bank Bill Swap Bid Rate

bn

  

Billion

BEE

  

Black Economic Empowerment

capex

  

Capital expenditure

CDI

  

Chess Depositary Interests

CLR

  

Carbon Leader Reef

Companies Act

  

South African Companies Act 71, of 2008

DMTNP

  

Domestic medium-term notes program

ERP

  

Enterprise resource planning

FIFR

  

Fatal injury frequency rate

G or g

  

Grams

g/t

  

Grams per tonne

GhDS

  

Ghanaian Depositary Share

GhSE

  

Ghana Stock Exchange

JORC

  

Australasian Code for Reporting Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves

JIBAR

  

Johannesburg Interbank Agreed Rate

JSE

  

JSE Limited (Johannesburg Stock Exchange)

King III

  

South African King Code on Corporate Governance, 2009

Kg or kg

  

Kilograms

Km or km

  

Kilometers

LSE

  

London Stock Exchange

LIBOR

  

London Interbank Offer Rate

LOM

  

Life of mine

M or m

  

Meter or million, depending on the context

Moz

  

Million ounces

Mt

  

Million tonnes or tons

Mtpa

  

Million tonnes/tons per annum

NYSE

  

New York Stock Exchange

Oz or oz

  

Ounces (troy)

oz/t

  

Ounces per ton

oz/TEC

  

Ounces per total employee costed

SAMREC

  

South African Code for the Reporting of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves 2007 Edition

SEC

  

United States Securities and Exchange Commission

SOX

  

Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

T or t

  

Tons (short) or tonnes (metric)

Tpa or tpa

  

Tonnes/tons per annum

US/USA/United States

  

United States of America

VCR

  

Ventersdorp Contact Reef

Note: Rounding of figures in this report may result in computational discrepancies.

 

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PART I

ITEM 1: IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISORS

Not applicable.

ITEM 2: OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

Not applicable.

ITEM 3: KEY INFORMATION

 

3A.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The selected financial information set forth below for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2011 and 2012 and as at December 31, 2011 and 2012 has been derived from, and should be read in conjunction with, the US GAAP financial statements included under Item 18 of this annual report. The selected financial information for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2009 and as at December 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010 has been derived from the US GAAP financial statements not included in this annual report.

 

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Year ended December 31,

 

 
     2008 (1)     2009     2010     2011     2012  
     $     $     $     $     $  
      (in millions, except share and per share amounts)  

Consolidated statement of income

          

Sales and other income

     3,730       3,954       5,402       6,642        6,428   

Product sales(2)

     3,655       3,784       5,334       6,570        6,353   

Interest, dividends and other

     75       170       68       72        75   

Costs and expenses

     4,103       4,852       5,021       4,521        5,217   

Operating costs(3)

     2,452       2,543       3,112       3,555        3,876   

Royalties

     78       84       142       193        164   

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

     615       615       720       789        794   

Impairment of assets

     670       8       91       17        367   

Interest expense

     72       123       151       178        213   

Accretion expense

     22       17       22       28        33   

(Profit)/loss on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

     (64     10       (3     (43     35   

Non-hedge derivative loss/(gain) and movement on bonds

     258       1,452       786       (196     (265

(Loss)/income from continuing operations before income tax and equity income in associates

     (373     (898     381       2,121        1,211   

Taxation (expense)/benefit

     (22     33       (255     (705     (340

Equity (loss)/income in associates

     (149     88       40       59        (23

Net (loss)/income from continuing operations

     (544     (777     166       1,475        848   

Discontinued operations

     23       -       -        -        -   

Net (loss)/income

     (521     (777     166       1,475        848   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (42     (48     (54     (50     (19
                                        

Net (loss)/income - attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

     (563     (825     112       1,425        829   

Net (loss)/income - attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

          

(Loss)/income from continuing operations

     (586     (825     112       1,425        829   

Discontinued operations

     23       -        -        -        -   
     (563     (825     112       1,425        829   

Basic (loss)/earnings per common share (in $)(4)

          

From continuing operations

     (1.86     (2.30     0.30       3.71        2.15   

Discontinued operations

     0.07       -        -        -        -   

Net (loss)/income - attributable to AngloGold Ashanti common stockholders

     (1.79     (2.30     0.30       3.71        2.15   

Diluted (loss)/income per common share (in $)(4)

          

From continuing operations

     (1.86     (2.30     0.30       3.17        1.61   

Discontinued operations

     0.07       -        -        -        -   

Net (loss)/income - attributable to common stockholders

     (1.79     (2.30     0.30       3.17        1.61   
                                        

Dividend per common share (cents)

     13       13       18       34        56   

 

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     2008       2009       2010       2011       2012   
     $      $      $      $      $  
     (in millions, except share and per share amounts)  

 

 

Consolidated balance sheet data (as at period end)

              

Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash

     585        1,112        585        1,147         927   

Other current assets

     2,328        1,646        1,412        1,484         1,863   

Property, plant and equipment and acquired properties, net

     5,579        6,285        6,762        6,902         7,983   

Goodwill and other intangibles, net

     152        180        197        213         305   

Materials on the leach pad (long-term)

     261        324        331        393         445   
Other long-term assets, derivatives, deferred taxation assets and other long-term inventory      546        1,115        1,101        1,046         1,579   
  

 

 

 

Total assets

     9,451        10,662        10,388        11,185         13,102   
  

 

 

 

Current liabilities

     3,458        4,475        1,004        919         1,959   

Provision for environmental rehabilitation

     302        385        530        653         758   

Deferred taxation liabilities

     1,008        1,171        1,200        1,242         1,157   

Other long-term liabilities and derivatives

     1,277        1,186        3,065        2,849         3,380   

Equity (5)

     3,406        3,445        4,589        5,522         5,848   
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities and equity

     9,451        10,662        10,388        11,185         13,102   
  

 

 

 

Capital stock (exclusive of long-term debt and redeemable preferred stock)

 

     12        12        13        13         13   

Number of common shares as adjusted to reflect changes in capital stock

 

         353,483,410        362,240,669        381,204,080        382,242,343         383,320,962   

Net assets

     3,406        3,445        4,589        5,522         5,848   

 

 

 

(1)

2008 results included the acquisition of the remaining 33 percent shareholding in the Cripple Creek and Victor Gold Mining Company with effect from July 1, 2008. In prior years, the investment was consolidated as a subsidiary. The 2008 accounting treatment is therefore consistent with that of prior years.

(2)

Product sales represent revenue from the sale of gold.

(3)

Operating costs include production costs, exploration costs, related party transactions, general and administrative, market development costs, employment severance costs and other.

(4)

The calculations of basic and diluted (loss)/earnings per common share are described in note 8 to the consolidated financial statements “Income/(loss) per common share”. Amounts reflected exclude E Ordinary shares.

(5)

Includes noncontrolling interests.

 

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Annual dividends

The table below sets forth the amounts of interim, final and total dividends paid in respect of the past five years in cents per ordinary share. In respect of 2012, a fourth quarter dividend of 50 South African cents per ordinary share was declared on February 18, 2013, with a record date of March 15, 2013 and a payment date of March 28, 2013.

 

  Year ended December 31(1)      2008        2009        2010        2011        2012  

  South African cents per ordinary share

                        

  First quarter

                           100   

  Second quarter

       50           60           65           90           100   

  Third quarter

                      90           50   

  Fourth quarter

       50           70           80           200           50   

  Total

       100           130           145           380           300   

  US cents per ordinary share(2)

                        

  First quarter

                           11.81   

  Second quarter

       6.45           7.66           9.00           12.08           12.10   

  Third quarter

                      10.87           5.76   

  Fourth quarter

       5.00           9.50           11.26           27.50           5.40   

  Total

       11.45           17.16           20.26           50.45           35.07   

 

(1)

During quarter three of 2011, the Company changed the frequency of dividend payments from half-yearly to quarterly.

(2)

Dividends for these periods were declared in South African cents. US dollar cents per share figures have been calculated based on exchange rates prevailing on each of the respective payment dates.

For further information on the company’s policy on dividend distributions, see “Item 8A: Consolidated statements and other financial information – Annual dividend”.

Exchange rate information

The following table sets forth, for the periods and dates indicated, certain information concerning US dollar/South African rand exchange rates expressed in rands per $1.00. On April 19, 2013, the interbank rate between South African rands and US dollars as reported by OANDA Corporation was R9.17/$1.00.

 

  Year ended December 31      High        Low        Year end        Average (1)  

  2008 (2)

       11.27           6.74           9.30           8.26   

  2009 (3)

       10.70           7.21           7.41           8.44   

  2010 (3)

       8.08           6.57           6.64           7.34   

  2011 (3)

       8.60           6.49           8.14           7.27   

  2012 (3)

       8.95           7.46           8.47           8.20   

  2013 (3)( 4)

       9.31           8.47           9.17           8.96   

 

(1)

The average rate of exchange on the last business day of each month during the year.

(2)

Based on the noon buying rate in New York City for cable transfers as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

(3)

Based on the interbank rate as reported by OANDA Corporation.

(4)

Through to April 19, 2013.

 

  Exchange rate information for the months of (1)      High        Low  

  October 2012

       8.84           8.30   

  November 2012

       8.95           8.63   

  December 2012

       8.90           8.47   

  January 2013

       9.07           8.47   

  February 2013

       8.99           8.81   

  March 2013

       9.31           8.89   

  April 2013(2)

       9.23           9.08   

 

(1)

Based on the interbank rate as reported by OANDA Corporation.

(2)

Through to April 19, 2013.

 

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3B.

CAPITALIZATION AND INDEBTEDNESS

Not applicable.

 

3C.

REASONS FOR THE OFFER AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Not applicable.

 

3D.

RISK FACTORS

This section describes many of the risks that could affect AngloGold Ashanti. There may however be additional risks unknown to AngloGold Ashanti and other risks, currently believed to be immaterial, that could turn out to be material. Additional risks may arise or become material subsequent to the date of this document. These risks, either individually or simultaneously, could significantly affect the group’s business, financial results and the price of its securities.

Risks related to AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition as a result of factors that impact the gold mining industry generally.

Commodity market price fluctuations could adversely affect the profitability of operations.

AngloGold Ashanti’s revenues are primarily derived from the sale of gold and, to a lesser extent, uranium, silver and sulfuric acid. The company’s current policy is to sell its products at prevailing market prices and not to enter into price hedging arrangements. The market prices for these commodities fluctuate widely. These fluctuations are caused by numerous factors beyond the company’s control. For example, the market price of gold may change for a variety of reasons, including:

 

speculative positions taken by investors or traders in gold;

 

monetary policies announced or implemented by central banks, including the US Federal Reserve;

 

changes in the demand for gold as an investment or as a result of leasing arrangements;

 

changes in the demand for gold used in jewellery and for other industrial uses, including as a result of prevailing economic conditions;

 

changes in the supply of gold from production, divestment, scrap and hedging;

 

financial market expectations regarding the rate of inflation;

 

the strength of the US dollar (the currency in which the gold price trades internationally) relative to other currencies;

 

changes in interest rates;

 

actual or anticipated sales or purchases of gold by central banks and the International Monetary Fund;

 

gold hedging and de-hedging by gold producers;

 

global or regional political or economic events; and

 

the cost of gold production in major gold producing countries.

The market price of gold has been and continues to be significantly volatile. During 2012, the gold price traded from a low of $1,540 per ounce to a high of $1,790 per ounce. On April 19, 2013, the closing price of gold was $1,404 per ounce. The price of gold is often subject to sharp, short-term changes; for example, during the period from Friday, April 12, 2013 through Monday, April 15, 2013, the price of gold dropped $228 per ounce. While the overall supply of and demand for gold can affect its market price, the considerable size of historical mined (i.e., above ground) stocks of the metal means that these factors typically do not affect the gold price in the same manner or degree as for other commodities. In addition, the shift in demand from physical gold to investment and speculative demand may exacerbate the volatility of the gold price.

During 2012, there appeared to develop a relationship between the central banks and the price of gold with the price falling at the prospect of the end of quantitative easing in some of the main economies.

A sustained period of significant gold price volatility may adversely affect the company’s ability to evaluate the feasibility of undertaking new capital projects, or the continuity of existing operations, or to make other long-term strategic decisions. The use of lower gold prices in reserve calculations and life-of-mine plans could result in material write-downs of the company’s investment in mining properties and increased amortization, reclamation and closure charges.

 

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The spot price of uranium has been volatile in past years. During 2012, the price varied between a low of approximately $41 per pound and a high of $53 per pound. On April 19, 2013, the spot price of uranium was $41 per pound. Uranium prices can be affected by several factors, including demand for nuclear reactors, uranium production shortfalls and restocking by utilities. Events like those surrounding the earthquake and tsunami that occurred in Japan in 2011 can also have a material impact on the price of and demand for uranium.

The price of silver has experienced significant fluctuations. From a low of $26 per ounce in January 2012, the price rose steadily to reach a high of $37 per ounce in February 2012. By December 2012, the price had dropped to approximately $30 per ounce. Factors affecting the price of silver include investor demand, physical demand for silver bars, industrial and retail off-take, and silver coin minting. On April 19, 2013, the price of silver was $23 per ounce.

If revenue from sales of gold, uranium, silver or sulfuric acid falls below their respective cost of production for an extended period, AngloGold Ashanti may experience losses or be forced to change its dividend payment policies and curtail or suspend some or all of its exploration projects and existing operations. Declining commodities prices may also force a reassessment of the feasibility of a particular project or projects, which could cause substantial delays or interrupt operations until the reassessment can be completed.

Foreign exchange fluctuations could have a material adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition.

Gold is principally a US dollar-priced commodity and most of the company’s revenues are realized in, or linked to, US dollars while production costs are largely incurred in the local currency where the relevant operation is located. Given the company’s global operations and local foreign exchange regulations, some of its funds are held in local currencies, such as the South African rand, Ghanaian cedi, Brazilian real, Argentinean peso and the Australian dollar.

Exchange rate movements may have a material impact on AngloGold Ashanti’s operating results. For example, the company estimates that a 1 percent strengthening of all of the South African rand, Brazilian real, the Argentinean peso or the Australian dollar against the US dollar will, other factors remaining equal, result in an increase in total cash costs under IFRS of approximately $6 per ounce or approximately 1 percent of the company’s total cash costs. The impact on cash costs determined under US GAAP may be different.

The profitability of operations and the cash flows generated by these operations are significantly affected by fluctuations in input production prices, many of which are linked to the prices of oil and steel.

Fuel, energy and consumables, including diesel, heavy fuel oil, chemical reagents, explosives, tyres, steel and mining equipment consumed in mining operations form a relatively large part of the operating costs and capital expenditure of any mining company.

AngloGold Ashanti has no influence over the cost of these consumables, many of which are linked to some degree to the price of oil and steel.

The price of oil has recently been volatile, fluctuating between $88.40 and $130.57 per barrel of Brent crude in 2012. As of April 19, 2013, the price of oil was at $100.09 per barrel of Brent Crude. AngloGold Ashanti estimates that for each US dollar per barrel rise in the oil price, other factors remaining equal, the total cash costs under IFRS of all its operations increases by approximately $0.90 per ounce. The impact on cash costs determined under US GAAP may be different. The cash costs of certain of the company’s mines, particularly Yatela, Sadiola, Siguiri, Geita, Navachab, Morila, and Cripple Creek & Victor, are most sensitive to changes in the price of oil.

Furthermore, the price of steel has also been volatile. Steel is used in the manufacture of most forms of fixed and mobile mining equipment, which is a relatively large contributor to the operating costs and capital expenditure of a mine. For example, the price of flat hot rolled coil (North American Domestic FOB) steel traded between $590 per tonne and $733 per tonne in 2012. On April 19, 2013, the price of flat hot rolled coil (North American Domestic FOB) was $609 per tonne.

Fluctuations in oil and steel prices have a significant impact on operating costs and capital expenditure estimates and, in the absence of other economic fluctuations, could result in significant changes in the total expenditure estimates for new mining projects or render certain projects non-viable.

 

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Energy cost increases and power fluctuations and stoppages could adversely impact the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

Increasing global demand for energy, concerns about nuclear power, and the limited growth of new supply are impacting the price and supply of energy. The transition of emerging markets to higher energy consumption, carbon taxation as well as unrest and potential conflict in the Middle East, among other factors, could result in increased demand or constrained supply and sharply escalating oil and energy prices.

AngloGold Ashanti’s mining operations are substantially dependent upon electrical power generated by local utilities or by power plants situated at some of its operations. The unreliability of these local sources of power can have a material effect on the company’s operations, as large amounts of power are required for exploration, development, extraction, processing and other mining activities on the company’s properties.

In South Africa, the company’s operations are dependent on electricity supplied by one state-owned power generation company, Eskom. Electricity is used for most business and safety-critical operations that include cooling, hoisting and dewatering. Loss of power can therefore impact production, employee safety and prolonged outages could lead to flooding of workings and ore sterilization. In 2008, Eskom and the South African government declared a national emergency and warned that they could no longer guarantee the availability of electricity due to a national supply shortage blamed on coal supply shortages and unplanned generation-set outages as a result of maintenance backlog and asset age. The entire country went into a program of rolling blackouts and AngloGold Ashanti and other mining companies operating in South Africa were forced in late January until mid-March of 2008 to temporarily suspend mining operations at their mines. In addition, lightning damage to power stations can result in power interruptions at our operations. In this regard, AngloGold Ashanti’s two main operational sites in the West Wits region in South Africa had all main power interrupted between March 13, 2013 and March 15, 2013 after a fire caused by lightning damaged a transformer at a main regional substation. The power supply to AngloGold Ashanti’s South African operations may be curtailed or interrupted again in the future. A warning of the “very high” risk of blackouts was re-issued at the start of 2011 and again in 2012. While a national energy conservation program is in place, Eskom cannot guarantee that there will be no power interruptions and is again facing very tight supply reserve margins in 2013, which we expect to continue at least until the new coal fired Medupi Power Station starts to come on line in early 2014.

Eskom and the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) recognize the need to increase electricity supply capacity and a series of tariff increases and proposals have been enacted to assist in the funding of this expansion. In 2010, NERSA approved an annual increase of 24.8 percent for 2010, 25.8 percent for 2011, 25.9 percent for 2012, and 16.0 percent for 2013. The actual increase implemented for 2012 was lowered to 16.09 percent after government intervention, but there can be no assurance as to the existence or nature of any government intervention in the future. In February 2013, NERSA announced that Eskom would be allowed to increase electricity tarriffs at an average yearly rate of 8 percent between 2013 and 2018. This increase is half the 16 percent sought by the utility in its application. As energy represents a large proportion of the company’s operating costs in South Africa, these increases have had, and any future increases will have, a materially adverse impact on the cash costs of its South African operations.

The company has also identified a risk of energy shortages in Argentina and the DRC. Furthermore, all of the company’s mining operations in Ghana depend on hydroelectric power supplied by the state-controlled Volta River Authority (VRA), which is supplemented by thermal power from the Takoradi plant and a smaller unit at Tema. During periods of below average inflows from the Volta reservoir, electricity supplies from the Akosombo Dam, the VRA’s primary generation source, may be curtailed as occurred in 1998, 2006 and the first half of 2007. During periods of limited electricity availability, the grid is subject to disturbances and voltage fluctuations which can damage equipment. Recent disruptions in natural gas supply from Nigeria, via the West Africa Gas Pipeline, has led to some reduction in thermal generation capacity and the use of more expensive light crude oil which is putting upward pressure on power tariffs. In the past, the VRA has obtained power from neighboring Côte d’Ivoire, which has intermittently experienced political instability and civil unrest. AngloGold Ashanti negotiates rates directly with the VRA and the VRA may not agree to a satisfactory rate during future rounds of negotiations.

The company’s mining operations in Guinea, Tanzania and Mali are dependent on power supplied by outside contractors and supplies of fuel are delivered by road. Power supplies have been disrupted in the past, resulting in production losses due to equipment failure.

Increased energy prices could negatively impact operating costs and cash flow of AngloGold Ashanti’s operations.

 

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Global economic conditions could adversely affect the profitability of operations.

AngloGold Ashanti’s operations and performance depend significantly on worldwide economic conditions. The global financial markets have experienced considerable volatility from uncertainty surrounding the level and sustainability of the sovereign debt of various countries. Concerns remain regarding the sustainability of the European Monetary Union and its common currency, the euro, in their current form, as well as the negative impacts of the recent downgrade of the sovereign credit rating of the Republic of South Africa. These conditions and other disruptions to international credit markets and financial systems have caused a loss of investor confidence and resulted in widening credit spreads, a lack of price transparency, increased credit losses and tighter credit conditions. Despite the aggressive measures taken by governments and central banks so far, economic recovery has been extremely slow. A significant risk remains that these measures may not prevent the global economy from falling back into an even deeper and longer lasting recession or even a depression.

A global economic downturn and recession may have follow-on effects on AngloGold Ashanti’s business that include inflationary cost pressures and commodity market fluctuations.

Other effects could, for example, include:

 

the insolvency of key suppliers or contractors which could result in contractual breaches and in a supply chain breakdown;

 

the insolvency of one or more joint venture partners which could result in contractual breaches and disruptions at the operations of the company’s joint ventures;

 

changes in other income and expense which could vary materially from expectations, depending on gains or losses realized on the sale or exchange of financial instruments, and impairment charges that may be incurred with respect to investments;

 

AngloGold Ashanti’s defined benefit pension fund may not achieve expected returns on its investments, which could require the company to make substantial cash payments to fund any resulting deficits;

 

a reduction in the availability of credit which may make it more difficult for the company to obtain financing for its operations and capital expenditures or make that financing more costly; and

 

exposure to the liquidity and insolvency risks of the company’s lenders and customers;

any of which could negatively affect AngloGold Ashanti’s financial results.

Inflation may have a material adverse effect on results of operations.

Many of AngloGold Ashanti’s operations are located in countries that have experienced high rates of inflation during certain periods. It is possible that significantly higher future inflation in the countries in which the company operates may result in an increase in operational costs in local currencies (without a concurrent devaluation of the local currency of operations against the dollar or an increase in the dollar price of gold). This could have a material adverse effect on the company’s results of operations and financial condition. Significantly higher and sustained inflation, with a consequent increase in operational costs, could result in the rationalization of higher cost mines or projects.

Mining companies face many risks related to the development of mining projects that may adversely affect the company’s results of operations and profitability.

The profitability of mining companies depends partly on the actual costs of developing and operating mines, which may differ significantly from estimates determined at the time the relevant project was approved following completion of its feasibility study. Development of mining projects may also be subject to unexpected problems and delays that could increase the development and operating costs of the relevant project.

AngloGold Ashanti’s decision to develop a mineral property is typically based on the results of a feasibility study. Feasibility studies estimate the expected or anticipated economic returns from the project. These estimates are based on assumptions regarding:

 

future prices of gold, uranium, silver and other metals;

 

future currency exchange rates;

 

tonnage, grades and metallurgical characteristics of ore to be mined and processed;

 

anticipated recovery rates of gold, uranium, silver and other metals extracted from the ore;

 

anticipated capital expenditure and cash operating costs; and

 

required return on investment.

 

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Actual cash operating costs, production and economic returns may differ significantly from those anticipated by such studies and estimates. Operating costs and capital expenditure are to a significant extent driven by the cost of commodity inputs consumed in mining, including fuel, chemical reagents, explosives, tyres and steel, and also by credits from by-products, such as silver and uranium. They could also fluctuate considerably as a result of changes in the prices of mining equipment used in the construction and operation of mining projects.

There are a number of uncertainties inherent in the development and construction of a new mine or the extension of an existing mine. In addition to those discussed above, these uncertainties include the:

 

timing and cost of construction of mining and processing facilities, which can be considerable;

 

availability and cost of mining and processing equipment;

 

availability and cost of skilled labor, power, water and transportation;

 

availability and cost of appropriate smelting and refining arrangements;

 

applicable requirements and time needed to obtain the necessary environmental and other governmental permits; and

 

availability of funds to finance construction and development activities.

The remote location of many mining properties, permitting requirements and/or delays, third-party legal challenges to individual mining projects and broader social or political opposition to mining may increase the cost, timing and complexity of mine development and construction. New mining operations could experience unexpected problems and delays during the development, construction, commissioning and commencement of production. AngloGold Ashanti may prove unable to successfully develop the La Colosa and Gramalote projects as well as other potential exploration sites in Colombia due to difficulties that could arise in relation to, for example, social and community opposition, litigation, ore body grades, definition of adequate reserves and resources, and the time taken to prove project feasibility that could result in the expiry of permits. For example, on March 11, 2013, Cortolima, a regional environmental authority in Colombia, issued an injunction against AngloGold Ashanti’s Colombian subsidiary, alleging that the subsidiary was operating without proper permits and was engaging in activity that was harmful to the environment. Furthermore, at around the same period in time, access to an AngloGold Ashanti drilling site was blockaded by residents of a nearby community.

Accordingly, AngloGold Ashanti’s future development activities may not result in the expansion or replacement of current production, or one or more new production sites or facilities may be less profitable than anticipated or may be loss-making. The company’s operating results and financial condition are directly related to the success of its project developments. A failure in the company’s ability to develop and operate mining projects in accordance with, or in excess of, expectations could negatively impact its results of operations, as well as its financial condition and prospects.

Mining companies face uncertainty and risks in exploration, feasibility studies and other project evaluation activities.

AngloGold Ashanti must continually replace Ore Reserve depleted by mining and production to maintain or increase production levels in the long term. This is undertaken by exploration activities that are speculative in nature. The ability of the company to sustain or increase its present levels of gold production depends in part on the success of its projects and it may be unable to sustain or increase such levels. For example, in South Africa, the company experienced declining production rates (1.213 million ounces of gold in 2012, compared with 1.624 million ounces of gold in 2011 and 1.784 million ounces in 2010), principally due to continued safety and associated stoppages, mining flexibility constraints and overall falls in grades. The significant decrease in 2012 was also mainly attributable to the industrial strike action at the company’s South African mines, which resulted in the loss of production of 235,000 ounces of gold.

Feasibility studies and other project evaluation activities necessary to determine the current or future viability of a mining operation are often unproductive. Such activities often require substantial expenditure on exploration drilling to establish the presence, extent and grade (metal content) of mineralized material. AngloGold Ashanti undertakes feasibility studies to estimate the technical and economic viability of mining projects and to determine appropriate mining methods and metallurgical recovery processes. These activities are undertaken to estimate the Ore Reserve.

Once mineralization is discovered, it may take several years to determine whether an adequate Ore Reserve exists, during which time the economic feasibility of the project may change due to fluctuations in factors that affect both revenue and costs, including:

 

future prices of metals and other commodities;

 

future foreign currency exchange rates;

 

the required return on investment as based on the cost and availability of capital; and

 

applicable regulatory requirements, including environmental, health and safety matters.

 

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Feasibility studies also include activities to estimate the anticipated:

 

tonnages, grades and metallurgical characteristics of the ore to be mined and processed;

 

recovery rates of gold, uranium and other metals from the ore; and

 

capital expenditure and cash operating costs.

These estimates depend on assumptions made on available data. Ore Reserve estimates are not precise calculations and depend on the interpretation of limited information on the location, shape and continuity of the mineral occurrence and on available sampling results. Further exploration and feasibility studies can result in new data becoming available that may change previous Ore Reserve estimates and impact the technical and economic viability of production from the project. Changes in the forecast prices of commodities, exchange rates, production costs or recovery rates may change the economic status of reserves resulting in revisions to previous Ore Reserve estimates. These revisions could impact depreciation and amortization rates, asset-carrying amounts, provisions for closedown, restoration and environmental rehabilitation costs.

AngloGold Ashanti undertakes annual revisions to its Ore Reserve estimates based upon actual exploration and production results, depletion, new information on geology, model revisions and fluctuations in production, economic assumptions and operating and other costs. These factors may result in reductions in Ore Reserve estimates, which could adversely affect life-of-mine plans and consequently the total value of the company’s mining asset base. Ore Reserve restatements could negatively affect the company’s results of operations, as well as its financial condition and prospects.

The increased overall demand for gold and other commodities, combined with a declining rate of discovery of new gold Ore Reserve in recent years, has resulted in the accelerated depletion of the existing Ore Reserve across the global gold sector. AngloGold Ashanti therefore faces intense competition for the acquisition of attractive mining properties. From time to time, the company evaluates the acquisition of an Ore Reserve, development properties or operating mines, either as stand-alone assets or as part of companies. AngloGold Ashanti’s decision to acquire these properties has been based on a variety of factors including historical operating results, estimates and assumptions regarding the extent of the Ore Reserve, cash and other operating costs, gold prices, projected economic returns and evaluations of existing or potential liabilities associated with the relevant property and its operations and how these factors may change in future. Other than historical operating results, these factors are uncertain and could have an impact on revenue, cash and other operating costs, as well as the process used to estimate the Ore Reserve.

As a result of these uncertainties, exploration and acquisitions by the company may not result in the expansion or replacement of current production or the maintenance of its existing Ore Reserve net of production or an increase in Ore Reserve. AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition are directly related to the success of its exploration and acquisition efforts and ability to replace or increase the existing Ore Reserve. If the company is not able to maintain or increase its Ore Reserve, its results of operations as well as its financial condition and prospects could be adversely affected.

Mining companies face many risks related to their operations that may adversely impact cash flows and overall profitability.

Gold mining is susceptible to events that may adversely impact a mining company’s ability to produce gold and meet production and cost targets. These events include, but are not limited to:

 

environmental, as well as health and safety incidents during production or transportation resulting in injury, loss of life, or damage to equipment;

 

ground and surface water pollution;

 

social or community disputes or interventions;

 

security incidents;

 

surface or underground fires or explosions;

 

electrocution;

 

falls from heights and accidents relating to mobile machinery, including shaft conveyances and elevators, drilling blasting and mining operations;

 

labor force disputes and disruptions;

 

loss of information integrity or data;

 

activities of illegal or artisanal miners;

 

shortages in material and equipment;

 

mechanical failure or breakdowns and ageing infrastructure;

 

failure of unproven or evolving technologies;

 

energy and electrical power supply interruptions or rationing;

 

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unusual or unexpected geological formations, ground conditions, including lack of mineable face length, and ore-pass blockages;

 

water ingress and flooding;

 

process water shortages;

 

metallurgical conditions and gold recovery;

 

unexpected decline of ore grade;

 

unanticipated increases in gold lock-up and inventory levels at heap-leach operations;

 

fall-of-ground accidents in underground operations;

 

cave-ins, sinkholes, subsidence, rock falls, rock bursts, or landslides;

 

failure of mining pit slopes, heap-leach facilities, water or solution dams, waste stockpiles and tailings dam walls;

 

legal and regulatory restrictions and changes to such restrictions;

 

safety-related stoppages;

 

gold bullion theft;

 

corruption, fraud and theft;

 

allegations of human rights abuses;

 

seismic activity; and

 

other natural phenomena, such as floods, droughts or weather conditions, potentially exacerbated by climate change.

Seismic activity is of particular concern in underground mining operations, particularly in South Africa due to the extent and extreme depth of mining, and also in Australia and Brazil due to the depth of mining and residual tectonic stresses. Despite modifications to mine layouts and support technology, as well as other technological improvements employed with a view to minimizing the incidence and impact of seismic activity, seismic events have caused death and injury to employees and contractors and may do so again in future, and have in the past and may again result in safety-related stoppages.

Seismic activity may also cause the loss of mining equipment, damage to or destruction of mineral properties or production facilities, monetary losses, environmental damage and potential legal liabilities. As a result, these events may have a material adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition. For example, in early 2011, mining of the Ventersdorp Contact Reef shaft pillar at Tau Tona was suspended following a significant seismic event. New equipment had to be purchased and the shutdown contributed to the decline in the operational output of the mine as compared to the previous year.

In the past, floods have also disrupted the operations of some of the company’s mines. For example, unprecedented heavy rains in February and March 2011 in Australia flooded the Sunrise Dam Gold Mine and forced a temporary shutdown of operations. The flood event impacted underground production for approximately four months and open pit production for approximately six months. Despite the shutdown, full costs were incurred as the mining contractors worked on remedial activities to repair damage and rehabilitate flooded areas. The considerable remedial work required adversely impacted cash costs per ounce and the impact of the flood event and the pit wall failure together significantly reduced planned production at the plant.

Mining companies’ operations are vulnerable to infrastructure constraints.

Mining, processing, development and exploration activities depend on adequate infrastructure. Reliable rail, ports, roads, bridges, power sources, power transmission facilities and water supply are critical to the company’s business operations and affect capital and operating costs. These infrastructure and services are often provided by third parties whose operational activities are outside the control of the company.

Interferences in the maintenance or provision of infrastructure, including unusual weather phenomena, sabotage and social unrest, could impede the company’s ability to deliver its products on time and adversely affect AngloGold Ashanti’s business, results of operations and financial condition.

Establishing infrastructure for the company’s development projects requires significant resources, identification of adequate sources of raw materials and supplies, and necessary co-operation from national and regional governments, none of which can be assured.

AngloGold Ashanti has operations or potential development projects in countries where government-provided infrastructure may be inadequate and regulatory regimes for access to infrastructure may be uncertain, which could adversely impact the efficient operation and expansion of its business. AngloGold Ashanti may not secure and maintain access to adequate infrastructure in the future, or it may not do so on reasonable terms.

 

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Mining companies face strong competition.

The mining industry is competitive in all of its phases. AngloGold Ashanti competes with other mining companies and individuals for specialized equipment, components and supplies necessary for exploration and development, for mining claims and leases on exploration properties and for the acquisition of mining assets. These competitors may have greater financial resources, operational experience and technical capabilities than AngloGold Ashanti. Competition may increase AngloGold Ashanti’s cost of acquiring suitable claims, properties and assets.

Mining companies are subject to extensive health and safety laws and regulations.

Gold mining operations are subject to extensive health and safety laws and regulations in every jurisdiction they operate in. These laws and regulations, along with international and industry standards, designed to protect and improve the safety and health of employees, require extensive compliance measures.

From time to time, new or updated health and safety laws, regulations and standards are introduced. Should compliance with these require a material increase in expenditure or material changes or interruptions to operations or production, including as a result of any failure to comply with applicable regulations, the company’s results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected. Furthermore, AngloGold Ashanti is implementing an enhanced safety program, which could result in additional costs for the company.

In some of the jurisdictions in which AngloGold Ashanti operates, the government enforces compulsory shutdowns of operations to enable investigations into the cause of accidents. Certain of the company’s operations have been temporarily suspended for safety reasons in the past. In South Africa, in particular, so-called ‘Section 54 safety stoppages’ have become a significant issue. In 2011, the Inspector of Mines ordered the shutdown of entire mines in cases of relatively minor violations, which had a material impact on production at these mines. In particular, the Inspector issued Kopanang eleven Section 54 notices during 2011. Each notice resulted in Kopanang suspending operations either fully or partially in order to comply with the inspector’s recommendations on safety.

Safety-related stoppages resulted in the direct loss of 72,900 and 72,400 ounces of gold production during 2011 and 2012, respectively, in South Africa.

A working group comprised of the inspectorate, the mining industry and organized labor has been formed to address the trend of increasing safety stoppages in South Africa. However, the working group may not agree on how to address this issue and the number of safety stoppages may continue or even increase in the future.

AngloGold Ashanti’s reputation could be damaged by any significant governmental investigation or enforcement of health and safety laws, regulations or standards. Any of these factors could have a material adverse effect on the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

Mining companies are increasingly required to operate in a sustainable manner and to provide benefits to affected communities. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in legal suits, additional operational costs, investor divestment, loss of ‘social licence to operate’, and adversely impact mining companies’ financial condition.

As a result of public concern about the perceived ill effects of economic globalization, businesses in general and large multinational mining corporations such as AngloGold Ashanti in particular face increasing public scrutiny of their activities.

These businesses are under pressure to demonstrate that while they seek a satisfactory return on investment for shareholders, human rights are respected and other social partners, including employees, host communities and more broadly the countries in which they operate, also benefit from their commercial activities. Such pressures tend to be particularly focused on companies whose activities are perceived to have, or have, a high impact on their social and physical environment. The potential consequences of these pressures and the adverse publicity in cases where companies are believed not to be creating sufficient social and economic benefit may result in additional operating costs, reputational damage, active community opposition, allegations of human rights abuses, legal suits and investor withdrawal.

 

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Existing and proposed mining operations are often located at or near existing towns and villages, natural water courses and other infrastructure. As the impacts of dust generation, waste storage, water pollution or shortage, in particular, may be immediate and directly adverse to those communities, poor environmental management practices, or adverse changes in the supply or quality of water can result in community protest, regulatory sanctions or ultimately in the withdrawal of community and government support for company operations. For example, opposition to mining activity in the Tolima province of Colombia, which hosts the La Colosa deposit, has centered on the perception that large-scale mining activity will have a detrimental impact on the region’s river systems.

Mining operations must be designed to minimize their impact on such communities and the environment, either by changing mining plans to avoid such impact, by modifying operations, or by relocating the affected people to an agreed location. Responsive measures may also include the full restoration of livelihoods of those impacted.

In addition, as AngloGold Ashanti has a long history of mining operations in certain regions, issues may arise regarding historical as well as potential future environmental or health impacts in those areas. For example, certain parties, including non-governmental organizations, community groups and institutional investors, have raised concerns about surface and groundwater quality, among other issues, in the area surrounding the company’s Obuasi and Iduapriem mines in Ghana, including potential impacts to local rivers and wells used for water from heavy metals, arsenic and cyanide as well as sediment and mine rock waste.

Disputes with surrounding communities may also affect mining operations, particularly where they result in restrictions of access to supplies and to mining operations. The miners’ access to land may be subject to the rights or asserted rights of various community stakeholders, including indigenous people. Access to land and land use is of critical importance to the company for exploration and mining, as well as for ancillary infrastructure. In some cases, AngloGold Ashanti has had difficulty gaining access to new land because of perceived poor community compensation practices. For example, compensation remains a significant area of concern in Siguiri in Guinea. In 2011, a violent community protest interrupted operations for three days, which contributed to the project’s decline in production as compared to 2010. Delays in projects attributable to a lack of community support can translate directly into a decrease in the value of a project or into an inability to bring the project to production.

The cost of measures and other issues relating to the sustainable development of mining operations could place significant demands on personnel resources, could increase capital and operating costs and could have an adverse impact on AngloGold Ashanti’s reputation, results of operations and financial condition.

Mining companies are subject to extensive environmental laws and regulations.

Mining companies are subject to extensive environmental laws and regulations in the various jurisdictions in which they operate in addition to international standards. These regulations and standards establish limits and conditions on a miner’s ability to conduct its operations and govern, among other things, extraction, use and conservation of water resources; air emissions (including dust control) and water treatment and discharge; regulatory and community reporting; clean-up of contamination; worker safety and community health; and the generation, transportation, storage and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes, such as acids, radioactive materials, and mine tailings.

The cost of compliance with environmental laws and regulations is expected to continue to be significant to AngloGold Ashanti. AngloGold Ashanti could incur fines, penalties and other sanctions, clean-up costs, and third-party claims for personal injury or property damages, suffer reputational damage, or be required to install costly pollution control equipment or to modify or suspend operations, as a result of actual or alleged violations of environmental laws and regulations. In addition, unknown environmental hazards may exist on the company’s properties which may have been caused by previous owners or operators.

For example, in 2010 AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi mine in Ghana suspended gold processing operations for five days to implement a revised water management strategy aimed at reducing contaminants contained in its discharge. Brief stoppages after environmental incidents, such as pipeline failures, have occurred more recently at that mine. Furthermore, following a temporary suspension of operations at the Iduapriem mine, the company, with the approval of the Ghana Environmental Protection Agency, constructed an interim tailings storage facility for tailings deposition for a year while a new tailings storage facility was being constructed. The company continues to seek to make improvements in water quality management to reduce the risk of unpermitted and/or accidental discharges and, in addition, it is currently investigating allegations of impacts on water quality in the area of these mines.

 

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Failure to comply with applicable environmental laws and regulations may also result in the suspension or revocation of operating permits. AngloGold Ashanti’s ability to obtain and maintain permits and to successfully operate in particular communities may be adversely impacted by real or perceived effects on the environment or human health and safety associated with AngloGold Ashanti’s or other mining companies’ activities.

For example, in Colombia, various plaintiffs, including associations that represent local communities, have brought legal proceedings against AngloGold Ashanti Colombia S.A. (AGAC) alleging that AGAC has violated applicable environmental laws in connection with the La Colosa project. If the plaintiffs were to prevail, AGAC’s three core concession contracts relating to the La Colosa project may be cancelled, AGAC would be required to abandon the La Colosa project and all other existing mining concession contracts and pending proposals for new mining concession contracts of AGAC, though not those of other companies of the AngloGold Ashanti group operating in Colombia. In addition, AGAC would be banned from doing business with the Colombian government for a period of five years. See Item 8A.: – “Legal proceedings”.

Environmental laws and regulations are continually changing and are generally becoming more stringent. Changes to AngloGold Ashanti’s environmental compliance obligations or operating practices could adversely affect the company’s rate of production and revenue. Variations in laws and regulations, assumptions made to estimate liabilities, standards or operating procedures, more stringent emission or pollution thresholds or controls, or the occurrence of unanticipated conditions, may require operations to be suspended or permanently closed, and could increase AngloGold Ashanti’s expenses and provisions. These expenses and provisions could adversely affect the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

For example, the use of sodium cyanide in metallurgical processing is under increasing environmental scrutiny and is prohibited for certain jurisdictions. As there are few, if any, effective substitutes in extracting gold from the ore, any ban or material restrictions on the use of sodium cyanide in mining operations in the jurisdictions where AngloGold Ashanti conducts its operations could adversely affect the company’s results of operations and financial condition. In addition, leaks or discharges of sodium cyanide or other hazardous materials could result in liabilities for clean-up or personal injury that may not be covered by insurance.

AngloGold Ashanti’s operations are heavily dependent upon access to substantial volumes of water for use in the mining and extractive processes and typically are subject to water-use permits that govern usage and require, among other things, that mining operations maintain certain water quality upon discharge. Water quality and usage are areas of concern globally, such as with respect to the company’s mining operations in Ghana and South Africa and its exploration projects in Colombia, where there is significant potential environmental and social impact and a high level of stakeholder scrutiny. Any failure by the company to secure access to suitable water supplies, or achieve and maintain compliance with applicable requirements of the permits or licenses, could result in curtailment or halting of production at the affected operation. Incidents of water pollution or shortage can, in extreme cases, lead to community protest and ultimately to the withdrawal of community and government support for our operations. Water scarcity has been identified as a significant risk at AngloGold Ashanti’s US operation in particular. Production at the Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Company’s Cresson mine continued to be affected by a severe drought in 2011 and 2012. The lack of water reduced percolation through the heap-leach pad, which curtailed production and productivity.

Mining and mineral processing operations generate waste rock and tailings. The impact of dust generation, breach, leak, or failure of a waste rock or tailings storage facility, can be significant. An incident at AngloGold Ashanti’s operations could lead to, among others, obligations to remediate environmental contamination and claims for property damage and personal injury from adjacent communities. Incidents at other companies’ operations could result in governments tightening regulatory requirements and restricting mining activities.

In addition, mining companies are required by law to close their operations at the end of the mine life and rehabilitate the lands mined. Estimates of total ultimate closure and rehabilitation costs for gold mining operations are significant and based principally on life-of-mine profiles, changing inflation and discount rate assumptions, changing designs of tailing storage facilities and current legal and regulatory requirements that may change materially. Environmental liabilities are accrued when they become known, probable and can be reasonably estimated. Increasingly, regulators are seeking security in the form of cash collateral or bank guarantees in respect of environmental obligations, which could have an adverse impact on AngloGold Ashanti’s financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti’s discounted closure liability was US$758 million as at December 31, 2012 compared with US$653 million as at December 31, 2011. The reasons for the change were new damage from current mining operations, new damage from building of new mining areas, the acquisition of Mine Waste Solutions, changes in

 

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estimates for new life of mine calculations and changes in discount rates. Costs associated with rehabilitating land disturbed by mining processes and addressing environmental, health and community issues are estimated and financial provision made based upon current available information. Estimates may, however, be insufficient and further costs may be identified at any stage that may exceed the provisions that AngloGold Ashanti has made. Any underestimated or unidentified rehabilitation costs would reduce earnings and could materially and adversely affect the company’s asset values, earnings and cash flows.

Compliance with emerging climate change regulations could result in significant costs and climate change may present physical risks to a mining company’s operations.

Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are emitted directly by AngloGold Ashanti’s operations, as well as by external utilities from which AngloGold Ashanti purchases power. Currently, a number of international and national measures to address or limit GHG emissions, including the Kyoto Protocol, the Copenhagen Accord and the Durban Platform, are in various phases of discussion or implementation in the countries in which the company operates. In particular, the Durban Platform commits all parties to the conference to develop a global mitigation regime which could take effect in 2020, with the specific terms of that legally binding accord, including individual targets, to be finalized by 2015. These, or future, measures could require AngloGold Ashanti to reduce its direct GHG emissions or energy use or to incur significant costs for GHG emissions permits or taxes or have these costs or taxes passed on by electricity utilities which supply the company’s operations. AngloGold Ashanti also could incur significant costs associated with capital equipment, GHG monitoring and reporting and other obligations to comply with applicable requirements. For example, on July 1, 2012, the Australian Government introduced a carbon tax on GHG emissions. It also plans to implement an emissions trading scheme beginning in July 2015. Other countries, including South Africa, Brazil and the United States, have passed or are considering GHG trading or tax schemes, and/or other regulation of GHG emissions, although the precise impact on AngloGold Ashanti’s operations cannot yet be determined.

In addition, AngloGold Ashanti’s operations could be exposed to a number of physical risks from climate change, such as changes in rainfall rates, rising sea levels, reduced water availability, higher temperatures and extreme weather events. Events or conditions such as flooding or inadequate water supplies could disrupt mining and transport operations, mineral processing and rehabilitation efforts, create resource shortages or damage the company’s property or equipment and increase health and safety risks on site. Such events or conditions could have other adverse effects on the company’s workforce and on the communities around its mines, such as an increased risk of food insecurity, water scarcity and prevalence of disease.

Compliance with ‘conflict materials’ and ‘responsible gold’ legislation and standards could result in significant costs.

There are ever more stringent standards relating to ‘conflict minerals’ and ‘responsible’ gold that include the: US Dodd-Frank Act; World Gold Council Conflict Free Gold Standard; Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development Due Diligence Guidelines for Responsible Supply Chain of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas; and London Bullion Market Association Responsible Gold Guidance.

Any such legislation and standards may result in significant costs to ensure and demonstrate compliance, and difficulties in the sale of gold emanating from certain areas. The complexities of the gold supply chain, especially as they relate to ‘scrap’ or recycled gold, and the fragmented and often unregulated supply of artisanal and small-scale mined gold are such that there may be significant uncertainties at each stage in the chain as to the provenance of the gold, and as a result of uncertainties in the process, the costs of due diligence and audit, or the reputational risks of defining their product or a constituent part as containing a ‘conflict mineral’ would be too burdensome for the company’s customers. Accordingly, manufacturers may decide to switch supply sources or to substitute gold with other minerals not covered by the initiatives. This could have a material negative impact on the gold industry, including on AngloGold Ashanti’s financial results.

Mining operations and projects are vulnerable to supply chain disruption with the result that operations and development projects could be adversely affected by shortages of, as well as the lead times to deliver, strategic spares, critical consumables, mining equipment or metallurgical plant.

AngloGold Ashanti’s operations and development projects could be adversely affected by both shortages and long lead times to deliver strategic spares, critical consumables, mining equipment and metallurgical plant. Import restrictions, such as those introduced by the Argentine government in 2011, can also delay the delivery of parts and equipment. In the past, the company and other gold mining companies experienced shortages in critical consumables, particularly as

 

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production capacity in the global mining industry expanded in response to increased demand for commodities. AngloGold Ashanti has also experienced increased delivery times for these items. Shortages have resulted in unanticipated price increases and production delays and shortfalls, resulting in a rise in both operating costs and in the capital expenditure necessary to maintain and develop mining operations.

Individually, AngloGold Ashanti and other gold mining companies have limited influence over manufacturers and suppliers of these items. In certain cases there are a limited number of suppliers for certain strategic spares, critical consumables, mining equipment or metallurgical plant who command superior bargaining power relative to the company. The company could at times face limited supply or increased lead time in the delivery of such items. For example, during 2012, supply of caustic soda was delayed in the Continental Africa Region. In addition, the unreliability of oxygen and lime supply similarly affected production at the Vaal River and West Wits surface operations in South Africa throughout 2011 and poor availability of drill rigs, heavy machinery and fleet equipment hampered underground drilling and overall operational performance at the Serra Grande mine in Brazil in 2011.

The company’s procurement policy is to source mining and processing equipment and consumables from suppliers that meet its corporate values and ethical standards although risk remains around the management of ethical supply chains. In certain locations, where a limited number of suppliers meet these standards, additional strain is placed on the supply chain, thereby increasing the cost of supply and delivery times.

Furthermore, supply chains and rates can be impacted by natural disasters, such as earthquakes, extreme weather patterns and climate change, as well as other phenomena that include unrest, strikes, theft and fires. For example, a three-week transport strike in 2012 delayed the supply of consumables in South Africa. Potential supply chain disruption in Mali, as a result of the coup d’état and subsequent state of emergency, has been avoided to date by well managed consumable stock holding. Potential gold doré export disruptions at Geita, the result of an attempted gold heist, and in Mali, following the closure of Bamako International Airport, were minimized with the introduction of alternative transportation arrangements. In February 2013, a fire destroyed the heavy mining equipment stock of spares and components at the Geita gold mine. If AngloGold Ashanti experiences shortages, or increased lead times in the delivery of strategic spares, critical consumables, mining equipment or processing plant, the company might have to suspend some of its operations and its results of operations and financial condition could be adversely impacted.

Diversity in interpretation and application of accounting literature in the mining industry may impact reported financial results.

The mining industry has limited industry-specific accounting literature. As a result, there is diverse interpretation and application of accounting literature on mining specific issues. AngloGold Ashanti, for example, capitalizes drilling and costs related to defining and delineating a residual mineral deposit that has not been classified as a ‘Proven and Probable Reserve’ at a development project or production stage mine. Some companies, however, expense such costs.

As and when this diverse interpretation and application is addressed, the company’s reported results could be adversely impacted should the adopted interpretation differ from the position it currently follows.

Failure to comply with laws, regulations, standards, contractual obligations whether following a breach or breaches in governance processes or fraud, bribery and corruption may lead to regulatory penalties, loss of licences or permits, and loss of reputation.

Since AngloGold Ashanti operates globally in multiple jurisdictions and with numerous and complex frameworks, its governance and compliance processes may not prevent potential breaches of law, accounting principles or other governance practices.

AngloGold Ashanti’s Code of Business Principles and Ethics, among other policies, standards and guidance, and training thereon may not prevent instances of unethical or unlawful behaviour, including bribery or corruption, nor guarantee compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and breaches may not be detected by management.

Sanctions for failure by the company or others acting on its behalf to comply with these laws, regulations, standards and contractual obligations could include fines, penalties, imprisonment of officers, litigation, and loss of operating licences or permits, suspensions of operations, and may damage the company’s reputation. Such sanctions could have a material adverse impact on the company’s financial condition and results of operations.

 

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Breaches in information technology security and governance process may adversely impact business activities.

AngloGold Ashanti maintains global information technology and communication networks and applications to support its business activities. Information technology security processes may not prevent future malicious actions, denial-of-service attacks, or fraud, resulting in corruption of operating systems, theft of commercially sensitive data, misappropriation of funds and business and operational disruption. Material system breaches and failures could result in significant interruptions that could in turn affect AngloGold Ashanti’s operating results and reputation.

Risks related to AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition as a result of factors specific to the company and its operations

AngloGold Ashanti removed the last of its gold hedging instruments and long-term sales contracts exposing the company to potential gains from subsequent commodity price increases but exposes it entirely to subsequent commodity price decreases.

AngloGold Ashanti removed the last of its gold hedging instruments in October 2010 to provide greater participation in a rising gold price environment. As a result, AngloGold Ashanti no longer has any protection against declines in the market price of gold.

A sustained decline in the price of gold could adversely impact the company’s operating results and its financial condition.

Any downgrade of credit ratings assigned to AngloGold Ashanti’s debt securities could increase future interest costs and adversely affect the availability of new financing.

An actual or expected negative development of AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations or cash flows, country risk, financial metrics, or an increase in net debt position could result in the deterioration of the company’s credit ratings. AngloGold Ashanti’s ratings are influenced by the location of its domicile and its operations. Following the downgrade of South Africa’s sovereign debt rating as a result of strikes, social tension and policy uncertainty in South Africa, AngloGold Ashanti was placed on “credit watch negative” by Standard & Poor’s on October 17, 2012. On December 10, 2012, Standard & Poor’s affirmed the investment grade rating of the company’s publicly traded debt, but warned that it could lower the rating in the future.

Any such downgrade by ratings agencies could increase the cost of capital, reduce the investor base and negatively and materially affect AngloGold Ashanti’s business, results of operations and financial condition.

Labor disruptions could have a material adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti employees in South Africa, Ghana, Guinea and Argentina, are highly unionized. Trade unions, therefore, have a significant impact on the company’s labor relations, as well as on social and political reforms, most notably in South Africa. There is a risk that strikes or other types of conflict with unions or employees may occur at any of the company’s operations, particularly where the labor force is unionized or there is inter-union rivalry. Labor disruptions may be used to advocate labor, political or social goals in the future. For example, labor disruptions may occur in sympathy with strikes or labor unrest in other sectors of the economy and for political goals. Labor unrest in South Africa can also be fuelled by migrant labor conditions and mine worker debt levels. Furthermore, such labor disruptions may themselves affect or be perceived to affect local political and social stability. Acts or vandalism affecting mines and mine equipment are possible during periods of labor unrest.

For example, following a wave of labor unrest and unprotected strike action that took place throughout the South African mining, transport and agricultural sectors since early August 2012, workers from AngloGold Ashanti’s Kopanang mine, three West Wits mines and the Vaal River region’s other operations engaged in unprotected strikes in September 2012. More than 100,000 miners were involved in the strikes across the mining sector during the last four months of 2012. Workers at AngloGold Ashanti mines in South Africa have also staged sit-ins which prompted the company to suspend operations at some of its mines. These work stoppages pose significant safety risks and operating challenges. The protracted period of inactivity caused by the strike, coupled by the depth of the affected mines, has complicated the consequent ramping up of production following the termination of the strikes and has resulted in a lengthened ramp-up period to ensure employee safety. The unprotected strike action at the South African operations had an adverse impact

 

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on the company’s third quarter results and significantly adversely impacted its fourth quarter results. The company estimates that the unprotected strike action cost approximately 235,000 ounces in lost production due to the work stoppages and the slow ramp-up to full production.

Lower production and payroll increases resulting from the labor disruptions have adversely impacted the financial performance of all South African operations, threatening viability in some cases and similar disruptions in the future may have a material adverse effect on the company’s results of operations and financial condition. For example, subsequent to the 2012 strikes, AngloGold Ashanti, along with its major gold-producing peers in South Africa, increased the entry-level pay of employees; established a new pay category for equipment operators; provided an allowance for rock-drill operators; and increased pay by 2 percent for most categories of workers. The net impact of the settlement on the payroll cost for AngloGold Ashanti is $16 million per annum.

Increased labor costs could have a material adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition.

Labor costs represent a substantial proportion of the company’s total operating costs and at many operations, including its South African, Ghanaian and Tanzanian operations, constitute the company’s single largest component of operating costs. Failing to obtain any simultaneous increase in productivity, any change to the company’s wage agreements or other factors that could increase labor costs may have a material adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition. In 2012, the cost of salaries and wages increased by 7 percent over 2011 levels.

In South Africa, the established practice is to negotiate wages and conditions of employment with the unions every two years through the Chamber of Mines of South Africa. South African employment law sets out minimum terms and conditions of employment for employees, which form the benchmark for all employment contracts. As at December 31, 2012, approximately 62 percent of the company’s workforce, excluding contractors, or approximately 52 percent of its total workforce was located in South Africa. At present, the mining unions and gold mining companies are in the second year of this two-year wage agreement, with the latest increases (ranging from 8 percent to 10 percent) awarded to the workforce in July 2012 and additional improvements to the current pay structure offered to workers on October 18, 2012. Further negotiations on this agreement are expected in 2013, which may result in an increase in labor actions. In addition, any new agreement could result in increased labor costs for the company.

AngloGold Ashanti’s results may be further impaired if it incurs penalties for failing to meet standards set by labor laws regarding workers’ rights or incurs costs complying with new labor laws, rules and regulations. For example, employment law in South Africa imposes monetary penalties for neglecting to report to government authorities on progress made towards achieving employment equity in the workplace. Ghanaian law also contains broad provisions requiring mining companies to recruit and train Ghanaian personnel and to use the services of Ghanaian companies. In Australia, the federal government has recently introduced a new industrial relations system that includes ‘good faith bargaining’ obligations for employers, fewer restrictions on the content of collective agreements and an enhanced role for union officials as bargaining representatives, parties to agreements and participants in dispute resolution. Penalties and compliance costs, as well as increased costs due to laws and regulations less favourable to employers, could have a material adverse effect on the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti’s mining rights in the countries in which it operates could be altered, suspended or cancelled for a variety of reasons, including breaches in its obligations in respect of its mining rights.

AngloGold Ashanti’s right to own and exploit Mineral Reserves and deposits is governed by the laws and regulations of the jurisdictions in which the mineral properties are located. Currently, a significant portion of the company’s Mineral Reserves and deposits are located in countries where mining rights could be suspended or cancelled should it breach its obligations in respect of the acquisition and exploitation of these rights.

In each of the countries in which AngloGold Ashanti operates, the formulation or implementation of government policies on certain issues may be unpredictable. This may include changes in laws relating to mineral rights and ownership of mining assets and the right to prospect and mine, and in extreme cases, nationalization, expropriation or nullification of existing concessions, licenses, permits, agreements and contracts. In May 2012, for example, the Argentine government nationalized the oil company Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscales (YPF) by expropriating 51 percent of the shares from the majority Spanish shareholder.

 

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Any existing and new mining and exploration operations and projects are subject to various national and local laws, policies and regulations governing the ownership and the right to prospect or mine or develop proposed projects. For more details on the risks surrounding ownership of mining assets, see “– Title to AngloGold Ashanti’s properties may be uncertain and subject to challenge” and “– AngloGold Ashanti’s Mineral Reserve, deposits and mining operations are located in countries that face political, economic and security risks that may affect both the terms of its mining concessions, as well as its ability to conduct operations in certain countries”.

Project implementation delays could result in licences not being renewed and the loss of mining rights. Some of AngloGold Ashanti’s mining concessions, authorizations, licences and permits are subject to expiry, limitations on renewal and to various other risks and uncertainties. For example, the company’s license to mine at the Mongbwalu concession in the DRC is up for renewal in 2014, but the company must seek renewal a year in advance of the license’s expiration. The company may not be successful in the renewal process or in retaining the license on the same terms. If the company is unsuccessful in the renewal process, it will need to record an impairment. In October 2012, the DRC announced a proposed overhaul of the DRC’s mining code, which could affect the company’s ability to renew the license or its terms. This overhaul is still in progress.

If AngloGold Ashanti is not able to obtain or maintain necessary permits, authorizations or agreements to prospect or mine or to implement planned projects, or continue its operations, or comply with all laws, regulations or requirements, or do so within time-frames that make such plans and operations economically viable, or if the laws impacting the company’s ownership of its mineral rights, or the right to prospect or mine change materially, or should governments increase their ownership in the mines or nationalize them, AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.

Title to AngloGold Ashanti’s properties may be uncertain and subject to challenge.

AngloGold Ashanti has operations in several countries where ownership of land is uncertain and where disputes may arise in relation to ownership. Certain of the company’s properties may be subject to the rights or the asserted rights of various community stakeholders, including indigenous people. The presence of those stakeholders may have an impact on AngloGold Ashanti’s ability to develop or operate its mining interests. For example, in Australia, the Native Title Act (1993) provides for the establishment and recognition of native title under certain circumstances. In South Africa, the Extension of Security of Tenure Act (1997) and the Restitution of Land Rights Act (1994) provide for various landholding rights. Such legislation is complex, difficult to predict and outside of the company’s control, and could therefore negatively affect the business results of new or existing projects. Where consultation with stakeholders is statutorily or otherwise mandated, relations may not remain amicable and disputes may lead to reduced access to properties or delays in operations.

Title to the company’s properties, particularly undeveloped ones, may also be defective or subject to challenge. Title insurance generally is not available, and title review does not necessarily preclude third parties from contesting ownership. Where surveys have not been conducted, the precise area and location of the company’s claims may be in doubt. Accordingly, AngloGold Ashanti’s mineral properties may be subject to prior unregistered liens, agreements, transfers or claims, including native land claims, and title may be affected by, among other things, undetected defects.

AngloGold Ashanti may experience unforeseen difficulties, delays or costs in successfully implementing its business strategy and projects, including any cost-cutting initiatives, and any such strategy or project may not result in the anticipated benefits.

The successful implementation of the company’s business strategy and projects depends upon many factors, including those outside its control. For example: the successful management of costs will depend on prevailing market prices for input costs; the ability to grow the business will depend on the successful implementation of the company’s existing and proposed project development initiatives and continued exploration success, as well as on the availability of attractive merger and acquisition opportunities, all of which are subject to the relevant mining and company specific risks as outlined in these risk factors.

AngloGold Ashanti is in the process of implementing initiatives relating to strategic alignment, portfolio review, restructuring and cost-cutting, including in connection with the consolidation of its business activities and assets. Any future contribution of these measures to profitability will be influenced by the actual savings achieved and by the company’s ability to sustain these ongoing efforts. Strategic alignment, restructuring and cost-cutting initiatives may involve various risks, including, for example, labor unrest and operating licence withdrawal. The risk is highest in South Africa, given recent calls for withdrawal of mining licences for ‘mothballed shafts’ and hostile reaction to proposed

 

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mining industry retrenchments. In addition, these measures may not be implemented as planned; turn out to be less effective than anticipated; only become effective later than anticipated; or not be effective at all. Any of these outcomes, individually or in combination, may adversely impact the company’s business, results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti’s business strategy also includes divesting activities in some business areas and strengthening others, including through mergers and acquisitions. With respect to dispositions, AngloGold Ashanti may not be able to divest some of its activities as planned or to obtain all of the required approvals, and the divestitures that are carried out could have a negative impact on its business, results of operations, financial condition and reputation.

AngloGold Ashanti may also prove unable to deliver on production targets, including in potentially critical areas, such as the Obuasi turnaround plan in Ghana, as well as on the timely, cost-effective and successful execution of key capital projects, including at the Tropicana project in Australia, the Kibali project in the DRC, and with regard to the implementation of the company’s new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. For more details on the risks surrounding the ERP implementation, see the section entitled – “The implementation of an integrated ERP system could have an adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition.”

Unforeseen difficulties, delays or costs may adversely affect the successful implementation of AngloGold Ashanti’s business strategy and projects, and such strategy and projects may not result in the anticipated benefits.

Any acquisition or acquisitions that AngloGold Ashanti may complete may expose the company to new geographic, political, legal, social, operating, financial and geological risks.

AngloGold Ashanti may pursue the acquisition of producing, development and advanced stage exploration properties and companies. Any such acquisition may change the scale of the company’s business and operations and may expose it to new geographic, geological, political, social, operating, financial, legal, regulatory and contractual risks. For example: there may be a significant change in commodity prices after the company has committed to complete the transaction and established the purchase price or share exchange ratio; a material ore body may prove below expectations; AngloGold Ashanti may have difficulty integrating and assimilating the operations and personnel of any acquired companies, realizing anticipated synergies and maximizing the financial and strategic position of the combined enterprise, and maintaining uniform standards, policies and controls; the integration may disrupt the company’s ongoing business and its relationships with employees, suppliers and contractors; and the acquisition may divert management’s attention from AngloGold Ashanti’s day-to-day business. Furthermore, the company operates and acquires businesses in different countries, with different regulatory and operating cultures, which may exacerbate the risks described above. In addition, the acquired business may have undetected liabilities which may be significant.

In the event that the company chooses to raise debt capital to finance any acquisition, the company’s leverage will be increased. Should the company choose to use equity as consideration for an acquisition, existing shareholders may suffer dilution. Alternatively, the company may choose to finance any acquisition with its existing resources, which could decrease its ability to fund future capital expenditures.

The company may not be successful in overcoming these risks or any other problems encountered in connection with acquisitions. Failure by AngloGold Ashanti to implement its acquisition strategy or to integrate acquired businesses successfully could have material adverse effects on its growth and business results.

Ageing infrastructure at some of AngloGold Ashanti’s operations could adversely impact its business.

Deep level gold mining shafts are usually designed with a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. Vertical shafts consist of large quantities of infrastructure steelwork for guiding conveyances and accommodating services such as high and low tension electric cables, air and water pipe columns. Rising temperatures in the deeper mining areas can also lead to increased cooling requirements in the form of upgraded and expanded ice plants. Maintaining this infrastructure requires skilled human resources, capital allocation, management and planned maintenance.

Once a shaft has reached the end of its intended lifespan, higher than normal maintenance and care is required. Incidents resulting in production delays, increased costs or industrial accidents may occur. Such incidents may have an adverse effect on the company’s results of operations and financial condition. Asset integrity issues relating to ageing infrastructure are of particular concern in South Africa and at the Obuasi mine in Ghana.

 

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For example, cracks were discovered in the mill feed end in September 2008 and at the discharge end in February 2010 at the Geita gold mine. The Geita gold mine is one of the group’s principal assets and sources of cash flow. After initial repairs, the feed end was replaced during May and June 2011. A decision was subsequently taken to replace the entire mill as a result of shell distortion. After new mill manufacture delays, installation was completed during March 2013. Production throughput in 2011 was 1 million tonnes less than planned, as a result of mill downtime that included feed-end replacement; ore grade was however sufficient to achieve 494,000 ounces. The Geita gold mine produced approximately 531,000 ounces in 2012, with production throughput of some 100,000 tonnes short of budget.

Some of AngloGold Ashanti’s technologies are unproven and failure could adversely impact costs and production.

AngloGold Ashanti has teamed up with various specialists to engineer new solutions to environmental management, mine design, rock breaking and underground logistics, among others. The company has invested in new technologies, including phyto-technologies to reduce seepage and address soil and ground water contamination, and in mine support technologies to minimize the impact of seismic activity. The company is also attempting to develop technologies to access the deeper reaches of South African mines.

Some aspects of these technologies are unproven and their eventual operational outcome or viability cannot be assessed with certainty. The costs, productivity and other benefits from these initiatives, and the consequent effects on AngloGold Ashanti’s future earnings and financial condition, may vary from expectations. Failure of the company to realize the anticipated benefits could result in increased costs, an inability to realize production or growth plans, or adversely affect its operational performance.

The level of AngloGold Ashanti’s indebtedness could adversely impact its business.

As at December 31, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti had gross borrowings of approximately $3.0 billion, (2011: approximately $1.7 billion) excluding the mandatory convertible bonds amounting to $588 million (2011: $760 million).

AngloGold Ashanti’s indebtedness could have a material adverse effect on its flexibility to conduct business. For example, the company may be required to use a large portion of its cash flow to pay the principal and interest on its debt, which will reduce funds available to finance existing operations and the development of new organic growth opportunities and further acquisitions. In addition, under the terms of the company’s borrowing facilities from its banks, AngloGold Ashanti is obliged to meet certain financial and other covenants. The company’s ability to continue to meet these covenants and to service its debt will depend on its future financial performance which will be affected by its operating performance as well as by financial and other factors, certain of which are beyond the control of the company.

Should the cash flow from operations be insufficient, AngloGold Ashanti could breach its financial and other covenants. Covenant breaches, if interpreted as events of default under one or more debt agreements, could allow lenders to accelerate payment of such debt. Any such acceleration could result in the acceleration of indebtedness under other financial instruments. As a result, the company may be required to refinance all or part of the existing debt, use existing cash balances, issue additional equity or sell assets. AngloGold Ashanti cannot be sure that it will be able to refinance its debt on commercially reasonable terms, if at all. The company’s ability to access the bank, public debt or equity capital markets on an efficient basis may be constrained by dislocation in the credit markets or capital and liquidity constraints in the banking, debt or equity markets at the time of issuance.

Certain factors may affect AngloGold Ashanti’s ability to support the carrying amount of its property, plant and equipment, acquired properties, investments and goodwill on the balance sheet. If the carrying amount of its assets is not recoverable, AngloGold Ashanti may be required to recognize an impairment charge, which could be significant.

AngloGold Ashanti reviews and tests the carrying amount of its assets when events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The company values individual mining assets at the lowest level for which cash flows are identifiable and independent of cash flows of other mining assets and liabilities.

If there are indications that impairment may have occurred, AngloGold Ashanti prepares estimates of expected future cash flows for each group of assets. Expected future cash flows are inherently uncertain, and could materially change over time. They are significantly affected by reserve and production estimates, together with economic factors such as spot and forward gold prices, discount rates, currency exchange rates, estimates of costs to produce reserves and future capital expenditure. Estimated rehabilitation and closure costs could also materially affect the company’s financial performance and could result in the need to recognize an impairment charge.

 

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If any of these uncertainties occur, either alone or in combination, management could be required to recognize an impairment, which could have a material adverse effect on the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti expects to have significant financing requirements.

AngloGold Ashanti’s existing board-approved development projects and exploration initiatives will require significant funding. These include: Tropicana in Australia; Mponeng Below 120 Project in South Africa; the Mongbwalu and Kibali projects in the DRC; and the mine life extension project (MLE2) at Cripple Creek & Victor in the United States.

Potential future development projects will also require significant funding, if and when approved by the AngloGold Ashanti board of directors. These include the: La Colosa and Gramalote projects in Colombia; Moab Khotsong Zaaiplaats in South Africa; Iduapriem expansion project in Ghana, Sadiola Deeps project in Mali; Geita underground mining project in Tanzania; Nova Lima Sul project in Brazil; a further mine life extension project (MLE3) at Cripple Creek & Victor in the United States; as well as various other exploration projects and feasibility studies.

AngloGold Ashanti estimates that over the next three years, growth initiatives will require project capital expenditure (excluding stay in business and ore reserve development capital expenditure) of approximately $4.0 billion (subject to escalation and based on certain assumptions, including exchange rates). The company’s capital expenditure plans and requirements are subject to a number of risks, contingencies and other factors, some of which are beyond its control, and therefore the actual future capital expenditure and investments may differ significantly from the current planned amounts.

AngloGold Ashanti’s operating cash flow and credit facilities may be insufficient to meet all of these expenditures, depending on the timing and cost of development of these and other projects as well as operating performance and available headroom under its credit facilities. As a result, new sources of capital may be needed to meet the funding requirements of these developments, to fund ongoing business activities and to pay dividends. AngloGold Ashanti’s ability to raise and service significant new sources of capital will be a function of macroeconomic conditions, the condition of the financial markets, future gold prices, the company’s operational performance and operating cash flow and debt position, among other factors. The company’s ability to raise further debt financing in the future and the cost of such financing will depend on, among other factors, its prevailing credit rating, which may be affected by the company’s ability to maintain its outstanding debt and financial ratios at levels acceptable to the credit ratings agencies, its business prospects risks relating to the countries in which it operates or other factors. As a result, in the event of lower gold prices, unanticipated operating or financial challenges, any dislocation in financial markets or new funding limitations, AngloGold Ashanti’s ability to pursue new business opportunities, invest in existing and new projects, fund its ongoing business activities and retire or service outstanding debt and pay dividends, could be significantly constrained, all of which could adversely impact the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti does not have full management control over some of its significant joint venture projects and other interests. If the operators of these projects do not manage these effectively and efficiently, the company’s investment in these projects could be adversely affected and its reputation could be harmed.

AngloGold Ashanti’s joint ventures at Morila in Mali and at Kibali in the DRC are managed by the company’s joint venture partner Randgold Resources Limited (Randgold). In addition, certain of AngloGold Ashanti’s exploration ventures are managed by the relevant joint venture partner. AngloGold Ashanti’s marine gold joint venture with De Beers is managed by an independent company jointly owned by AngloGold Ashanti and De Beers, with a significant part of the technical input subcontracted to De Beers or other marine service providers.

While AngloGold Ashanti provides strategic management and operational advice to its joint venture partners in respect of these projects, the company cannot ensure that these projects are operated in compliance with the standards that AngloGold Ashanti applies in its other operations. If these joint ventures are not operated effectively or efficiently, including as a result of weaknesses in the policies, procedures and controls implemented by the joint venture partners, the company’s investment in the relevant project could be adversely affected. In addition, negative publicity associated with operations that are ineffective or inefficiently operated, particularly relating to any resulting accidents or environmental incidents, could harm the company’s reputation and therefore its prospects and potentially its financial condition. Further, any failure of joint venture partners to meet their obligations to AngloGold Ashanti or to third parties, or any disputes with respect to the parties’ respective rights and obligations, could have a material adverse impact on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition. In particular, the company and Randgold retain equal representation, with neither party holding a deciding vote on the board of the two companies that have overall management control of the Morila project in Mali and the Kibali project in the DRC, respectively, and all major

 

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management decisions for each of these two projects, including approval of the budget, require board approval. If a dispute arises between the company and Randgold with respect to the Kibali or Morila project and the parties are unable to amicably resolve such dispute, it may be difficult for the parties to make strategic decisions relating to the project affected by such dispute, the day-to-day operations and the development of such project may be adversely affected and the company may have to participate in proceedings to resolve the dispute, which could adversely affect the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti’s joint ventures and other strategic alliances may not be successful.

AngloGold Ashanti’s joint venture partners may have economic or business interests or goals that are not consistent with the company’s or may, as a result of financial or other difficulties, be unable or unwilling to fulfill their obligations under the joint venture or other agreements. Disputes between AngloGold Ashanti and its joint venture partners may lead to legal action, including litigation between AngloGold Ashanti and joint venture partners. Such disputes could adversely affect the operation of the joint venture and may prevent the realization of the joint ventures goals. There is no assurance that the company’s joint venture partners will continue their relationship with the company in the future or that the company will be able to achieve its financial or strategic objectives relating to the joint ventures.

For example, AngloGold Ashanti has a 50:50 strategic alliance with Thani Investments LLC (TI), a company based in Dubai. During 2011, AngloGold Ashanti advanced a loan of $35 million to Thani Ashanti Alliance Limited, the joint entity it owns together with TI. This loan was impaired during 2012. TI guaranteed the loan. AngloGold Ashanti has brought legal action against TI over non-payment of the loan. The resolution to this dispute may affect the overall relationship between TI and the company. The failure of the company’s joint venture partners to fulfil their obligations or their unwillingness to continue these relationships may have an adverse effect on the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti’s Mineral Reserve, deposits and mining operations are located in countries where political, tax and economic laws and policies may change rapidly and unpredictably and such changes and policies may adversely affect both the terms of its mining concessions, as well as its ability to conduct operations in certain countries.

Any existing and new mining, exploration operations and projects that the company carries out are subject to various national and local laws, policies and regulations governing the ownership, prospecting, development and mining of mineral reserves, taxation and royalties, exchange controls, import and export duties and restrictions, investment approvals, employee and social community relations and other matters.

In most of the countries in which AngloGold Ashanti operates, there is a focus on resource nationalism with governments seeking to reap greater economic benefit from high commodity prices. This entails the review of mining codes and stability agreements, which were designed under different economic environments, and the formulation or amendment of laws, policies and regulations relating to issues such as mineral rights and asset ownership, royalties, taxation and taxation disputes, ‘windfall’ or ‘super’ taxation, non-recovery of taxation refunds, import and export duties, currency transfers, restrictions on foreign currency holdings and repatriation of earnings. Laws, policies and regulations in such countries are uncertain, changing and generally require progressively higher payments to governments, notably in the form of increased royalties and taxes, mandated beneficiation, export levies and increasing or retaining state or national ownership of resources. Changes in particular to the fiscal terms governing AngloGold Ashanti’s operations may have a material adverse impact on the company’s results of operations or financial condition, as well as discourage future investments in certain jurisdictions, which may have an adverse impact on the company’s ability to access new assets and could potentially reduce future growth opportunities.

For example on September 9, 2011, a new mining code for Guinea was enacted. The new mining code significantly increases the share of state ownership in the mining industry, extending a 15 percent share of future mining projects to the government, without financial compensation. The government also has the option to purchase up to an additional 20 percent of each project. However, the new mining code was withdrawn in October 2012 due to unfavorable reception and is yet to be re-issued. The Guinean government also announced its intention to carry out a review of the mining conventions currently in force in Guinea. This mining convention review is currently in progress. The outcome of this review may have a material adverse effect on the company’s results of operations or financial condition.

 

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In late 2011 and early 2012, the government of Ghana amended its fiscal mining regime, increased its corporate taxation and royalty rates and may impose a windfall profit tax. Furthermore, the government of Ghana has constituted a review committee to review and re-negotiate stability agreements with mining companies. AngloGold Ashanti is currently participating in negotiations with the Ghanaian review committee. The outcome of these negotiations may have a material adverse effect on the company’s results of operations or financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti Limited and other major mining companies are in talks with the Tanzanian government regarding new mining legislation and its impact on existing mining agreements; such talks follow an earlier declaration in July 2012 by the Tanzanian Minister of Energy and Minerals that the mining contracts were under review. The new mining legislation and the outcome of the review of the mining contracts may have a material adverse impact on the company’s results of operations and financial condition. Recently, the Tanzanian Minister of Energy and Minerals unexpectedly increased the royalty rate levied on gold extracted in Tanzania by AngloGold Ashanti’s operations by 1 percent. Further unanticipated increases in royalty rates in Tanzania or other countries could have a material adverse impact on the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

In the DRC, in October 2012 the Mines Minister announced a proposed overhaul of the DRC’s mining code. The proposed laws seek to, among other things, increase the government stake in mining operations to 35 percent from the existing 5 percent, double royalties on some minerals, and introduce a 50 percent levy on certain profits. Should such laws be enacted in the future, these may have a material adverse impact on the company’s results of operations in the DRC.

On July 1, 2012, Australia’s Minerals Resource Rent Tax (MRRT) came into effect after the legislation was passed in March 2012. The MRRT applies only to the bulk commodities of coal and iron ore, and replaced the previously proposed Resource Super Profit Tax (RSPT), which covered all minerals. The Australian federal government did not include gold and uranium in the final MRRT. However, should Australia consider reintroducing the RSPT, or if similar ‘super profit’ taxes were to be introduced and implemented in any other country in which AngloGold Ashanti operates, the company’s results of operations and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.

In addition, some of AngloGold Ashanti’s mineral deposits and mining and exploration operations are located in countries that are experiencing political instability and economic uncertainty. For example, in South Africa, country risk has increased recently in light of the violent strike action, social unrest, high levels of unemployment, poverty and concern that the government may take measures unfavorable to business.

In December 2012, while the ruling African National Congress rejected the concept of wholesale nationalization, it nevertheless favoured a ‘resource rent’ tax on windfall profits. Political instability and the resulting unstable business environment in which companies operate may discourage future investments in certain jurisdictions, which may have an adverse impact on the company’s ability to access new assets and could potentially reduce future growth opportunities.

AngloGold Ashanti is subject to an uncertain tax environment. Increased taxes are expected in most countries of operation. Changes in tax laws could result in higher tax expense and payments. Furthermore, legislation changes could materially impact AngloGold Ashanti’s tax receivables and liabilities as well as deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities. In addition, the uncertain tax environment in some regions could limit AngloGold Ashanti’s ability to enforce its rights. As a global company, AngloGold Ashanti conducts its business in countries subject to complex tax rules, which may be interpreted in different ways. Further interpretations or developments of tax regimes may affect the company’s tax liability, return on investments and business operations. AngloGold Ashanti is regularly examined by tax authorities in the various jurisdictions of operation.

For example, on March 15, 2012, the Mwanza office of the Tanzania Revenue Authority notified Geita Gold Mine Limited (Geita Gold Mine) that it intended to issue additional tax assessments against Geita Gold Mine. In connection with such assessments, the Tanzania Revenue Authority also challenged the validity of the existing mining development agreement (MDA) relating to the Geita Gold Mine, which was entered into with the Tanzanian government in June 1999. AngloGold Ashanti was served with a demand to pay the increased assessments, which it is currently paying under protest while awaiting a discussion with the government. In the event that the MDA is held to be invalid, the tax burden on the company’s Tanzanian operations would increase and the company would have to pay additional taxes for prior periods.

Furthermore, in Guinea, Mali and Tanzania, AngloGold Ashanti is due refunds of input tax and fuel duties which remain outstanding for periods longer than those provided for in the respective statutes.

 

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The countries in which the company operates may also introduce strict exchange controls, impose restrictions to source materials and services locally, or impose other similar restrictions that hinder foreign companies’ operations within such countries. For example, the Argentine government introduced stricter exchange controls and related protracted approval processes, which may limit the company’s ability to repatriate dividends from its Argentine subsidiaries. In October 2011, the Argentina government has decreed that mining, oil and energy companies must repatriate export earnings. Additionally, the purchase of US dollars requires authorization from the Argentine tax agency and the purpose for which the currency will be used must be stated. In May 2012, the Argentine Mining Secretariat issued new regulations requiring mining companies in Argentina to boost their domestic purchases of equipment and services. Mining companies are now required to resort exclusively to locally established suppliers for their export-related shipping and logistics operations. A separate norm requires companies to open an import substitution division which will be in charge of submitting procurement plans to the Mining Secretariat on a quarterly basis. Such requirements are hindering the company’s operations within Argentina and these or similar requirements may continue to do so in the future and may have a material adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition.

If, in one or more of the countries in which it operates, AngloGold Ashanti were not able to obtain or maintain necessary permits, authorizations or agreements to implement planned projects or continue its operations under conditions or within timeframes that make such plans and operations economically viable, or if the applicable legal, ownership, fiscal (including all royalties and duties), exchange control, employment, environmental and social laws or regimes change materially, or if the governing political authorities change resulting in amendments to such laws and regimes, this could have a material adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s operating results, financial condition, and, in extreme situations, on the viability of an operation.

For example, in South Africa mining rights are linked to meeting various obligations that include the broad-based socio-economic empowerment charter for the mining industry (the Revised Charter). Compliance with the Revised Charter is measured using a designated scorecard relating to equity ownership and management control of mining companies by historically disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs) by no later than May 2014 and that HDSAs must constitute 40 percent of all levels of management by 2014. While AngloGold Ashanti believes that it is compliant with ownership targets to be achieved by May 2014, it must make further progress to achieve future targets, including further participation by HDSAs in senior and top management levels, the upgrade of housing and accommodation at the company’s mines, further human resource development, mine community development, sustainable development and growth as well as procurement and enterprise development, certain of which are also included under the Revised Charter’s targets that must also be achieved by May 2014.

The company will incur expenses in giving further effect to the Revised Charter and the scorecard. AngloGold Ashanti may not meet all of the various requirements by the required dates. Additionally, the South African government may decide that the Mining Charter has not gone far enough to achieve its underlying goals and therefore decide to expand the obligations of mining companies thereunder. Should AngloGold Ashanti breach its obligations in complying with the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, Revised Charter or any future amendments to the Mining Charter, its mining rights in South Africa could be suspended or cancelled by the Minister of Mineral Resources and it may be unable to obtain any new mining rights. Any such suspension or cancellation could have a material adverse effect on Anglo Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti’s Mineral Reserve, deposits and mining operations are located in countries that face instability and security risks that may adversely affect both the terms of its mining concessions, as well as its ability to conduct operations in certain countries.

Some of AngloGold Ashanti’s mineral deposits and mining and exploration operations are located in countries that are experiencing political instability and economic uncertainty.

Certain of the countries in which AngloGold Ashanti has mineral deposits or mining or exploration operations, including the DRC, Mali, Guinea and Colombia, have in the past experienced, and in certain cases continue to experience, a difficult security environment. In particular, various illegal groups active in regions in which the company is present may pose a credible threat of military repression, terrorism, civil unrest, extortion and kidnapping, which could have an adverse effect on its operations in these and other regions.

For example, Mali continues to experience a difficult security environment since the military coup in March 2012. The situation in Mali remains of heightened concern as a result of the instability in northern Mali.

Eastern DRC also continues to experience tension consistent with the cycles of unrest experienced since the late 2000s. Fighting has caused instability in the area and could expand or intensify.

 

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In 2012, and for the first time in approximately seven years, Anglo Gold Ashanti Colombia’s (AGAC) assets and employees were the targets of direct attacks by hostile actors around the La Colosa project’s area of influence. These and other such attacks could adversely affect the company’s operations in Colombia.

Since 2009, the company has recorded an almost five-fold increase in the instances of injury to security personnel, including members of AngloGold Ashanti’s internal security, private security companies and public security forces in certain jurisdictions. The rise in the number and severity of security incidents has come as a result of both increased illegal and artisanal mining due to a steady migration of people into the areas and an increase in the level of organization and funding of criminal activity around some of the company’s Continental African operations, spurred on by an escalating gold price. The most significant security challenges have occurred in Tanzania and Ghana in areas where there is endemic poverty and high levels of unemployment. If the security environment surrounding the company’s operations that are most exposed to these challenges does not improve or further deteriorates, employee, third-party and community member injuries and fatalities could also increase. Any such increase could disrupt the company’s operations in certain mines and adversely affect its reputation, results of operations and financial condition.

In some instances, risk assessments categorize threats as serious enough to require resort to public security forces, such as national police or military units on a near-permanent basis. In the event that continued operations in any of the company’s countries of operations compromise the company’s security or business principles, AngloGold Ashanti may withdraw from any such countries on a temporary or permanent basis. This could have a material adverse impact on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition.

Furthermore, the company has at times experienced strained relationships with certain of its host communities. AngloGold Ashanti operates in several regions where poverty, unemployment and the lack of access to alternative livelihoods mean that the creation and distribution of economic benefit from mining operations is a significant area of focus for community and government. Conflict with communities has led to community protests and business interruptions, particularly at the Siguiri mine in Guinea during 2010 and 2011. In 2012, there were five recorded community protests at Cerro Vanguardia, Obuasi and Geita.

Illegal and artisanal mining occurs on AngloGold Ashanti’s properties, which can disrupt the company’s business and expose the company to liability.

Illegal and artisanal miners are active on, or adjacent to, some of AngloGold Ashanti’s Continental African and South American properties, which leads at times to interference with the company’s operations and results in conflict situations that present a security threat to property and human life. Artisanal mining is associated with a number of negative impacts, including environmental degradation, flouting of land rights, poor working practices, erosion of civil society, human rights abuse and funding of conflict. The environmental, social, safety and health impacts of artisanal mining are frequently attributed to formal mining activity, and it is often assumed that artisanally-mined gold is channeled through large-scale mining operators, even though artisanal and large-scale miners have distinct supply chains. These misconceptions impact negatively on the reputation of the industry.

The activities of the illegal miners, which include theft and shrinkage, could cause damage to AngloGold Ashanti’s properties, including pollution, underground fires, or personal injury or death, for which AngloGold Ashanti could potentially be held responsible. Illegal mining could result in the depletion of mineral deposits, potentially making the future mining of such deposits uneconomic. The presence of illegal miners could lead to project delays and disputes regarding the development or operation of commercial gold deposits. Illegal mining and theft could also result in lost gold reserves, mine stoppages, and have a material adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations or financial condition.

In 2012, the company recorded an increase in the number and severity of security incidents, due to a steady migration of people into the areas and an increase in the level of organization and funding of criminal activity around some of the company’s Continental African operations, spurred on by an escalating gold price. The most significant security challenges have occurred in Tanzania and Ghana in areas where there is endemic poverty and high levels of unemployment.

 

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The use of contractors at certain of the company’s operations may expose AngloGold Ashanti to delays or suspensions in mining activities and increases in mining costs.

AngloGold Ashanti uses contractors at certain of its operations to mine and deliver ore to processing plants as well as for other purposes. At mines employing mining contractors, contracting costs represent a significant proportion of the total operating costs of these operations and the company does not own all of the mining equipment. For example, increased contractor rates at the Sadiola mine in Mali contributed to a significant rise in total cash costs in the final quarter of 2011. Increased contractor costs at Sunrise Dam in Australia and Geita in Tanzania contributed to higher production costs in the first quarter of 2012.

AngloGold Ashanti’s operations could be disrupted, resulting in additional costs and liabilities, if the mining contractors at affected mines have financial difficulties or if a dispute arises in renegotiating a contract, or if there is a delay in replacing an existing contractor and its operating equipment to meet business needs at expected cost levels. Increases in contract mining rates, in the absence of associated productivity increases, will also have an adverse impact on the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

For example, on October 13, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti terminated the underground development contract with a third-party contractor at the Obuasi mine in Ghana. The costs of the termination amounted to $17 million.

In addition, AngloGold Ashanti’s reduced control over those aspects of operations which are the responsibility of contractors, their failure to comply with applicable legal, human rights and regulatory requirements, or their inability to manage their workforce or provide high quality services or a high level of productivity could adversely affect AngloGold Ashanti’s reputation, results of operations and financial condition, and may result in the company incurring liability to third parties due to the actions of contractors.

AngloGold Ashanti competes with mining and other companies for key human resources and its inability to retain key personnel could have an adverse effect on its business.

AngloGold Ashanti competes on a global basis with mining and other companies, to attract and retain key human resources at all levels with the appropriate technical skills and operating and managerial experience necessary to operate and supervise its business. This is further exacerbated in the current environment of increased mining activity across the globe, combined with the global shortage of key mining skills, including geologists, mining engineers, metallurgists and skilled artisans.

The retention of staff is particularly challenging in South Africa, where, in addition to the impacts of global industry shortages of skilled labor, AngloGold Ashanti is required to achieve employment equity targets of participation by HDSAs in management and other positions. AngloGold Ashanti competes with all companies in South Africa to attract and retain a small but growing pool of HDSAs with the necessary skills and experience. AngloGold Ashanti has historically faced difficulty recruiting and retaining young graduates and qualified mid-level management in South Africa. Recruitment of skilled personnel has been challenging in Continental Africa due to university offerings that are often not well-suited to the specific needs of the mining industry, as well as other factors such as language barriers and low literacy skills.

The recruitment of skilled workers is also highly competitive in South America as a result of a shortage of skills and intense competition between mining companies.

The company may not be able to retain and attract sufficient skilled and experienced employees in all areas of the business. Should it fail to do so or lose any of its key personnel, business and growth prospects may be harmed and this could have an adverse impact on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti’s inability to retain its senior management may have an adverse effect on its business.

The company’s success depends largely upon the continued service of its senior management, including its chief executive officer, chief financial officer and the executive officers at each of its business divisions and general managers at its mines. The loss of one or more members of senior management, such as the recently announced departure of AngloGold Ashanti Chief Executive Officer, Mark Cutifani, to take the same position at Anglo American PLC as of April 3, 2013, could lead to other members of the management team leaving, disrupt the company’s operations, and have a material adverse impact on the company’s business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

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The prevalence of occupational health diseases and the potential costs and liabilities related thereto may have an adverse effect on the business and results of operations of AngloGold Ashanti.

The primary areas of focus in respect of occupational health of employees within the company’s operations are noise-induced hearing loss and occupational lung diseases (OLD), which include pulmonary diseases such as tuberculosis from various causes and silicosis in individuals exposed to silica dust. These require active dust management strategies in underground operations, particularly in South Africa where a significant number of silicosis cases by current and former employees alleging past exposures are still reported each year to the board for statutory compensation. AngloGold Ashanti provides occupational health services to its employees at its occupational health centers and clinics and continues to improve preventative occupational hygiene initiatives, such as implementing various dust control measures and supplying its employees with respiratory protection equipment. If the costs associated with providing such occupational health services, implementing such dust control measures or supplying such equipment increase significantly beyond anticipated or budgeted amounts, this could have an adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition. Actual and alleged health and safety incidents or breaches of standards may also adversely impact the company’s reputation.

AngloGold Ashanti is currently subject to class action litigation with respect to alleged occupational lung diseases (see “– AngloGold Ashanti is subject to the risk of litigation, the causes and costs of which are not always known”). AngloGold Ashanti is calling for the industry to engage with government (and other stakeholders) to seek an appropriate industry-wide solution. An industry-wide solution may not be reached or the terms thereof may have a material adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s financial condition.

In response to the effects of silicosis in labor-sending communities, a number of mining companies (under the auspices of the Chamber of Mines of South Africa) together with the NUM, which is the largest union in the mining sector in South Africa, and the national and regional departments of health, have embarked on a project to assist in delivering compensation and relief by mining companies under the Occupational Diseases in Mines and Works Act (ODMWA) to affected communities.

AngloGold Ashanti faces certain risks in dealing with HIV/AIDS, particularly at its South African operations and with tropical disease outbreaks such as malaria, and other diseases which may have an adverse effect on the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

AIDS and associated diseases remain one of the major health care challenges faced by AngloGold Ashanti’s South African operations. Workforce prevalence studies indicate that HIV prevalence rates among AngloGold Ashanti’s South African workforce may be as high as 30 percent.

Malaria and other tropical diseases pose significant health risks at all of the company’s operations in central, west and east Africa where such diseases may assume epidemic proportions because of ineffective national control programs. Malaria is a major cause of death in young children and pregnant women but also gives rise to fatalities and absenteeism in adult men. Other conditions such as heart disease, chronic diseases, and obesity are of increasing incidence and concern.

Such diseases impair the health of workers and negatively affect productivity and profitability as a result of workers’ diminished focus or skill, absenteeism, treatment costs and allocated resources. Any current or future medical program may not be successful in preventing or reducing the infection rate among AngloGold Ashanti’s employees or in affecting consequent illness or mortality rates. AngloGold Ashanti may incur significant costs in addressing this issue in the future, which could also adversely impact the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

The costs and impacts associated with the pumping of water inflows from closed mines adjacent to the company’s operations could have an adverse effect on its results of operations.

Certain of AngloGold Ashanti’s mining operations are located adjacent to the mining operations of other mining companies. The closure of a mining operation may have an impact upon continued operations at the adjacent mine if appropriate preventative steps are not taken. In particular, this can include the ingress of underground water where pumping operations at the adjacent closed mine are suspended. Such ingress could have an adverse effect on any one of the company’s mining operations as a result of property damage, disruption to operations, additional pollution liabilities and pumping costs and consequently could have an adverse impact on its results of operations and financial condition.

 

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The potential costs associated with the remediation and prevention of groundwater contamination from the company’s operations or due to flooding from closed mines adjacent to the company’s operations could have a material adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti has identified groundwater contamination plumes at certain of its operations that have occurred primarily as a result of seepage from surface operations and facilities including tailings storage facilities and waste rock.

Deep groundwater contamination is a significant issue in South Africa, where groundwater in some older mining regions has infiltrated mined-out workings. Potential contamination risk to shallow ground and surface water resources can occur when water is exposed to sulfide-bearing rock in such situations. AngloGold Ashanti has identified a flooding and future pollution risk posed by deep groundwater in the Klerksdorp and Far West Rand goldfields. AngloGold Ashanti’s Vaal River operations are part of the Klerksdorp goldfields and its West Wits operations are part of the Far West Rand goldfields. As a result of the interconnected nature of underground mining operations in South Africa, any proposed solution needs to be a combined one supported by all the companies owning mines located in these goldfields.

In view of the limitation of current information for the accurate estimation of liabilities, no reliable estimate can be made for these obligations. The potential costs of remediation and prevention of groundwater contamination at AngloGold Ashanti’s operations could be significant and may have a material adverse impact on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition.

The occurrence of events for which AngloGold Ashanti is not insured or for which its insurance is inadequate may adversely affect cash flows and overall profitability.

AngloGold Ashanti maintains insurance to protect only against catastrophic events which could have a significant adverse effect on its operations and profitability. This insurance is maintained in amounts that the company believes to be reasonable depending upon the circumstances surrounding each identified risk. However, damage and third-party claims arising from catastrophic events may exceed the limit of liability on insurance policies the company has in place. Furthermore, AngloGold Ashanti’s insurance does not cover all potential risks associated with its business and may exclude certain parts of its business. AngloGold Ashanti may elect not to insure certain risks due to the high premiums or for various other reasons, including an assessment that the risks are remote.

The company may not be able to obtain insurance coverage at acceptable premiums. The company believes negotiations with insurance providers have become more difficult for a number of reasons, including prevailing macroeconomic conditions and the risk profile of the mining industry. Insurance for certain risks in particular, such as loss of title to mineral property, political risks in certain jurisdictions, environmental pollution, or other hazards resulting from exploration and production, is not generally available to mining companies on acceptable terms. The availability and cost of insurance coverage can vary considerably from year to year as a result of events beyond the company’s control or from claims, and this can result in higher premiums and periodically being unable to maintain the levels or types of insurance the company typically carries.

The failure to obtain adequate insurance could impair the company’s ability to continue to operate in the normal course or could result in the occurrence of events for which AngloGold Ashanti is not insured, either of which could adversely impact its cash flows, results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti is subject to the risk of litigation, the causes and costs of which are not always known.

AngloGold Ashanti is subject to litigation, arbitration and other legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business and may be involved in disputes that may result in litigation. The causes of potential future litigation cannot be known and may arise from, among other things, business activities, environmental and health and safety concerns, share price volatility or failure to comply with disclosure obligations. The results of litigation cannot be predicted with certainty but could include costly damage awards or settlements, fines, and the loss of licenses, concessions, or rights, among other things.

In the event of a dispute AngloGold Ashanti may be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of foreign courts or may not be successful in subjecting foreign persons to the jurisdiction of courts in South Africa or the United States.

AngloGold Ashanti is subject to numerous claims, including class actions or similar group claims relating to silicosis and other OLD, and could be subject to similar claims in the future.

 

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AngloGold Ashanti has received notice of two applications for class certification relating to silicosis in which the company is a respondent. It has also received notice of individual claims. For further information, please refer to “Item 8.: Financial Information – Legal Proceedings – South Africa – Silicosis litigation”.

It is possible that additional class actions and/or individual claims relating to silicosis and/or other OLD will be filed against AngloGold Ashanti in the future. AngloGold Ashanti will defend all and any subsequent claims as filed on their merits. Should AngloGold Ashanti be unsuccessful in defending any such claims, or in otherwise favorably resolving perceived deficiencies in the national occupational disease compensation framework that were identified in an earlier decision by the Constitutional Court of South Africa, such matters would have an adverse effect on its financial position, which could be material.

In Colombia, the company is also involved in five class action lawsuits in relation to AGAC Santa Maria-Montecristo and La Colosa projects. One of these class action lawsuits led to a preliminary injunction suspending the mining concession contracts of the Santa Maria-Montecristo project in September 2011. Additionally, in Colombia, AGAC is involved in an action in the Administrative Superior Court of the Cundinamarca District against the Department of the Environment, Housing and Territorial Development (DoE) following its issuance of a fine against AGAC on the basis that AGAC was in breach of its mining terms of reference.

Should the company be unable to resolve disputes favorably or to enforce its rights, this may have a material adverse impact on the company’s financial performance, cash flow and results of operations.

The implementation of an integrated Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system could have an adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti is implementing a single, global ERP system to support all the operations managed by AngloGold Ashanti. The ERP system is being implemented over a three-and-a-half-year period which commenced in August 2011. The contemplated implementation of an ERP system on a global basis is inherently a high-risk initiative due to the potential for implementation cost and time overruns. In addition, such implementation could affect the ability of AngloGold Ashanti to report and manage technical and financial information if difficulties in the implementation and operation of the system are experienced, which could have an adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and financial condition. The first sites went live during February 2013.

Sales of large quantities of AngloGold Ashanti‘s ordinary shares and American Depository Shares (ADSs), and the perception that these sales may occur or other dilution of the company’s equity, could adversely affect the prevailing market price of the company’s securities.

The bulk of AngloGold Ashanti’s shares are held by a relatively small number of investors. According to information available to the company, AngloGold Ashanti’s four largest shareholders beneficially owned approximately 23.29 percent of AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares as at December 31, 2012.

Poor returns, soaring costs, higher capital expenditure, ill-conceived corporate activity, rising geopolitical and labor risk and low dividend yields over the past few years have resulted in a change in market sentiment towards gold equities. The market price of the company’s securities could fall if large quantities of ordinary shares or ADSs are sold in the public market, if there is divestment by certain types or groupings of investors, or if there is the perception in the marketplace that such sales could occur. Subject to applicable securities laws, holders of the company‘s ordinary shares or ADSs may decide to sell them at any time. The market price of the company’s ordinary shares or ADSs could also fall as a result of any future offerings AngloGold Ashanti makes of its ordinary shares, ADSs, or securities exchangeable or exercisable for the company’s ordinary shares or ADSs, or the perception in the market place that these offerings might occur. AngloGold Ashanti may make such offerings, including offerings of additional ADS rights, share rights or similar securities, at any time or from time to time in the future.

Fluctuations in the exchange rate of currencies may reduce the market value of AngloGold Ashanti’s securities, as well as the market value of any dividends or distributions paid by the company.

AngloGold Ashanti has historically declared all dividends in South African rands. As a result, exchange rate movements may have affected and may continue to affect the Australian dollar, the British pound, the Ghanaian cedi and the US dollar value of these dividends, as well as of any other distributions paid by the relevant depositary to investors that hold the company’s securities. This may reduce the value of these securities to investors.

 

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AngloGold Ashanti’s memorandum and articles of association allow for dividends and distributions to be declared in any currency at the discretion of the board of directors, or the company’s shareholders at a general meeting. If and to the extent that AngloGold Ashanti opts to declare dividends and distributions in US dollars, exchange rate movements will not affect the US dollar value of any dividends or distributions. Nevertheless, the value of any dividend or distribution in Australian dollars, British pounds, Ghanaian cedis or South African rands will continue to be affected. If and to the extent that dividends and distributions are declared in South African rands, exchange rate movements will continue to affect the Australian dollar, British pound, Ghanaian cedi and US dollar value of these dividends and distributions. Furthermore, the market value of AngloGold Ashanti’s securities as expressed in Australian dollars, British pounds, Ghanaian cedis, US dollars and South African rands will continue to fluctuate in part as a result of foreign exchange fluctuations.

AngloGold Ashanti may not pay dividends or make similar payments to shareholders in the future.

AngloGold Ashanti pays cash dividends only if there are sufficient funds available for that purpose. Fund availability depends upon many factors that include the amount of cash available in relation to AngloGold Ashanti’s capital expenditure on existing infrastructure and exploration and other projects.

Under South African law, companies are entitled to pay a dividend or similar payment to its shareholders only if the company meets the solvency and liquidity tests set out in legislation, and the company’s founding documents.

Given these factors, including the capital and investment needs of the company, and the board of directors’ discretion to declare a dividend that includes the amount and timing thereof, cash dividends may not be paid in the future.

 

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ITEM 4: INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

 

4A.

HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY

GROUP INFORMATION

AngloGold Limited was formed in June 1998 with the consolidation of the gold mining interests of Anglo American plc. AngloGold Ashanti Limited, as the company exists today, was formed on April 26, 2004 following the business combination between AngloGold and Ashanti Goldfields Company Limited.

CURRENT PROFILE

AngloGold Ashanti Limited is headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa. The company (Registration number 1944/017354/06) was incorporated in the Republic of South Africa in 1944 under the name of Vaal Reefs Exploration and Mining Company Limited and operates under the South African Companies Act 71 of 2008 (Companies Act), as amended.

Its registered office is at 76 Jeppe Street, Newtown, Johannesburg, South Africa, 2001. Telephone: +27 11 6376000.

While AngloGold Ashanti’s primary listing is on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), the company is also listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE), the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), the Ghana Stock Exchange (GhSE) and the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).

HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENTS

Below are highlights of key corporate activities from 1998:

1998

 

Formation of AngloGold Limited through the consolidation of East Rand Gold and Uranium Company Limited; Eastvaal Gold Holdings Limited; Southvaal Holdings Limited; Free State Consolidated Gold Mines Limited; Elandsrand Gold Mining Company Limited; H.J. Joel Gold Mining Company Limited and Western Deep Levels Limited into a single, focused, independent, gold mining company. Vaal Reefs Exploration and Mining Company Limited (Vaal Reefs), the vehicle for the consolidation, changed its name to AngloGold Limited and increased its authorized share capital, effective March 30, 1998.

1998-2004

 

Expansion of AngloGold Limited’s operations outside of South Africa.

2004

 

Concluded the business combination with Ashanti Goldfields Company Limited, at which time the company changed its name to AngloGold Ashanti Limited.

2007

 

Anglo American plc sold 69,100,000 ordinary shares of AngloGold Ashanti, thereby reducing Anglo American’s shareholding in AngloGold Ashanti from 41.7 percent to 16.6 percent.

2009

 

Anglo American plc sold its remaining shareholding to Paulson & Co. Inc.

2010

 

AngloGold Ashanti eliminated its hedge book, thereby gaining full exposure to spot gold prices.

2012

 

AngloGold Ashanti acquired the remaining 50 percent interest in Serra Grande in Brazil for $215 million.

 

The company acquired 100 percent of First Uranium (Proprietary) Limited for $335 million.

 

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4B.

BUSINESS OVERVIEW

AngloGold Ashanti, one of the world’s major gold exploration, mining and marketing companies, holds a portfolio of operations and projects on four continents, and has a worldwide exploration program. The company works across the full spectrum of the mining value chain.

PRODUCTS

AngloGold Ashanti’s main product is gold. In the course of processing the ore mined, by-products such as silver, uranium oxide and sulfuric acid are produced at the Argentinian, South African and Brazilian operations.

OPERATIONS

AngloGold Ashanti’s 21 operations are located in 10 countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania and the United States). These include six deep-level mines and surface operations in South Africa as well as a combination of surface and underground mining operations in the Americas, Australia and elsewhere on the African continent.

EXPLORATION

The group’s exploration program, covers greenfield, brownfield, and, more recently, marine exploration. Major development projects are Tropicana in Australia, Kibali in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and La Colosa in Colombia. Our extensive brownfield, greenfield and marine exploration programs extend to 14 countries, in both established and new gold-producing regions through managed and non-managed joint ventures, strategic alliances and wholly owned ground holdings.

DEVELOPMENT

AngloGold Ashanti utilizes its exploration team to build on its record of new gold discoveries and to grow its gold endowment. The company has increased its capacity to fund a significant project pipeline by incurring longer-term debt, while maintaining capital discipline and improving returns.

MARKETING

Once processed to the doré (unrefined gold bar) stage at AngloGold Ashanti’s operations, this product is dispatched to various precious metal refineries where the gold is refined to a purity of at least 99.5 percent, in accordance with the standards of “good delivery” as determined by the London Bullion Market Association. It is then sold to bullion banks or refiners. Gold has been a much sought after source of wealth over the centuries, be it as an investment, a store of value or as jewellery. AngloGold Ashanti campaigns actively to promote the demand for gold.

GOLD MARKET

AngloGold Ashanti’s gold is refined at various precious metal refineries. In refined and marketable form, gold normally takes the shape of bars, varying in size from 12.5 kilogram to smaller bars weighing some 1 kilogram or less, all of which contain 99.5 percent gold. Through the refineries the gold is sold directly to bullion banks. Bullion banks are registered commercial banks which deal in gold, distributing bullion bought from mining companies and refineries to markets worldwide. These banks hold consignment stocks in all major physical markets and finance these inventories from the margins they charge physical buyers.

The physical gold market is dominated by the jewellery and investment sectors, which together account for 78 percent of total demand. The balance of gold demand is from the electronics and dentistry industry, as well as the uptake from central banks. While the quantity of gold used in jewellery consumption has decreased over the last decade with the steadily rising gold price, the investment market has largely absorbed available supply. Investment in physical gold involves bar and coin hoarding, medals and other retail investment instruments, as well as the now significant market for exchange traded funds (ETFs).

 

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The gold price averaged $1,668 per ounce for 2012, marking the eleventh consecutive year of average annual price increases. After reaching a record of $1,921 per ounce in September 2011, the gold price failed to reach the same level during 2012.

Although gold has traditional “safe haven” status among financial assets, it did not benefit significantly in 2012. This was largely on account of the continued negative correlation between the dollar gold price and the dollar, in which a stronger dollar tended to cap appreciation in the gold price. This pattern was exacerbated by the fact that investors often sold profitable gold positions.

The announcement by the US Federal Reserve of a further round of quantitative easing in mid-September correlated with a boost in the gold price, however, having averaged $1,651 per ounce over the first three quarters of 2012, the announcement of the third round of quantitative easing (QE3) corresponding with an increase in the gold price average to $1,717 per ounce for the final quarter. As of April 19, 2013, the gold price was $1,404 per ounce.

Investment market

Holdings within the ETF universe showed reasonable growth. Although growth in total gold holdings was lower than that experienced in 2009 and 2010, it was an improvement over 2011. ETF holdings grew by 6.4 million ounces in 2011 which represents growth of 9 percent over the year. In 2012, ETF holdings grew by almost 9.4 million ounces or 12 percent.

Among ETFs, which now include some 32 different funds, the NYSE-listed SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) remained the largest at 43.4 million ounces, or almost half of combined holdings of 88.8 million ounces (as at end 2012). This fund grew by 3.1 million ounces in 2012 and alone accounted for over a third of overall growth in holdings during 2012.

The official sector continued to be a significant source of demand through 2012 with estimates of around 17.2 million ounces (net) bought by various central banks across the globe. The most dominant sources of demand from this sector remain those countries which are not members of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), such as Brazil, Mexico and South Korea, which added to their gold reserves. In contrast, the third year of the Central Bank Gold Agreement ended at the end of September and total sales of 5 tonnes by its signatories were recorded. This represents the lowest annual sales in any of the agreements.

Bar and coin demand for 2012 failed to match the levels of 2011, declining by 260 tonnes year-on-year. Demand experienced from Europe in 2011 did not materialize again in 2012. However, after a slow start to the first half of the year, Indian demand for bars and coins began to emerge and amounted some 25 percent of total demand for 2012. Demand from China, another important source of demand, was flat at 265 tonnes, primarily due to the slowing of the Chinese economy.

Jewellery markets

A jewellers’ strike and doubling of import duties meant that the first half of the year witnessed very poor demand out of India relative to 2011, down by 24 percent. Sentiment improved in the latter half of the year and India remained the strongest performing market for gold jewellery and, in 2012, accounted for 29 percent of global jewellery fabrication.

Slowing fortunes of the Chinese economy had an impact on jewellery demand from this region, down 4.5 tonnes year-on-year, as consumers cut back on their discretionary spending. Hong Kong maintained its levels of jewellery demand year-on-year at 27 tonnes.

European jewellery demand was similarly affected by economic woes and austerity measures.

The outlook for the gold price remains broadly supportive given the continuation of loose monetary policies in both the United States and Europe. However, there is growing confidence that monetary authorities may have managed the worst of these crises. Austerity measures may continue across Europe and this may weigh on European jewellery demand while further measures by the Indian authorities to curb gold imports mean that jewellery demand from this region will also likely decrease in the short term.

RAW MATERIALS

AngloGold Ashanti uses chemicals including cyanide and lime in the production of gold. These chemicals are available from a large number of suppliers.

 

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COMPETITION

As gold mining is a mature and regulated industry, and very significant volumes of gold and gold derivatives trade in the world markets independent of gold mine supply, AngloGold Ashanti does not consider that competition for sales plays any role in its operations as a gold producer. However, gold producers do compete against each other for acquisition of mining assets, exploration opportunities and human resources.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

AngloGold Ashanti, as a group, is not dependent on intellectual property for the conduct of its business as a whole.

SEASONALITY

AngloGold Ashanti’s business is not generally seasonal.

STRATEGY

To achieve its vision to be the leading mining company, AngloGold Ashanti must fulfill its mission to create value for shareholders, employees and business and social partners by safely and responsibly exploring for, mining and marketing its products. Although the primary focus is gold, AngloGold Ashanti will pursue value-creating opportunities in other minerals where it can leverage existing assets, skills and experience to enhance the delivery of value.

Strategic focus areas

AngloGold Ashanti’s five strategic focus areas are set out below:

 

 

People are the business, providing the leadership and the supporting management processes to ensure that the right people are in the right roles, doing the right work to deliver against the goals.

 

Maximize margins, managing revenues to ensure that full value is realized from its products by delivering a quality product and managing costs to protect margins and returns on capital employed.

 

Manage the business as an asset portfolio, optimizing asset and project portfolios to meet or exceed specified rates of returns. To achieve this, each asset is regularly reviewed and ranked in both absolute terms and relative to its peer group.

 

Grow the business, developing a range of options for growth, including greenfield and brownfield exploration, new opportunities for promoting organic growth, value-accretive merger and acquisition opportunities, and maximizing the value of commodities other than gold within its portfolio.

 

Embrace sustainability principles, developing business and social partnerships based on mutual value creation while maintaining a focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of employees, and managing environmental and other impacts.

Management framework

AngloGold Ashanti’s internally developed Project ONE management framework is being implemented throughout the business to support the achievement of its broader strategic objectives. The framework is designed to reduce variability in performance and support a seamless flow from strategy to delivery. This framework prescribes strong leadership, considered role description, appropriate resourcing to the task at hand, well-defined and documented business processes in all areas, clear accountability and consistent analysis of improvement of work undertaken.

Managing performance

The five strategic focus areas are reflected in the role descriptions of each executive and senior manager in the group and form the basis for evaluating and rewarding their performance.

 

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THE REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT ENABLING ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI TO MINE

AngloGold Ashanti’s rights to own and exploit mineral reserves and deposits are governed by the laws and regulations of the jurisdictions in which these mineral properties lie.

AngloGold Ashanti is subject to a wide range of laws and regulations governing all aspects of its operations, including such areas as environmental protection, reclamation, exploration, development, production, taxes, immigration, labor standards and employment issues, occupational health, mine safety, toxic substances, securities and foreign corrupt practices. AngloGold Ashanti has made, and expects to, among other things, make in the future, significant expenditures to comply with these laws and regulations. Non-compliance can result in violations and legal claims, as well as substantial fines, penalties and delays in day-to-day operations. Pending or proposed changes to existing laws and regulations, as well as any proposed or contemplated new laws or regulations could also have significant impacts on AngloGold Ashanti’s business and results of operations, the extent of which cannot be predicted.

There are in some cases certain restrictions on AngloGold Ashanti’s ability to independently move assets out of certain countries in which it has operations, or transfer assets within the group, without the prior consent of the local government or minority shareholders involved. See “Item 10D.: Exchange controls” for details.

For more information on the risks and uncertainties associated with AngloGold Ashanti’s mining rights, see “Item 3D.: Risk factors”, in particular the risk factors entitled “AngloGold Ashanti’s mining rights in the countries in which it operates could be altered, suspended or cancelled for a variety of reasons, including breaches in its obligations in respect of its mining rights”, “Failure to comply with laws, regulations, standards, contractual obligations whether following a breach or breaches in governance processes or fraud, bribery and corruption may lead to regulatory penalties, loss of licenses or permits, and loss of reputation”, “Title to AngloGold Ashanti’s properties may be uncertain and subject to challenge”, “AngloGold Ashanti’s Mineral Reserve, deposits and mining operations are located in countries where political, tax and economic laws and policies may change rapidly and unpredictably and such changes and policies may adversely affect both the terms of its mining concessions, as well as its ability to conduct operations in certain countries” and “AngloGold Ashanti’s Mineral Reserve, deposits and mining operations are located in countries that face instability and security risks that may adversely affect both the terms of its mining concessions, as well as its ability to conduct operations in certain countries”.

South Africa

The MPRDA and the Revised Mining Charter

The Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA) came into effect on May 1, 2004. The objectives of the MPRDA are, among other things, to allow for state sovereignty over all mineral and petroleum resources in the country, to promote economic growth and the development of these resources and to expand opportunities for the historically disadvantaged. Another objective of the MPRDA is to ensure security of tenure for the respective operations concerning prospecting, exploration, mining and production. By virtue of the provisions of the MPRDA, the state ensures that holders of mining and prospecting rights contribute to the socioeconomic development of the areas in which they operate.

The Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Amendment Act (MPRDAA) was passed by Parliament in 2008 and has been signed by the State President and published, but is not yet in effect. Its purpose is to amend the MPRDA in order to, among other things:

 

 

make the Minister of Mineral Resources (Minister) the responsible authority for implementing the requirements of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (NEMA) and specific environmental legislation as they relate to prospecting, mining, exploration, production and related activities incidental thereto on the prospecting, mining, exploration or production area;

 

align the MPRDA with the NEMA in order to provide for one environmental management system;

 

remove ambiguities in certain definitions;

 

add functions to the Regional Mining Development and Environmental Committee;

 

amend transitional arrangements so as to further afford statutory protection to certain existing old order rights; and

 

provide for matters connected therewith.

On December 27, 2012, the Minister published the Draft Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Bill, 2012 (Bill) and invited the mining industry and interested and affected parties to comment on it. The Bill seeks to amend the MPRDAA, which itself has not yet come into effect, as described above. It is unclear when the MPRDAA will come into force or to what extent the Bill will amend the MPRDAA.

 

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The Bill, as currently drafted, contains, among others, the following provisions:

 

Residue stockpiles: The MPRDAA proposed including residue deposits and residue stockpiles in the definition of land, creating a “statutory accession” of movable dumps back to the land. The Bill extends this definition to include historic mines and dumps created before the implementation of the MPRDA.

 

Partitioning of rights and transfers of interests in companies: Section 11 of the MPRDA requires that a controlling interest in an unlisted company be consented to by the Minister. The MPRDAA amended this section so that consent by the Minister must also be obtained for the transfer of a controlling interest in a listed company. The Bill as drafted would amend Section 11 of the MPRDA so that a transfer of “any interest” in a listed company must be consented to by the Minister before such transfer, raising the possibility that the trading of shares of listed companies could be prohibited.

 

Mine closure: The Bill makes provision for two major changes to mine closure under the MPRDA. Firstly, the MPRDA would be amended so that a mining company could still incur environmental liability even after a closure certificate relative to a mine is obtained. Secondly, the financial provision paid to the Minister in terms of section 41 of the MPRDA will be retained for 20 years after the granting of the closure certificate.

 

Penalties: The Bill would also provide for revised penalties for violations of the MPRDA by making provision for both an administrative fine not exceeding 10 per cent of the person or holder’s annual turnover and exports during the preceding year, and imprisonment not exceeding four years.

The Bill is subject to change and any changes to it could be significant.

The Broad-Based Socio-Economic Empowerment Charter for the South African Mining Industry (Mining Charter) sprang from the MPRDA and also took effect on May 1, 2004. The Mining Charter committed all stakeholders in the mining industry to transfer ownership of 26 percent of their assets to black or historically disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs) within 10 years. The Charter also sets targets for, among other things, the advancement of HDSAs into management positions, the employment of women, procurement of goods and services from HDSA-owned companies, training, community development and the upgrading of mine housing. Mining companies are required to devise plans to achieve these targets, must identify current levels of beneficiation and must indicate opportunities for growth.

The objectives of the Mining Charter are to:

 

promote equitable access to the nation’s mineral resources by all the people of South Africa;

 

substantially and meaningfully expand opportunities for HDSAs, including women, to enter the mining and minerals industry and to benefit from the exploitation of the nation’s mineral resources;

 

use the industry’s existing skills base for the empowerment of HDSAs;

 

expand the skills base of HDSAs in order to serve the community;

 

promote employment and advance the social and economic welfare of mining communities and the major labor-sending areas; and

 

promote beneficiation of South Africa’s mineral commodities.

The Mining Charter envisages measuring progress on transformation of ownership by:

 

taking into account, among other things, attributable units of production controlled by HDSAs;

 

allowing flexibility by credits or offsets, so that, for example, where HDSA participation exceeds any set target in a particular operation, the excess may be offset against shortfalls in another operation;

 

taking into account previous empowerment deals in determining credits and offsets; and

 

considering special incentives to encourage the retention by HDSAs of newly acquired equity for a reasonable period.

Under the Charter, the mining industry as a whole agreed to assist HDSA companies in securing finance to fund participation in an amount of Rand 100 billion ($10.9 billion) over the first five years. Beyond the Rand 100 billion commitment, HDSA participation will be increased on a willing seller, willing buyer basis, at fair market value, where the mining companies are not at risk.

Following a review, the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) amended the Mining Charter and the Revised Mining Charter was released on September 13, 2010. The requirement under the Mining Charter for mining entities to achieve a 26 percent HDSA ownership of mining assets by the year 2014 was retained. Amendments to the Mining Charter in the Revised Mining Charter require mining companies to:

 

facilitate local beneficiation of mineral commodities;

 

procure a minimum of 40 percent of capital goods, 70 percent of services and 50 percent of consumer goods from HDSA suppliers (i.e., suppliers in which a minimum of 25 percent + 1 vote of share capital is owned by HDSAs) by 2014, these targets being, however, exclusive of non-discretionary procurement expenditure;

 

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ensure that multinational suppliers of capital goods put a minimum of 0.5 percent of their annual income generated from South African mining companies into a social development fund beginning in 2010, to contribute to the socioeconomic development of South African communities;

 

achieve a minimum of 40 percent HDSA demographic representation by 2014 at executive management (board) level, senior management (EXCO) as well as in those positions requiring core and critical skills, middle management level and junior management level;

 

invest up to 5 percent of annual payroll in essential skills development activities; and

 

implement measures to improve the standards of housing and living conditions for mineworkers by converting or upgrading mineworkers’ hostels into family units, attaining an occupancy rate of one person per room and facilitating home ownership options for all mineworkers in consultation with organized labor, all of which must be achieved by April 30, 2014.

In addition, mining companies are required to monitor and evaluate their compliance with the Revised Mining Charter, and must submit annual compliance reports to the DMR.

The government takes a “Scorecard” approach to the different facets of promoting the objectives of the Charter. It uses the Scorecard when considering applications for the conversion of existing old order rights into new order rights. The Scorecard sets out the requirements of the Charter in tabular form which allows the DMR to “tick off” areas where a mining company is in compliance. It covers the following areas:

 

human resource development;

 

employment equity;

 

migrant labor;

 

mine community and rural development;

 

housing and living conditions;

 

ownership and joint ventures;

 

beneficiation; and

 

reporting.

The new Scorecard attached to the Revised Mining Charter makes provision for a phased-in approach for compliance with the above targets over the 5-year period ending on April 30, 2014. For measurement purposes, the Scorecard allocates various weightings to the different elements of the Revised Mining Charter. Failure to comply with the provisions of the Revised Mining Charter will amount to a breach of the MPRDA, may result in the cancellation or suspension of a mining company’s existing mining rights and may prevent AngloGold Ashanti’s South African operations from obtaining any new mining rights.

On April 29, 2009, as required by section 100(1)(b) of the MPRDA, the Minister published the Code of Good Practice for the South African Mineral Industry (Code). The purpose of the Code was to set out administrative principles to enhance implementation of the Mining Charter and the MPRDA. The Code is to be read in combination with the Mining Charter and other legislation relating to measurement of socio-economic transformation in the South African mining industry.

A mining right will be granted to a successful applicant for a period not exceeding 30 years. Mining rights may be renewed for additional periods not exceeding 30 years at a time. A mining right can be cancelled if the mineral to which such mining right relates is not mined at an “optimal” rate.

AngloGold Ashanti holds seven mining rights in South Africa which have been successfully converted, executed and registered as new order mining rights at the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Titles Office (MPRTO).

A prospecting right will be granted to a successful applicant for a period not exceeding five years, and may only be renewed once for three years. The MPRDA also provides for a retention period of up to three years after prospecting, with one renewal up to two years, subject to certain conditions.

AngloGold Ashanti holds four prospecting rights, one of which is in the process of being converted into a mining right. Six new prospecting right applications have been submitted to the DMR since the end of March 2011, after the moratorium on the issuing of rights was lifted.

AngloGold Ashanti also holds a mining permit for the recovery of sand and clay, which is in the process of being renewed.

AngloGold Ashanti applied for and has been granted a refining license and an import and export permit by the South African Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator.

 

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The BBBEE Amendment Bill

In December 2011, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) published the Broad-based Black Empowerment Amendment Bill, 2011 (2011 BBBEE Amendment Bill) for public comment. The BBBEE Amendment Bill sought to amend the Broad-based Black Economic Empowerment Act 53 of 2003 (BBBEE Act) to provide a framework of principles, strategies and guidelines aimed at promoting the broad-based socio-economic empowerment of HDSAs across the South African economy and society in the form of ownership, management, employment equity, skills development, preferential procurement, enterprise development and socio-economic development. The public comment period expired in February 2012. Following this public participation process, the 2011 BBBEE bill was revised and a new bill published in November 2012 (2012 BBBEE Amended Bill). As of April 19, 2013, the 2012 BBBEE Amendment Bill was still pending in parliament. The 2012 BBBEE Amendment Bill includes a number of changes to the current framework under the BBBEE Act, including:

 

amending and clarifying the definition of the intended beneficiaries of such framework;

 

amending the definition of “Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment”, or BBBEE, to introduce the concept of viable BBBEE and providing standards for that preferential procurement;

 

expanding the scope of the Codes of Good Practice, and the related transformation charters, on BBBEE matters that the Minister of Trade and Industry can issue under the BBBEE Act for specific sectors of the South African economy and making it compulsory for public authorities, governmental agencies and other public entities to apply such codes;

 

introducing into the BBBEE Act itself the definition of fronting BBBEE practices, which to date has been developed outside of the BBBEE Act and has now been expanded to capture the more sophisticated and unsuspecting fronting transactions, making fronting a criminal offense that is punishable with imprisonment and fines under certain circumstances, reasserting in the BBBEE Act the common law remedies for misrepresentation and more generally enhancing the enforcement mechanism against fronting;

 

establishing a BBBEE Commission responsible for overseeing, supervising and promoting compliance with the BBBEE Act, as well as receiving and investigating BBBEE-related complaints; and

 

providing that DTI may impose special requirements for specific industries.

 

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The Royalty Act

The Mineral and Petroleum Resources Royalty Act, 2008, or the Royalty Act, was promulgated on November 24, 2008 and came into operation on March 1, 2010. The Royalty Act imposes a royalty on refined and unrefined minerals payable to the state.

The royalty in respect of refined minerals (which include gold and platinum) is calculated by dividing earnings before interest and taxes, or EBIT, as calculated under IFRS, by the product of 12.5 times gross revenue calculated as a percentage, plus an additional 0.5 percent. EBIT refers to taxable mining income (with certain exceptions such as no deduction for interest payable and foreign exchange losses) before assessed losses but after capital expenditure. A maximum royalty of 5 percent of revenue has been introduced for refined minerals.

The royalty in respect of unrefined minerals (which include uranium) is calculated by dividing EBIT by the product of nine times gross revenue calculated as a percentage, plus an additional 0.5 percent. A maximum royalty of 7 percent of revenue was introduced for unrefined minerals. Where unrefined mineral resources (such as uranium) constitute less than 10 percent in value of the total composite mineral resources, the royalty rate in respect of refined mineral resources may be used for all gross sales and a separate calculation of EBIT for each class of mineral resources is not required. For AngloGold Ashanti, this means that currently the company will pay a royalty based on refined mineral resources (as the unrefined mineral resources (such as uranium) for AngloGold Ashanti for 2012 constituted less than 10 percent in value of the total composite mineral resources). The rate of royalty tax payable for 2012 was 1.3 percent of revenue of the company’s South African operations.

CONTINENTAL AFRICA

Democratic Republic of the Congo

The mining industry in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is regulated primarily by the Mining Code enacted in July 2002 and its ancillary Mining Regulations, promulgated in March 2003 (DRC Mining Code). The DRC Mining Code vests the Minister of Mines with the authority to grant, refuse, suspend and terminate mineral rights. Mineral rights may be granted in the form of exploration permits for an initial period of four years or in the form of mining permits which are granted for an initial period of 30 years. An exploration permit may, at any time before expiry, be transformed partially into a mining license or a small-scale mining permit. Mining permits are granted upon successful completion of exploration and satisfaction of certain requirements, including approval of an environmental impact study and an environmental management plan.

The holder of a mining permit is required to commence development and mine construction within three years of the award of such permit. Failure to do so may lead to forfeiture of the mining permit. A permit holder must comply with specific rules relating to, among others, protection of the environment, cultural heritage, health and safety, construction and infrastructure planning. Mining and exploration activities are required to be undertaken so as to affect as little as possible the interests of lawful occupants of land and surface rights holders, including their customary rights. The exercise of mineral rights by title holders which effectively deprives or interferes with the rights of occupants and surface rights holders, requires payment of fair compensation by the mineral title holder.

To protect and enforce rights acquired under an exploration or mining permit, the DRC Mining Code provides, depending on the nature of a dispute or threat, administrative, judicial and national or international arbitral recourses.

The DRC Mining Code sets out taxes, charges, royalties and other fees payable to the treasury by a mining title holder in respect of its activities. It also provides for a level of fiscal stability, in that existing tax, customs, exchange and benefits applicable to mining activities are guaranteed to remain unchanged for a period of 10 years in favor of a mining title holder in the event that amendments to the DRC Mining Code would result in less favorable payment obligations.

On January 1, 2012, a value added tax (VAT) replaced the previously applicable sales tax. The standard rate of VAT is 16 percent and is applicable to mining companies.

 

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On January 1, 2013, a withholding tax of 14 percent became effective. The tax is applicable to services fees payable to a non-resident service provider by a resident of the DRC.

On July 18, 2012 the Convention between the Government of the Republic of South Africa and the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income (Convention) came into effect, and is applicable to:

 

withholding taxes on amounts paid or credited on or after 1 January 2013; and

 

other income taxes, levied in respect of taxable periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013.

The Convention reduces the withholding tax on dividends paid by companies resident in the DRC to companies resident in South Africa from 20 percent to 5 percent and on interest paid by companies resident in the DRC to companies resident in South Africa from 20 percent to 10 percent. A South African company must own at least 25 percent of a relevant DRC entity’s outstanding shares in order to take advantage of the reduced rates.

In October 2012, the DRC Minister of Mines announced a proposed overhaul of the DRC Mining Code. An informal review process has commenced. The proposals seek to, among others, increase the government stake to 35 percent from the existing 5 percent, increase the royalty rates from 2.5 percent to 6 percent on some minerals, and introduce a windfall tax of 50 percent levy on certain “super profits”. No formal timeframe or process has been announced for this review.

AngloGold Ashanti holds the majority stake and is the operator of Ashanti Goldfields Kilo (86.22 percent), an exploration and mining joint venture with Société Minière de Kilo-Moto (SOKIMO) (13.78 percent), a state-owned gold company.

AngloGold Ashanti also holds a stake in the Kibali gold project located in northeastern DRC. The project is operated by Randgold Resources and is owned by Randgold Resources (45 percent), AngloGold Ashanti (45 percent) and SOKIMO (10 percent), which latter share represents the interest of the DRC government in the Kibali gold project.

Ghana

The Constitution of Ghana as well as the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) (GMM Act) provide that all minerals in Ghana in their natural state are the property of the State and title to them is vested in the President on behalf of and in trust for the people of Ghana, with rights of prospecting, recovery and associated land usage being granted under license or lease.

The grant of a mining lease by the Ghana Minister of Mines is normally subject to parliamentary ratification unless the mining lease falls into a class of transactions exempted by Parliament.

Control of mining companies

The Ghana Minister of Mines has the power to object to a person becoming or remaining a shareholder controller, a majority shareholder controller or an “indirect controller” of a company which has been granted a mining lease if the Minister believes the public interest would be prejudiced by the person concerned becoming or remaining such a controller.

Stability agreement

The GMM Act provides for stability agreements as a mechanism to ensure that the incentives and protection afforded by laws in force at the time of the stability agreement are guaranteed for a period of 15 years. A stability agreement is subject to ratification by Parliament.

Prior to the business combination between AngloGold and Ashanti in April 2004, AngloGold and the government of Ghana agreed on the terms of a stability agreement (the “Ghana Stability Agreement”) to govern certain aspects of the fiscal and regulatory framework under which AngloGold Ashanti would operate in Ghana following the implementation of the business combination. The Ghana Stability Agreement necessitated the amendment of the Obuasi mining lease which had been ratified by Parliament.

 

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Under the Ghana Stability Agreement, the government of Ghana agreed:

 

to extend the term of the mining lease relating to the Obuasi mine until 2054 on terms existing prior to the business combination;

 

to maintain, for a period of 15 years, the royalties payable by AngloGold Ashanti with respect to its mining operations in Ghana at a rate of 3 percent per annum of the total revenue from minerals obtained by AngloGold Ashanti from such mining operations;

 

to ensure the income tax rate would be 30 percent for a period of 15 years. The agreement was amended in December 2006 to make the tax rate equal to the prevailing corporate rate for listed companies; and

 

to permit AngloGold Ashanti and any or all of its subsidiaries in Ghana to retain up to 80 percent of export proceeds in foreign currencies offshore, or if such foreign currency is held in Ghana, to guarantee the availability of such foreign currency.

The Ghana Stability Agreement also stipulates that a sale of AngloGold Ashanti’s or any of its subsidiaries’ assets located in Ghana remains subject to the government’s approval. Furthermore, the government retains its special rights (Golden Share) under the provisions of the GMM Act pertaining to the control of a mining company, in respect of its assets and operations in Ghana.

The government of Ghana agreed that AngloGold Ashanti’s Ghanaian operations will not be adversely affected by any new enactments or orders, or by changes to the level of payments of any customs or other duties relating to mining operations, taxes, fees and other fiscal imports or laws relating to exchange control, transfer of capital and dividend remittance for a period of 15 years after the completion of the business combination.

The government of Ghana has constituted a review committee to review and renegotiate stability agreements with the mining companies. Within the committee’s powers of review are the redrafting of such stability agreements, the determination of whether stability agreements comply with the mining laws of Ghana and the Ghanaian legal regime for mining (fiscal requirements, foreign exchange regulations and the provisions of the tax laws), and the preparation of guidelines to govern the granting of stability agreements in the mining industry. We are currently participating in negotiations with the Ghanaian review committee.

In March 2012 the tax laws of Ghana were amended. Changes to the tax laws include:

 

An increase in the income tax rate applicable to mining businesses from 25 percent to 35 percent. AngloGold Ashanti is currently protected until 2019 from any increase of its income tax rate to greater than the rate provided for under the Ghana Stability Agreement.

 

Introduction of a new capital allowance regime for class 3 assets (which include mineral and petroleum exploration and production rights, buildings, structures and works of a permanent nature used in mineral and petroleum exploration and production and plant and machinery used in mining and petroleum operations) that provides for a 20 percent straight line rate for a period of five years. Pursuant to the Ghana Stability Agreement, this change will not affect AngloGold Ashanti until 2019.

 

Elimination of the 5 percent allowance on prior year additions. Prior to the 2012 amendment, the tax code granted an additional 5 percent of the value of assets acquired and qualified to be classified as class 3 assets for the purpose of granting capital allowances. Capital allowance is now 20 percent each year on the total value of the assets. Pursuant to the Ghana Stability Agreement, this change will not affect AngloGold Ashanti until 2019.

 

A ring fencing rule to prevent mining businesses from deducting or setting off costs from one mining area with another’s income. Pursuant to the Ghana Stability Agreement, this change will not affect AngloGold Ashanti until 2019.

While the Stability Agreement protects AngloGold Ashanti from any new enactments that would impose obligations upon AngloGold Ashanti or any of its Ghanaian subsidiaries, the Government of Ghana has constituted a team to renegotiate stability agreements with mining companies. A government committee has invited AngloGold Ashanti for discussions and requested certain information. The government may intend to review the Ghana Stability Agreement.

Retention of foreign earnings

AngloGold Ashanti’s operations in Ghana are permitted to retain 80 percent of their foreign exchange earnings in an offshore foreign exchange account. In addition, the company has permission from the Bank of Ghana to retain and use US dollars, outside of Ghana, required to meet payments to the company’s hedge counterparties which cannot be met from the cash resources of its treasury company.

 

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Localization policy

Mining companies must submit a detailed program for the recruitment and training of Ghanaians with a view to achieving “localization”, which is the replacement of expatriate personnel in a company’s Ghanaian operations by Ghanaian personnel. In addition, mining companies must give preference to Ghanaian products and personnel, to the maximum extent possible, consistent with safety, efficiency and economies. Recently passed Minerals and Mining (General) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2173) give further details on the localization policy.

Except as otherwise provided in a specific mining lease, all immovable assets of the holder of the mining lease vest in the State upon termination, as does all moveable property that is fully depreciated for tax purposes. Moveable property that is not fully depreciated is to be offered to the state at the depreciated cost. The holder must exercise his rights subject to such limitations relating to surface rights as the Minister of Mines may prescribe.

Mining properties

The company is required to pay ground rent to the government of Ghana and such other fees as are prescribed by legislation, including royalties on timber felled within the lease area.

Obuasi

The current mining lease for the Obuasi area was granted by the government of Ghana on March 5, 1994. It grants mining rights to land with an area of approximately 334 square kilometers in the Amansie East and Adansi West districts of the Ashanti region for a term of 30 years from the date of the agreement. In addition, a mining lease over an adjacent 140 square kilometers was also granted, resulting in the total area under the mining lease increasing to 474 square kilometers.

The Government of Ghana agreed to extend the term of the mining lease relating to the Obuasi mine until 2054. The mining lease was formally ratified by Parliament on October 23, 2008.

Iduapriem

Iduapriem has title to a 33 square kilometer mining lease granted on April 19, 1989 for a period of 30 years. In January 2009 Iduapriem obtained a new mining lease, the Ajopa Concession, for a period of 10 years. The concession covers an area of 48.34 square kilometers. In December 2011 the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources gave his consent for Teberebie’s title to a 25.83 square kilometer mining lease, granted in June 1992 for a period of 30 years, to be assigned to Iduapriem. While ownership of the lease has passed to Iduapriem, the registration of the transfer of the lease is still in process.

Guinea

In Guinea, all mineral substances are the property of the state. The right to undertake mining operations can only be acquired by virtue of one of the following mining titles: surveying permit, small-scale mining license, mining prospecting license, mining license or mining concession. The holders of mining titles are guaranteed the right to dispose freely of their assets, to organize their enterprises as they wish, to engage and discharge staff in accordance with the regulations in force, to freely move their staff and their products throughout Guinea and to dispose of their products in international markets.

The group’s Guinea subsidiary, Société AngloGold Ashanti de Guinée SA (SAG), has title to the Siguiri mining concession area which was granted on November 11, 1993 for a period of 25 years. The agreement provides for an eventual extension/renegotiation after 23 years for such periods as may be required to exhaust the economic Ore Reserve.

At Siguiri, the original area granted of 8,384 square kilometers was reduced to a concession area of four blocks totaling 1,495 square kilometers.

SAG has the exclusive right to explore and mine in the remaining Siguiri concession area for an additional 22-year period from November 11, 1996 under conditions detailed in a Convention de Base which predates the Guinea Mining Code (described below).

 

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Key elements of the Convention de Base are that:

 

The Republic of Guinea (Guinea) holds a 15 percent free-carried or non-contributory interest; is entitled to a royalty of 3 percent based on a spot gold price of less than $475 per ounce; and is owed 5 percent of the value of gold exported, based on a spot gold price above $475 per ounce, as fixed on the London Gold Bullion Market;

 

A local development tax of 0.4 percent is payable on gross sales revenue;

 

Salaries of expatriate employees are subject to a 10 percent income tax;

 

Mining goods imported into Guinea are exempt from all import taxes and duties for the first two years of commercial production; and

 

SAG is committed to adopting and progressively implementing a plan for the effective rehabilitation of the mining areas disturbed or affected by operations.

The Convention de Base is subject to early termination if both parties formally and expressly agree to it, if all project activities are voluntarily suspended for a continuous period of eight months or are permanently abandoned by SAG or if SAG goes into voluntary liquidation or is placed into liquidation by a court of competent jurisdiction.

Guinea Mining Code

The government enacted a mining code in September 2011 (Guinea Mining Code). However, the government suspended the application of the Guinea Mining Code pending the finalization of certain further amendments. In November 2012, a draft bill modifying certain provisions of the Guinea Mining Code was circulated for comment (Draft Bill). The revised Guinea Mining Code has not yet been finalized.

Pursuant to the Guinea Mining Code, existing mining titles in effect on the date on which the Guinea Mining Code comes into force remain valid for their duration and for the substances for which they have been issued.

The Guinea Mining Code provides for the establishment of a State mining company which will hold the interests that Guinea has in all the mining companies present in Guinea. The granting of a mining title by Guinea gives rise to a State shareholding of 15 percent in the mining company, which may not be diluted. This interest is acquired upon signing of the mining title and no financial contribution may be requested from Guinea in return. Guinea further reserves the right to acquire an additional share of 20 percent in cash in accordance with the terms established with each company concerned, which could bring the total shareholding of Guinea to 35 percent.

The provisions contained in the Guinea Mining Code concerning mining tax, customs duties, transparency, anti-corruption and labor (Mandatory Provisions) shall apply within 60 days following the effective date of the Guinea Mining Code to all mining companies having reached the exploitation phase. The Guinea Mining Code does not provide for transitional, stability or harmonization provisions concerning these Mandatory Provisions. To the extent that non-mandatory provisions of the Guinea Mining Code are inconsistent with the Convention de Base, the Government of Guinea and AGA are required to work together as soon as possible after the Guinea Mining Code comes into force to harmonize the Convention de Base with the Guinea Mining Code. The Mandatory Provisions may be applicable to AngloGold Ashanti as it is currently in exploitation phase.

The Guinea Mining Code also contains a formal commitment to the principles of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). The EITI sets a global standard for oil, gas and mining companies to publish what they pay and for governments to disclose what they receive. In addition to binding the government to EITI, the code requires all mining companies working in Guinea – even those from countries that have not committed to EITI – to respect the initiative’s principles and processes.

Currently, the government holds a stake of 15 percent in the Siguiri gold mine. Following the adoption of the Guinea Mining Code, the Guinean government also announced its intention to carry out a review of the mining conventions currently in force in Guinea (including the Convention de Base). According to the Guinean government’s description of the review, the review will focus, among other things, on the financial model of each mining convention, the discrepancies between the content of each existing convention and the new mining code, the legal status of each convention, and the specific challenges associated with the development of each project.

The Government has established a technical committee (the “Technical Committee”) tasked with negotiating amendments to mining conventions currently in place between the Government and the mining companies, to ensure the progressive implementation of the provisions of the Guinea Mining Code. The Draft Bill provides that the amendment agreements need to be finalized at the latest 24 months following the publication of the Guinea Mining Code. To date, SAG has not received any formal communication from the Government of Guinea relating to the renegotiation of its Convention de Base, but it expects that it may be invited by the Technical Committee to renegotiate its Convention de Base during the course of 2013 or 2014.

 

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Mali

Mineral rights in Mali are governed by Ordinance No. 99-32/P-RM of August 19, 1999 enacting the mining code, as amended by No. 013/2000/P-RM of February 10, 2000 and ratified by Law No. 00-011 of May 30, 2000 (the “Mali Mining Code”), and Decree No. 99-255/P-RM of September 15, 1999 implementing the Mali Mining Code.

Prospecting activities are carried out under prospecting authorizations (authorization de prospection). The authorizations give an individual or corporate entity the exclusive right to carry out prospecting activities over a given area for a period of three years renewable once for a period of 3 years without a reduction in the area covered by the authorization. Exploration activities may be carried out under exploration permits (permis de recherche). The latter are granted to corporate entities only by order of the Minister of Mines. Exploration permits are granted for a period of three years, renewable twice for additional three-year periods. Each renewal requires the permit holder to relinquish 50 percent of the area covered by such permit. The entity applying for such a permit must provide proof of technical and financial capabilities.

An exploitation permit (permis d’exploitation) is required to mine a deposit located within the area of a prospecting authorization or an exploration permit. The exploitation permit grants an exclusive right to prospect, explore and exploit the named substances for a maximum period of 30 years renewable three times for an additional 10 years. The exploitation permit is granted only to the holder of an exploration permit or of a prospecting authorization and covers only the area governed by the exploration permit or the prospecting authorization. An application must be submitted to the Minister of Mines and to the National Director of Mines.

As soon as the exploitation permit is granted, the permit holder must incorporate a company under the law of Mali. The permit holder will assign the permit for free to this company. Mali will have a 10 percent free carried interest in the company. This interest will be converted into priority shares and Mali’s participation will not be diluted in case of an increase in capital.

Applications for exploitation permits must contain various documents attesting to the financial and technical capacity of the applicant, a detailed environmental study in respect of the impact of the project on the environment, a feasibility study and a bank deposit. The permit is granted by decree of the Head of Government. Refusal to grant a permit may only be based on two grounds: insufficient evidence to support the exploitation of the deposit or the failure of the environmental study.

Applications for prospecting authorizations and exploration permits must contain various documents attesting to the financial and technical capacity of the applicant, a detailed works and costs program, a map defining the area which is being requested and providing geographical coordinates, the exact details relating to the identity of the applicant and evidence of the authority of the signatory of the application. Such titles are granted by ministerial order. Any refusal to grant such titles shall be notified by letter from the Minister of Mines to the applicant.

All mining titles mentioned above require an establishment convention (convention d’etablissement) to be signed by Mali and the titleholder defining their rights and obligations. A standard form of such establishment convention has been approved by decree of the Head of Government.

AngloGold Ashanti has interests in Morila, Sadiola and Yatela, all of which are governed by establishment conventions covering exploration, mining, treatment and marketing in a comprehensive document. These documents include general provisions regarding exploration (work program, fiscal and customs framework) and exploitation (formation of a local limited liability mining company, State interest, fiscal and customs framework governing construction and exploitation phases, exchange controls, marketing of the product, accounting regime, training programs for local labor, protection of the environment, reclamation, safety, hygiene and dispute settlement).

As the establishment conventions contain stabilization clauses, the mining operations carried out by the AngloGold Ashanti entities in Mali are subject to the provisions of the previous mining codes of 1970 and 1991 but also, for residual matters, to the provisions of the Mining Code of 1999.

AngloGold Ashanti has complied with all applicable requirements and the relevant permits have been issued. Morila, Sadiola and Yatela have 30-year permits which expire in 2024, 2020 and 2024, respectively.

 

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Namibia

The Minerals (Prospecting and Mining) Act 33 of 1992 (MPM Act) provides that all rights to minerals in the Republic of Namibia vest in the state. The Mining Rights and Mineral Resources division of the Directorate of Mining handles all applications for and allocation of rights in relation to minerals in the Republic of Namibia.

Prospecting and mining activities are regulated by the MPM Act which, among others, provides for the granting, refusal, suspension and termination of rights in relation to minerals. The right to undertake prospecting and mining operations can only be acquired by virtue of one of the following mining titles:

 

Non-exclusive Prospecting Licenses;

 

Reconnaissance Licenses;

 

Mining Claims;

 

Exclusive Prospecting Licenses;

 

Mineral Deposit Retention Licenses; and

 

Mining Licenses.

To enable a company to prospect for minerals, the Ministry of Mines and Energy may grant an Exclusive Prospecting License or a Non-exclusive Prospecting License. Upon application and presentation of a feasibility study, the Ministry then grants a Mining License. Alternatively, the holder of a Non-Exclusive Prospecting License may peg and register a Mining Claim. Licensing decisions take into account the abilities of the company (including its mining, financial and technical capabilities), projected rehabilitation programs and the payment of royalties. Mining Licenses are only awarded to Namibian citizens and companies registered in Namibia, which includes foreign companies registered with the Namibian registrar of companies. A Mining Claim, on the other hand, may only be pegged by Namibian citizens or companies whose articles of association limits shareholding in those companies to Namibian citizens.

In 2011, the government adopted the New Equitable Economic Empowerment Framework (NEEEF). The objectives of the NEEEF are aimed at redressing past inequalities and providing measures for empowerment. No legislation implementing the NEEEF has to date been enacted. In addition, the Chamber of Mines is in the process of negotiating its own charter with the government.

AngloGold Namibia (Pty) Ltd was granted the necessary licenses in respect of its mining and prospecting activities in Namibia. Its current 15-year Mining License expires in October 2018. An application has been presented to the Ministry of Mines and Energy for the extension of the aforementioned Mining License to 2030. This application includes the mining area known as the Anomaly 16.

Taxes

The Namibian Government appears to have withdrawn or deferred the mining tax proposals that it made in 2011. These proposals included, among others, a requirement for mines to pay a value added tax of 15 percent on the export value of unprocessed minerals, a 5 percent export duty and an increased corporate tax rate of 44 percent, up from 37.5 percent. The minimum historic corporate tax rate on mining companies is 25 percent. Most mining companies currently pay between 25 and 40 percent, with diamond mines taxed at 55 percent. A corporate tax of 40 percent applies to profits from non-mining activities. There is a 10 percent withholding tax on interest earned by foreigners on their deposits held with Namibian banks or unit trust schemes. There is also a 25 percent withholding tax on certain services, management and consultancy fees rendered by foreigners.

An amount received from the sale or other disposal of a mineral license or the shares in a company holding a mineral license is deemed to be an income source in Namibia for purposes of calculating income tax, regardless of where the

transaction takes place.

Royalties

In 2008, the Government confirmed a royalty schedule that originally had been introduced in 2004. Since then all mining companies, at the discretion of the Minister of Mines and Energy, pay a royalty of between 3 percent and 10 percent on the market value of base, precious, and rare metals and non-nuclear mineral fuels. AngloGold Namibia (Pty) Ltd currently pays a royalty of 3 percent. The government also introduced a windfall royalty, (now in effect), which is payable at the discretion of the Minister, and a new type of royalty in respect of all minerals other than precious stones and dimension stones, which might function as a penalty royalty. For example, this penalty may be imposed on minerals that are not in their most refined state that have been or are about to be exported and are of such a nature that their value can be increased by way of a practical and economical refining process that is available in Namibia.

 

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Tanzania

Mineral rights in the United Republic of Tanzania are principally governed by the Mining Act of 2010 (Tanzania Mining Act), and the Mining Regulations, 2010 (Tanzania Mining Regulations), which include: Mining (Mineral Rights) Regulations 2010; Mining (Environmental Protection For Small Scale Mining) Regulations 2010; Mining (Mineral Beneficiation) Regulations 2010; Mining (Mineral Trading) Regulations 2010; Mining (Safety, Occupational Health and Environmental Protection) Regulations 2010; and the Mining (Radioactive Mineral) Regulations 2010.

The Tanzania Mining Act and the Tanzania Mining Regulations came into force in November 2010. Ownership of and control over minerals on, in or under the land vest in the President of the United Republic of Tanzania. No person is allowed to prospect for minerals or carry on mining operations except pursuant to the authority of a mineral right license granted, or deemed to have been granted, under the Tanzania Mining Act or its predecessor acts.

To enable a company to prospect or mine, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals (MEM) initially grants an exclusive prospecting license. Upon presentation of a feasibility study, together with certain other environmental, social and financial assurances, the MEM may then grant a form of license for mining. Licensing decisions take into account the abilities of the company (including its mining, financial and technical capabilities), projected rehabilitation programs, environmental compliance and the payment of royalties.

The following licenses can be applied for under the Tanzania Mining Act:

Licenses for Exploration:

 

prospecting license;

 

gemstone prospecting license; and

 

retention license.

Licenses for Mining:

 

special mining license (if the proposed capital investment is equal to at least US$100 million);

 

mining license (if the proposed capital investment is equal to between US$100,000 and US$100 million); and

 

primary mining license (reserved for Tanzanian citizens).

Licenses for Ancillary Activities:

 

processing license;

 

smelting license; and

 

refining license.

For purpose of AngloGold Ashanti’s Geita Gold Mine, only prospecting, retention and special mining licenses are relevant.

A prospecting license grants the holder the exclusive right to prospect in the area covered by the license for all minerals within the class of minerals applied for. The classes that can be applied for include (amongst others):

 

metallic minerals;

 

energy minerals;

 

gemstones other than kimberlitic diamonds; and

 

kimberlitic diamonds.

An application for a prospecting license is made to the Commissioner for Minerals and the license is valid for a period of four years. Thereafter, the license is renewable for three further periods – the first period being for three years and the second and third periods being for two years each. Upon each renewal, 50 percent of the area covered by the license must be relinquished. A company applying for a prospecting license must, among other things, state the financial and technical resources available to it.

If the holder of a prospecting license has identified a mineral deposit within the prospecting area that is potentially of commercial significance but that cannot be developed immediately because of technical constraints, adverse market conditions or other economic factors of a temporary character, it can apply for a retention license. A retention license can also be requested from the Minister after the expiry of a prospecting license period, for reasons ranging from financial to technical considerations. A retention license is valid for a period not exceeding five years and is thereafter renewable for a single period of five years. The advantage of converting a prospecting license into a retention license is that the MEM may not revoke a retention license if the license holder fails to meet its obligations within the time frame agreed on application for the license (as would be the case with a prospecting license).

 

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Holders of prospecting or retention licenses over a tenement will not automatically have first right to any mining license granted over that tenement. However, in practice, they will be best positioned to meet the requirements to be granted a form of license for mining.

Mining is mainly carried out through either a mining license or a special mining license, both of which confer on their holder the exclusive right to conduct mining operations in or on the area covered by the license. A special mining license is granted for the shorter of either the estimated life of the ore body indicated in the feasibility study report or such period as the applicant may request. It is renewable for a further period not exceeding the estimated life of the remaining ore body.

Except in the case of a special mining license, a mineral right may be freely transferred by its holder (in whole or in part) to another person or entity without requiring consent from the MEM. However, the Commissioner for Minerals must be notified of any transfer of a prospecting or retention license and will refuse to register the transfer unless the transferee proves that it meets the financial and technical capability criteria required to apply for such licenses. The assignment of a special mining license generally requires the prior consent of the MEM, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed. There are limited exceptions to the requirement for the Minister’s consent (such as transfers to an affiliate company of the license holder or to a financial institution or bank as security for any loan or guarantee in respect of mining operations).

Special mining licenses have certain fiscal and other advantages over mining licenses, as the holder of a special mining license may enter into a mining development agreement with the government of Tanzania to guarantee the fiscal stability of a long-term mining project and make special provision for the payment of royalties, taxes, fees and other fiscal imposts and a special mining license holder may, in certain circumstances, unilaterally amend the program of the mining operations agreed with the MEM.

AngloGold Ashanti has concluded a development agreement with the Ministry and was issued a mining license for a period of 25 years, which expires in 2023.

The Finance Act 2012 which was passed on October 11, 2012 introduced some important changes to the fiscal regime with effect from July 1, 2012 that impact upon AngloGold Ashanti, in particular:

 

Introduction of a 30 percent capital gains tax on the sale of shares by an off-shore parent company. Changes were also made to the procedure for payment of capital gains tax by the seller of shares. Tax at the rate of 30 percent is payable by way of an initial installment of 20 percent on the transfer, based on the notional gain that the seller would make where after a further installment of the remaining 10 percent is due.

 

Prior to 2012 budgetary changes under the VAT Act 1997, mining companies were entitled to 100 percent VAT relief. This implied that no VAT was applicable on purchases made by mining companies. Following amendments to the VAT Act through the Finance Act 2012, the provision providing VAT relief to mining companies was repealed. As a result mining companies are no longer eligible for VAT relief.

AUSTRALASIA

Australia

In Australia, with a few exceptions, all onshore minerals are owned by the Crown. The respective Minister for each state and territory is responsible for administering the relevant mining legislation enacted by the states and territories.

Native Title legislation applies to certain mining tenures within Australia. Australia recognizes and protects a form of Native Title that reflects the entitlement of Aboriginal people to their traditional lands in accordance with their traditional custom and laws. Should Native Title claims or determinations exist, certain Native Title processes and procedures will apply under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) before the tenure is granted. Tenure may be granted subject to conditions relating to Native Title rights. In the mining context, Native Title matters are managed as part of the tenement grant process. If disputes arise in relation to the grant of a particular tenement, they can be referred to the National Native Title Tribunal, established under the Native Title Act, for resolution.

Other federal and state Aboriginal heritage laws operate in parallel to the Native Title legislation. They exist predominantly for the purposes of protecting Aboriginal sites and areas of significance from disturbance. To date, there has not been any significant impact on any of AngloGold Ashanti’s tenure due to Native Title or Aboriginal Heritage legislation.

 

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AngloGold Ashanti’s operating properties are located in the state of Western Australia where tenure is issued under, and mining operations are governed by, the Mining Act 1978 (WA). The most common forms of tenure are exploration and prospecting licenses, mining leases, miscellaneous licenses and general purpose leases. In most Australian states, if the holder of an exploration license establishes indications of an economic mineral deposit in the area covered by the exploration license and complies with the conditions of the grant, the holder of the exploration license has a priority right against all others to be granted a mining lease which gives the holder exclusive mining rights with respect to minerals on the property. A general purpose lease may also be granted for one or more of a number of permitted purposes. These purposes include erecting, placing and operating machinery and plants in connection with mining operations, depositing or treating minerals or tailings and using the land for any other specified purpose directly connected with mining operations.

Mining tenures will be granted with conditions relating to protection of the environment. Exploration and mining operations may also require separate approval from the state, territory or federal environment minister, which may require completion of an environmental impact assessment pursuant to applicable protection legislation prior to commencement. Further, an operating license under the relevant environmental protection legislation in the state or territory may also be required for certain mine processing or mining-related operations.

It is possible for an individual or entity to own an area of land and for another individual or entity to be granted the right to explore for or mine any minerals located on or under the surface of the same area. Typically, the maximum initial term of a mining lease is 21 years and the holder has the right to renew the lease for an additional 21 years. Subsequent renewals are granted at the discretion of the respective state or territory’s minister responsible for mining rights. In Western Australia, mining leases can only be assigned with the prior written consent of the minister.

Government royalties are payable by the holder of mining tenure in respect of minerals obtained from the relevant area of land, at the rates specified in the relevant legislation in each state or territory. The royalty on gold production in Western Australia is payable quarterly at a fixed rate of 2.5 percent of the royalty value of gold metal produced and sold. The royalty value is calculated by multiplying the amount of gold produced during a given month by the average gold spot price for that month. In addition, the holder of mining tenure may be required to pay annual rent in respect of the tenure. In Western Australia there is a minimum annual expenditure requirement for prospecting and exploration licenses and mining leases. Exemptions from the expenditure requirement can be obtained if certain conditions are satisfied.

AngloGold Ashanti has been granted 21-year term mining leases with rights of renewal to all of its mining areas in Australia, including its proportionate share of joint venture operations and accordingly it has, together with its joint venture partners where applicable, the exclusive right to mine in those areas. Both the group and its joint venture partners are fully authorized to conduct operations in accordance with relevant laws and regulations. The mining leases and rights of renewal cover the current life-of-mine at AngloGold Ashanti’s operations in Australia.

AMERICAS

Argentina

Land ownership & mining rights

The Argentinean Mining Code governs mining activity in the country. Special regimes exist for hydrocarbons and nuclear minerals. In the case of most minerals, the Argentinean Mining Code establishes that the owner of the land is not the owner of the mineral rights; these are held by the national or provincial governments (depending on the location of the minerals). The national or provincial government, as applicable, is required by the Argentinean Mining Code to grant whomever discovers a new mine title to the mining concession.

The Argentinean Mining Code regulates exploration permits and mining concessions. Exploration permits grant their holders exclusivity rights to any mineral discoveries, including those made by a third party within the exploration area covered by the permit. Exploration permits are limited in time and as to the extent of the exploration area, are subject to the payment of a single-time fee, and also require a minimum exploration work program and schedule to keep the permit in force.

The Argentinean Mining Code also regulates mining concessions, or exploitation rights. Priority for receiving a mining concession is given to the registered discoverer of the mine, which holds the exploration permit. Once the application for a mine has been submitted, the applicant may commence works and must submit a legal survey of the units

 

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requested for the new mine. The application and the legal survey may be opposed by third parties following specific proceedings set forth in the Argentinean Mining Code. Approval and registration of the legal survey by the Provincial mining authority constitutes formal title to the mining concession.

Any mining company wishing to commence or modify any mining-related activity, as defined by the Argentinean Mining Code, including prospecting, exploration, exploitation, development, preparation, extraction, and storage of mineral substances, as well as property abandonment or mine closure activity, is required to prepare and submit to the competent Provincial environmental authority an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) prior to commencing the work. Each EIA is required to describe the nature of the proposed work, its potential risk to the environment, and the measures that will be taken to mitigate that risk. If accepted by the competent authority, the EIA is used as the basis to create a Declaration of Environmental Impact (DEI) to which the mining company is required to adhere during the mining-related activity at issue. The DEI is required to be updated at least on a biannual basis. Sanctions and penalties for non-compliance with the DEI are outlined in the Environmental Protection section of the Argentinean Mining Code, and may include warnings, fines, suspension of quality certifications, restoration of the environment, temporary or permanent closure of activities, and withdrawal of authorization to conduct mining-related activities.

Holders of mining concessions must comply with three main conditions: payment of an annual fee, investment of a minimum amount of capital, and the carrying out of a reasonable level of exploitation. Failure to do so could lead to forfeiture of the mining concession, which would then revert back to the Province.

In the case of Cerro Vanguardia, AngloGold Ashanti’s operation in Argentina, the mining concession holder is AngloGold Ashanti’s partner, Fomento Minero de Santa Cruz S.A. (Fomicruz). On December 27, 1996, Fomicruz entered into a usufruct agreement whereby Cerro Vanguardia S.A. was granted an irrevocable right to exploit the Cerro Vanguardia deposit for a 40-year period, which expires on December 27, 2036. Cerro Vanguardia S.A. is an Argentinean company controlled by AngloGold Ashanti, with Fomicruz as minority shareholder.

In addition to the Argentinean Mining Code, between 1993 and 1995, Argentina implemented several federal laws to offer foreign companies attractive incentives for exploration and mining in Argentina, the Mining Investment Law (Law No. 24, 196, as amended, and related legal provisions) being the most important one. Such incentives include, among others, import duty exemptions, accelerated depreciation of fixed assets, a 3 percent cap on Provincial royalties, value added tax refunds for exploration-related expenses incurred by companies registered under the Mining Investment Law, and, subject to the filing of a feasibility study for the relevant mining project, a 30-year stability as to tax, customs and foreign exchange duties. Cerro Vanguardia S.A. obtained its tax, customs and foreign exchange stability certificate in 1996.

Recent and potential regulatory changes

On September 30, 2010, the National Law on Minimum Requirements for the Protection of Glaciers was enacted in Argentina, banning new mining exploration and exploitation activities on glaciers and “peri-glacial” areas. The law also subjects the ongoing mining activities to an environmental audit. If such audit results in material impacts on glaciers and “peri-glacial” areas, the relevant authority is empowered to take action, including suspension or relocation of the activity. The law establishes a broad definition of “peri-glacial” areas that, together with glacial areas, must yet be surveyed by an existing national Government Agency specifically appointed to this end. The constitutionality of the law has been challenged by the Province of San Juan (which hosts large mining projects), resulting in the granting of injunctions that have suspended the application of the law in that Province. The National Supreme Court of Justice of Argentina presides over the case, which is in its early stages.

On October 26, 2011, Decree 1722/2011 (Repatriation Decree) was issued, which imposes on oil, gas and mining companies operating in Argentina the obligation to repatriate all the proceeds of their exports from Argentina and to exchange such proceeds for Argentinean legal currency in the domestic banking system. All exporters, other than oil, gas and mining companies, have been operating under such regime since late 2001. Mining companies, on the other hand, were entitled to two exceptions: (i) a decree of 2003 applicable to mining companies with tax, customs and foreign exchange stability certificates obtained prior to the date on which such a decree was enacted (which is the case of Cerro Vanguardia S.A.); and (ii) a decree of 2004 applicable to mining companies with tax, customs and foreign exchange stability certificates obtained after the date on which such decree was enacted. Both exceptions have not been formally superseded by the Repatriation Decree, but appear to conflict with it, and such conflict may result, in some cases, in a violation of mining companies’ rights under the Mining Investment Law.

 

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On December 27, 2011, the Argentinean National Congress passed Law 26,737 which implemented a set of rules restricting the ownership of rural land by foreigners (including foreign individuals or any kind of legal entity controlled by foreign individuals or legal entities). The main restrictions are as follows: (i) foreigners cannot own in the aggregate more than 15 percent of the entire rural land of Argentina, the same cap being applicable to each province and municipality; (ii) foreigners will not be allowed to purchase more than 1,000 hectares in the so-called “zona nùcleo”, which comprises the main agricultural areas of central Argentina or an “equivalent” surface depending on the location of the land and its productive potential; and (iii) foreigners will not be allowed to buy land that contains, or is adjacent to, relevant and permanent water bodies (such as rivers and lakes). Although exploration permits and mining concessions are not the subject matter of the restrictions placed by this law, certain rights granted to foreign mining companies under the Argentinean Mining Code may be restricted by this new law. For example, the right that holders of mining concessions currently have to force the surface owner to sell the land to the holder of the mining concession might be restricted if the concession holder is a foreign individual or a legal entity controlled by foreigners.

Ten provinces in whose territories the main mining projects of Argentina are located, signed a document with the Federal Government entitled Federal Mining Agreement, (FMA). The purpose of the FMA is, among other things, to increase provincial revenues from the mining industry by creating legal entities owned by provincial governments that would work in association with private mining companies. This scheme is not new in Argentina and it has been used by some provincial governments, among them Santa Cruz Province (through Fomicruz), in the Cerro Vanguardia project. The FMA also contemplates other forms of revenues such as the formation of special trusts to be funded by mining companies in order to finance education, health and other programs. Increase in royalty rates is not specifically contemplated in the FMA. The Provinces that signed the FMA had previously formed a special association of provinces, supported by the National Government.

In Argentina, the current regulatory regime of royalty payments is expected to change and several different options and payment thresholds have been discussed. The Santa Cruz Province has changed the mining royalty from 1 percent to 3 percent.

Brazil

Land ownership and mining rights

General legal aspects

The Brazilian Constitution of 1934 states that, for purposes of exploration and exploitation, deposits and other mineral resources constitute property separate from the soil and belong to the Federal Union. Exploration and exploitation of such mineral resources may take place only with the Federal Union’s concession and in such a way as to protect the national interest. Federal law sets out penal and administrative sanctions for conduct and activities deemed harmful to the environment.

In Brazil, the National Department of Mineral Production (DNPM) is the state body within the Mines and Energy Ministry (the “MME”) that is responsible for: (i) the registration of mining titles, (ii) the grant of authorizations and concessions, (iii) the supervision of mining activities and mining titleholders, and (iv) the issuance of supplementary rules in relation to mining activity.

Under the current Mining Code, there are two kinds of mines: (i) claimstake mines (“Minas Manifestadas”), for which rights were acquired before 1934 and exist independently of any mining license or authorization from the Federal Government and for which the mineral resources constitute property of the landowner and (ii) granted mines, which are those that rely on grants from the Federal Government for mineral exploration or exploitation (pursuant to the Constitution). AngloGold Ashanti’s operations in Brazil consist of both claimstake mines and granted mines.

Mining activities in granted mines must be performed in two defined stages: (i) exploration, which entails defining and evaluating the deposit and determining the feasibility of exploitation, and (ii) exploitation, which involves coordinating operations aimed at the industrial exploitation of the mineral deposit, from the extraction of useful minerals to their processing. Exploration authorizations issued by DNPM are valid for one to three years. Extensions can be obtained if necessary. In contrast, exploitation rights, once granted, are valid for the lifetime of the deposit, provided the mining titleholder complies with all legal requirements. Pursuant to these requirements, for example, titleholders must (i) start work on mineral exploitation within six (6) months from the date of publication of the Exploitation Concession, (ii) continue their mining activities until the mineral deposit has been exhausted, in accordance with the Economic Exploitation Plan (Plano de Aproveitamento Econômico) approved by DNPM and (iii) refrain from suspending mining activities without prior notice to DNPM.

 

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During the exploration period, the mining titleholder has to pay an Annual Rate per Hectare (“TAH” – Taxa Anual por Hectare), subject to a maximum value set by law. In the exploitation period, regardless of the legal regime governing the project (whether claimstake or granted mines), the mining titleholder has to pay the Financial Compensation for Exploiting Mineral Resources (“CFEM” – Compensação Financeira pela Exploração Mineral). The CFEM is currently calculated based on revenues, minus some deductions authorized by mining law.

At the end of 2011 and the beginning of 2012 the states of Minas Gerais, Pará, Amapá and Mato Grosso do Sul each created a new tax (duty) on research, extraction and exploration activities as well as on the use of mineral resources carried out in those states. This tax could range from BRL3.00 to BRL6.50 per ton. In the state of Minas Gerais, however, gold ore was exempted from the collection of this new duty.

Potential regulatory changes

The Federal Government is contemplating changes to the mining legislation. Its goals would be to (i) strengthen the role of the Federal Government in regulating the mining industry, (ii) attract more and better investments to the mineral sector, (iii) encourage maximal use of mineral reserves and (iv) encourage members of the industry to add value to mineral products.

The government’s proposals have institutional, legal and financial facets. Institutionally, the proposals would create a National Council of Mineral Policy to advise the Presidency of Brazil and the MME on, and develop guidelines and directives for, the mining sector. They would also transform the DNPM into a regulatory agency with negotiation and inspection powers.

Legally, the proposals would change the rules governing access to mining titles. While exploration authorizations would be effective for a longer period of five (5) years, they would be renewable for only one extra year, at the discretion of authorities.

Companies would also have to demonstrate that they are investing in exploration activities on a yearly basis. Exploitation rights would be limited to 35- or 40-year grants renewable at the discretion of authorities. The granting of rights would become a more discretionary process and would result in a Formal Adhesion Contract for Exploitation rather than in an open-ended concession.

The proposals would raise CFEM rates for trade in gold ore from 1 percent on net invoicing to 2 percent on gross invoicing. They would also create new calculation methods and incidence hypotheses, notably with regard to transactions between related parties.

The MME has suspended the granting of new mining concessions until it promulgates changes to the mining legislation.

Colombia

Land ownership and mining rights

In Colombia, all mineral substances are the property of the state of Colombia. The underlying principle of Colombian mining legislation is first-in-time, first-in-right.

Mining activities are regulated by the Mining Code, Act 685, 2001. Amendments to the Mining Code enacted in 2010 pursuant to Act 1382 were found unconstitutional. The Constitutional Court stayed its ruling for two years to give the government the opportunity to present a new law. The government was expected to make new changes to the Mining Code public in the second half of 2012, but has not yet presented any project of law yet to Congress.

The filing of an exploration and exploitation proposal triggers a right of preference to obtain rights over the targeted area, provided it is available. Such area cannot exceed 10,000 hectares. Upon receipt of a proposal, the relevant government agency determines whether another proposal or contract already governs the area. If there are no pre-existing claims, the government agency grants the applicant a “free zone”.

 

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The concession contract

The government agency grants exclusive concession contracts for exploration and exploitation. Such concessions allow concessionaires to conduct the studies, works and installations necessary to establish the existence of minerals and to organize their exploitation. Upon being awarded a mining concession, a company must take out an insurance policy to cover any possible environmental damage as well as breaches of its mining obligations. It may then proceed with exploration activities. Once the exploration phase is complete, the concessionaire files a new plan regarding works and installations. An environmental impact study must also be filed and approved in order for the concessionaire to receive an environmental license prior to beginning construction and development.

The initial term of concessions is 30 years. To receive an extension, a concessionaire must file a request two years before the termination of the initial term, and must substantiate the application with economic, environmental and technical information. Because the extension is not automatic, the concessionaire must renegotiate the conditions of the grant. The term of a concession and all the contractual obligations that arise from it are deemed to take effect as of the date of registration of the contract at the National Mining Register.

AngloGold Ashanti’s core mining concession contracts at the La Colosa project provide that Agencia Nacional Minera (ANM), the new Colombian regulatory agency for mining activities, has the discretion to declare the underlying concession void if AngloGold Ashanti Colombia S.A. (AGAC) breaches applicable environmental laws or regulations. If ANM were to exercise such discretion against AGAC, AGAC would be required to abandon the La Colosa project and all of its other existing mining concession contracts. Pending proposals for new mining concession contracts would also be cancelled and AGAC would be banned from doing business with the Colombian government for a period of five years. As a result, AGAC would be unable to conduct any mining exploration or development activities during such period. However, this would not affect other AngloGold Ashanti subsidiaries operating in Colombia, which hold singularly or in concert with joint venture partners the majority of the company’s concession contracts in Colombia.

There are some areas where mining activity is prohibited. These areas are:

 

National parks;

 

Regional parks;

 

Protected forest reserves;

 

Paramus (included in Act 1382, introduced in 2010); and

 

Wetlands, pursuant to the Ramsar Convention.

Some forest reserves are not “protected”, but are set aside for active forestry purposes. Such forest reserves must be “extracted” after initial prospection, meaning that the concessionaire must obtain a specific permit to partially and temporarily change the use of the soil before pursuing exploration activities.

Cannon fees and royalties

Cannon fees are due from the moment the area is declared available for the company (rather than from the time the concession contract is signed). Such fees change based on the number of years that the company has been a concessionaire, as follows:

 

 

From 1 to 5 years: approximately $9.00 per hectare per year.

 

For years 6 and after, approximately $11.00 per hectare per year.

Once exploration is complete and the mining infrastructure is in place, the concessionaire must begin paying royalties. Royalties paid to the Colombian government consist of a percentage of the primary product and sub-products being exploited. For gold, the percentage to be paid is 4 percent.

Potential regulatory changes

In 2013, the government is expected to modify the process for obtaining a mining concession. Instead of using a first-in-time, first-in-right approach in all cases, the government plans on subjecting some areas to a bidding process open to any qualified entity.

 

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United States of America

Land ownership & mining rights

Mineral and surface rights in the United States are owned by private parties, state governments or the federal government. Although not the case at Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Company’s (CC&V) Cresson Project, the majority of land utilized for precious metals exploration, development and mining in the western United States is owned by the federal government. The right to mine on such land is governed by the General Mining Law of 1872, as amended (General Mining Law). The General Mining Law allows mining claims on certain federal lands upon the discovery of a valuable mineral deposit and proper compliance with claim location and maintenance requirements. Until 1993, unpatented mining claim holders could apply for patents to their claims from the federal government, and, if granted, those patented mining claims became private lands owned by the mining claimant, limited only by reservations and restrictions contained in the patent from the federal government, and subject to the same permitting, environmental and reclamation laws and regulations as other private lands.

Individual states, including Colorado, typically follow a leasing system for state-owned minerals. Private parties have the right to sell, lease or enter into other agreements, such as joint ventures, with respect to minerals that they own or control. CC&V’s Cresson Project covers approximately 7,100 acres, the vast majority of which consists of owned, patented mining claims from former public lands, with a small percentage of private and state lands, some of which are critical to the Cresson Project, being leased. All of the Cresson Project’s current reserves are within the patented claims.

Permitting and reclamation

CC&V’s Cresson Project is subject to a number of state and local permitting requirements, including permitting requirements imposed by the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Act (MLRA) and Teller County. Under the MLRA, the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board (MLRB) issues and enforces mining and reclamation permits for all non-coal mines in Colorado on state, federal or private lands. In carrying out the statutory requirements of the MLRA, the MLRB (i) reviews mine permit applications and amendments and related matters, (ii) inspects active mine sites and prospecting sites and (iii) ensures financial warranties are posted for the actual cost of reclamation.

CC&V’s Cresson Project is currently operating under a permit generally referred to as mine life extension one (MLE1) issued by the MLRB and Teller County. Among other things, MLE1 permits CC&V to continue active mining at the Cresson Project through 2016 and imposes reclamation and other requirements on CC&V, including requiring (i) the stabilization and re-vegetation of disturbed lands, (ii) the control of storm water and drainage from overburden storage areas, (iii) the removal of roads and structures, (iv) the treatment and the elimination of process solutions, (v) the treatment of mine water prior to discharge into the environment and (vi) visual mitigation. In September 2012, CC&V’s permit application for mine life extension two (MLE2) was approved by both the MRLB and Teller County.

Potential regulatory changes

Over the years, the U.S. Congress has considered a number of proposed amendments to the General Mining Law. Among the significant features contained in previously proposed legislation were a production royalty obligation, new and more stringent environmental standards and conditions, additional reclamation requirements, extensive new procedural steps which would likely result in delays in permitting, and granting counties the ability to petition the Secretary of the Interior to make certain areas unavailable for the location of unpatented mining claims. The ultimate content of future proposed legislation, if enacted, is uncertain. If any of the above-referenced provisions were imposed, CC&V’s operations could be adversely affected. Although no such legislation has been adopted to date, there can be no assurance that such legislation will not be adopted in the future.

MINE SITE REHABILITATION AND CLOSURE

Closure, an integral part of operations

All mining operations eventually cease. An integral aspect of operating our mines is on-going planning for closure, together with an estimate of associated liability costs and the placement of adequate financial provisions and assurances to cover these costs.

AngloGold Ashanti completed a group closure and rehabilitation management standard in 2009 and all of our operations were required to comply with the standard by December 2011. The Continental Africa operations were granted an extension to December 2012.

 

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Closure planning is an activity that starts at the exploration and mine design stage and continues throughout the life of mine:

 

 

The evaluation of new projects includes a conceptual closure plan, which takes into account future closure and associated costs.

 

Our standard requires that an interim closure plan be prepared within three years of commissioning an operation, or earlier if required by legislation.

 

This plan is reviewed and updated every three years (annually in the final three years of a mine’s life) or whenever significant changes are made, and takes into account operational conditions, planning and legislative requirements, international protocols, technological developments and advances in practice.

For many of the older mines, closure planning and the evaluation of environmental liabilities is a complex process. This is particularly so in Brazil, Ghana and South Africa, where many of the long-life operations present environmental legacies that may have developed over a century or more.

A particular challenge is concurrent rehabilitation, which is carried out while a mine is still operational. This practice serves to decrease the current liability and reduces the final rehabilitation and closure work that must be undertaken, but has the potential to sterilize mineral reserves, which the company might wish to exploit should conditions, such as the gold price, change.

Our closure standard stipulates that closure planning must be undertaken in consultation with the community. In the course of these consultations, different issues are raised which require site-specific solutions. Livelihood preservation and infrastructure are often key requirements. Local people, who were previously employed at the mine, may receive education and training so as to seek viable employment alternatives. Communities also require information on the Company’s rehabilitation of the landscape and on any lasting environmental impacts.

In addition, long-term remediation obligations including decommissioning and restoration liabilities relating to past operations are based on our environmental management plans and comply with current environmental and regulatory requirements.

Provisions for remediation costs are made when there is a present obligation, it is probable that expenditure on remediation work will be required and the cost can be estimated within a reasonable range of possible outcomes. These costs are based on currently available facts, technology expected to be available at the time of the clean-up, laws and regulations presently or virtually certain to be enacted, and previous experience in the remediation of contaminated sites.

Decommissioning costs and restoration costs are provided at the present value of the expenditures expected to settle the obligation, using estimated cash flows based on current prices. Estimates are discounted at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money.

Discounted closure liabilities (excluding joint ventures) increased from $653 million in 2011 to $758 million in 2012. This change is largely attributable to a change in mine plans resulting in accelerated cash flows, change in economic assumptions and discount rates.

ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY MATTERS

In addition to post-mining land reclamation and closure requirements, AngloGold Ashanti is subject to extensive environmental, health and safety (EHS) laws and regulations in the various jurisdictions in which the company operates. These requirements govern, among other things, extraction, use, conservation and discharge of water; air emissions (including dust control); regulatory and community reporting; clean-up of contamination; worker health and safety and community health; and the generation, transportation, storage and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes, such as acids, radioactive materials, and mine tailings. In addition, environmental laws and regulations, including the requirements contained in environmental permits, are generally becoming more restrictive or more strictly enforced. Significant EHS requirements, risks and trends affecting our mining and processing operations are described below. For additional discussion of EHS performance on a mine-by-mine basis, see “Item 4B.: Business overview – Operating performance.”

 

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Regulatory Compliance

Capital and operating costs to comply with EHS laws and regulations have been, and are expected to continue to be, significant to AngloGold Ashanti. In addition, AngloGold Ashanti could incur fines, penalties and other sanctions, environmental clean-up costs, and third-party claims for personal injury or property or natural resources damages; suffer reputational damages; and be required to install costly pollution control equipment or to modify or suspend operations, as a result of actual or alleged violations or liabilities under EHS laws and regulations. Failure to comply with applicable EHS laws and regulations may also result in the suspension or revocation of permits. AngloGold Ashanti’s ability to obtain and maintain permits and to successfully operate in particular communities may be adversely impacted by real or perceived effects on the environment or human health and safety associated with AngloGold Ashanti’s or other mining companies’ activities.

Water Management

AngloGold Ashanti’s mining and processing operations are heavily dependent upon access to substantial volumes of water required for such operations. Typically, water-use permits or water rights in each country impose limits on the quantity of water that can be extracted from certain sources and require, among other things, that wastewater from mining operations meet certain water quality criteria upon discharge. Water quality and usage are areas of concern globally, but are particularly significant for operations in Ghana and South Africa, and for exploration projects in Colombia, where there is significant potential environmental and social impact and a high level of stakeholder scrutiny. Any failure to secure access to suitable water supplies, or achieve and maintain compliance with the requirements of the permits or licenses, could result in curtailment or suspension of production at the affected operation. Incidents of water pollution or shortage can, in extreme cases, lead to community protest and ultimately result in the withdrawal of community and government support for our operations.

Where feasible, we operate a “closed loop” system which recycles the water used in our operations without discharging it to the environment. In some areas, however, such as Ghana, high levels of rainfall and surface water runoff mean that a closed loop system is not feasible and that discharges, after water treatment, must take place. During 2011, we commissioned a reverse osmosis plant in the northern section of the Obuasi mine which functions in conjunction with complementary water treatment technologies to ensure that water released is compliant with Ghana’s water quality standards. At the southern section of the mine, a 250m3/hour water treatment plant was commissioned in early 2012 and another 500 m3/hour plant is under construction. At the Iduapriem mine, a water treatment plant was commissioned in 2010 to ensure that the operation can release excess water while meeting effluent discharge standards.

Waste Management

Mining and mineral processing operations generate waste rock and tailings.

During open-pit mining, large volumes of soil and/or rock (overburden) are generated to expose the ore body. Similarly, waste rock is generated during drilling and developing access to underground ore bodies. Overburden and waste rock typically contain sub-economic levels of gold and are deposited as large waste rock dumps. Mine tailings are the process waste generated once grinding and extraction of gold from the ore is completed in the milling process and are deposited as slurry in large storage facilities specifically designed for this purpose.

The impact of a breach, leak or other failure of a tailings storage facility can be significant, and the company therefore monitors such facilities closely in accordance with national regulatory requirements and commitments made to local communities. The occasional well-publicized failure of a tailings facility and the potential impact of such failure also mean that these facilities are generally tightly regulated. An incident at our operations could result, among other things, in enforcement, obligations to remediate environmental contamination, and claims for property or natural resources damages and personal injury and negative press coverage. Even an incident at another company’s operations has potential to result in governments tightening regulatory requirements and restricting other mine operators in response.

Groundwater Impacts and Environmental Remediation

AngloGold Ashanti has identified groundwater contamination plumes at certain of its operations. Numerous scientific, technical and legal studies have been undertaken to assist in determining the magnitude of the impact and to find sustainable remediation solutions. Based on those studies as well as discussion with regulators, the company has taken steps, including monitored natural attenuation and phyto-technologies, to address soil and groundwater

 

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contamination. Subject to the completion of trials and the technology being a proven remediation technique, no reliable estimate can be made for the obligation. Should these costs be significant, this could have a material adverse impact upon AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and its financial condition.

As AngloGold Ashanti or its predecessors has a long history of mining operations in certain regions, issues may arise regarding historical as well as potential future environmental impacts to those areas. For example, certain parties, including NGOs, community groups and institutional investors, have raised concerns about surface and groundwater quality, among other issues, in the area surrounding the company’s Obuasi and Iduapriem mines in Ghana, including potential impacts to local rivers and wells used for water from heavy metals, arsenic and cyanide as well as sediment and mine rock waste. Following temporary shutdowns at both mines in 2010, the company has made improvements in effluent quality management and constructed a new tailings impoundment at Iduapriem as well as three additional water treatment plants at Obuasi to reduce the risk of incidents that have the potential to degrade local water sources. AngloGold Ashanti is continuing to investigate allegations of impacts by the company’s operations on water quality in mining areas and to consider, as appropriate, potential additional responsive actions, such as remediation, engineering and operational changes at the mine sites and community outreach programs.

In addition, AngloGold Ashanti has identified a flooding and future pollution risk to deep groundwater in the Klerksdorp and Far West Rand goldfields in South Africa. AngloGold Ashanti’s Vaal River operations are part of the Klerksdorp goldfields and its West Wits operations are part of the Far West Rand goldfields. Various studies have been undertaken by AngloGold Ashanti since 1999 to better understand groundwater conditions in mined-out workings, including potential groundwater infiltration and acidification concerns. Due to the interconnected nature of underground mining operations in South Africa, any proposed solution needs to be a combined one supported by all the companies owning mines located in these goldfields. As a result, the South African Department of Mineral Resources and affected mining companies are now involved in the development of a “Regional Mine Closure Strategy”. In view of the limited information currently available, no reliable estimate can be made for the obligation at this time. If material, obligations for this matter could have an adverse impact on AngloGold Ashanti’s financial condition.

Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas Regulation

Greenhouse gases, or “GHGs”, are emitted directly by AngloGold Ashanti’s operations, as well as by external utilities from which AngloGold Ashanti purchases power. Currently, a number of international and national measures to address or limit GHG emissions, including the Kyoto Protocol, the Copenhagen Accord and the Durban Platform, are in various phases of discussion or implementation in the countries in which the company operates.

The outcome of the climate change negotiations may, in due time, have the effect of requiring AngloGold Ashanti to reduce its direct GHG emissions or energy use or to incur significant costs for GHG emissions permits or taxes including through costs passed on by electricity utilities which supply the company. AngloGold Ashanti also could incur significant costs associated with capital equipment, GHG monitoring and reporting and other obligations to comply with applicable requirements. The most likely source of these company-level obligations is unlikely to be by operation of international law but more likely to come through domestic implementation of state obligations pursuant to evolving climate change legal regimes.

For example, the Australian government implemented a carbon trading scheme commencing in July 2012. Under the applicable requirements, approximately 500 of Australia’s biggest emitters, including AngloGold Ashanti, started to pay A$23 per tonne of carbon dioxide generated or equivalent from July 2012. The charge will increase by approximately 5 percent each year until 2015, when it will be set by the market under a trading scheme, similar to the existing Emissions Trading Scheme in the European Union.

Also, in 2011, the South African government released a climate change response white paper. In February 2013, the South African Minister of Finance announced his intention to introduce a carbon tax in 2015. AngloGold Ashanti already pays a levy of ZAR0.035 per kilowatt hour of electricity that it purchases and is generated from fossil fuels.

The 2013 Budget Review provides an indication of the expected levels of the carbon tax rate as being ZAR 120 (approximately US$13) per tonne of CO2e emitted above certain thresholds. Under the proposal, the tax rate would increase by 10 percent a year, reaching ZAR 193 (approximately US$21) per tonne by 2020. The end of the decade also marks the end of the first phase of the carbon tax. Depending on the nature of the emitter, a basic tax-free threshold of up to 60 percent of the tax liability will apply.

 

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It is probable that the tax will be levied on sectors that comprise elements of the AngloGold Ashanti supply chain. Consequently, it is likely that the costs associated with those elements of the supply chain will increase for the medium- and long-term.

In 2010, Brazil launched sector-specific plans to meet a voluntary reduction target of 1.2 billion tonnes of CO2 by 2020. Amongst other plans, it is intended to reduce de-forestation in the Cerrado biome, where AngloGold Ashanti operates, by 40 percent and expand renewable energy production and energy efficiency programs. The decree also provided for a Brazilian GHG trading scheme, which is yet to be designed. While Brazil is not yet formally regulating GHG emissions at the national level, some state environmental agencies have requested companies to voluntarily submit GHG emissions management plans.

In addition, potential physical risks to our operations as a result of climate change include changes in rainfall rates or reduced water availability, rising sea levels, higher temperatures and extreme weather events. Events or conditions such as flooding or inadequate water supplies could disrupt mining and transport operations, mineral processing and rehabilitation efforts, could create resource shortages and could damage the company’s property or equipment and increase health and safety risks on site. Such events or conditions could have other adverse effects on the company’s workforce and on the communities in the area around our mines, such as an increased risk of food insecurity, water scarcity and prevalence of disease.

Occupational and Community Safety and Health and Tropical Diseases

AngloGold Ashanti’s operations are subject to a variety of laws and regulations designed to protect and improve the safety and health of employees. In some of the jurisdictions in which we operate, the government enforces compulsory shutdowns of operations to enable investigations into the cause of accidents at those operations. Certain of the company’s operations have been temporarily suspended for safety reasons in the past. In South Africa, in particular, so-called Section 54 safety stoppages have become a significant issue for mining companies. In 2012, stoppages occurred as follows:

 

•  Moab Khotsong

   9

•  Savuka

   3

•  Great Noligwa

   9

•  Mponeng

   6

•  TauTona

   2

This had a material impact on production at these mines. Each directive resulted in suspending operations either fully or partially in order to comply with the inspector’s recommendations on safety. A working group comprising the inspectorate, the mining industry and organized labor has been formed to address the trend of increasing safety stoppages. AngloGold Ashanti is also enhancing safety programs, in line with the overall ONE initiative and industry Best Practice, which could result in significant additional costs for the company.

In addition, AngloGold Ashanti is subject to health and safety regulations relating to occupational disease. The primary areas of focus in respect of occupational health of employees within the company’s operations are noise-induced hearing loss (“NIHL”) and occupational lung diseases (“OLD”), which include pulmonary tuberculosis (“TB”) from various causes and silicosis in individuals exposed to silica dust. This issue has been particularly prevalent in South Africa and has also arisen at the company’s Continental Africa and Brazilian operations, albeit to a lesser extent. AngloGold Ashanti provides occupational health services to its employees at its occupational health centers and clinics, and continues to improve preventative occupational hygiene initiatives, such as implementing various dust control measures and supplying its employees with respiratory protective equipment. If the costs associated with providing such occupational health services, implementing such dust control measures or supplying such equipment increase significantly beyond anticipated or budgeted amounts, this could have an adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations and its financial condition. Actual and alleged health and safety incidents or breaches of standards may also adversely impact the company’s reputation.

The South African government, by way of a cabinet resolution in 1999, proposed a possible combination and alignment of benefits of the Occupational Diseases in Mines and Works Act (“ODMWA”) that provides for compensation to miners who have OLD, and the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (“COIDA”), that provides for compensation in respect of job related injuries and compensation of non-miners who have OLD. It appears less likely that the proposed combination of the two acts will occur in the short to medium term, but some alignment of benefits may be considered in the future. COIDA provides for compensation payments to workers suffering permanent

 

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disabilities from OLD, which are classified as pension liabilities if the permanent disability is above a certain threshold, or a lump sum compensation payment if the permanent disability is below a certain threshold. ODMWA only provides for a lump sum compensation payment to workers suffering from OLD as well as the payment of medical expenses over the claimant’s lifetime. If the proposed combination of COIDA and ODMWA were to occur, this could further increase the amount of statutory compensation that miners employed by AngloGold Ashanti could claim, which consequently could have an adverse effect on AngloGold Ashanti’s financial condition.

On November 23, 2010, the Chamber of Mines of South Africa applied to the North Gauteng High Court for a declaratory order as to whether or not the Compensation Commissioner may include in the levy to be paid by any specific mine under ODMWA any amount that is intended to be used for funding benefits payable to: (1) ex-mine workers who had never worked at that mine; or (2) ex-mine workers who used to work at the mine, but no longer work at the mine. On April 29, 2011, the Honorable Judge Zondo dismissed the Chamber’s application with costs. The judge concluded that the Compensation Commissioner has authority under ODMWA to address an historical or actuarial deficit in the Compensation Fund by increasing the levy payable by current mines and works to cover the shortfall in respect of all ex-mine workers. The Chamber lodged an appeal to the Supreme Court of Appeal. The appeal was dismissed with costs. The effect of the judgment is that ODMWA levies may be increased in respect of the category of former employees referred to above.

AngloGold Ashanti is subject to numerous claims, including class actions or similar group claims related to silicosis and other OLD, and could be subject to similar claims in the future. AngloGold Ashanti has received notice of two applications for class certification relating to silicosis in which the company is a respondent. It has also received notice of individual claims. Please refer to “Item 8: Financial Information – Legal Proceedings – South Africa – Silicosis litigation.”

In addition to OLD, AIDS and associated diseases remain major health care challenges faced by AngloGold Ashanti’s South African operations. Workforce prevalence studies indicate that HIV prevalence rates among AngloGold Ashanti’s South African workforce may be as high as 30 percent. AngloGold Ashanti continues to develop and implement programs to help those infected with HIV and prevent new infections from spreading. Since 2001, the company has offered a voluntary counseling and HIV testing program for employees in South Africa and, since 2003, has offered anti-retroviral therapy to HIV positive employees who met the current medical criteria and who desire this treatment.

Malaria and other tropical diseases also pose significant health risks at all of the company’s operations in Central, West and East Africa where such diseases may assume epidemic proportions because of ineffective national control programs. Malaria is a major cause of death in young children and pregnant women but also gives rise to fatalities and absenteeism in adult men. Other conditions such as heart disease, chronic diseases and obesity are of increasing incidence and concern.

Such diseases impair the health of workers and negatively affect productivity and profitability as a result of workers’ diminished focus or skill, absenteeism, treatment costs and allocated resources. AngloGold Ashanti cannot guarantee that any current or future medical program will be successful in preventing or reducing the injury and illness rates amongst its employees or in affecting consequent morbidity or mortality rates. AngloGold Ashanti may incur significant costs in addressing this issue in the future, which could also adversely impact the company’s results of operations and financial condition.

 

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ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI GLOBAL OPERATIONS: 2012

 

LOGO

Operations

1.    Argentina    5.   Guinea    8.    South Africa    9.    Tanzania
   Cerro Vanguardia (92.5%)      Siguiri (85%)       Vaal River       Geita
2.    Australia    6.   Mali       Great Noligwa   

10.

   United States
   Sunrise Dam      Morila (40%)       Kopanang       Cripple Creek & Victor (CC&V)
3.    Brazil      Sadiola (41%)       Moab Khotsong      
   Serra Grande(1)      Yatela (40%)       Surface operations      
   AGA Mineração    7.   Namibia       Mine Waste Solutions      
4.    Ghana      Navachab       West Wits      
   Iduapriem            Mponeng      
   Obuasi            Savuka      
              TauTona      

 

(1)   Effective July 1, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti increased its shareholding in Serra Grande from 50 percent to 100 percent.

 

Major Projects

11.

   Colombia   

12.

  DRC   

13.

   Australia      
   Gramalote (51%)      Kibali (45%)       Tropicana (70%)      
   La Colosa      Mongbwalu (86.2%)            

Percentages indicate the ownership interest of AngloGold Ashanti, whether held directly or indirectly. All operations and projects are 100%-owned unless otherwise indicated.

 

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OPERATING PERFORMANCE

Group description

Headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, AngloGold Ashanti has 21 operations in 10 countries. Major development projects are Tropicana in Australia, Kibali in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and La Colosa in Colombia. Our extensive brownfield, greenfield and marine exploration programs extend to 14 countries, in both established and new gold-producing regions through managed and non- managed joint ventures, strategic alliances and wholly owned ground holdings. We have an equity interest in Rand Refinery, a gold refining and smelting complex in South Africa, and own and operate the Queiroz refinery in Brazil.

The group is managed according to four geographic regions, namely:

 

South Africa, which comprises two mining areas and associated infrastructure – namely West Wits and Vaal River, which together comprise six deep-level mining operations and surface operations. In July 2012, AngloGold Ashanti concluded the acquisition of First Uranium (Pty) Limited, the owner of Mine Waste Solutions (MWS), which operates in the same area of South Africa.

 

Continental Africa, which comprises the operations in Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Namibia and Tanzania, as well as projects in the DRC.

 

Americas, comprising operations in Argentina, Brazil and the United States, as well as projects in Colombia. AngloGold Ashanti concluded the acquisition of the remaining 50 percent interest in Serra Grande in Brazil during the year.

 

Australasia, which currently focuses on a mine and project in Australia.

The group also has a pipeline of greenfield, brownfield and marine exploration programs.

AngloGold Ashanti’s operations and joint ventures employed, on average, 65,822 people (including contractors) in 2012 (2011: 61,242).

Performance

In 2012, AngloGold Ashanti produced 3.94 million ounces of gold (2011: 4.33 million ounces) as well as 1.21 million pounds of uranium, 2.36 million ounces of silver and 186.37 tonnes of sulfuric acid as by-products.

AngloGold Ashanti invested significantly in capital expenditure as the group is building and developing new projects in Continental Africa (Kibali and Mongwbalu in the DRC), Australia (Tropicana), Americas (Cripple Creek & Victor expansion in the US and other projects in Brazil) and South Africa (most notably Mponeng). Capital expenditure, including equity accounted joint ventures, in 2012 amounted to $2,154 million (2011: $1,527 million).

Safety

Regrettably, there were 18 fatalities across the group’s operations in 2012. The all injury frequency rate improved to 7.72 per million hours worked compared to 9.76 in 2011 and 11.50 in 2010.

 

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OPERATIONS AT A GLANCE for the years ended December 31

 

     Attributable tonnes
treated/milled (Mt)
    Average grade
recovered (g/t)
   

Attributable gold

production (000oz)

   

Total cash costs

($ per ounce)

    Attributable capital
expenditure ($m)
 
     2012     2011     2010     2012     2011     2010     2012     2011     2010     2012     2011     2010     2012     2011     2010  

SOUTH AFRICA

                                             

Vaal River

                                             

Great Noligwa

    0.5        0.5        0.7        5.72        5.58        5.99        84        94        132        1,226        1,191        894        27        29        24   

Kopanang

    0.9        1.5        1.6        5.40        6.47        6.13        164        307        305        1,018        684        613        93        92        61   

Moab Khotsong

    0.6        0.9        1.0        8.16        9.39        9.03        162        266        292        1,043        688        586        159        147        120   

Tau Lekoa(1)

    -        -        0.6        -        -        3.32        -        -        63        -        -        905        -        -        10   

Surface operations

    10.8        10.7        10.2        0.42        0.48        0.54        144        164        179        833        665        486        8        5        3   

Mine Waste Solutions(2)

    7.2        -        -        0.12        -        -        28        -        -        1,036        -        -        7        -        -   

West Wits

                                             

Mponeng

    1.3        1.6        1.7        9.40        9.71        9.48        405        500        532        640        547        452        194        172        122   

Savuka

    0.2        0.2        0.1        6.09        6.69        5.30        37        49        22        1,027        857        1,136        20        8        9   

TauTona(3)

    0.8        1.0        1.1        7.63        7.55        7.01        189        244        259        921        816        699        73        79        75   

CONTINENTAL AFRICA

                                             

Ghana

                                             

Iduapriem

    4.6        4.3        3.4        1.22        1.44        1.70        180        199        185        922        839        778        95        73        17   

Obuasi(3)

    2.1        2.0        2.6        4.79        4.82        5.16        280        313        317        1,189        859        760        185        132        109   

Guinea

                                             

Siguiri (85 percent)

    10.1        9.7        8.8        0.76        0.79        0.97        247        249        273        935        871        656        28        15        10   

Mali

                                             

Morila (40 percent)(5)

    1.8        1.8        1.7        1.41        1.70        1.70        81        99        95        765        818        716        1        1        1   

Sadiola (41 percent)(5)

    1.9        2.0        1.8        1.64        1.90        2.04        100        121        118        1,220        835        686        37        14        8   

Yatela (40 percent)(4)(5)

    1.1        1.1        1.2        1.06        1.04        1.23        29        29        60        1,793        1,483        817        2        1        2   

Namibia

                                             

Navachab

    1.4        1.4        1.5        1.59        1.46        1.80        74        66        86        1,014        939        721        15        48        14   

Tanzania

                                             

Geita

    4.8        3.9        4.7        3.47        3.98        2.36        531        494        357        652        488        697        81        58        38   

AUSTRALASIA

                                             

Australia

                                             

Sunrise Dam

    3.4        3.6        3.6        2.39        2.16        3.22        258        246        396        1,178        1,362        692        35        27        29   

AMERICAS

                                             

Argentina

                                             

Cerro Vanguardia (92.5 percent)

    1.7        1.0        1.0        6.48        6.23        6.11        219        196        194        644        403        366        70        73        38   

Brazil

                                             

AGA Mineração(3)

    2.2        1.7        1.6        6.07        7.43        7.21        388        361        338        711        571        444        162        259        142   

Serra Grande (6)

    0.9        0.6        0.6        3.36        3.59        4.05        98        67        77        827        851        481        33        22        26   

United States of America

                                             

Cripple Creek & Victor(4)

    20.9        20.3        20.6        0.40        0.39        0.43        247        267        233        640        569        500        100        67        73   
(1)

Sold effective August 1, 2010.

(2)

Effective July 20, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti acquired 100 percent of First Uranium (Pty) Limited which, owns MWS.

(3)

The yields of TauTona, Obuasi and AGA Mineração represent underground operations.

(4)

The yields of Yatela and Cripple Creek & Victor reflect recoverable gold placed/tonnes placed from heap leach operations.

(5)

Equity-accounted investments.

(6)

Effective July 1, 2012 AngloGold Ashanti increased its holding from 50 percent to 100 percent.

Rounding of figures may result in computational discrepancies.

 

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SOUTH AFRICA

 

LOGO

AngloGold Ashanti’s South African operations comprise six deep-level mines and surface operations including MWS. They are:

 

The Vaal River operations – Great Noligwa, Kopanang, Moab Khotsong and the surface operations; and

 

The West Wits operations – Mponeng, Savuka and TauTona.

 

      Gold production
(000oz)
    

Average number of  

employees  

 

  Operations

  

  1.   South Africa

     

        Vaal River

     

        Great Noligwa

     84         3,063     

        Kopanang

     164         6,014     

        Moab Khotsong

     162         6,645     

        Surface operations

     144         1,147     

        Mine Waste Solutions(1)

     28         727     

        West Wits

     

        Mponeng

     405         6,262     

        Savuka

     37         1,157     

        TauTona

     189         4,472     
                   

 

(1)

On July 20, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti acquired First Uranium (Pty) Limited, which owns MWS. MWS is a recently commissioned retreatment operation in South Africa’s Vaal River area in the immediate vicinity of AngloGold Ashanti’s other tailings facilities.

 

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South Africa Key Statistics

 

      Unit    2012    2011    2010  

  Operation

           

  Tonnes treated/milled

   Mt    22.3    16.4    17.0  

  Pay limit

   oz/t    0.40    0.54    0.53  
   g/t    12.41    11.98    12.02  

  Recovered grade

   oz/t    0.219    0.232    0.212  
   g/t    7.50    7.95    7.28  

  Gold production

   000oz    1,213    1,624    1,784  

  Total cash costs(1)

   $/oz    873    695    598  

  Total production costs(1)

   $/oz    1,101    920    819  

  Capital expenditure

   $m    619    549    430  

  Safety

           

  Number of fatalities

      11    9    10  

  AIFR

   Per million hours worked    13.24    15.57    16.69  

  People

           

  Average no of employees: Total

      34,186    32,082    35,660  

Permanent employees

      29,740    28,176    31,723  

Contractors

        4,446    3,906    3,937  

 

(1)

Total cash costs and total production costs are non-GAAP measures. For further information on these non-GAAP measures, see “Item 5A – Operating Results – Total cash costs and total production costs”.

Performance in the South Africa Region in 2012

Safety and health

Regrettably, in the South Africa region, there were 11 fatalities in 2012 (2011: 9). The number of fatalities remains of serious concern to the company. TauTona achieved 4 million fall-of-ground fatality free shifts in November and Kopanang achieved 1 million fatality free shifts in December, both notable achievements. For the region as a whole, an all injury frequency rate of 13.24 per million hours worked was reported as compared to 15.57 in 2011.

Production

The South Africa Region milled 22.3 million tonnes of ore in 2012, up by 36 percent on the previous year, primarily due to the acquisition of MWS effective July 20, 2012. The Vaal River operations accounted for 582,000 ounces (48 percent) of the South Africa Region’s production and the West Wits operations for 631,000 ounces (52 percent). Combined, this was equivalent to 31 percent of group production. In addition, the Vaal River operations produced 1.21 million pounds of uranium as a by-product.

Total cash costs for the South Africa region were $873 per ounce, compared with $695 per ounce in 2012. Mponeng, with a cash cost of $640 per ounce, was the lowest cost producer in the region with Great Noligwa, which is approaching the end of its operating life, being the highest at $1,226 per ounce. Unit cost increases were largely influenced by reduced production, and higher wages and input prices (energy and fuel). The primary cost components in 2012 were: labor $363 per ounce; consumables $253 per ounce; services $68 per ounce; and other inputs $189 per ounce.

The operating environment in South Africa remained challenging, with safety-related stoppages continuing to be disruptive, especially in the first half of the year. An industry-wide strike which started in the third quarter and continued into the fourth quarter, halted all mines and plants in South Africa for about six weeks. The total loss of production as a result of the strike and the slow ramp-up to full production, necessitated by geotechnical concerns resulting from the stoppage, was about 235,000 ounces. Seismic activity at the West Wits operations was also problematic and geological limitations, coupled with lower mining grades at the Vaal River operations and above-inflation cost pressure, presented an ongoing challenge.

Capital expenditure

Capital expenditure in the South Africa Region totalled $619 million, an increase of 12.7 percent on the $549 million spent in 2011. The bulk of this was spent at Mponeng ($194 million), Moab Khotsong ($159 million), Kopanang ($93 million) and TauTona ($73 million).

 

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People

The South Africa operations employed an average of 34,186 people during the year (2011: 32,082), of whom 4,446 (13 percent) were contractors and 29,740 (87 percent) permanent employees. This was equivalent to 52 percent of the group’s total workforce. Productivity per employee for the year was 4.19 ounces/total employees costed (2011: 5.85 ounces/total employees costed) – the lowest in the group – a function of work stoppages, decreasing grades and the increasing labor intensity of deep level underground mining operations in South Africa.

Environment

The reduction in reportable environmental incidents in 2010 and 2011 was maintained in 2012, with most of these incidents in 2012 taking place at the newly acquired MWS operations. Since taking ownership of MWS in July 2012, considerable resources have been dedicated to ensuring this asset meets AngloGold Ashanti’s environmental operating standards. The potential for inter-mine flooding and water legacy issues continued to be environmental challenges.

Ore reserve

At December 31, 2012, South Africa had a total attributable Ore Reserve of 31.57 million ounces (2011: 32.43 million ounces), equivalent to 43 percent of the group’s Ore Reserve.

Growth

Notable progress was made with the Mponeng deepening below 120 level project, which will extend Mponeng’s life of mine. The first phase of this project, which accesses the VCR, is on track to begin production in April 2014. Phase 2, which will access the CLR below the 120 level, was approved by the AngloGold Ashanti board in March 2012. Infrastructure development is under way with production from the second phase scheduled to begin in 2016.

The Moab Khotsong business plan, without growth projects, is expected to produce some 3 million ounces of gold. Zaaiplaats will provide additional ounces and serve as a gateway for opportunities beyond the initial target block. Phase 1 of the Zaaiplaats project, approved in July 2010 and currently in implementation, is dedicated to establishing the infrastructure for Phase 2, which will create a drilling platform to increase geological confidence within the greater Zaaiplaats orebody while providing some initial gold production. Phase 3 is currently in prefeasibility study phase. A full study, to begin in the first quarter of 2013 and to run for about a year, includes various options of accessing the orebody through either Moab Khotsong or Kopanang, while accessing other mining blocks adjacent and contiguous to Project Zaaiplaats.

 

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CONTINENTAL AFRICA

 

LOGO

AngloGold Ashanti has eight mining operations in its Continental Africa region:

 

Iduapriem and Obuasi in Ghana;

 

Siguiri in Guinea;

 

Morila, Sadiola and Yatela in Mali;

 

Navachab in Namibia; and

 

Geita in Tanzania.

 

      Gold production
(000oz)
     Average number of    
employees    
 

  Operations

     

  1.   Ghana

     

Iduapriem

     180         1,549       

Obuasi

     280         5,373       

  2.   Guinea

     

Siguiri

     247         3,643       

  3.   Mali

     

Morila

     81         319       

Sadiola

     100         783       

Yatela

     29         407       

  4.   Namibia

     

Navachab

     74         953       

  5.   Tanzania

     

Geita

     531         3,594       

 

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Continental Africa - Key Statistics

 

      Unit    2012    2011    2010  

  Operation

           

  Tonnes treated/milled

   Mt    27.8    26.3    25.7  

  Pay limit

   oz/t    0.041    0.036    0.040  
   g/t    1.273    1.235    1.371  

  Recovered grade

   oz/t    0.055    0.055    0.052  
   g/t    1.70    1.87    1.79  

  Gold production

   000oz    1,522    1,570    1,491  

  Total cash costs(1)

   $/oz    911    752    720  

  Total production costs(1)

   $/oz    1,093    960    872  

  Capital expenditure

   $m    712    418    232  

  Safety

           

  Number of fatalities

      5    3    5  

  AIFR

   Per million hours worked    2.26    3.03    5.26  

  People

           

  Average no of employees: Total

      16,621    16,539    15,761  

Permanent employees

      10,014    9,783    9,684  

Contractors

        6,607    6,756    6,077  

 

(1)

Total cash costs and total production costs are non-GAAP measures. For further information on these non-GAAP measures, see “Item 5A – Operating Results – Total cash costs and total production costs”.

Safety

Regrettably, in the Continental Africa Region, there were five fatalities in 2012 (2011: 3), at Obuasi (2) and Iduapriem (1) in Ghana, at Geita (1) in Tanzania and at Mongbwalu (1) in the DRC. The all injury frequency rate for the region improved to 2.26 per million hours worked in 2012 from 3.03 in 2011. Full investigations into the fatal accidents have been conducted and steps taken to mitigate their re-occurrence.

Production

Combined gold production from these operations decreased to 1.52 million ounces in 2012 (2011: 1.57 million ounces), equivalent to 39 percent of group production. The most significant contributors to the region’s production were Geita (35 percent), Obuasi (18 percent), Siguiri (16 percent) and Iduapriem (12 percent).

Total cash costs rose by 21 percent to $911 per ounce, (2011: $752 per ounce), largely as a result of poor performance at Obuasi, where the development contractor was replaced during the fourth quarter; and rising costs at Sadiola, where recoveries have suffered as mining moves from oxide to sulfide ore.

Capital expenditure

Total capital expenditure for the region was $712 million (2011: $418 million), an increase of 70 percent. The bulk of this was spent at Obuasi ($185 million) and Kibali ($263 million).

People

The region employed an average of 16,621 people in 2012 (2011: 16,539 people) made up of 10,014 (60 percent) permanent employees and 6,607 (40 percent) contractors. The average level of productivity for the region was 10.97 ounce per total employees costed, with productivity the highest at Morila (35.72 ounces per total employees costed) and Geita (19.20 ounces per total employees costed) mines.

Environment

One of the most significant challenges in this region in recent years has been the management of water, particularly in respect of legacy issues. The completion of a new tailings dam at Iduapriem and commissioning of two water treatment plants at Obuasi in Ghana have significantly improved water management, and enabled the mine to comply with permitting frameworks.

Ore Reserve

The total attributable Continental Africa Region Ore Reserve is 27.60 million ounces (2011: 28.02 million ounces). This amounts to 37 percent of the group’s Ore Reserve.

 

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Growth

Work on a decline access to reach a number of active mining blocks is currently expected to start in 2013 and should start delivering production within about 12 months. In addition, investigations have begun into a new surface decline down to the 50 level to access Obuasi Deeps. Open-pit mining has already started at the Sibi pit. Again some economies of scale are expected from the use of the existing tailings storage facility (TSF), which is stable and has adequate capacity up to 2018.

The Sadiola Sulphide Project (SSP) was delayed by the coup in Mali during the year. Critical to its progress was the conclusion of a power purchase agreement in November. The SSP is designed to provide the operation with access to deeper more conformable sulfide material and will also absorb some skills and expertise from the Yatela operation, as it reaches the end of its life.

 

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AUSTRALASIA

 

LOGO

 

      Gold production
(000oz)
    

Average number of  

employees  

 

  Operations

     

  1.   Australia

     

        Sunrise Dam

     258         494     

AngloGold Ashanti’s Australaisian assets comprise the wholly owned Sunrise Dam and the 70 percent-owned Tropicana Gold Project which was under construction during 2012.

Australasia - Key Statistics

 

      Unit    2012    2011    2010  

  Operation

           

  Tonnes treated/milled

   Mt    3.4    3.6    3.6  

  Pay limit

   oz/t    0.08    0.10    0.14  
   g/t    2.42    3.00    4.32  

  Recovered grade

   oz/t    0.070    0.063    0.099  
   g/t    2.39    2.16    3.40  

  Gold production

   000oz    258    246    396  

  Total cash costs(1)

   $/oz    1,178    1,362    692  

  Total production costs(1)

   $/oz    1,310    1,528    773  

  Capital expenditure (including Tropicana)

   $m    355    102    40  

  Safety

           

  Number of fatalities

            –  

  AIFR (including Tropicana)

   Per million hours worked    6.33    18.11    13.10  

  People

           

  Average no of employees: Total

      494    509    494  

Permanent employees

      110    101    93  

Contractors

        384    408    401  

 

(1)

Total cash costs and total production costs are non-GAAP measures. For further information on these non-GAAP measures, see “Item 5A – Operating Results – Total cash costs and total production costs”.

 

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Safety and health

Safety performance continued to be an area of focus with no fatalities reported. The AIFR improved to 6.33 per million hours worked (2011:18.11).

Production

Production from Australasia rose by 5 percent to 258,000 ounces in 2012 as operations at Sunrise Dam recovered from flood-related disruption (excessive rainfall, pit flooding and pit-wall failure) the previous year. Total cash costs decreased by 14 percent to $1,178 per ounce (2011: $1,362 per ounce) as volumes rose. An insurance payout of A$30 million related to the 2011 pit wall failure was offset against cash costs in 2012. Cash costs during the year were also positively impacted by improved grades from the North Wall Cutback area of the pit. The region contributed 6 percent to group production in 2012.

Capital expenditure

Total capital expenditure at Sunrise Dam was $35 million. This amount excludes expenditure at Tropicana of $315 million.

People

A total of 494 people (2011: 509 people), 110 (22 percent) permanent employees and 384 contractors (78 percent) were employed at Sunrise Dam in 2012. Productivity continued to be high, reporting 43.46 ounces per total employees costed in 2012 (2011: 38.93 ounces per total employees costed), the highest level in the group.

Skills shortages remain an area of concern in the region and are a driver of high employee turnover and costs. Efforts have been made to extend employment to local indigenous people and the community engagement team works closely with the human resources department to generate training and employment opportunities, address employee retention, mentor and support, and to provide supervision and leadership.

Environment

Energy is becoming a challenging global factor and Sunrise Dam is participating in a regional plan to integrate renewable energy sources such as gas, wind, solar thermal, biomass and solar panels, thereby reducing its reliance on non-renewable energy and lessening AngloGold Ashanti’s carbon footprint. Australia has taken a firm stance on environmental legislation and has imposed stricter emission limits and carbon pricing mechanisms. The Clean Energy Future Scheme, which came into effect from July 2012, introduced a carbon pricing scheme to regulate carbon emissions. AngloGold Ashanti will be required to pay A$23 per tonne of CO2 generated. This is due to increase by A$2.5 per tonne annually until 2015, from when it will be controlled by a market trading scheme. AngloGold Ashanti is actively engaging with the Australian government on the balancing of profitable business practices with responsible environmental strategies to overcome these adverse factors.

Ore reserve

At the end of 2012, the total attributable Ore Reserve for the Australasia Region was 3.92 million ounces (2011: 4.26 million ounces). This makes up around 5 percent of the group’s Ore Reserve.

Growth

Attributable production for the region will increase by the end of 2013 as Tropicana comes on stream. Mining of the Crown Pillar from the base of the Sunrise Dam pit will contribute high- grade ore to mill feed as the operation focuses on lifting underground ore production rates over 2 million tonnes per annum. Brownfields drilling at Sunrise Dam is targeting extensions to the Vogue discovery located below the currently mined Cosmo and adjacent Dolly underground domains. Vogue remains open along strike and at depth and offers an opportunity for either extensive bulk or selective mining close to existing underground mine infrastructure. At Tropicana a prefeasibility study to examine the potential open pit and underground development options at Havana Deeps is expected to be completed in the second half of 2013. At this time the Ore Reserve for the mine will be updated.

 

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THE AMERICAS

 

LOGO

The Americas is an important growth area for AngloGold Ashanti with operations in Argentina, Brazil and the United States.

 

 

 
     Gold production
(000oz)
     Average number of  
employees  
 

 

 

  Operations

     

  1.    Argentina

     

         Cerro Vanguardia

     219         1,884     

 

 

  2.    Brazil

     

         AGA Mineração

     388         4,239     

         Serra Grande

     98         1,081     

 

 

  3.    United States

     

         Cripple Creek & Victor

     247         692     

 

 

 

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Americas - Key Statistics

 

      Unit            2012            2011            2010    

  Operation

                    

  Tonnes treated/milled

     Mt            25.7            23.6            23.8     

  Pay limit

     oz/t            0.024            0.026            0.025     
     g/t            0.822            0.891            0.843     

  Recovered grade

     oz/t            0.034            0.034            0.034     
     g/t            1.16            1.15            1.17     

  Gold production

     000oz            952            891            842     

  Total cash costs(1)

     $/oz            759            601            501     

  Total production costs(1)

     $/oz            1,017            841            707     

  Capital expenditure

     $m              382              452              309     

  Safety

                    

  Number of fatalities

           1            2            –     

  AIFR

     Per million hours worked              4.34              6.33              5.66     

  People

                    

  Average no of employees: Total

           7,896            7,389            6,582     

  Permanent employees

           5,509            5,273            4,737     

  Contractors

                   2,387              2,116              1,845     

 

(1)

Total cash costs and total production costs are non-GAAP measures. For further information on these non-GAAP measures, see “Item 5A – Operating Results – Total cash costs and total production costs”.

Safety and health

Regrettably, there was a fatal accident at the Cerro Vanguardia mine in January 2012, the first fatal accident at the mine since July 2002. The all injury frequency rate for the region improved to 4.34 per million hours worked.

Production

Combined production from the operations in this region increased by 7 percent to 952,000 ounces (2011: 891,000 ounces) in 2011. These operations now contribute about 24 percent towards group production (2011: 21 percent).

The increase in total cash costs was largely a result of inflationary effects in all countries, especially Argentina; lower by-product credits in Argentina and Brazil; higher costs for equipment maintenance and some contract and technical services in Argentina and the United States; and higher labor and operational development costs in Brazil. The Americas Region had the lowest regional cost within AngloGold Ashanti with CC&V ($640 per ounce) and Cerro Vanguardia ($644 per ounce) being the lowest and third lowest, respectively, of all group operations.

Capital expenditure

Capital expenditure was largely invested in the implementation of various projects such as the Córrego do Sítio Sulphide project in Brazil (14 percent), the MLE/MLE2 projects in the United States (22 percent), and the heap leaching project in Argentina (5 percent). Other mine development in Argentina and Brazil (19 percent), and other capital expenditure (38 percent) complete the balance of the capital investments in the region.

People

An average of 7,896 people in total were employed in the region during the year, 7 percent more than the 7,389 people employed in 2011. This number was made up of 5,509 (70 percent) permanent employees and 2,387 (30 percent) contractors. This figure excludes the more than 1,200 people employed in Colombia and at the greenfield operations in the region. The Americas Region employs around 12 percent of group employees.

Productivity at these operations is relatively high, at 17.47 ounces per total employees costed in 2012 (2011: 20.70 ounces per total employees costed).

Environment

AGA Mineração won the Environmental Management Award presented by the state of Minas Gerais. Severe drought again had a significant impact on production at CC&V during the year.

 

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Ore reserve

At the end of 2012, the total attributable Ore Reserve for the Americas Region, was 11.01 million ounces (2011: 10.89 million ounces). This makes up around 15 percent of the group’s Ore Reserve.

Growth

Plans are under way to increase production from the Americas Region. At the Brazilian operations, the Córregio do Sítio sulfide project at AGA Mineração is scheduled to reach full production in 2013, with optimization programs to be introduced at the Cuiabá and Lamego operations. In the United States at CC&V, following approval of the second mine life extension project, development has begun.

 

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REVIEW OF PROJECTS

 

LOGO

In addition to the Mponeng Below 120 project and the Zaaiplaats project in Moab Khotsong, both the South Africa, other growth projects not yet in production are:

Projects

Continental Africa: Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

1

Kibali

2

Mongbwalu

Australasia: Australia

3

Tropicana

Americas: Colombia

4

Gramalote

5

La Colosa

 

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Continental Africa: Kibali, DRC

Description

The Kibali greenfields project is currently in the development and construction phase, after receiving board approval in May 2012. Pre-development work began in early 2011 and first gold production is anticipated in late 2013. The Kibali mine will comprise an integrated open-pit and underground mining operation, feeding a larger 6 million tonnes per annum processing plant which will include a full flotation section for treating sulfide ore. The complex will ultimately be supplied by four hydropower stations supported by thermal power during low rainfall periods and as back-up. The development and construction of Kibali has been divided into two phases:

 

 

Phase 1 includes the initial open-pit operations, metallurgical plant, the first phase of the tailings storage facility, the first of the hydropower stations, the back-up power plant and all shared infrastructure.

 

Phase 2 extends over the entire four-year period, and focuses mainly on the development of the underground mine, including a twin decline and vertical shaft system.

Location

Kibali lies in the northeastern area of the DRC, adjacent to the town of Doko, a staging point for the project and some 9 kilometers from the town of Watsa and 180 kilometers by road from Arua, on the Ugandan border.

Ownership structure

Joint venture between AngloGold Ashanti (45 percent), Randgold Resources Limited (45 percent) with Société des Mines d’Or de Kilo-Moto (SOKIMO), a state-owned gold company owning the balance. Randgold Resources is the operator and project manager.

Kibali – performance in 2012

Safety and health

Lost-time injuries are receiving continued focus with continuous safety training and awareness initiatives in place. A transport management plan has been implemented to address vehicle safety, speeding and dust suppression. The Congolese Safety Officers will be utilized to help monitor and enforce vehicle safety.

Malaria incidence remains high, with 2,951 cases reported for the project to date. The Malaria Vector Control program has been updated to include bush clearing and bi-monthly spraying of all accommodation and work sites. A medical outpost facility has been established and is operating at the remote Nzoro camp.

Mining and processing developments

2012 was key in the development of Kibali, and was marked by a significant ramp- up in construction activity. Mining in the open-pit began in July 2012 and the boxcut for the project’s underground twin-decline section is nearing completion. The mill and hydro-turbine manufacture is complete. The development of twin-declines and the sinking of the vertical shaft for the underground mine is tracking behind schedule, while the additional open-cut satellite ore source potential could offset the risk of delays. Two 7 megawatt mills were delivered to the Kibali mine in November 2012. In parallel with the construction of the metallurgical plant which began in August 2012, construction of the steelwork for the CIL plant and the primary crusher and conveyor facilities is progressing. Additional earthwork capability has been mobilized to address delays in site establishment. Capital expenditure was $263 million (45 percent attributable) during the year and increased significantly in the fourth quarter with the start of decline activities and mobilization of the shaft and metallurgical infrastructure.

Exploration developments

Grade control drilling program continued during the year at the KCD deposit, with 91,734 meters completed. Drilling results confirmed areas of high grade shoots.

 

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Continental Africa: Mongbwalu, DRC

Description

Preparatory work at this greenfield project has been completed. Belgian mining companies operated on a relatively small scale in the area for about 50 years before leaving in 1961, while SOKIMO began mining in 1966. The venture held 18 mining licenses which was reduced to 15 licenses totalling 3,784km² after the retrocession to SOKIMO of a total of 1,823km². The Akwé Exploration Licence (399km²) is being transferred to Ashanti Goldfields Kilo (AGK). The initial project will be designed and built with a view to increasing its size as the aggressive regional exploration program identifies new sources of ore. Further exploration was authorized in early 2013 along with a study to optimize the Mongbwalu project.

Location

Located in northeastern DRC, near to the town of Bunia and to the southeast of the group’s Kibali joint venture project. The concession area is in the highly prospective Kilo gold belt.

Ownership structure

Operated by AGK, a joint venture between AngloGold Ashanti Limited (86.22 percent) and SOKIMO, a state-owned gold mining company.

Mongbwalu – performance in 2012

Safety and health

Safety remains an area of concern and the development of a safety culture is an important area of focus. Among the initiatives undertaken during the year were: daily toolbox talks; inspections; weekly focus topics; helicopter hoist training; hazard and risk management training; gap analysis of all company and contractor vehicles; intermediate incident investigation program; vehicle driving training; and a fit-for-work medical examination process was put in place for all employees and all contractors.

A contractor lost his life, following an incident during 2012.

Indoor residual spraying to combat malaria was started in the camps in July 2012. The Malaria Vector Control program has been updated to include bush clearing and bi-monthly spraying of all accommodation and work sites, and may be extended to communities within the project target area.

Exploration progress and developments

The drilling program has confirmed the prospectivity in the region. Several intersections were encountered with gold grades of more than 7 grams per tonne and four deposits identified within two to three kilometers of the proposed mine. Further drilling is required to ascertain the extent of the orebody and the best means of accessing it. Common plant and infrastructure for a second operation could demonstrate the economies of scale which could precipitate a more profitable operation than was originally planned.

A novel development on site has been the application of portable drill rigs, transported across the concession by helicopter. In terms of environmental impact, this is a positive development, reducing the need for access roads and their rehabilitation, while also improving the effectiveness of the drill rigs, with more meters drilled per rig. Given the topography of the area, along with the dense vegetation, this practice has rendered the area far more accessible than conventional methods.

 

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Australasia: Tropicana, Australia

Description

The Tropicana project is at an advanced stage of construction and development. Mining operations will be conducted from open pit mining of the Tropicana and Havanna deposits while surface infrastructure includes a processing plant, accommodation facilities and telecommunications services. The group’s exploration program in the area is vast, covering 13,500km2 along a strike length of 600 kilometers.

Location

Situated in the highly prospective Western Australia, the Tropicana project lies some 330 kilometers north north-east of Kalgoorlie and is 200 kilometers east of Sunrise Dam.

Ownership structure

70 percent owned by AngloGold Ashanti, with the balance held by joint venture partner in the project, Independence Group NL.

Tropicana – performance in 2012

Safety and health

AIFR at Tropicana further improved to 3.03 per million hours worked in 2012 from 5.55 in 2011. The high lost-time injury frequency rate (LTIFR) incidence in the production area remains a concern and an area of focus in spite of the improvement for the year, with the LTIFR reducing from 5.31 in 2011 to 1.01 in 2012. Further concerted effort is needed in this area to achieve the group’s safety strategy and AIFR objective of less than nine per million hours worked. Continuous safety training and awareness initiatives are in place to drive the required high safety standards throughout the project.

Mining and processing developments

The Tropicana gold project progressed well during 2012, despite external challenges from the competitive construction sector in Western Australia and the pressure this placed on skills. The 220 kilometers-long site access road to site was completed in the first half of the year, as was the sealing and approval for the airstrip. This was followed later in the year by completion of the village. The power station contract was also awarded. The mining contractor was mobilized on site and mining started early in the second half of the year. By the end of the year, all remaining tender contracts had been awarded, all within capital forecast estimates. Capital expenditure was $315 million during the year.

Americas: Gramalote, Colombia

Description

This advanced exploration project is expected to be the first major gold mine development in Colombia, and the group’s first operating gold mine there.

Location

110 kilometers northeast of Medellin in the municipality of San Roque, in the department of Antioquia.

Ownership structure

Joint venture between AngloGold Ashanti (51 percent) and Vancouver-based B2Gold Corporation (49 percent).

 

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Gramalote – performance in 2012

Safety and health

There was a significant improvement in safety performance at Gramalote with the implementation of an array of strategies focused on safe work practices. An AIFR was recorded of 5.65 per million hours worked, a dramatic improvement on the AIFR of 16.14 recorded in 2011. The development of occupational health surveillance systems in Colombia was undertaken in the fourth quarter of 2011.

Mining and processing development

The project prefeasibility study was concluded in the fourth quarter of 2012. While the results of this work demonstrated the social, environment and technical viability of the project, several identified optimizations regarding capital and operating aspects of the project remain to be validated. Accordingly, the project team launched an enhanced engineering phase which continues to validate project enhancement opportunities.

Exploration progress and developments

A total of 23,000 meters of drilling has been completed. This has focused on geotechnical, condemnation and resource conversion. The exploration potential in the district is likely high, with a large tenement position that has only been explored in less than 10 percent of its area. CGL is advancing a comprehensive exploration program led by geophysical and geochemical surveys to assist on defining exploration targets that is expected to confirm the mining district (and project) estimated endowment.

Americas: La Colosa, Colombia

Description

La Colosa, which lies in steep terrain in Colombia’s central Cordillera region, is the largest greenfield discovery made by AngloGold Ashanti. The project is at the prefeasibility stage, currently evaluating alternative mining methods, plant locations and related infrastructure. The drilling program is progressing to define the size and extent of the Mineral Resource that has not been constrained in the northwest and is partially open at depth.

Location

14 kilometers west of the town of Cajamarca, in the department of Tolima.

Ownership structure

Exploration rights wholly held by AngloGold Ashanti.

La Colosa – performance in 2012

Safety and health

There was an improvement in safety performance, with the AIFR declining to 4.19 in 2012 from 19.33 in 2011. Continuous training and leadership involvement will be required to maintain and improve on this success. A health baseline study has been initiated with the goal of ensuring that data is available to design and submit a solid health impact assessment to the authorities, within an environmental impact analysis.

 

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Mining and processing developments

Technical work has been undertaken to collect and analyze the information required for pit optimization, geotechnical and hydrogeological studies. The results are being used for pit design, pit slope stability, risk analysis, and capital and operational expenditure estimates. Trade-off studies of mining methods are in progress and extensive metallurgical test work was conducted in 2012. Comminution test work included tests for high pressure grinding rolls (HPGRs) and semi-autogenous (SAG) grinding. An economic evaluation of HPGR versus SAG milling was completed and indicated the favoured route to be conventional SAG/ball milling. Recovery test work included tests for gravity separation, whole ore leaching and flotation/concentrate leaching. An economic trade-off study indicated the preferred flow sheet to be whole ore leaching, with limited benefits of gravity separation. The process engineering phase started in the fourth quarter of 2012.

Developments during the year

Project efforts in 2012 continued to be driven by expansion of the Mineral Resource coupled with on-going efforts to address key social issues within the various stakeholder groups. Key decisions related to ore transportation and the relocation of infrastructure facilities out of the forest reserve area have dramatically changed the definition of the project’s direct and indirect area of influence, and the scope of the environmental and social studies. Additional trade-off studies were necessary to optimize estimates of capital and operating expenditure.

Technical evaluations also continued with the collection and analysis of geotechnical and hydrogeological information required for mine definition, trade-off studies on mining methods and alternatives, metallurgical test work and process definition, and infrastructure design.

 

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GLOBAL EXPLORATION

 

LOGO

GREENFIELDS EXPLORATION

AngloGold Ashanti holds a total of 69,565km2 of greenfield tenements over which exploration activities are undertaken through joint ventures, strategic alliances or as wholly-owned ground holdings.

During 2012, exploration activities were conducted in 14 countries with over 364,994 meters of diamond, reverse circulation and aircore drilling completed, compared to 213,441 meters in 2011. Drilling programs aimed to test new high-priority targets in Australia, Brazil, Tanzania, the DRC and the Solomon Islands, and continued to delineate existing discoveries in Guinea, Egypt and Colombia.

In the Americas, the principal area of focus has been to advance exploration on a number of key projects in Colombia, including an advanced-stage diamond drill campaign at the Nuevo Chaquiro target, Quebradona project (AngloGold Ashanti/B2Gold joint venture). The Nuevo Chaquiro target is a newly identified porphyry-related, copper-gold mineralized system located within the Western Cordillera of Colombia.

In 2012, about 20,700 meters of diamond drilling has tested this porphyry copper and gold mineralized stockwork zone. Long intersections of copper mineralization with gold credits indicate good continuity within the zone and it has been intersected at depths from about 400 meters to over 900 meters below surface.

 

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In Brazil, a joint venture was signed with Graben Mineração to explore its tenement holding in the highly prospective Juruena Belt while generative work continued in Argentina and the United States.

In sub-Saharan Africa, drilling continued to delineate significant mineralization at the Saraya and Kounkoun prospects, both located within 50 kilometers of the Siguiri mine in Guinea. At the Saraya prospect 9,230 meters was drilled to infill and define the extensions of the mineralized zone from which ore-grade mineralization was intersected in several holes. The zone has now been delineated over 1,300 meters in strike and from surface to 200 meters in depth. At Kounkoun about 56,000 meters was drilled with numerous shallow oxide ore-grade gold intersections indicating further good potential. In the DRC and Tanzania, preliminary diamond drill testing of coincident gold-in-soil and geophysical anomalies was completed.

In the Middle East and North Africa, exploration is conducted through a regional strategic alliance with Dubai-based Thani Investments. The alliance has made significant progress in advancing its Hutite orogenic gold discovery in Egypt and has also made further discoveries such as the Pandora epithermal system, in partnership with Stratex International, in Djibouti. Early stage exploration activities continued in both Ethiopia and Eritrea while project generation activities continued in Saudi Arabia where a number of tenement applications have been made.

In the Solomon Islands, the joint venture with XDM Resources Limited has been expanded to include additional projects within the prospective New Georgia Belt, consolidating the island chain. Exploration is now focused on the discovery of large porphyry and epithermal gold deposits. Generative exploration activities were completed at Kele, Mase, Tirua and Paraso while diamond drilling was also completed at Kele, Tirua and Mase.

In Western Australia, the Tropicana joint venture continues to systematically explore the highly prospective Tropicana Belt through auger surface geochemical sampling and follow-up aircore, reverse circulation and diamond drilling. At the wholly owned Viking project, immediately southwest of the Tropicana JV, aircore and diamond drilling at the Beaker prospect has intercepted potentially significant gold mineralisation. In South Australia, diamond drill testing of conceptual iron oxide copper-gold (IOCG) targets was completed at the Coronation Bore prospect, in joint venture with Stellar Resources.

Brownfields exploration

South Africa

A total of 22 surface holes were drilled during the year, six at Moab Khotsong, three at Mponeng (WUDLs) and 12 shallower surface holes were completed to the west of Kopanang, while one is still currently being drilled.

At Moab Khotsong, borehole MGR8 continued advancing its long deflection to the north. It was stopped due to budgetary constraints in the last quarter, but the site was not rehabilitated as the hole will continue as soon as funding is available. The drilling of the long deflection to the south in MGR6 continued. MHH2 advanced to a depth of 2,880 meters and progress was delayed by a series of in-hole technical difficulties. Diamond drilling started at MCY6 and advanced the hole to 1,998 meters. A high speed drilling program started to confirm the structure in the center of the main Zaaiplaats block, borehole MMB6 progressed to 2,541 meters and borehole MMB7 advanced to 1,134 meters.

A new generation, high resolution 3-D seismic survey was completed over the Project Zaaiplaats Phase 3 area.

Three holes are currently being drilled on the WUDLs Mining Rights extension of Mponeng Mine. These holes are all targeting the Ventersdorp Contact Reef. All the holes experienced significant loss of drill fluids and required multiple grouting operations. UD51 by year end had reached a depth of 3,582 meters in the Klipriviersberg lavas. UD59 advanced to 2,446 meters in the Klipriviersberg lavas and UD60 drilled to 1,556 meters.

The drilling of a series of shallow surface holes (500 meters – 1,400 meters) to the west of Kopanang continued during the year. A total of six holes targeting the Ventersdorp Contact Reef and six holes targeting the Vaal Reef were completed during the year.

 

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Argentina

At Cerro Vanguardia, the drilling programs for Mineral Resource expansion and exploration continued during the year. Follow up drilling for vein extensions along strike and at depth was able to expand mill ore. Exploration and Mineral Resource modeling were able to identify opportunities for material to be processed at the heap leach facility. Exploration activities and drilling were completed based on geophysical surveys and target identification studies conducted at the El Volcan project during the year.

Brazil

In the Iron Quadrangle, the Mineral Resource development drilling programs continued at the Cuiabá and Lamego mines with renewed emphasis on support to long-term planning and Mineral Resource definition. The surface drilling programs at the Córrego do Sítio project continued to expand the oxide Mineral Resource, while underground drilling at Córrego do Sítio focused on developing the Sangue do Boi sulfide Mineral Resource for production. Exploration work beyond the production centers included follow up underground drilling at Raposos. Regional exploration programs were conducted at the Pari and Morro da Gloria projects.

At Serra Grande, the second year of fast track exploration program was completed with additional expansion of the Mineral Resource. The program was focused on additions in the Pequizão, Mina Nova, Mina III and Structure NW/Cajueiro targets. Geophysical surveys and soil sampling campaigns continued to be useful methods for target identification in preparation for drilling programs at the Cajueiro, Structure NW and Boa Vista (Votorantim Metais JV) regional targets.

Colombia

Exploration in the Gramalote area was focused on infill drilling to support the update of the Mineral Resource estimation for the Gramalote Central deposit. Drilling programs were also conducted for nearby satellite targets at Monjas West, Trinidad, and El Limon. As part of the prefeasibility study, additional infrastructure and geotechnical drill holes were completed to support highwall design and condemnation drilling for the proposed plant site, waste rock, and tailings storage facilities.

At La Colosa, the Mineral Resource development drilling program continued with four drills operating through most of the year. The geological model was updated during the year to support a significant Mineral Resource addition that came through expansion of the deposit to the northwest and at depth. Other drilling continued as support for site characterization and infrastructure site selection studies.

United States

The Mineral Resource development drilling program continued during the year at CC&V. Work focused on infill drilling to improve the definition of material within the current mine designs that will feed the planned mill facility. Other drilling was directed toward identifying expansion opportunities for the current open pit operations through highwall cutbacks. Selective drilling was also conducted to test deeper targets below or adjacent to planned open pit designs that may provide additional mill feed material potential.

Tanzania

At Geita, Mineral Resource upgrade and extension drilling was completed at the Geita Hill, Nyankanga and Star & Comet operations. Limited pre-resource drilling programs were undertaken to test exploration targets. The infill drilling campaigns aimed at increasing the confidence level of the Mineral Resource base and to allow for Mineral Resource to Ore Reserve conversion. A total of 440 holes for 85,221 meters were completed, with 67,738 samples submitted for gold assay.

As a result of this extensive drilling campaign, positive analytical results were received for holes drilled at Nyankanga Cut 7 OP, Geita Hill East and West, Star & Comet – Ridge 8 Gap, Ridge 8, Nyankanga Block 1 & 2, Kukuluma, Matandani and Area 3 West areas. However, poor analytical results were received for the Geita Hill Waste Dump sterilization program.

Drilling of down-dip extensions outside of the existing Nyankanga pit shell continue to support and extend underground potential at Geita.

 

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Pit-scale structural mapping was completed at Nyankanga, Geita Hill and Star & Comet. This detailed mapping has provided resolution to the understanding of the geological model over the respective areas. Induced polarization (IP), gravity and electromagnetic geophysical surveys were also undertaken during the year and assisted with target generation.

Guinea

At Siguiri, exploration activities focused on the Block 1 license area with a total of 144,908 meters drilled during the year. Infill Mineral Resource drilling of 86,552 meters took place along the main northsouth trending Siguiri mineralized area, as well as an aggressive reconnaissance drilling program of 34,145 meters over soil anomalies and structural targets.

Significant drilling activities took place in the Sintroko-Sokunu, Tailings Facility, Silakoro, Kami- Kossise-Kozan, Sanu Tinti-Eureka-Kalamagna, Balato, and Kintinian areas. Fresh rock drilling centred on the hard rock mineralization potential below the pits of Kami NE, Kozan South, Kalamagna Pit 1, Sanu Tinti and Bidini and confirms the continuation of the mineralized ore zones below the oxide- fresh rock interface. In total, 8,824 meters were drilled for fresh rock exploration purposes.

The target generation program in Block 1 continued to center on IP surveys over selected soil geochemical and structural target areas. IP surveys were completed at Silakoro, Sintroko South and Komatiguiya. Gravity surveys were also completed over Silakoro and Sintroko South target areas. No surface geochemical soil sampling took place.

Ghana

At Obuasi, a total of 12,169 meters was drilled, with 4,805 meters from underground exploration and 7,364 meters from surface exploration activities. Surface exploration focused on the Rusty Monkey target, with 16 holes completed for a total of 5,659 meters.

Underground exploration continued to focus on the BSVS project area below 50 Level, with drilling designed to upgrade the existing Mineral Resource and test the down dip extensions of quartz and sulfide mineralization hosted within the carbonaceous and graphitic shear zones present in the area below Block 10 to -1390RL. Above 50 Level, drilling also commenced in Sansu 3 area during November to upgrade the Mineral Resource in Red Zone 9 area.

Field mapping and sampling to generate drill targets and enhance and refine geological understanding continued throughout the year.

A total of 13,227 meters of drilling was completed at Iduapriem. The focus was on Mineral Resource conversion drilling to facilitate the on-going Iduapriem expansion study, specifically at Block 3W and Blocks 7 and 8. A sterilization drilling program of 3,084 meters was carried out at the proposed location of the Ajopa waste dump from August to October 2012.

The geological modelling of Blocks 1, 2, 3, 3W, 4 and 5 to investigate the potential underground extraction of mineralization below the open pittable Mineral Resource has been completed.

DRC

At Mongbwalu, a total of 30,000 meters of brownfield exploration drilling was carried out. Drilling focused on infill Mineral Resource drilling within the main Adidi-Mongbwalu Mine area. Sterilization drilling was undertaken over both the portal, plant and camp areas. Additionally, over 18,000 meters of greenfield drilling was completed in the year under review. Limited reconnaissance drilling was completed in the Adidi North and Tchangaboli areas.

Total diamond drilling at Kibali was 18,000 meters. At the KCD deposit, a data review identified an area at the down plunge termination of the 5000 lode stope designs that has potential for Mineral Resource conversion and extension. Results to date are encouraging and compare positively with the current interpolated block model values; however, a potential loss was identified in the 3000 lode with some intersections lower than those predicted by the block model. The KCD deposit remains open down plunge and there are further opportunities for the conversion of Inferred Mineral Resource, most notably in the 9000 lode.

 

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Within a 10 kilometer radius of the main Sessenge-KCD deposit, there are a number of satellite deposits which are considered to have significant upside, either having very limited drilling or drilling only to relatively shallow depths. Kombokolo, Gorumbwa, Pakaka, Agbarabo and Mengu Hill are priority targets which form part of the endowment development plan for near mine site targets.

At Gorumbwa, drilling results confirmed the current model and further defined the depletion of underground Mineral Resource by historic mining activities. The drilling has the potential to allow for the conversion of a significant proportion of the current Mineral Resource into Ore Reserve and suggests further open pit potential.

At Mengu Village and Mengu Hill, an 18-hole shallow pitting program was designed and completed in November to test for the up-plunge continuation of mineralization beyond available drill data. Results received to date have confirmed the presence of a significant mineralized system.

Mali

A total of 119,554 meters of reverse circulation (RC) and diamond drilling were completed at Sadiola and Yatela.

At Sadiola, 48,490 meters of RC drilling was concentrated at Tambali, FE Gap, S12, Sadiola NE and the sub-laterite targets of Mandakoto and Sekokoto. Diamond drilling of the deep sulfide targets below the Sadiola Sulphide Project was conducted. Further core drilling focused on sulfide exploration below FE 3 and 4 and Tambali pits and follow-up drilling for geology and structural interpretation at Tabakoto and S12. Sterilization drilling of 9,854 meters was successfully conducted at Tambali and over the proposed TSF and SSP infrastructure.

The S12 target at Sadiola, west of the FE3 pits, was one of the most prospective areas drilled during the year. Good results have been returned from both oxide and shallow sulfide intersections, with further drilling planned. Follow up drilling at Mandakoto confirmed the extension of northeast-southwest mineralization. At Tambali, drilling around the planned pit areas indicates the potential for extension of the current oxide Mineral Resource and sulfide potential at depth.

Exploration at Yatela consisted of 59,192 meters RC drilling at Yatela NE, KW18, Alamoutala, Yatela Diorite, Badji and Yiri. Diamond drilling totaled 2,608 meters. Approximately 11 percent of the RC drilling was conducted over proposed waste dump areas for sterilization purposes.

An IP geophysical survey at Sadiola-Yatela commenced in June and has been partially completed, with some delays experienced due to logistical factors and weather. Hyperspectral core imaging of 93,000 meters of core was completed and will provide alteration based vectors for exploration targeting and predictive metallurgy.

A comprehensive termite mound sampling program was undertaken over the entire Sadiola concession during 2012. The program has been successful in highlighting prospective areas on the lease along the FE trend and northeast extensions of the Sadiola mineralization. Termite mound sampling was also started at Yatela and will continue next year. Portable XRF analysis of all termite mound samples is ongoing to provide multi-element data and identify potential pathfinder elements for target generation.

A three-year research program by the Centre for Exploration Targeting (CET) from the University of Western Australia commenced in early 2012. The objective of this project is to review and enhance the geological understanding of the Sadiola-Yatela deposit. This will inform further exploration programs within the area.

Namibia

At Navachab, 23,741 meters of drilling was completed over several areas, with the emphasis on the expansion project, Main Pit down-plunge extension area, and the Okahandja targets.

Drilling of the expansion project consisted of 7,105 meters diamond drilling for Mineral Resource upgrades and 4,846 meters RC drilling, mainly for sterilization purposes, over the waste dump area. A total of 7,495 meters of diamond drilling was completed in the lower schist down-plunge target at the Main Pit.

Off-mine exploration focused on the Okahandja target area, with 2,127 meters of drilling to test the geophysical and soil geochemical targets generated at Agagia. Soil geochemical sampling was conducted at the Cox Montis target.

 

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Australia

At Tropicana, a revised Mineral Resource estimate was prepared. Open Pit Resources are now reported within an A$1,500 per ounce pit shell. The study will consider the trade-off between open pit and underground mining options and will provide recommendations as to the optimal mining approach. Study work has commenced with metallurgical testing underway and a mining and geotechnical review.

Drilling of 38,336 meters for the Havana Deeps prefeasibility study was completed during the year while 14,221 meters of drilling of near-mine targets continued during the year. Drilling completed on the Havana-Tropicana trend, the Springbok/Hat Trick area and Boston Shaker.

Exploration at Sunrise Dam focused on growing the Mineral Resource base so that Sunrise Dam has the platform from which it can deliver its business plan each year. This was achieved through the specific work that includes:

 

in-mine exploration (35,739 meters), which extends the known Mineral Resource in areas proximal to existing development; and

 

near-mine exploration, which determines an understanding of the potential for Sunrise Dam, through specific geological characterization, and explores the areas around the mine and within enveloping tenure of 2,932 meters. This forms part of the mine life expansion project of 47,569 meters and includes the Vogue Mineral Resource of 28,897 meters.

A total of 115,137 meters was drilled in 420 drill holes. Drilling (66 percent) focused on deep extensions and longer-term Mineral Resource growth of the Vogue, Carey Shear and Astro-Sunrise Shear Lodes, whilst 33 percent of the drilling focused on in-mine exploration and mineral resource extension.

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI / DE BEERS JOINT VENTURE

In South African Sea Areas (SASA), a drilling program was concluded in February with a total of 87 boreholes drilled. All but 3.5 percent of samples taken over the 260 x 60 kilometers exploration area contained gold. This suggests that the exploration is taking place within a significant gold province but that this search now needs to be narrowed down geologically to target areas of higher potential.

A full review of all data collected to date was conducted by the joint venture around mid-year and a number of work flows were identified for completion prior to a further review.

In Nome, the environmental baseline studies field work was successfully completed and the first draft report issued. Side scan sonar, swath bathymetry and 2D seismics survey were completed (3,997 line kilometers). Interpretation of the geophysical data has been completed and an initial geophysical model developed.

A ship-based sonic core drilling campaign was completed during the summer season and 454 meters of core retrieved. This core was transported to Cape Town where initial logging and sampling has started. A conceptual economic study was completed and indicated that a positive business case was possible.

 

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4C.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

GROUP STRUCTURE

AngloGold Ashanti’s operations are divided into the following regions:

South Africa – operations in Vaal River and West Wits;

Continental Africa – operations in Ghana, Guinea, Namibia and Tanzania and joint venture operations in the DRC and Mali;

Australasia – operation in Australia; and

Americas – operations in Argentina, Brazil and the United States.

The above four regions also correspond to AngloGold Ashanti’s four business segments.

Management of the group is entrusted to AngloGold Ashanti’s executive committee which is chaired by the Chief Executive Officer. See “Item 6.: Directors, executive management and employees”.

Support is provided to the executive committee in managing AngloGold Ashanti’s corporate activities at both the central and local levels. Activities managed centrally include strategic and business planning, marketing, corporate finance, treasury, exploration, technology and innovation, corporate secretarial and corporate affairs. Specialized services directed from the center but managed by local operations include mining, engineering, metallurgy, mineral resource management, safety and health, the environment and human resources.

SUBSIDIARIES

AngloGold Ashanti has investments in principal subsidiaries and joint venture interests, see “Item 19.: Exhibits – Exhibit 19.8 List of AngloGold Ashanti Limited subsidiaries” for details.

 

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4D.

PROPERTY, PLANTS AND EQUIPMENT

AngloGold Ashanti’s operating mines are all accessible by road.

SOUTH AFRICA - GEOLOGY

The Witwatersrand Basin comprises a six-kilometer thick sequence of inter-bedded argillaceous and arenaceous sediments that extend laterally for some 300 kilometers north-east/south-west and 100 kilometers north-west/south-east on the Kaapvaal Craton. The upper portion of the basin, which contains the orebodies, crops out at its northern extent near Johannesburg. Further west, south and east the basin is overlain by up to four kilometers of Archaean, Proterozoic and Mesozoic volcanic and sedimentary rocks. The Witwatersrand Basin is late Archaean in age and is considered to be in the order of 2.7 to 2.8 billion years old.

Gold occurs in laterally extensive quartz pebble conglomerate horizons or reefs, generally less than two meters thick, which are widely considered to represent laterally extensive braided fluvial deposits. Separate fan systems were developed at different entry points and these are preserved as distinct goldfields. The most fundamental control to the gold distribution in the Basin remains the sedimentary features, such as facies variations and channel directions. Gold generally occurs in native form often associated with pyrite and carbon, with quartz being the main gangue mineral.

Operations in the South Africa region are powered by electricity from Eskom Holdings Limited which supplies 95 percent of the electricity used in South Africa.

 

 

Vaal River operations

Description

The Vaal River operations consist of Great Noligwa, Kopanang, Moab Khotsong as well as surface operations.

Geology

In order of importance, the reefs mined at the Vaal River operations are the Vaal Reef, the VCR and the “C” Reef:

 

 

The Vaal Reef contains approximately 85 percent of the reserve tonnage with mining grades between 10 and 20g/t and comprises a series of oligomictic conglomerates and quartzite packages developed on successive unconformities. Several distinct facies have been identified, each with its unique gold distribution and grade characteristic.

 

The VCR has a lower grade than the Vaal Reef, and contains approximately 15 percent of the estimated reserves. The economic portion is mainly concentrated in the western part of the lease area and can take the form of a massive conglomerate, a pyritic sand unit with intermittent pebble layers or a thin conglomerate horizon. The reef is located at the contact between the overlying Kliprivierberg Lavas of the Ventersdorp SuperGroup and the underlying sediments of the Witwatersrand SuperGroup which creates a distinctive seismic reflector. The VCR is located up to one kilometer above the Vaal Reef.

 

The “C” Reef is a thin, small pebble conglomerate with a carbon-rich basal contact, located approximately 270 meters above the Vaal Reef. It has less than 1 percent of the estimated reserves with grades similar to the Vaal Reef, but is more erratic. The most significant structural features are the north-east striking normal faults which dip to the north-west and south-east, resulting in zones of fault loss.

Vaal River – Summary of metallurgical operations

 

      West Gold
Plant
     East Gold
Acid and
Float Plant
     Noligwa
Gold Plant
     Mispah Gold
Plant
     Kopanang  
Gold Plant  
 

 Gold plants

              

  Capacity (000 tonnes/month)

     180        309        263        140        420    

 Uranium plants

              

  Capacity (000 tonnes/month)

                     263                –     

 

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Vaal River – Great Noligwa

Description

Great Noligwa, which began operations in 1972, is a mature operation which adjoins Kopanang and Moab Khotsong and is located close to the town of Orkney, near the Vaal River. The Vaal Reef, the operation’s primary reef, and the Crystalkop Reef, a secondary reef, are mined from a twin-shaft system over eight main levels at an average depth of 2,400 meters. Given the geological complexity of the orebody at Great Noligwa, a pillar mining method is employed.

The mine shares a milling and treatment circuit with Moab Khotsong and Kopanang.

Vaal River – Kopanang

Description

Kopanang is located in the Free State province, roughly 170 kilometers south-west of Johannesburg and approximately 10 kilometers southeast of the town of Orkney on a lease area of 35km2. The operation which started in 1984 is west of neighbour Great Noligwa and bound to the south by the Jersey Fault. Gold is the primary output with uranium oxide as a by-product from a single shaft system to a depth of 2,600 meters.

Kopanang almost exclusively exploits the Vaal Reef, although minor amounts of gold are also extracted from the secondary Crystalkop Reef. Given the geologically complex orebody, scattered mining is used.

Vaal River – Moab Khotsong

Description

Moab Khotsong started operations in 2003 and is AGA’s newest gold mine in South Africa. It is situated near Orkney, Klerksdorp and Viljoenskroon, about 180 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg. Stoping operations began in November 2003, with the mine expected to reach full production in 2013. Given the geological complexity of the Vaal Reef, scattered mining is employed.

The Zaaiplaats orebody in the Moab Khotsong lease area presents a significant growth opportunity and capital has been allocated to support its development in phases.

Surface operations

Description

Surface operations (metallurgy) extract gold from marginal ore dumps and tailings storage facilities on surface at various Vaal River and West Wits operations where there is more metallurgical capacity than reef mined. Uranium is produced as a by-product. In addition, backfill product is used as support in mining operations. The surface operation includes the rail transport infrastructure, the Vaal River and West Wits Laboratories and tailings management facilities. Although there is more than one surface operation they are technically reported as one.

Mine Waste Solutions

Description

MWS is a gold and uranium tailings recovery operation located in the western portion of the Witwatersrand Basin, some 160 kilometers from Johannesburg approximately 8 kilometers from the town of Klerksdorp near Stilfontein in the North West Province. It has been operational since 1964 and was previously owned by First Uranium Corp.

The Project consists of 14 tailings dams, which are made up of deposits from three gold and uranium mines that operated for 50 years.

The tailings dams are scattered over an area that stretches approximately 13.5 kilometers north to south and 14 kilometers east to west. The footprints of the 14 tailings dams cover an area of approximately 1,100 hectares.

The MWS gold plants have the capacity to treat tailings of 1,93 million tonnes per month. The uranium plant has a design capacity of 135,000 tonnes per months and plan construction is expected to be completed by the last quarter of 2013.

Geology

MWS lies within the Witwatersrand Basin, an Archaean sedimentary basin which was deposited over a protracted time period, whose surface expression is an elongate structure that extends longitudinally for approximately 300 kilometers northeast-southwest by 100 kilometers northwest-southeast.

 

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The tailings dams are comprised of tailings material which originated from the processing of underground ore from Buffelsfontein Gold mine (“BGM”) and the now defunct Stilfontein Gold Mine (“SGM”). Both BGM and SGM predominately extracted gold from conglomerate refs of the Witwatersrand Basin. The material contained in the tailings dams is generally fine.

 

 

West Wits operations

Description

The Mponeng, Savuka and TauTona mines are situated on the West Wits Line near the town of Carletonville, straddling the border of Gauteng and North West Province. Mponeng has its own gold processing plant, while the Savuka and TauTona operations share a plant.

Geology

Two reef horizons are exploited at the West Wits operations, the Ventersdorp contact Reef (VCR) located at the top of the Central Rand Group and the Carbon Leader Reef (CLR) near the base. The separation between the two reefs increases from east to west from 400 to 900 meters, due to unconformity in the VCR. TauTona and Savuka exploit both reefs, whereas Mponeng only mines the VCR. Faults of greater than 70 meters are rare. The CLR consists of one or more conglomerate units and varies from several centimeters to more than three meters in thickness. Regionally, the VCR dips at approximately 21 degrees but may vary between 5 degrees and 50 degrees, accompanied by changes in thickness of the conglomerate units. Where the conglomerate has the attitude of the regional dip, it tends to be thick, well-developed and accompanied by higher gold accumulations. Where the attitude departs significantly from the regional dip, the reef is thin, varying from several centimeters to more than three meters in thickness.

West Wits – Mponeng

Description

Mponeng, in operation since 1986, is located between the towns of Carletonville and Fochville on the border between Gauteng and the North West Province, southwest of Johannesburg. The operation, the world’s deepest mine, extracts the Ventersdorp Contact Reef (VCR) at depths between 2,400 meters and 3,900 meters through sequential-grid mining. The Mponeng lease area is constrained to the north by the TauTona and Savuka mines, to the east by Gold Fields’ Driefontein mine and to the west by Harmony’s Kusasalethu mine. Mponeng comprises a twin-shaft system housing two surface shafts and two sub-shafts. Ore is treated and smelted at the mine’s gold plant. The plant has a monthly capacity of 165 000 tonnes.

West Wits – TauTona

Description

TauTona lies on the West Wits Line, just south of Carletonville in Gauteng, about 70 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg. In operation since 1961, mining takes place at depths of 1,850 meters to 3,450 meters. The mine has a three-shaft system, supported by secondary and tertiary shafts, and is in the process of converting from longwall to scattered-grid mining. The change in mining method was necessitated by the increasingly complex geology being encountered and the unsuitability of the current method for mining through the Pretorius fault. This change is also expected to improve safety.

West Wits – Savuka

Description

Savuka is situated on the West Wits line in the province of Gauteng, close to the town of Carletonville and approximately 70 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg. The Carbon Leader Reef (CLR) is mined at depths varying between 3,137 meters and 3,457 meters below surface and the Ventersdorp Contact Reef (VCR) at a depth of 1,808 meters below surface.

Savuka shares a processing plant with neighbouring TauTona and has been operational since 1962. The gold plant has a monthly capacity of 160 000 tonnes.

The West Wits team conducted an investigation into the incorporation of Savuka, which is nearing the end of its working life, into either TauTona or Mponeng. Post year-end, the investigation concluded that the optimal, most efficient solution to accessing Savuka’s remaining Ore Reserves would be via TauTona’s infrastructure.

From January 1, 2013 Savuka and TauTona operate as a single mine.

 

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CONTINENTAL AFRICA

GHANA - Summary of metallurgical operations

 

     Obuasi    

        Iduapriem

Plant

 
     Sulfide Treatment
Plant
   

Tailings

Treatment Plant

   

Capacity (000 tonnes/month)

    195        180        385   

Ghana – Iduapriem

Description

Iduapriem, wholly owned by AngloGold Ashanti since September 2007, comprises the Iduapriem and Teberebie properties on a 110km2 concession. The mine, which began operations in 1992, is situated in the western region of Ghana, some 70 kilometers north of the coastal city of Takoradi and 10 kilometers southwest of Tarkwa.

Iduapriem is an open-pit mine and its processing facilities include a Carbon-in-pulp (CIP) plant.

Geology

The Iduapriem and Teberebie properties are located along the southern end of the Tarkwa basin. The mineralization is contained in the Banket Series of rocks within the Tarkwaian System of Proterozoic age. The outcropping Banket Series of rocks in the mine area form prominent, arcuate ridges extending southwards from Tarkwa, westwards through Iduapriem and northwards towards Teberebie.

Ghana – Obuasi

Description

Obuasi, wholly owned by AngloGold Ashanti since 2004, is located in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, approximately 60 kilometers south of Kumasi. Mining operations are primarily underground, to a depth of 1.5 kilometers. However, some surface mining in the form of open pit and tailings reclamation also occurs. Obuasi originally opened in 1897.

Geology

The gold deposits at Obuasi are part of a prominent gold belt of Proterozoic (Birimian) volcano-sedimentary and igneous formations which extend for a distance of approximately 300 kilometers in a north-east/south-west trend in south-western Ghana. Obuasi mineralization is shear-zone related and there are three main structural trends hosting gold mineralization: the Obuasi trend, the Gyabunsu trend and the Binsere trend.

Two main ore types are mined:

 

quartz veins which consist mainly of quartz with free gold in association with lesser amounts of various metal sulfides such as iron, zinc, lead and copper. The gold particles are generally fine-grained and occasionally are visible to the naked eye. This ore type is generally non-refractory; and

 

sulfide ore which is characterized by the inclusion of gold in the crystal structure of a sulfide material. The gold in these ores is fine-grained and often locked in arsenopyrite. Higher gold grades tend to be associated with finer grained arsenopyrite crystals. Other prominent minerals include quartz, chlorite and sericite. Sulfide ore is generally refractory.

Power is supplied to the mines by the Volta River Authority.

GUINEA

Description

Siguiri, a multiple open-pit oxide gold mine which opened in 1997, is AngloGold Ashanti’s sole operation in the Republic of Guinea. It is located in the district of Siguiri, around 850 kilometers northeast of the country’s capital Conakry. Conventional mining activities are performed by contractors in multiple open pits using conventional techniques. On surface, Siguiri’s gold processing plant treats about 960,000 tonnes per month. Power to the mine is self-generated.

AngloGold Ashanti holds an 85 percent interest in Siguiri and the balance of 15 percent is held by the Government of Guinea.

 

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Geology

This concession is dominated by Proterozoic Birimian rocks which consist of turbidite facies sedimentary sequences. The two main types of gold deposits which occur in the Siguiri basin and are mined are:

 

laterite or CAP mineralization which occurs as aprons of colluvial or as palaeo-channels of alluvial lateritic gravel adjacent to, and immediately above; and

 

in-situ quartz-vein related mineralization hosted in meta-sediments with the better mineralization associated with vein stockworks that occurs preferentially in the coarser, brittle siltstones and sandstones.

The mineralized rocks have been deeply weathered to below 100 meters in places to form saprolite or SAP mineralization. With the percentage of available CAP ore decreasing, a carbon-in-pulp (CIP) plant is used to treat predominantly SAP ore.

MALI

AngloGold Ashanti has interests in three gold mining operations in Mali, namely, Sadiola, Yatela and Morila. It manages two of these operations, Sadiola and Yatela.

Mali – Morila (attributable 40 percent)

Description

The Morila mine has operated for 13 years and is situated 180 kilometers southeast of Bamako, the capital of Mali. The operation treats low-grade stockpiles while the plant, which incorporates a conventional carbon-in-leach process with an upfront gravity section to extract the free gold, has annual throughput capacity of 4.3 million tonnes. Since mining was concluded in 2009 with the depletion of the orebody, operations at Morila currently involve processing of the stockpile which stood at 5 million tonnes (marginal ore and marginal waste) as at year-end. Power is supplied by a subcontractor.

AngloGold Ashanti has an effective 40 percent stake in Morila, as does Randgold Resources Limited (which manages the mine). The Government of Mali owns the remaining 20 percent.

Geology

Morila is a mesothermal flat lying shear-zone hosted deposit which, apart from rising to the surface in the west against steep faulting, lies flat. The deposit occurs within a sequence Birimian metal-arkoses of amphibolite metamorphic grade. Mineralization is characterized by silica-feldspar alteration and sulfide mineralization consists of arsenopyrite, pyrrhotite, pyrite and chalcopyrite.

Mali – Sadiola (attributable 41 percent)

Description

The Sadiola mine is situated in western Mali, some 77 kilometers south-southwest of the regional capital Kayes. The mine is a joint venture between AngloGold Ashanti (41 percent) and IAMGOLD (41 percent) and the government of Mali (18 percent). The mine has been operating under the current ownership structure since 1996. Mining activities take place in five open pits. On-site surface infrastructure includes a 4.9 million tonnes per annum carbon-in-leach gold plant where the ore is eluted and smelted. Sadiola’s future lies in the expansion of the Sadiola main pit and a new plant. Power to the Sadiola and Yatela mines is self-generated.

Geology

The Sadiola deposit occurs within an inlier of greenschist facies metamorphosed Birimian rocks known as the Kenieba Window. The specific rocks which host the mineralization are marbles and greywackes which have been intensely weathered to a maximum depth of 200 meters. A series of north-south trending faults occur that are the feeders to the Sadiola mineralization. As a result of an east-west regional compression event, deformation occurs along a north-south striking marble-greywacke contact, increasing the porosity of this zone. North-east striking structures which intersect the north-south contact have introduced mineralization, mainly with the marble where the porosity was greatest. The Sadiola Hill deposit generally consists of two zones, an upper oxidized cap and an underlying sulfide zone. From 1996 until 2002, shallow saprolite oxide ore from the Sadiola Hill pit was the primary ore source. Since 2002, the deeper saprolitic sulfide ore has been mined and in future will progressively replace the depleting oxide reserves.

 

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Mali – Yatela (attributable 40 percent)

Description

Yatela, operational since 2001, is 80 percent owned by the Sadiola Exploration Company Limited, a joint venture between AngloGold Ashanti and IAMGOLD, giving each a 40 percent stake in Yatela. The balance of 20 percent is owned by the government of Mali.

The Yatela mine is situated in western Mali, some 25 kilometers north of Sadiola and approximately 50 kilometers south-southwest of the regional capital Kayes. Ore extraction has been conducted from a number of pits in which mining in most of these pits has been completed.

For the remaining years of the life of mine, the focus will be on a final cutback in Yatela Main pit as well as a new pit north of the Yatela Main pit. The ore mined is treated on heap-leach pads together with carbon loading. The carbon is then transported to Sadiola for elution and smelting.

Geology

Yatela mineralization occurs as a keel-shaped body in Birimian metacarbonates. The ‘keel’ is centered on a fault which was the feeder for the original mesothermal mineralization, with an associated weakly mineralized diorite intrusion. Mineralization occurs as a layer along the sides and in the bottom of the ‘keel’. The ore dips almost vertically on the west limb and more gently towards the west on the east limb, with tight closure to the south.

NAMIBIA

Namibia – Navachab

Description

The Navachab gold mine is situated near the town of Karibib, some 170 kilometers northwest of the capital Windhoek and 171 kilometers inland on the southwest coast of Africa.

Navachab, which began operations in 1989, is an open-pit mine with a processing plant which includes a mill as well as CIP and electro-winning facilities, all with a monthly capacity of 120,000 tonnes.

Geology

The Navachab deposit is hosted by Damaran greenschistam-phibolite facies, calc-silicates, marbles and volcanoclastics. The rocks have been intruded by granites, pegmatites and (quartz-porphyry dykes) aplite and have also been deformed into a series of alternating dome and basin structures. The mineralized zone forms a sheet-like body which plunges at an angle of approximately 20 degrees to the north-west. The mineralization is predominantly hosted in a sheeted vein set (±60 percent) and a replacement skarn body (±40 percent). The gold is very fine-grained and associated with pyrrhotite, and minor to trace amounts of pyrite, chalcopyrite, maldonite and bismuthinite. Approximately 80 percent of the gold is free milling.

TANZANIA

Tanzania – Geita

Description

The Geita gold mine is located in the Lake Victoria goldfields of the Mwanza region of Tanzania, about 120 kilometers from Mwanza and 4 kilometers west of the town of Geita.

The Geita gold mine is a multiple open pit operation with underground potential and is currently serviced by a 5.2 million tonnes per annum CIL processing plant.

Geology

Geita is an Archaean mesothermal mainly BIF-hosted deposit. Mineralization is located where auriferous fluids, which are interpreted to have moved along shears often on BIF-diorite contacts, reacted with the BIF. Some lower-grade mineralization can occur in the diorite as well (usually in association with BIF-hosted mineralization), and approximately 20 percent of the gold is hosted in the diorite.

 

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AUSTRALIA

Australia – Sunrise Dam

Description

The Sunrise Dam gold mine is located in the northern goldfields of Western Australia, 220 kilometers northeast of Kalgoorlie and 55 kilometers south of Laverton.

The mine consists of a large open pit which is now in its sixteenth year of operation, and an underground mine which began in 2004. Mining is conducted by contractors and the ore is treated in a conventional gravity and carbon-in-leach (CIL) processing plant, which is managed by AngloGold Ashanti. Power to the mine is self-generated. The CIL processing plant has a nameplate capacity of 2.5 million tonnes per annum.

Geology

Gold ore at Sunrise Dam is structurally and lithologically controlled within gently dipping high strain shear zones (for example, Sunrise Shear) and steeply dipping brittleductile low strain shear zones (for example, Western Shear). Host rocks include andesitic volcanic rocks, volcanogenic sediments and magnetic shales.

THE AMERICAS

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

United States of America – Cripple Creek & Victor

Description

AngloGold Ashanti holds a 100 percent interest in Cripple Creek & Victor (CC&V) Gold Mining Company’s Cresson Project, located in the state of Colorado in the United States. A surface mining operation provides ore to a crusher and valley-leach facility, one of the largest in the world. Production here began in 1994. Production from the mine life extension (MLE1) project, which involved expanding capacity at the heap-leach pad, began in 2011. A further life extension and production expansion project (MLE2) was approved in 2012. The power for the mine is purchased from Black Hills Energy. The mine became operational in 1976. The mine has been operated by AngloGold Ashanti since 1999.

Geology

The district of Cripple Creek is centered on an intensely altered alkaline, Tertiary-aged, diatreme-volcanic, intrusive complex, approximately circular in shape covering 18.4 square kilometers and surrounded by Precambrian rocks. The Precambrian rocks consist of biotite gneiss, granodiorite and quartz monzonite and granite.

The intersection of these four units and regional tectonic events formed an area of regional dilation which subsequently facilitated the formation of the volcanic complex. The majority of the complex then in-filled with the eruptive phase Cripple Creek Breccia host rock. This complex was subsequently intruded by a series of intrusive dykes and sills that include syenites, phonolites, phonotephrites and lamprophyres. These intrusives occupy all of the dominant district structural orientations. District structures are generally near vertical and strike north-north-west to north-east. These structures acted as primary conduits for the late-stage gold mineralizing solutions. Higher grade pods of mineralization occur at structural intersections and/or as sheeted veins along zones of strike deflection. High-grade gold mineralization is associated with K-feldspar + pyrite +/- carbonate alteration and occurs adjacent to the major structural and intrusive dyke zones. The broader zones of disseminated mineralization occur primarily as micro-fracture halos around the stronger alteration zones in the more permeable Cripple Creek Breccia wall rocks.

The average depth of oxidation is 120 meters and is also developed along major structural zones to even greater depths. Individual orebodies can be tabular, pipe-like, irregular or massive. Individual gold particles are generally less than 20 microns in size and occur as native gold with pyrite or native gold after gold-silver tellurides. Gold occurs within hydrous iron and manganese oxides and as gold-silver tellurides. Silver is present but is economically unimportant. Gold mineralization can be encapsulated by iron and manganese oxides, pyrite, K-feldspar alteration and quartz.

Cripple Creek & Victor – Summary of metallurgical operations

 

Gold plants

    

Capacity (000 tonnes/month)

  

- crushed ore production

   1,632

- total ore production

   1,814

- solution processed

   2,627

 

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SOUTH AMERICA

ARGENTINA

Argentina – Cerro Vanguardia

Description

AngloGold Ashanti has a 92.5 percent interest in Cerro Vanguardia with Fomicruz (the province of Santa Cruz) owning the remaining 7.5 percent. Located to the northwest of Puerto San Julian in the province of Santa Cruz, Cerro Vanguardia consists of multiple small open pits. Shallow underground mining began in 2010 to access high-grade material and accounts for about 19 percent of the mine’s production. The orebodies comprise a series of hydrothermal vein deposits containing gold and large quantities of silver, which is mined as a by-product. Ore is processed at the metallurgical plant which has a capacity of 3,000 tonnes per day and includes a cyanide recovery facility. Power for the mine is self-generated but operated by an external contractor. The mine has been operated by AngloGold Ashanti since 1998.

Geology

The oldest rocks in this part of Patagonia are metamorphics of the Precambrian-Cambrian age. These are overlain by Permian and Triassic continental clastic rocks which have been faulted into a series of horsts and grabens and are associated with both limited basaltic sills and dykes and with calc-alkaline granite and granodiorite intrusions. Thick andesite flows of Lower Jurassic age occur above these sedimentary units. A large volume of rhyolitic ignimbrites was emplaced during the Middle and Upper Jurassic age over an area of approximately 100,000km2. These volcanic rocks include the Chon Aike formation ignimbrite units that host the gold bearing veins at Cerro Vanguardia. Post-mineral units include Cretaceous and Tertiary rocks of both marine and continental origin, the Quaternary La Avenida formation, the Patagonia gravel and the overlying La Angelita basalt flows. These flows do not cover the area of the Cerro Vanguardia veins.

Gold and silver mineralization at Cerro Vanguardia occurs within a vertical range of about 150 meters to 200 meters in a series of narrow, banded quartz veins that occupy structures within the Chon Aike ignimbrites. These veins form a typical structural pattern related to major north-south (Concepcion) and east-west (Vanguardia) shears. Two sets of veins have formed in response to this shearing. One set of veins strikes about N40W and generally dips 65 to 90 degrees to the east; while the other set strikes about N75W and the veins dip 60 degrees to 80 degrees to the south.

The veins are typical of epithermal, low-temperature, adularia-sericite character and consist primarily of quartz in several forms: as massive quartz, banded chalcedonic quartz, and quartz-cemented breccias. Dark bands in the quartz are due to finely disseminated pyrite, now oxidized to limonite. The veins show sharp contacts with the surrounding ignimbrite which hosts narrow stockwork zones that are weakly mineralized and appear to have been cut by a sequence of north-east-trending faults that have southerly movement with no appreciable lateral displacement.

BRAZIL

Brazil – AngloGold Ashanti Córrego do Sítio Mineração (AGA Mineração)

Description

AngloGold Ashanti Córrego do Sítio Mineração (AGA Mineração) comprises two operational units, namely the Cuiabá and the Córrego do Sítio complexes. The Cuiabá complex includes the Cuiabá and Lamego mines and the Cuiabá and Queiroz plants. In operation for 27 years, the Cuiabá mine is principally a cut-and-fill mine accessed by ramp and shaft. Lamego is a new mine developed to mine an underground sulfide ore. The first stage of the processing of the ore from Cuiabá and Lamego mines is in the gold plant at the Cuiabá complex, where concentrate is produced. The material is then transported 15 kilometers by aerial ropeway to the Queiroz plant where milling, flotation, roasting, leaching, precipitation and refining occur. Total capacity of the complete circuit is 1.7 million tonnes per year and recoveries of 93 percent are achieved. Power for the mine is both self-generated and supplied by Cemig a stated owned company. The Cuiaba mine became operational in 1988 and the Lamego mine in 2009. However some of the older mines which are now closed have been operating since 1834.

The Córrego do Sítio operation comprises one surface (oxide) and two underground (sulfide) mines, as well as a heap leach pad and sulfide plant, the latter originally acquired from Eldorado late in 2008 was refurbished and brought into operation in January 2012.

 

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Geology

The area in which Brasil Mineração is located is known as the Iron Quadrangle and is host to historic and current gold mining operations, as well as a number of open-pit limestone and iron ore operations. The geology of the Iron Quadrangle is composed of Proterozoic and Archaean volcano-sedimentary sequences and Pre-Cambrian granitic complexes. The host to the gold mineralization is the volcano-sedimentary Nova Lima Group (NLG) that occurs at the base of the Rio das Velhas SuperGroup (RDVS). The upper sequence of the RDVS is the meta-sedimentary Maquiné Group. Cuiabá mine, located at Sabara Municipality, has gold mineralization associated with sulfides and quartz veins in Banded Ironstone Formation (BIF) and volcanic sequences. At this mine, structural control and fluids flow ascension are the most important factors for gold mineralization with a common association between large-scale shear zones and their associated structures. Where BIF is mineralized the ore appears strongly stratiform due to the selective sulfidation of the iron rich layers. Steeply plunging shear zones tend to control the ore shoots, which commonly plunge parallel to intersections between the shears and other structures.

The controlling mineralization structures are the apparent intersection of thrust faults with tight isoclinal folds in a ductile environment. The host rocks at Brasil Mineração are BIF, Lapa Seca and mafic volcanics (principally basaltic). Mineralization is due to the interaction of low salinity carbon dioxide rich fluids with the high-iron BIF, basalts and carbonaceous graphitic schists. Sulfide mineralization consists of pyrrhotite and pyrite with subordinate pyrite and chalcopyrite; the latter tends to occur as a late-stage fracture fill and is not associated with gold mineralization. Wallrock alteration is typically carbonate, potassic and silicic.

Brazil – Summary of metallurgical operations

 

      Corrego do Sitio      Corrego do Sitio      AngloGold Ashanti Mineração      Serra Grande    
      Oxide      Sulfide      Cuiabá      Raposos          

Gold plants

              

Capacity (000 tonnes/month)

     38           50           138           28           102     

Brazil – Serra Grande (100 percent effective July 1, 2012, previously 50 percent)

Description

Serra Grande is located in central Brazil, in the state of Goiás, about 5 kilometers from the city of Crixás. Serra Grande comprises three mechanized underground mines: Mina III, Mina Nova (which includes the Pequizão orebody) and Palmeiras – and an open pit on the outcrop of Mina III orebody. One dedicated metallurgical plant treats ore from these different sources. Annual capacity of the processing circuit, which has grinding, leaching, filtration, precipitation and smelting facilities, is 1.22 million tonnes. During the year, AngloGold Ashanti increased its holding in Serra Grande from 50 percent to 100 percent. Power for the mine is supplied and purchased on the open market. The mine became operational in 1989 but has been operated by AngloGold Ashanti since 1999.

Geology

The deposits are in the Rio Vermelho and Ribeirão das Antes Formations of the Archaean Pilar de Goia’s Group which together account for a large proportion of the Crixás Greenstone Belt in central Brazil.

The stratigraphy of the belt is dominated by basics and ultrabasics in the lower sequences with volcano sedimentary units forming the upper successions.

The gold deposits are hosted in a sequence of schists, volcanics and carbonates occurring in a typical greenstone belt structural setting. The host rocks are of the Pilar de Goiás Group of the Upper Archaean. Gold mineralization is associated with massive sulfides and vein quartz material associated with graphitic and sericitic schists and dolomites. The oreshoots plunge to the north-west with dips of between 6 and 35 degrees. The stratigraphy is overturned and thrusts towards the east.

The greenstone belt lithologies are surrounded by Archaean tonalitic gneiss and granodiorite. The metamorphosed sediments are primarily composed of quartz, chlorite, sericite, graphitic and garnetiferous schists. The carbonates have been metamorphosed to ferroan dolomite marble with development of siderite and ankerite veining in the surrounding wallrock, usually associated with quartz veining. The basalts are relatively unaltered but do show pronounced stretching with elongation of pillow structures evident.

The Crixás greenstone belt comprises a series of Archaean to Palaeoproterozoic metavulcanics, metasediments and basement granitoids stacked within a series of north to north-east transported thrust sheet. Thrusting (D1) was accompanied by significant F1 folding/foliation development and progressive alteration in a brittle-ductile regime. D1 thrusting developed with irregular thrust ramp geometry, in part controlled by concealed early basin faults. The main

 

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Crixás orebodies are adjacent to a major north-north-west structural corridor, and up the main fault ramp/corner, to become dispersed to the east and north in zones of foreland thrust flats. Fluid alteration also diminished to the west away from the main fault corner. A series of concealed east-west to north-west-south-east basement block faults may have provided secondary fluid migration, and development of early anti-formal warps in the thrust sheets; these structures probably define the quasi-regular spacing of significant mineralization within the belt. The D1 thrust stack was gently folded by non-cylindrical folds. Gold mineralizing fluids probably migrated during this event, with similar south-south-west to north-north-east migration, and focusing on bedding slip during folding. Gold mineralization became minor and dispersed to the north and east along the formal thrust flat zone. Concentrations of gold along the case of quartz vein may be due to the damming of fluids migrating upward along layering.

ORE RESERVES

The combined Proven and Probable Ore Reserve of the group amounted to 74.1 million ounces as at December 31, 2012.

Ore Reserve estimates are reported in accordance with the requirements of the SEC’s Industry Guide 7. Accordingly, as of the date of reporting, all Ore Reserves are planned to be mined out under the life-of-mine plans within the period of AngloGold Ashanti’s existing rights to mine, or within the renewal periods of AngloGold Ashanti’s rights to mine. In addition, as of the date of reporting, all Ore Reserves are covered by required permits and governmental approvals. See “Item 4B.: Business overview – The regulatory environment enabling AngloGold Ashanti to mine”.

AngloGold Ashanti has standard procedures for the estimation of Ore Reserve. These standard procedures are performed by technical personnel at the mining operations and reviewed by regional and corporate competent persons.

In the case of its underground mines, the procedure is as follows: Firstly, gold content and tonnage are estimated for in-situ mineralized material at a mining operation. This mineralized material is not necessarily economically viable. Exclusions on the grounds of safety (for example, stability pillars and shaft pillars) are then defined. Grade-tonnage curves specific for each of the deposits, in conjunction with parameters such as the cost structure; yield; mine call factor and gold price estimates are used to determine an optimal mining mix. This process facilitates the determination of the average grade to be mined by each operation. This grade is then applied to the grade-tonnage curves, which in turn facilitates the determination of the cut-off grade and Ore Reserve tonnage for the operation. A full mine design is carried out on the blocks of mineralized material, excluding any large mining areas that do not meet the cut-off grade criterion. This mining plan is reviewed to ensure that it satisfies the economic criteria and practical limitations of access and timing. If the review process is positive then the mineralized material (with dilution) included in the mining plan is declared and published as the Ore Reserve for that operation.

In the case of open-pit mines the procedure is as follows: revenue and costs are calculated for each mining block within a three-dimensional model of the ore body using assumed values for gold price, operating costs and metallurgical recoveries. An optimization process is then applied to determine the combination of blocks within the model that make a positive contribution under these assumptions. Block selection is within a shell whose limits are defined by the planned slope angles of the pit. Within this process, a cut-off grade is applied which determines the ore blocks to be treated and included in the Ore Reserve. These blocks are scheduled with consideration being given to practical mining considerations and limitations. Scheduled ore blocks that are classified as Proven or Probable constitute the Ore Reserve.

The gold price and exchange rate used for 2012 and 2011 Reserve is outlined in the following table.

 

      2012
(3 year
average)
     2012
(Business
Plan)
     2011
(3 year
average)
    

 

Units

 

Ore Reserve Gold Price

     1,488         1,300         1,256         US$ per ounce   

Exchange Rate – South Africa

     7.58         6.94         7.64         ZAR/US$   

Ore Reserve Gold Price (South African rand per ounce)

     11,345         9,324         9,479         ZAR per ounce   

The Ore Reserve has been determined using the company’s business plan assumptions - a gold price of $1,300 per ounce and a South African rand exchange rate of 6.94 to the US dollar, which translates to a South African rand gold price of ZAR9,324 per ounce.

 

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As in prior years, the Ore Reserve determined from the planning process was then tested for economic viability at the three-year historical average gold price and currency exchange rates shown in the above table for determining the SEC compliant Ore Reserve. This did not result in any changes. The resultant SEC compliant Proven and Probable Ore Reserve is shown in the following pages.

In Australia and South Africa, AngloGold Ashanti is legally required to publicly report Ore Reserve and Mineral Resource according to the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (The JORC Code, 2004 edition) and the South African Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (The SAMREC Code, 2007 edition). The SEC’s Industry Guide 7 does not recognize Mineral Resources. Accordingly, AngloGold Ashanti does not report estimates of Mineral Resource in this annual report on Form 20-F.

The AngloGold Ashanti Ore Reserve decreased from 75.6 million ounces in 2011 to 74.1 million ounces in December 2012. A year-on-year increase of 3.2 million ounces occurred before the subtraction of 4.7 million ounces for depletion, resulting in a decrease of 1.5 million ounces after the subtraction of depletion. A gold price of $1,300 per ounce (ZAR9,324 per ounce) was used for Ore Reserve estimates (2011: $1,100 per ounce, ZAR8,393 per ounce).

The principal changes in AngloGold Ashanti’s Ore Reserves as at December 31, 2012, compared with those published as at December 31, 2011 are as follows:

 

 Ore Reserve          Million oz 
 Ore Reserve as at December 31, 2011    75.6 

 Reductions

     

 Kopanang

   Depletion and minor model revision    (1.4) 

 Obuasi

   Revised mine planning parameters and geotechnical review    (0.9) 

 Great Noligwa

  

Economic driven reduction of underground mining footprint

  

(0.7) 

 Other

   Total of non-significant changes    (2.7) 

 Additions

     

 Kibali

  

Open pit increase due to additional metal defined by grade control drilling

  

0.4 

 Geita

   Positive economic changes    0.7 

 Other

   Total of non-significant changes    0.3 

 Acquisitions

     

 Serra Grande

   Purchase of remaining 50 percent of the operation    0.4 

 Mine Waste Solutions

  

Purchase of Mine Waste Solutions

  

2.4 

 Ore Reserve as at December 31, 2012

   74.1 

Rounding may result in computational differences.

AngloGold Ashanti strives to actively create value by growing its major asset – the Ore Reserve. This drive is based on an active, well-defined brownfields exploration program, innovation in both geological modeling and mine planning and optimization of its asset portfolio.

The Ore Reserve estimates in this document include the Ore Reserve below current infrastructure in the case of certain South African, Brazilian and Ghanaian underground mines which are in production.

By-products

Several by-products are recovered as a result of the processing of gold Ore Reserve. These include 162.03 million pounds (73,492 tonnes) of uranium oxide from the South African operations, 0.49 million tons (0.44 million tonnes) of sulfur from Brazil and 40.74 million ounces (1,267 tonnes) of silver from Argentina. Details of the by-product Ore Reserve is are given in the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Report 2012, which is available on the corporate website.

 

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External Audit of Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Statement

During the course of 2012, the following AngloGold Ashanti operations were subjected to external audits by a number of consulting companies:

 

 

Sadiola

 

Vaal River Surface Operations including Mine Waste Solutions

 

AGA Mineração - Córrego do Sítio

The company has been informed that the audits identified no material shortcomings in the process by which AngloGold Ashanti’s grade models were evaluated. It is the company’s intention to continue a process whereby each of its operations will be audited, on average, every three years.

Competent Persons

The information in this report that relates to the Ore Reserve is based on information compiled by the Competent Persons. The Competent Persons consent to the inclusion of Exploration Results and Ore Reserves information in this report, in the form and context in which it appears.

During the past decade, the company has developed and implemented a rigorous system of internal and external reviews of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. A chain of responsibility exists from the Competent Persons at the operations to the company’s Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Steering Committee. Accordingly, the Chairman of the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Steering Committee, VA Chamberlain, MSc (Mining Engineering), BSc Hons (Geology), MGSSA, FAusIMM, assumes responsibility for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve processes for AngloGold Ashanti and is satisfied that the Competent Persons have fulfilled their responsibilities.

 

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Ore Reserve: Imperial    At December 31, 2012  
     Proven Ore Reserve (1)(2)      Probable Ore Reserve (1)(2)     

Metallurgical

 
                   Gold                    Gold      Recovery  
    

Tons(5)

     Grade Content (1)     

Tons (5)

     Grade Content (1)      Factor  
     (million)      (oz/ton)      (m oz)      (million)      (oz/ton)      (m oz)      percent  

 

 

South Africa

                    

Vaal River (6)

                    

Great Noligwa

     1.33         0.255         0.34         0.21         0.239         0.05         95.5    

Kopanang

     0.96         0.229         0.22         5.54         0.211         1.17         96.4    

Moab Khotsong (2)

     1.80         0.317         0.57         20.81         0.290         6.04         95.8-96.0 (4)   

West Wits

                    

Mponeng (2)

     2.55         0.259         0.66         44.31         0.297         13.15         98.1    

Savuka

     0.29         0.174         0.05         3.34         0.150         0.50         97.3    

TauTona

     0.82         0.331         0.27         5.29         0.261         1.38         97.5    

 

 

Surface

                    

Surface sources (6)

     156.20         0.007         1.05         723.47         0.008         6.12         51.5-93 (4)   

 

 

Continental Africa

                    

Democratic Republic of Congo

                    

Kibali (45 percent) (3)

     1.75         0.097         0.17         39.57         0.120         4.75         84.5; 91.3 (9)   

 

 

Ghana

                    

Iduapriem

     24.87         0.039         0.96         27.40         0.046         1.25         95.0    

Obuasi (2)

     20.19         0.175         3.53         30.77         0.162         4.99         85.4    

 

 

Guinea

                    

Siguiri (85 percent) (3)

     40.33         0.018         0.74         74.52         0.020         1.46         88.0-90.0 (4)   

 

 

Mali

                    

Morila (40 percent) (3)

     -         -         -         1.70         0.035         0.06         88.8-89.0 (4)   

Sadiola (41 percent) (3)

     2.44         0.037         0.09         38.37         0.053         2.05         76.0-94.0 (4)   

Yatela (40 percent) (3)

     0.06         0.038         0.00         0.29         0.105         0.03         84.8    

 

 

Namibia

                    

Navachab

     -         -         -         57.10         0.037         2.10         88.1    

 

 

Tanzania

                    

Geita

     -         -         -         71.72         0.076         5.42         46.0-91.0 (4)   

 

 

Australasia

                    

Australia

                    

Sunrise Dam

     16.51         0.033         0.54         5.49         0.118         0.65         85.2-85.5 (4)   

Tropicana (70 percent) (3)

     20.01         0.066         1.33         24.06         0.058         1.40         90.0    

 

 

Americas

                    

Argentina

                    

Cerro Vanguardia (92.5 percent) (3)(7)

     11.51         0.037         0.43         12.02         0.133         1.60         61.3-94.3 (4)   

 

 

Brazil

                    

AGA Mineraçáo (2)(8)

     5.16         0.174         0.90         10.52         0.136         1.43         88.0-93.0 (4)   

Serra Grande

     5.08         0.085         0.43         3.24         0.102         0.33         93.7    

 

 

United States of America

                    

Cripple Creek & Victor

     170.65         0.024         4.06         90.78         0.020         1.83         43.0-95.0 (4)   

 

 

Total

     482.50         0.034         16.34         1,290.52         0.045         57.74      

 

 
(1) 

Ore Reserve includes marginally economic and diluting materials delivered for treatment and allow for losses that may occur during mining.

(2)

Proven and/or Probable Ore Reserve includes Ore Reserve below infrastructure. See table below.

(3)

Ore Reserve attributable to AngloGold Ashanti’s percentage interest shown.

(4)

Recovery factor varies according to ore type.

(5)

Tons refers to a short ton, which is equivalent to 2000 pounds avoirdupois.

(6)

The Vaal Reef Ore Reserve includes 162.03 million pounds of Uranium oxide by-products; this cannot be accounted for by individual mine as Great Noligwa, Kopanang, Moab Khotsong and Surface sources in Vaal River feed to a combination of plants.

(7)

The Ore Reserve contains 40.74 million ounces of silver to be recovered as a by-product.

(8)

The Ore Reserve contains 0.49 million tons of sulfur to be recovered as a by-product.

(9)

Open pit and underground mining, respectively.

Rounding may result in computational differences.

 

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The 2012 Proven and Probable Ore Reserve includes Ore Reserve below infrastructure in the case of the following underground mines currently in production:

 

Mine

  

Tons (millions)

    

Grade (ounces/ton)

     Gold Content
         (million ounces)

Moab Khotsong

     14.95         0.280       4.18

Mponeng

     25.49         0.346       8.82

Obuasi

     3.56         0.385       1.37

AGA Mineração

     4.57         0.149       0.68

Total

     48.57         0.310       15.05

The Ore Reserve has been determined based on completed economic studies.

Rounding may result in computational differences.

 

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Ore Reserve: Imperial    At December 31, 2011  
     Proven Ore Reserve (1)      Probable Ore Reserve (1)(2)      Metallurgical  
                  

Gold

                   Gold      Recovery  
     Tons (5)      Grade Content (1)      Tons (5)      Grade Content (1)      Factor  
     (million)      (oz/ton)      (m oz)      (million)      (oz/ton)      (m oz)      percent  

 

 

South Africa

                    

Vaal River (6)

                    

Great Noligwa

     3.66         0.229         0.84         1.57         0.183         0.29         95.8    

Kopanang

     2.05         0.197         0.40         12.78         0.187         2.39         96.5    

Moab Khotsong (2)

     1.50         0.303         0.46         21.10         0.310         6.54         96.5    

West Wits

                    

Mponeng (2)

     5.09         0.276         1.41         41.99         0.300         12.62         98.2 (4)   

Savuka

     -         -         -         2.60         0.231         0.60         97.4   

TauTona

     0.81         0.346         0.28         6.19         0.265         1.64         97.4   

 

 

Surface

                    

Surface sources

     -         -         -         546.11         0.009         4.96         76-88 (4)   

 

 

Continental Africa

                    

Democratic Republic of Congo

                    

Kibali (45 percent) (3)

     -         -         -         36.86         0.123         4.52         84.5; 91.3 (10)   

 

 

Ghana

                    

Iduapriem

     31.52         0.038         1.21         29.59         0.045         1.34         95.0   

Obuasi (2)

     15.58         0.194         3.02         29.87         0.212         6.34         85.0   

 

 

Guinea

                    

Siguiri (85 percent) (3)

     39.38         0.018         0.70         79.56         0.020         1.61         92 (4)   

 

 

Mali

                    

Morila (40 percent) (3)

     0.63         0.050         0.03         2.95         0.033         0.10         88.8-89.0 (4)   

Sadiola (41 percent) (3)

     4.69         0.060         0.28         43.72         0.046         2.02         78-97.0    

Yatela (40 percent) (3)

     0.41         0.019         0.01         0.88         0.051         0.05         84.8    

 

 

Namibia

                    

Navachab

     6.96         0.032         0.22         48.70         0.038         1.83         69.5 ; 86.7 (9)   

 

 

Tanzania

                    

Geita

     -         -         -         62.10         0.076         4.74         46-91 (4)   

 

 

Australasia

                    

Australia

                    

Sunrise Dam

     16.35         0.034         0.55         8.33         0.117         0.97         84.8-86 (4)   

Tropicana (70 percent) (3)

     19.87         0.067         1.33         23.61         0.060         1.41         90.3   

 

 

Americas

                    

Argentina

                    

Cerro Vanguardia (92.5 percent) (3)(7)

     11.64         0.040         0.46         14.16         0.124         1.76         95.0   

 

 

Brazil

                    

AGA Mineraçáo (2)(8)

     5.78         0.182         1.05         7.51         0.140         1.05         88-93 (4)   

Serra Grande (50 percent) (3)

     2.05         0.098         0.20         1.61         0.109         0.17         93.9    

 

 

United States of America

                    

Cripple Creek & Victor

     177.23         0.024         4.26         95.46         0.021         2.00         43-95 (4)   

 

 

Total

     345.20         0.048         16.72         1,117.25         0.053         58.95      

 

 
(1)

Ore Reserve includes marginally economic and diluting materials delivered for treatment and allow for losses that may occur during mining.

(2) 

Probable Ore Reserve includes Ore Reserve below infrastructure. See table below.

(3) 

Ore Reserve attributable to AngloGold Ashanti’s percentage interest shown.

(4) 

Recovery factor varies according to ore type.

(5) 

Tons refers to a short ton, which is equivalent to 2000 pounds avoirdupois.

(6) 

The Vaal Reef Ore Reserve includes 126.32 million pounds of Uranium oxide by-products; this cannot be accounted for by individual mine as Great Noligwa, Kopanang and Moab Khotsong feed to a combination of plants.

(7) 

The Ore Reserve contains 46.93 million ounces of silver to be recovered as a by-product.

(8) 

The Ore Reserve contains 0.45 million tons of sulfur to be recovered as a by-product.

(9) 

DMS plant and CIP plant, respectively.

(10) 

Open pit and underground mining, respectively.

Rounding may result in computational differences.

 

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The 2011 Probable Ore Reserve includes Ore Reserves below infrastructure in the case of the following underground mines currently in production:

 

Mine    Tons (millions)    Grade (ounces/ton)    Gold Content
(million ounces)

Moab Khotsong

   13.91    0.312    4.34

Mponeng

   35.20    0.325    11.46

Obuasi

   2.99    0.381    1.14

AGA Mineração

   2.96    0.158    0.47

Total

   55.06    0.316    17.40

Rounding may result in computational differences.

 

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Ore Reserve: Metric    At December 31, 2012  
     Proven Ore Reserve (1)(2)     Probable Ore Reserve (1)(2)      Metallurgical  
     Tonnes (6)      Grade      Gold     Tonnes (6)      Grade      Gold      Recovery factor  
                   Content                   Content         
     (million)      (g/t)      (tonnes)     (million)      (g/t)      (tonnes)      percent  

 

 

South Africa

                   

Vaal River(5)

                   

Great Noligwa

     1.21         8.77         10.60        0.19         8.62         1.62         95.5    

Kopanang

     0.87         7.92         6.89        5.03         7.25         36.44         96.4    

Moab Khotsong(2)

     1.63         10.83         17.61        18.88         9.95         187.87         95.8-96.0 (4)   

 

 

West Wits

                   

Mponeng(2)

     2.31         8.88         20.54        40.20         10.17         408.91         98.1    

Savuka

     0.26         5.78         1.50        3.03         5.08         15.40         97.3    

TauTona

     0.74         11.19         8.25        4.80         8.96         43.04         97.5    

 

 

Surface

                   

Surface sources (5)

     141.70         0.23         32.63        656.32         0.29         190.30         51.5-93 (4)   

 

 

Continental Africa

                   

Democratic Republic of the Congo

                   

Kibali (45 percent) (3)

     1.59         3.26         5.20        35.90         4.12         147.84         84.5; 91.3 (9)   

 

 

Ghana

                   

Iduapriem

     22.56         1.32         29.88        24.86         1.56         38.72         95.0    

Obuasi(2)

     18.32         5.99         109.78        27.91         5.56         155.11         85.4    

 

 

Guinea

                   

Siguiri (85 percent)(3)

     36.59         0.63         22.92        67.60         0.67         45.56         88.0-90.0 (4)   

 

 

Mali

                   

Morila (40 percent)(3)

     -         -         -        1.54         1.14         1.75         88.8-89.0 (4)   

Sadiola (41 percent)(3)

     2.21         1.29         2.86        34.81         1.83         63.64         76.0-94.0 (4)   

Yatela (40 percent)(3)

     0.05         1.36         0.07        0.26         3.61         0.92         84.8    

 

 

Namibia

                   

Navachab

     -         -         -        51.80         1.26         65.29         88.1    

 

 

Tanzania

                   

Geita

     -         -         -        65.06         2.59         168.63         46.0-91.0 (4)   

 

 

Australasia

                   

Australia

                   

Sunrise Dam

     14.98         1.12         16.74        4.98         4.03         20.07         85.2-85.5 (4)   

Tropicana (70 percent)(3)

     18.15         2.28         41.46        21.83         1.99         43.48         90.0    

 

 

Americas

                   

Argentina

                   

Cerro Vanguardia (92.5 percent)(3)(7)

     10.44         1.29         13.49        10.90         4.56         49.71         61.3-94.3 (4)   

 

 

Brazil

                   

AGA Mineraçáo(2)(8)

     4.68         5.99         28.07        9.54         4.66         44.41         88.8-93.0 (4)   

Serra Grande

     4.61         2.91         13.44        2.94         3.51         10.33         93.7    

 

 

United States of America

                   

Cripple Creek & Victor

     154.81         0.81         126.16        82.35         0.69         56.83         43.0-95.0 (4)   

 

 

Total

     437.72         1.16         508.11        1,170.74         1.53         1,795.90      

 

 

 

(1) 

Ore Reserve includes marginally economic and diluting materials delivered for treatment and allow for losses that may occur during mining.

(2) 

Probable and/or Probable Ore Reserve includes Ore Reserve below infrastructure. See table below.

(3) 

Ore Reserve attributable to AngloGold Ashanti’s percentage interest shown.

(4) 

Recovery factor varies according to ore type.

(5) 

The Vaal Reef Ore Reserve includes 73.5 thousand tonnes of Uranium oxide by-products; this cannot be accounted for by individual mine as Great Noligwa, Kopanang, Moab Khotsong and Surface sources in Vaal River feed to a combination of plants.

(6) 

Tonnes refers to a metric tonne which is equivalent to 1000 kilograms.

(7) 

The Ore Reserve contains 1,267 tonnes of silver to be recovered as a by-product.

(8) 

The Ore Reserve contains 0.44 million tonnes of sulfur to be recovered as a by-product.

(9)

Open pit and underground mining, respectively.

Rounding may result in computational differences.

 

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The 2012 Proven and Probable Ore Reserve includes Ore Reserve below infrastructure in the case of the following underground mines currently in production:

 

Mine    Tonnes (millions)    Grade (grams/tonne)    Gold Content (tonnes)

Moab Khotsong

   13.56    9.59    129.99

Mponeng

   23.12    11.87    274.40

Obuasi

   3.23    13.23    42.69

AGA Mineração

   4.15    5.07    21.04

Total

   44.06    10.62    468.12

Rounding may result in computational differences.

 

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Ore Reserve: Metric    At December 31, 2011  
     Proven Ore Reserve (1)      Probable Ore Reserve (1)(2)      Metallurgical  
    

Tonnes(6)

    

Grade

     Gold     

Tonnes(6)

    

Grade

     Gold      Recovery factor  
                   Content                    Content         
     (million)      (g/t)      (tonnes)      (million)      (g/t)      (tonnes)      percent  

 

 

South Africa

                    

Vaal River (5)

                    

Great Noligwa

     3.32         7.85         26.06         1.42         6.27         8.90         95.8   

Kopanang

     1.86         6.75         12.54         11.59         6.42         74.43         96.5    

Moab Khotsong(2)

     1.36         10.40         14.16         19.14         10.63         203.52         96.5    

 

 

West Wits

                    

Mponeng(2)

     4.62         9.47         43.73         38.09         10.30         392.47         98.2(4)   

Savuka

     -         -         -         2.36         7.90         18.67         97.4   

TauTona

     0.73         11.85         8.68         5.61         9.08         50.99         97.4   

 

 

Surface

                    

Surface sources

     -         -         -         495.42         0.31         154.43         76-88(4)   

 

 

Continental Africa

                    

Democratic Republic of the Congo

                    

Kibali (45 percent) (3)

     -         -         -         33.44         4.21         140.69         84.5; 91.3 (10)   

 

 

Ghana

                    

Iduapriem

     28.59         1.32         37.70         26.85         1.56         41.74         95.0   

Obuasi(2)

     14.13         6.66         94.07         27.10         7.28         197.31         85.0   

 

 

Guinea

                    

Siguiri (85 percent)(3)

     35.72         0.61         21.90         72.18         0.69         49.97         92 (4)   

 

 

Mali

                    

Morila (40 percent)(3)

     0.57         1.71         0.98         2.67         1.14         3.04         88.8-89.0 (4)   

Sadiola (41 percent)(3)

     4.26         2.05         8.71         39.66         1.58         62.76         78-97.0    

Yatela (40 percent)(3)

     0.37         0.64         0.24         0.80         1.75         1.40         84.8    

 

 

Namibia

                    

Navachab

     6.31         1.09         6.88         44.18         1.29         56.88         69.5 ; 86.7 (9)   

 

 

Tanzania

                    

Geita

     -         -         -         56.34         2.62         147.47         46-91 (4)   

 

 

Australasia

                    

Australia

                    

Sunrise Dam

     14.84         1.16         17.24         7.56         4.00         30.20         84.8-86 (4)   

Tropicana (70 percent)(3)

     18.03         2.30         41.45         21.42         2.04         43.75         90.3   

 

 

Americas

                    

Argentina

                    

Cerro Vanguardia (92.5 percent)(3)(7)

     10.56         1.35         14.30         12.85         4.25         54.64         95.0   

 

 

Brazil

                    

AGA Mineraçáo(8)

     5.25         6.23         32.68         6.81         4.81         32.74         88-93 (4)   

Serra Grande (50 percent) (3)

     1.86         3.36         6.24         1.46         3.72         5.43         93.9    

 

 

United States of America

                    

Cripple Creek & Victor

     160.78         0.82         132.48         86.60         0.72         62.06         43-95 (4)   

 

 

Total

     313.16         1.66         520.04         1,013.56         1.81         1,833.51      

 

 

 

(1) 

Ore Reserve includes marginally economic and diluting materials delivered for treatment and allow for losses that may occur during mining.

(2) 

Probable Ore Reserve includes Ore Reserve below infrastructure. See table below.

(3) 

Ore Reserve attributable to AngloGold Ashanti’s percentage interest shown.

(4) 

Recovery factor varies according to ore type.

(5) 

The Vaal Reef Ore Reserve includes 57.3 thousand tonnes of Uranium oxide by-products; this cannot be accounted for by individual mine as Great Noligwa, Kopanang and Moab Khotsong feed to a combination of plants.

(6) 

Tonnes refers to a metric tonne which is equivalent to 1000 kilograms.

(7) 

The Ore Reserve contains 1 459 tonnes of silver to be recovered as a by-product.

(8) 

The Ore Reserve contains 0.41 million tonnes of sulfur to be recovered as a by-product.

(9) 

DMS plant and CIP plant, respectively.

(10)

Open pit and underground mining, respectively.

Rounding may result in computational differences.

 

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The 2011 Probable Ore Reserve includes Ore Reserve below infrastructure in the case of the following underground mines currently in production:

 

Mine    Tonnes (millions)    Grade (grams/tonne)    Gold Content (tonnes)

Moab Khotsong

   12.62    10.70    134.95

Mponeng

   31.93    11.16    356.30

Obuasi

   2.71    13.08    35.49

AGA Mineração

   2.68    5.43    14.57

Total

   49.95    10.84    541.31

Rounding may result in computational differences.

 

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Stockpiles: Imperial

Stockpiles are previously mined ore scheduled for future process plant feed. The Proven and Probable Ore Reserve includes the following stockpile material:

 

 

 
Stockpiles    At December 31, 2012  

 

 
     Tons (million)      Grade (ounces/ton)      Gold content
(million ounces)
 

 

 

South Africa

        

Surface sources (2)

     879.66         0.008         7.17    

 

 

Continental Africa

        

Ghana

        

Iduapriem

     7.33         0.024         0.18    

Obuasi

     0.12         0.130         0.02    

 

 

Guinea

        

Siguiri (85 percent) (1)(3)

     67.63         0.017         1.12    

 

 

Mali

        

Morila (40 percent) (1)

     1.70         0.033         0.06    

Sadiola (41 percent) (1)

     4.00         0.059         0.24    

Yatela (40 percent) (1)

     0.06         0.041         0.00    

 

 

Namibia

        

Navachab

     12.48         0.020         0.25    

 

 

Tanzania

        

Geita

     12.26         0.036         0.44    

 

 

Australasia

        

Australia

        

Sunrise Dam

     16.51         0.033         0.54    

Tropicana (70 percent) (1)

     0.32         0.051         0.02    

 

 

Americas

        

Argentina

        

Cerro Vanguardia (92.5 percent) (1)

     12.83         0.018         0.23    

 

 

Brazil

        

Serra Grande

     0.09         0.055         0.00    

 

 

 

(1) 

Ore Reserve attributable to AngloGold Ashanti’s percentage interest shown.

(2) 

Centralized operations treating material on surface that was previously generated by several underground operations.

(3) 

Spent heap included in Ore Reserve.

The rounding of figures and converting from metric to imperial units may result in minor computational discrepancies.

 

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Stockpiles: Imperial

Stockpiles are previously mined ore scheduled for future process plant feed. The Proven and Probable Ore Reserve includes the following stockpile material:

 

 

 
Stockpiles    At December 31, 2011  

 

 
     Tons (million)      Grade (ounces/ton)      Gold content
(million ounces)
 

 

 

South Africa

        

Surface sources (2)

     546.11         0.009         4.96    

 

 

Continental Africa

        

Ghana

        

Iduapriem

     6.28         0.027         0.17    

 

 

Guinea

        

Siguiri (85 percent) (1)(3)

     66.59         0.016         1.09    

 

 

Mali

        

Morila (40 percent) (1)

     3.58         0.036         0.13    

Sadiola (41 percent) (1)

     4.69         0.060         0.28    

Yatela (40 percent) (1)

     0.41         0.019         0.01    

 

 

Namibia

        

Navachab

     4.47         0.031         0.14    

 

 

Tanzania

        

Geita

     12.16         0.036         0.43    

 

 

Australasia

        

Australia

        

Sunrise Dam

     15.92         0.033         0.53    

 

 

Americas

        

Argentina

        

Cerro Vanguardia (92.5 percent) (1)

     14.23         0.019         0.27    

 

 

Brazil

        

Serra Grande (50 percent) (1)

     0.03         0.055         0.00    

 

 

 

(1) 

Ore Reserve attributable to AngloGold Ashanti’s percentage interest shown.

(2)

Centralized operations treating material on surface that was previously generated by several underground operations.

(3) 

Spent heap included in Ore Reserve.

The rounding of figures and converting from metric to imperial units may result in minor computational discrepancies.

 

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Stockpiles: Metric

Stockpiles are previously mined ore scheduled for future process plant feed. The Proven and Probable Ore Reserve includes the following stockpile material:

 

 

 
Stockpiles    At December 31, 2012  

 

 
     Tonnes (million)      Grade (grams/tonne)      Gold content
(tonnes)
 

 

 

South Africa

        

Surface sources (2)

     798.01         0.28         222.93    

 

 

Continental Africa

        

Ghana

        

Iduapriem

     6.65         0.83         5.53    

Obuasi

     0.11         4.28         0.49    

 

 

Guinea

        

Siguiri (85 percent) (1)(3)

     61.35         0.57         34.98    

 

 

Mali

        

Morila (40 percent) (1)

     1.54         1.14         1.75    

Sadiola (41 percent) (1)

     3.63         2.04         7.40    

Yatela (40 percent) (1)

     0.05         1.36         0.07    

 

 

Namibia

        

Navachab

     11.32         0.70         7.89    

 

 

Tanzania

        

Geita

     11.12         1.23         13.67    

 

 

Australasia

        

Australia

        

Sunrise Dam

     14.98         1.12         16.74    

Topicana (70 percent) (1)

     0.29         1.76         0.51    

 

 

Americas

        

Argentina

        

Cerro Vanguardia (92.5 percent) (1)

     11.64         0.62         7.22    

 

 

Brazil

        

Serra Grande

     0.08         1.96         0.15    

 

 

 

(1)

Ore Reserve attributable to AngloGold Ashanti’s percentage interest shown.

(2) 

Centralized operations treating material on surface that was previously generated by several underground operations.

(3) 

Spent heap included in Ore Reserve.

The rounding of figures and converting from metric to imperial units may result in minor computational discrepancies.

 

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Stockpiles: Metric

Stockpiles are previously mined ore scheduled for future process plant feed. The Proven and Probable Ore Reserve includes the following stockpile material:

 

 

 
Stockpiles    At December 31, 2011  

 

 
     Tonnes (million)      Grade (grams/tonne)      Gold content
(tonnes)
 

 

 

South Africa

        

Surface sources (2)

     495.42         0.31         154.43    

 

 

Continental Africa

        

Ghana

        

Iduapriem

     5.70         0.94         5.32    

 

 

Guinea

        

Siguiri (85 percent) (1)(3)

     60.41         0.56         33.94    

 

 

Mali

        

Morila (40 percent) (1)

     3.25         1.24         4.02    

Sadiola (41 percent) (1)

     4.26         2.05         8.71    

Yatela (40 percent) (1)

     0.37         0.64         0.24    

 

 

Namibia

        

Navachab

     4.06         1.06         4.31    

 

 

Tanzania

        

Geita

     10.50         1.25         13.10    

 

 

Australasia

        

Australia

        

Sunrise Dam

     14.44         1.14         16.43    

 

 

Americas

        

Argentina

        

Cerro Vanguardia (92.5 percent) (1)

     12.91         0.64         8.28    

 

 

Brazil

        

Serra Grande (50 percent) (1)

     0.03         1.89         0.05    

 

 

 

(1) 

Ore Reserve attributable to AngloGold Ashanti’s percentage interest shown.

(2) 

Centralized operations treating material on surface that was previously generated by several underground operations.

(3) 

Spent heap included in Ore Reserve.

The rounding of figures and converting from metric to imperial units may result in minor computational discrepancies.

 

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Drill hole spacing: Imperial

In determining the Proven and Probable Ore Reserve, AngloGold Ashanti applied the following drill hole spacings:

 

     Drill Hole Spacings
     Proven Ore Reserve   Probable Ore Reserve

South Africa

     

Underground sources

 

Ore body opened up, developed and sampled on a 7 to 10 foot spacing on raise lines and on a 16 x 16 grid thereafter

 

  From a 131 x 131 foot spacing up to 3281 x 3281 foot spacing

Surface sources

 

Variable sampling strategies: Belt samplers, cross stream residue samplers and bulk sampling campaigns

 

  Variable sampling strategies: Belt samplers, cross stream residue samplers

Continental Africa

     

Democratic Republic of the Congo

     

Kibali

 

33 x 16 feet

 

131 x 131 feet

Ghana

     

Iduapriem

 

33 x 49 feet, 164 x 164 feet

164 x 246 feet, 328 x 164 feet

 

164 x 246 feet, 164 x 328 feet,

328 x 246 feet

Obuasi

 

33 x 33 feet, 66 x 66 feet, 131 x 66 feet

 

98 x 98 feet, 164 x 164 feet,

197 x 197 feet

Guinea

     

Siguiri

 

16 x 33 feet, 16 x 39 feet, 33 x 33 feet

 

66 x 131 feet, 82 x 82 feet, 164 x 82 feet

Mali

     

Sadiola

 

16 x 33 feet, 82 x 82 feet

 

33 x 33 feet, 82 x 82 feet, 164 x 82 feet

Yatela

 

33 x 16 feet, 82 x 82 feet

 

82 x 82 feet, 115 x 148 feet

Namibia

     

Navachab

 

16 x 33 feet, 33 x 33 feet

 

82 x 82 feet

Tanzania

     

Geita

 

16 x 33 feet, 16 x 16 feet

 

66 x 66 feet, 131 x 131 feet,

164 x 164 feet

Australasia

     

Australia

     

Sunrise Dam

 

33 x 33 feet, 82 x 82 feet

 

66 x 66 feet, 131 x 131 feet

Tropicana

 

33 x 39 feet, 82 x 82 feet

 

164 x 164 feet

Americas

     

Argentina

     

Cerro Vanguardia

 

10 x 49 feet, 41 x 16 feet

 

131 x 131 feet

Brazil

     

AGA Mineraçáo

 

49 x 49 feet, 66 x 33 feet, 82 x 82 feet,

98 x 98 feet, 98 x 197 feet

 

98 x 82 feet, 164 x 98 feet, 164 x 164 feet, 98 x 197 feet, 410 x 82 feet, 98 x 98 feet, 197 x 197 feet

 

Serra Grande

 

 

33 x 33 feet, 66 x 33 feet

 

 

33 x 66 feet, 66 x 164 feet, 328 x 82 feet

 

United States of America

     

Cripple Creek & Victor

 

<98 x 98 feet

 

148 x 148 feet

 

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Drill hole spacing: Metric

In determining the Proven and Probable Ore Reserve, AngloGold Ashanti applied the following table of drill hole spacing:

 

     Drill Hole Spacing
     Proven Ore Reserve   Probable Ore Reserve

South Africa

     

Underground sources

 

Ore body opened up, developed and sampled on a 2 to 3 meter spacing on raise lines and on a 5 x 5 grid thereafter

 

  From a 40 x 40 meter spacing up to 1000 x 1000 meter spacing

Surface sources

 

Variable sampling strategies: Belt samplers, cross stream residue samplers and bulk sampling campaigns

 

  Variable sampling strategies: Belt samplers, cross stream residue samplers

Continental Africa

     

Democratic Republic of the Congo

     

Kibali

  10 x 5 meter   40 x 40 meter

Ghana

     

Iduapriem

 

10 x 15 meter, 50 x 50 meter,

50 x 75 meter, 100 x 50 meter

 

50 x 75 meter, 50 x 100 meter,

100 x 75 meter

Obuasi

 

10 x 10 meter, 20 x 20 meter,

40 x 20 meter

  30 x 30 meter, 50 x 50 meter, 60 x 60 meter

Guinea

     

Siguiri

 

5 x 10 meter, 5 x 12 meter,

10 x 10 meter

  20 x 40 meter, 25 x 25 meter, 50 x 25 meter

Mali

     

Sadiola

  5 x 10 meter, 25 x 25 meter   10 x 10 meter, 25 x 25 meter, 50 x 25 meter

Yatela

  10 x 5 meter, 25 x 25 meter   25 x 25 meter, 35 x 45 meter

Namibia

     

Navachab

  5 x 10 meter, 10 x 10 meter   25 x 25 meter

Tanzania

     

Geita

  5 x 10 meter, 5 x 5 meter   20 x 20 meter, 40 x 40 meter, 50 x 50 meter

Australasia

     

Australia

     

Sunrise Dam

  10 x 10 meter, 25 x 25 meter   20 x 20 meter, 40 x 40 meter

Tropicana

  10 x 12 meter, 25 x 25 meter   50 x 50 meter

Americas

     

Argentina

     

Cerro Vanguardia

  3 x 15 meter, 12.5 x 5 meter   40 x 40 meter

Brazil

     

AGA Mineraçáo

 

 

15 x 15 meter, 20 x 10 meter,

25 x 25 meter, 30 x 30 meter,

30 x 60 meter

 

 

30 x 25 meter, 50 x 30 meter, 50 x 50 meter,

30 x 60 meter, 125 x 25 meter, 30 x 30 meter, 60 x 60 meter

 

Serra Grande

 

 

10 x 10 meter, 20 x 10 meter

 

 

10 x 20 meter, 20 x 50 meter, 100 x 25 meter

 

United States of America

     

Cripple Creek & Victor

  <30 x 30 meter   45 x 45 meter

ITEM 4A:  UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

Not applicable.

 

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ITEM 5:  OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

The following discussion provides information that management believes is relevant to an assessment and understanding of the consolidated financial condition and results of operations of AngloGold Ashanti Limited under US GAAP for the three years ended and as at December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010.

This item should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto which are included under Item 18 of this annual report.

The principal accountant of AngloGold Ashanti has made reference to the work of other auditors in its report on the consolidated financial statements of AngloGold Ashanti Limited for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2012 and therefore in compliance with Regulation S-X Rule 2-05 the separate reports of the other auditors are included in Item 18.

Overview

AngloGold Ashanti is a global gold mining company headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa. AngloGold Ashanti’s main product is gold. As part of extracting gold the Company also produces silver, uranium oxide and sulfuric acid as by-products. The Company sells its products on world markets.

AngloGold Ashanti conducts gold-mining operations in the following regions, which represent its business segments:

 

 

South Africa (comprising the Vaal River and West Wits operations)

 

Continental Africa (comprising Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Namibia, the DRC and Tanzania operations)

 

Australasia (comprising Australia)

 

Americas (comprising Argentina, Brazil and United States of America)

In particular, AngloGold Ashanti has 21 operations in the four regions comprising open-pit and underground mines and surface metallurgical plants, which are supported by extensive, yet focused, exploration activities. For more information on the Company’s business and operations, see “Item 4B.: Business Overview – Products, operations and geographical locations”.

As at December 31, 2012 the Company had on an attributable basis, Proven and Probable Ore Reserves of approximately 74.1 million ounces (including joint ventures). For the year ended December 31, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti had an attributable gold production of approximately 3.9 million ounces (including joint ventures).

AngloGold Ashanti’s costs and expenses consist primarily of production costs, royalties, exploration, general and administration costs and depreciation, depletion and amortization. Production costs include labor, mining contracts, fuel, lubricants, power, consumable stores (which include explosives, timber and other consumables), utilities and costs of environmental rehabilitation. The Company’s mining operations consist of deep-level underground mining methods as well as open-pit operations, both of which are labor intensive, therefore labor is a significant component of production costs.

Outlook

Gold production for 2013 is forecast to be between 4.1 million and 4.4 million ounces. Capital expenditure is expected to be approximately $2.10 billion in 2013 (2012: $2.15 billion).

AngloGold Ashanti’s results of operations, financial condition and prospects, as well as the company’s ability to meet its targets, may be adversely affected by a number of factors, risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond the company’s control, including gold prices, exchange rate fluctuations, inflation, as well as political, mining and other risks. In particular, our production outlook is subject to, among other things, labor disruptions, unplanned stoppages and safety-related interventions, the stability and availability of power as well as other operational risks. Certain of these risks, uncertainties and other factors are described in “Item 3D.: Risk factors”. See also “Note regarding forward-looking statements”.

 

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5A.

OPERATING RESULTS

INTRODUCTION

Economic uncertainty that characterized the major economies of the United States and Europe during 2011 continued into 2012. The gold price did not necessarily reflect such heightened uncertainty. Gold traded in a band between $1,565 per ounce and $1,785 per ounce, averaging $1,651 per ounce for the first three quarters of 2012.

In September 2012, the Federal Reserve announced a further round of quantitative easing (QE 3) which corresponded with an increase in the gold price above $1,700 per ounce for a short period of time before the gold price retreated once more below $1,700 per ounce level and it closed the year at $1,674 per ounce. The spot price averaged $1,668 per ounce for 2012, which is a 6 percent increase on the average price of $1,572 per ounce for 2011.

Physical demand for gold in 2012 was similarly disappointing with both major regions, India and China, reporting lower offtake year on year. India’s demand was impacted due to a jewellers’ strike and increased import duties, while China’s slowing economy saw jewellery demand fall 4.5 tonnes year on year.

As AngloGold Ashanti had eliminated its hedge book in 2010, it had full exposure to the higher spot gold prices in 2011 and 2012 as reflected in the increased net income over the period 2010 to 2012, notwithstanding lower production levels, exchange rate variances and increased costs.

Key factors affecting results

Gold prices

AngloGold Ashanti’s operating results are directly related to the price of gold, which can fluctuate widely and is affected by numerous factors beyond its control, including investment, jewellery and industrial demand, expectations with respect to the rate of inflation, the strength of the US dollar (the currency in which the price of gold is generally quoted) and of other currencies, interest rates, actual or expected gold sales and purchases by central banks and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), global or regional political or economic events, and production and cost levels in major gold-producing regions. In addition, the price of gold is often subject to sharp, short-term changes.

The current demand for and supply of gold may affect gold prices, but not necessarily in the same manner as current supply and demand affects the prices of other commodities. The supply of gold consists of a combination of new production and fabricated gold held by governments, public and private financial institutions, industrial organizations and private individuals. As the global gold production in any single year constitutes a small portion of the total potential supply of gold, short term variations in current production do not necessarily have a significant impact on the supply of gold or on its price. The shift in gold demand from physical demand to investment and speculative demand may exacerbate the volatility of gold prices.

Yearly average spot gold prices have increased during the three years under review as follows:

 

 

2010 - $1,227 per ounce

 

2011 - $1,572 per ounce

 

2012 - $1,668 per ounce

AngloGold Ashanti’s net income for 2010 was adversely impacted by its hedge book, which was eliminated in the same year. Since the elimination of the hedge book, the Company has been fully exposed to spot gold prices, which resulted in higher income from gold sales.

In the first quarter of 2013, the gold price came under some pressure and it reached lows of $1,626 per ounce on January 14, 2013 due to muted jewellery demand from India and lower than anticipated investment demand. During the period from Friday, April 12, 2013 through Monday, April 15, 2013 the price of gold dropped $228 per ounce. On April 19, 2013, the afternoon fixing price for gold on the London Bullion Market was $1,404 per ounce. If revenue from gold sales falls for an extended period below the Company’s cost of production at its operations, AngloGold Ashanti could determine that it is not economically feasible to continue production at some or all of its operations. Declining gold prices may also force a reassessment of the feasibility of a particular exploration or development project or projects, and could lead to the curtailment or suspension of such projects. A sustained decrease in gold prices may force the Company to change its dividend payment policies, reduce expenditures and undertake measures to address its cost base. In addition, the use of lower gold prices in reserve calculations and life-of-mine plans could result in material write-downs of the Company’s investment in mining properties and increase amortization, reclamation and closure charges.

 

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Production levels

In addition to gold prices, AngloGold Ashanti’s revenue in any year is also influenced by its level of gold production. Production levels are in turn influenced by grades, tonnages mined and processed through the plant, and metallurgical recoveries. Attributable gold production (including joint ventures) declined from 4.5 million ounces in 2010 to 3.9 million ounces in 2012. The decline in production levels is due to a variety of factors, as follows:

 

 

South Africa: 32 percent decline in production primarily due to the unprotected strike action during September 2012 and October 2012 and increased levels of safety related stoppages at the mines resulting in lower tonnages being mined and processed.

 

Continental Africa: 2 percent increase in production, with production levels declining in Ghana, Guinea, Namibia and Mali primarily due to lower recovered grades, compensated for by higher production from Tanzania primarily as a result of improved grades and productivity improvements.

 

Australasia: 35 percent decline in production primarily due to unprecedented rainfalls, pitwall and access ramp failure at Sunrise Dam, together with forecast decline in grades at the mine.

 

Americas: 13 percent increase in production from Americas primarily due to grade and productivity improvements.

Grades from gold ore bodies tend to decline as they mature over time. With a view to reversing the grade decline, the Company embarked on the following initiatives:

 

 

Short-term: Continued implementation of Project ONE and aims to put in place optimum resources, business processes to restore stability, initially by minimizing variations, and once stable, to further enhance productivity.

 

Medium-term: Active exploration programmes to replenish depletion in existing ore bodies by mine life extensions and new mines.

 

Long-term: Technology project in South Africa with a view to accessing the ore body at greater depth and further distance from existing infrastructure.

Concurrently, AngloGold Ashanti also embarked on ways of increasing the tonnage mined and processed, and processing improvements to enhance metallurgical recoveries.

Foreign exchange fluctuations

Production costs in all business segments are largely incurred in local currency where the relevant operation is located. US dollar denominated production costs and net income tend to be adversely impacted by local currency strength and favorably impacted by local currency weakness, assuming there are no other offsetting factors. AngloGold Ashanti’s financial results can be influenced significantly by the fluctuations in the South African Rand, Brazilian Real, Australian Dollar, and, to a lesser extent, the Argentinean Peso, Ghanaian Cedi and other local currencies. As set out below, during the year ended December 31, 2012, the US dollar strengthened and the South African Rand and Brazilian Real weakened, which had a favorable impact on AngloGold Ashanti’s US Dollar denominated production costs.

 

Average annual exchange rates to the US dollar

 

  

2012

 

    

2011

 

    

2010

 

 

South African Rand

     8.20        7.26        7.30  

Brazilian Real

     1.95        1.68        1.76  

Australian Dollar

     0.97        0.97        1.09  

In 2012, the Company derived 58 percent (55 percent including joint ventures) of its revenues from South Africa, Brazil, Australia and Argentina, and incurred 59 percent (55 percent including joint ventures) of its production costs in these local currencies. A one percent strengthening of these local currencies against the US dollar will result in an increase in total cash costs, under IFRS, incurred of about $6 per ounce.

Certain exchange controls are currently in force in most emerging markets in which the Company operates, including, for example, South Africa and Argentina. In the case of South Africa, though the exchange rate of the rand is primarily market determined, its value at any time may not be considered a true reflection of the underlying value while exchange controls exist. The government has indicated its intention to relax exchange controls over time. As exchange controls are relaxed, rand exchange rates will be more closely tied to market forces. It is not possible to predict whether or when this will occur or the future value of the rand. For a detailed discussion of these exchange controls, see “Item 10D.: Exchange controls”.

 

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Production costs and effects of inflation

Production costs include the cost of labor, mining contracts, fuel, lubricants, power, consumable stores (which include explosives, timber and other consumables), utilities and environmental rehabilitation costs. The mining industry continues to experience price inflation for costs of inputs used in the production of gold, which leads to higher production costs reported by many gold producers.

AngloGold Ashanti’s operations have not been materially adversely affected by inflation in recent years, given that it has benefited from sustained periods of rising gold prices. However, the Company is unable to control the prices at which it sells its gold. Accordingly, in the event of significant inflation in South Africa or, to a lesser extent, Brazil, Argentina or Australia, without a concurrent devaluation of the local currency or an increase in the price of gold, there could be a material adverse effect upon the Company’s results and financial condition.

AngloGold Ashanti employs over 60,000 people globally, most of whom are members of trade unions, particularly in South Africa, Continental Africa and the Americas. Labor accounts for a significant component of production costs and are impacted by annual wage increases. During the period under review, trade unions have been successful in negotiating and securing higher than inflationary wage increases. During the years ended December 31, 2010, 2011 and 2012, management used Project ONE benefits arising from productivity improvements to offset some of the increases.

Energy costs, comprising power, fuel and lubricants, are another material component of production costs. Due to the remote location of some of its mines in Continental Africa, AngloGold Ashanti uses fuel to generate power and uses fuel and lubricants at its mines to run its fleet and processing plants. The price of oil has recently been volatile, fluctuating between $88.40 and $130.57 per barrel of Brent crude in 2012. AngloGold Ashanti estimates that for each $1 per barrel rise in the oil price, other factors remaining equal, the average cash costs under IFRS of all its operations increases by about $0.87 per ounce with the cash costs of certain of the company’s mines, particularly Geita, Cripple Creek & Victor, Siguiri and Sadiola, which are more dependent on fuel, being more sensitive to changes in the price of oil. However, the impact under US GAAP could be different. Energy costs, even in business segments which are supported by grid power, like South Africa, have increased considerably over the three year period, with price increases from Eskom (South Africa’s power utility) of approximately 26 percent per annum, far higher than average inflation. These increases have adversely impacted production costs.

AngloGold Ashanti has no influence over the cost of most consumables, many of which are linked to some degree to the price of oil and steel and in a number of cases have exceeded inflation. Furthermore, there has also been volatility recently in the price of steel, used in the manufacture of most forms of fixed and mobile mining equipment, which is a relatively large contributor to the operating costs and capital expenditure of a mine. All of these cost pressures have adversely impacted net income during the period.

Discounted closure liabilities (excluding joint ventures) increased from $653 million in 2011 to $758 million in 2012. This change is largely attributable to an overall average change in mine plans resulting in accelerated cash flows, change in economic assumptions, discount rates and changes in design of tailings storage facilities.

Exploration costs

The Company has incurred increasing amounts of exploration expenditure during the years ended December 31, 2010, 2011 and 2012 in order to replenish depleting gold reserves and bring new ore bodies into pre-feasibility or feasibility. The exploration costs incurred over the last three fiscal years amounted to $206 million in 2010, $279 million in 2011 and $388 million in 2012 and have adversely impacted net income.

General and administrative costs

In order to meet AngloGold Ashanti’s strategic objectives, management has incurred increasing levels of costs to build talent, capacity and expertise globally and in particular to support its Project ONE initiatives. The increase in general and administrative costs over the 2010 - 2012 period had an adverse impact on net income. The general and administrative costs incurred over such period amounted to $228 million in 2010, $287 million in 2011 and $299 million in 2012.

 

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Royalties

Royalties, which are generally calculated as a percentage of revenue, increased from the $142 million incurred in 2010 to $164 million incurred in 2012, primarily due to the higher spot gold prices resulting in increased royalties.

Royalties are likely to continue to increase in the coming years as in a number of jurisdictions host governments increasingly seek to obtain a higher share of revenue by increasing the royalty rates for gold mines.

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

Depreciation, depletion and amortization increased during the 2010—2012 period largely due to higher capital expenditure, reassessment of useful lives of assets and revisions in life of mine plans. Due to the higher capital investment expenditure required to complete new projects, depreciation, depletion and amortization is likely to continue to increase in the coming years.

Impairments

AngloGold Ashanti reviews and tests the carrying value of its assets when events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. AngloGold Ashanti values individual mining assets at the lowest level for which cash flows are identifiable as independent of cash flows of other mining assets and liabilities.

If there are indications that impairment may have occurred, AngloGold Ashanti prepares estimates of expected future cash flows for each group of assets. Expected future cash flows are inherently uncertain, and could materially change over time. They are significantly affected by reserve and production estimates, together with economic factors, such as spot and forward gold prices, discount rates, currency exchange rates, estimates of costs to produce reserves and future capital expenditures.

If any of these uncertainties occur either alone or in combination, management could be required to recognize impairments. The impairment charges AngloGold Ashanti incurred on long-lived assets amounted to $91 million in 2010, $17 million in 2011 and $367 million in 2012. See “Note 5 – Costs and Expenses” to the consolidated financial statements for a detailed description of impairments.

When reviewing goodwill and other long-lived assets for impairment, AngloGold Ashanti’s assumption on gold price represents its best estimate of the future price of gold. In arriving at the estimated long-term gold price, AngloGold Ashanti considers all available market information including current prices, historical averages, and forward pricing information and data. The long term gold price of $1,584 per ounce in 2012 and $1,530 per ounce in 2011, were based on a range of economic and market conditions, which were expected to exist over the remaining useful life of the assets.

AngloGold Ashanti considers the long term fundamentals that provide support to the gold price assumption. These include, amongst other things, gold as a long term store of value, hedge against inflation, safe haven status, strong physical demand from emerging markets, central bank purchases, quantitative easing and devaluation of paper currency, falling global mine production and rising costs of producing gold, all of which represent significant and enduring trends supportive of AngloGold Ashanti’s gold price assumption.

The actual gold price averaged $1,668 per ounce in 2012 and $1,572 per ounce in 2011. The gold price in 2013 has been subject to volatile short term swings and has averaged $1,632 per ounce in the first quarter of 2013 and closed at $1,404 per ounce on April 19, 2013.

AngloGold Ashanti will continue to monitor the underlying long term factors driving the gold price and will review its gold price assumption, should it consider it appropriate to do so. Should the gold price assumption used in 2012 be revised significantly downward for any reason (by more than 10 percent), goodwill related to Mine Waste Solutions and long-lived assets related to Great Noligwa are most vulnerable to impairment.

Furthermore, should the gold price fall and remain at such lower levels, management will consider, in addition to other mitigating factors, reviewing and amending the life of mine plans to reduce expenditures, optimize costs and increase cash flows in respect of its mining assets.

 

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Taxation

Taxation expense increased significantly over the period from an expense of $255 million in 2010 to an expense of $340 million in 2012. The sharp increase in the tax charge is a result of utilization of tax losses and higher spot prices resulting in higher pre-tax net income.

Taxation expense is likely to continue to increase in the coming years, as host governments in a number of jurisdictions increasingly seek to obtain a higher share of revenue by increasing rates of existing taxes and introducing new taxes on gold mines.

Acquisitions and dispositions

The global gold mining industry has experienced active consolidation and rationalization in recent years. Accordingly, AngloGold Ashanti has been, and expects to continue to be, involved in assessing a number of acquisitions and dispositions as part of this global trend and to identify value-adding business combination and acquisition opportunities.

Acquisitions and dispositions are described in note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, “Acquisitions and disposals of businesses and assets”. See also note 29 to the consolidated financial statements, “Subsequent events”. The consolidated financial statements reflect the operations and financial condition of AngloGold Ashanti, assuming that acquisitions and disposals took place on the effective date of these transactions.

South African economic and other factors

AngloGold Ashanti is a company domiciled in South Africa with significant operations in South Africa. As a result, the Company is subject to various economic, fiscal and monetary factors that affect South African companies generally.

Comparison of operating performance in 2012, 2011 and 2010

The following table presents operating data for the AngloGold Ashanti group for the three year period ended December 31, 2012:

 

 Operating data for AngloGold Ashanti      Year ended December 31    
        2012        2011        2010  

 Total attributable gold production (thousand ounces)

       3,944          4,331          4,515  

 Total cash costs ($/oz)(1)

       884          733          627  

 Total production costs ($/oz) (1)

       1,103          948          812  

 Production costs (million US dollars) - per financial statements

       3,183          2,977          2,656  

 Capital expenditure (million US dollars)

       2,154          1,527          1,015  

 - Consolidated entities

       1,851          1,439          973  

 - Equity accounted joint ventures

       303          88          42  
              
                                  

 

(1)

Total cash costs and total production costs are non-GAAP measures. For further information on these non-GAAP measures, see “Item 5A.: Operating results – Total cash costs and total production costs”.

 

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Attributable gold production

Production in 2012

For the year ended December 31, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti’s total attributable gold production from continuing operations at 3.94 million ounces was 390,000 ounces, or 9 percent, lower as compared to the 2011 production of 4.33 million ounces.

In South Africa, gold production decreased by 25 percent, or 411,000 ounces, in 2012 as compared to 2011. The lower output was mainly due to the unprotected strike action from September 20, 2012 to October 25, 2012 and the slow start-up thereafter and safety and associated stoppages during the year.

Production decreased by 3 percent, or 48,000 ounces, in 2012 in Continental Africa mainly due to a lower recovered grades at Obuasi, Iduapriem, Sadiola and Morila. The decrease was partially offset by higher production at Geita where gold production increased by 37,000 ounces.

Production increased by 5 percent, or 12,000 ounces, in 2012 in Australia as operations at Sunrise Dam recovered from flood related disruption the previous year.

In the Americas region, production increased by 7 percent, or 61,000 ounces, to 952,000 ounces. In Brazil the increase was mainly due the 100 percent ownership, effective July 1, 2012, of Serra Grande and the ramping up of production from the Córrego do Sítio sulfide project commissioned in July 2011. In Argentina at Cerro Vanguardia, the increase of production was mainly due to the higher yield in line with the production plan. The increase was partially offset by lower production at Cripple Creek & Victor in North America due to lower recovered grades.

Production in 2011

For the year ended December 31, 2011, AngloGold Ashanti’s total attributable gold production from continuing operations at 4.33 million ounces was 184,000 ounces, or 4 percent, lower when compared to 2010 production of 4.52 million ounces.

In South Africa, gold production decreased by 9 percent or 160,000 ounces in 2011 of which 63,000 ounces relate to the sale of Tau Lekoa effective August 1, 2010. The balance of the production decrease occurred across most of the South African mines. The lower output was mainly due to industrial strike actions and an increased number of government imposed safety related stoppages. At TauTona, a decision was taken early in 2011, following a significant seismic event, to cease mining of the Ventersdorp Contact Reef (VCR) shaft pillar and remove it from the immediate mine plan in the interests of safety. This decision contributed to the decline in output. Great Noligwa experienced lower production due to a combination of ore pass blockages and the closure of two haulages.

Production increased by 5 percent or 79,000 ounces in 2011 in Continental Africa mainly due to a significant increase in production at Geita in Tanzania, where gold produced increased from 357,000 ounces in the year ended December 31, 2010 to 494,000 ounces in 2011. The increase in production was due to the mining of higher grade material in 2011. This increase was partially offset by lower production at Yatela, Siguiri and Navachab due to lower recovered grades.

Production decreased by 38 percent or 150,000 ounces in 2011 in Australia mainly due to the impact of unprecedented heavy rainfall and the ramp failure in the first quarter of 2011 at Sunrise Dam in Australia, which severely affected all aspects of the operation during the rest of the year.

In the Americas region, production increased by 6 percent or 49,000 ounces to 891,000 ounces. The increase was mainly due to better ounce recovery from the heap leach pad at Cripple Creek & Victor in North America, which benefited from better pad pH chemistry and the strategy of stacking higher grade ore closer to the pad liner. In Brazil, at AngloGold Ashanti Córrego do Sítio Mineração, higher tonnage and grades contributed to increased production. These increases were partially offset by lower production at Serra Grande in Brazil due to lower recovered grades.

 

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Total cash costs and total production costs

Comparison of total cash costs and total production costs in 2012 with 2011

Most local currencies (South Africa, Argentina and Brazil) were on average weaker against the US dollar during 2012 compared to 2011. Consequently, total cash costs in US dollar terms were positively impacted for 2012.

Cash costs per ounce at all of the operations situated in South Africa increased in 2012 when compared to 2011, largely a result of lower production due to the unprotected strike action during September and October 2012, partially offset by weakening of the rand.

Geita, in Tanzania, reported a 34 percent increase in cash costs from $488 per ounce in 2011 to $652 per ounce in 2012. This was mainly as a result of an increase in inventory adjustments, consumables and contract labor costs. This increase was partially offset by increased production.

In Mali, at Morila, cash costs decreased in 2012 to $765 per ounce compared to $818 per ounce in 2011 mainly due to a decrease in inventory on hand allocations partially offset by lower production. At Sadiola, cash costs increased from $835 per ounce in 2011 to $1,220 per ounce in 2012. This increase was primarily driven by lower production, increases in fuel prices, mining contractor costs and inventory adjustments. The cash costs at Yatela increased from $1,483 per ounce in 2011 to $1,793 per ounce in 2012 mainly due to an increase in inventory on hand allocations.

In Ghana, at Obuasi, cash costs increased in 2012 to $1,189 per ounce compared to $859 per ounce in 2011 mainly due to the decline in production and an increase in the power tariff, other service related costs and labor costs. At Siguiri, in Guinea, cash costs increased to $935 per ounce in 2012 from $871 per ounce in 2011 mainly due to the decline in production, higher fuel prices, an increase in inventory on hand allocations and increased costs related to labor.

In the United States, Cripple Creek reported a $71 per ounce increase in cash costs to $640 per ounce in 2012 due primarily to rising commodity prices (diesel fuel, in particular), increased labor costs and a decline in production. In Brazil at AngloGold Ashanti Córrego do Sítio Mineração, cash costs increased to $711 per ounce in 2012 from $571 per ounce in 2011 driven largely by higher labor and operational development costs partially offset by higher production. At Serra Grande cash costs decreased by $24 per ounce to $827 per ounce in 2012 due to an increase in production of 31,000 ounces partially offset by an increase in inventory on hand allocations and other service related costs.

In Australia, at Sunrise Dam, cash costs decreased in 2012 to $1,178 per ounce compared to $1,362 per ounce in 2011, mainly due to an 12,000 ounce increase in production as operations recovered from the flood related disruption the previous year and the effect of a $30 million recovery from settled insurance claims for the flood disruptions. The decrease was partially offset by the stronger Australian Dollar which negatively impacted cash costs per ounce.

Overall the Company’s total cash costs in 2012 increased by $151 per ounce, or 21 percent, when compared to the previous year. Of these increased costs, inflation accounted for $62 per ounce and lower production accounted for $101 per ounce. The weakening of local currencies accounted for $42 per ounce partially offsetting the increase.

Comparison of total cash costs and total production costs in 2011 with 2010

Most local currencies (South Africa, Australia and Brazil) were on average stronger against the US dollar during 2011 compared to 2010. Consequently, total cash costs in US dollar terms were negatively impacted for 2011.

Cash costs per ounce at most of the operations situated in South Africa increased in 2011 when compared to 2010. This was largely a result of increases in the cost of labor, power and stores and royalty payments which came into effect on March 1, 2010, as well as the strengthening of the rand. The lower production in 2011 also negatively impacted the cash costs per ounce.

Geita, in Tanzania, reported a 30 percent decrease in cash costs from $697 per ounce in 2010 to $488 per ounce in 2011. This was mainly as a result of higher production and inventory adjustments.

 

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In Mali, at Morila, cash costs increased in 2011 to $818 per ounce compared to $716 per ounce in 2010 mainly due to higher reagent costs and fuel used in power generation. At Sadiola cash costs increased from $686 per ounce in 2010 to $835 per ounce in 2011. These were driven by increases in fuel prices, mining contractor costs were higher as a result of the longer haulage distance and higher maintenance costs. The cash costs at Yatela increased from $817 per ounce in 2010 to $1,483 per ounce in 2011 mainly due to the significant decrease in production of 31,000 ounces (52 percent).

In Ghana, at Obuasi, cash costs increased in 2011 to $859 per ounce compared to $760 per ounce in 2010 mainly due to the decline in production and an increase in the power tariff and inventory adjustments. At Siguiri, in Guinea, cash costs increased to $871 per ounce in 2011 from $656 per ounce in 2010 mainly due to the decline in production, higher fuel prices, an increase in inventory adjustments and increased costs related to labor and mining contractors.

In the United States, Cripple Creek reported a $69 per ounce increase in cash costs to $569 per ounce in 2011 due primarily to rising commodity prices (diesel fuel in particular) and increased labor costs. In Brazil at AngloGold Ashanti Córrego do Sítio Mineração cash costs increased to $571 per ounce in 2011 from $444 per ounce in 2010 driven largely by labor cost increases and higher energy consumption following the commissioning of the refrigeration plant in Cuiabá. Other factors were the stronger Brazilian real, lower volumes and higher unit costs from new Córrego do Sítio sulfide production. These effects were partially offset, however, by higher revenue from the sale of sulfuric acid, a by-product of the Cuiabá mining operation. At Serra Grande cash costs increased by $370 per ounce to $851 per ounce in 2011 due to reduced production as well as continued inflationary pressure on all mining-related inputs, such as power, consumables and labor in Brazil and the impact of the stronger Brazilian real.

In Australia, at Sunrise Dam, cash costs increased in 2011 to $1,362 per ounce compared to $692 per ounce in 2010 mainly due to the significant decrease in production of 150,000 ounces (38 percent). The decrease in production was due to the impact of unprecedented heavy rainfall and the ramp failure in the first quarter of 2011. The considerable remedial work and the stronger Australian Dollar negatively impacted cash costs per ounce.

Overall the Company’s total cash costs in 2011 increased by $106 per ounce, or 17 percent, when compared to the previous year. Of this increase, inflation accounted for $47 per ounce, lower production accounted for $20 per ounce, royalties accounted for $12 per ounce and local currency strength accounted for $9 per ounce.

Reconciliation of total cash costs and total production costs to financial statements

Total cash costs and total production costs are calculated in accordance with the guidelines of the Gold Institute industry standard and industry practice and are not US GAAP measures. The Gold Institute, which has been incorporated into the National Mining Association, is a non-profit international association of miners, refiners, bullion suppliers and manufacturers of gold products, which developed a uniform format for reporting total production costs on a per ounce basis. The guidance was first adopted in 1996 and revised in November 1999.

Total cash costs, as defined in the Gold Institute industry guidelines, are production costs as recorded in the statement of operations, less offsite (i.e. central), general and administrative expenses (including head office costs charged to the mines, central training expenses, industry association fees, refinery charges and social development costs) and rehabilitation costs, plus royalties and employee termination costs.

Total cash costs as calculated and reported by AngloGold Ashanti include costs for all mining, processing, onsite administration costs, royalties and production taxes, as well as contributions from by-products, but exclusive of depreciation, depletion and amortization, rehabilitation costs, employment severance costs, corporate administration costs, capital costs and exploration costs. Total cash costs per ounce are calculated by dividing attributable total cash costs by attributable ounces of gold produced.

Total production costs, as defined in the Gold Institute industry guidelines, are total cash costs, as calculated using the Gold Institute industry guidelines, plus amortization, depreciation and rehabilitation costs.

 

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Total production costs as calculated and reported by AngloGold Ashanti include total cash costs, plus depreciation, depletion and amortization, employee severance costs and rehabilitation and other non-cash costs. Total production costs per ounce are calculated by dividing attributable total production costs by attributable ounces of gold produced.

Total cash costs and total production costs should not be considered by investors in isolation or as alternatives to production costs, net income/(loss) applicable to common stockholders, income/(loss) before income tax provision, net cash provided by operating activities or any other measure of financial performance presented in accordance with US GAAP or as an indicator of the company’s performance. While the Gold Institute has provided definitions for the calculation of total cash costs and total production costs, the calculation of total cash costs, total cash costs per ounce, total production costs and total production costs per ounce may vary significantly among gold mining companies, and by themselves do not necessarily provide a basis for comparison with other gold mining companies.

However, AngloGold Ashanti believes that total cash costs and total production costs in total by mine and per ounce by mine are useful indicators to investors and management as they provide:

 

 

an indication of profitability, efficiency and cash flows;

 

the change in costs as the mining operations mature over time on a consistent basis; and

 

an internal benchmark of performance to allow for comparison against other mines, both within the AngloGold Ashanti group and of other gold mining companies.

A reconciliation of production costs as included in the company’s audited financial statements to total cash costs and to total production costs for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012 is presented below. In addition, the Company has provided below detail of the attributable ounces of gold produced by mine for each of those periods.

 

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For the year ended December 31, 2012

Operations in South Africa

(in $ millions, except as otherwise noted)

 

    

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

 

Production costs

    102       165       157       253       38       172       (2     121       1,006       50  

Plus:

                     

Production costs of equity accounted joint ventures (1)

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -   

Less:

                     

Rehabilitation costs & other non-cash costs

    1       1       12       (2     -        (2     30       -        40       (18

Plus:

                     

Inventory movement

    -        1       -        -        -        -        1       -        2       -   

Royalties

    1       2       2       13       1       6       -        -        25       -   

Related party transactions (2)

    (1     (2     (2     (5     (1     (2     -        (1     (14     -   

Adjusted for:

                     

Noncontrolling interests (3)

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -   

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        (20

Total cash costs

    103       167       169       259       38       174       29       120       1,059       12  

Plus:

                     

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

    22       42       91       69       11       64       7       4       310       15  

Employee severance costs

    1       2       1       1       -        1       -        -        6       -   

Rehabilitation and other non-cash costs

    (1     (1     (12     2       -        2       (30     -        (40     18  

Adjusted for:

                     

Noncontrolling interests (3)

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        4  

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        (5

Total production costs

    125       210       249       331       49       241       6       124       1,335       44  

 

Gold produced (000’ ounces) (4)

    84       164       162       405       37       189       28       144       1,213       -   

 

Total cash costs per ounce (5)

    1,226       1,018       1,043       640       1,027       921       1,036       833       873       -   
Total production costs per ounce (5)     1,488       1,280       1,537       817       1,324       1,275       214       861       1,101       -   
                                                                                 

 

132


Table of Contents

For the year ended December 31, 2012

Operations in Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Namibia, Tanzania, Australia, United States of America, Argentina and Brazil

(in $ millions, except as otherwise noted)

 

                                                                                                                         
    

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

 

 
    

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

          

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

 

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

        
Production costs     167       348       245       -       -       -       73       325       1,158       292       145       127       295       110       677  

Plus:

                                                     

Production costs of equity accounted joint ventures (1)

    -        -        -        52       111       47       -        -        210       -        -        -        -        -        -   

Less:

                                                     

Rehabilitation costs & other non-cash costs

    (7     (29     (12     2       2       (1     (2     (8     (55     -        (9     (4     (20     1       (32

Plus:

                                                     

Inventory movement

    (3     -        16       -        (1     1       -        (4     9       1       78       (4     1       (4     71  

Royalties

    9       14       23       8       10       3       4       33       104       11       11       33       -        1       45  

Related party transactions(2)

    -        -        -        -        -        2       -        -        2       -        -        -        -        -        -   

Adjusted for:

                                                     

Noncontrolling interests (3)

    -        -        (41     -        -        -        -        -        (41     -        -        (11     -        (27     (38

Total cash costs

    166       333       231       62       122       52       75       346       1,387       304       225       141       276       81       723  

Plus:

                               

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

    30       79       27       4       3       2       14       68       227       34       46       35       113       24       218  

 

Employee severance costs

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        1       3       -        4  

 

Rehabilitation and other non-cash costs

    7       29       12       (2     (2     1       2       8       55       -        9       4       20       (1     32  

Adjusted for:

                               

Noncontrolling interests(3)

    -        -        (5     -        -        -        -        -        (5     -        -        (1     -        (8     (9

Total production costs

    203       441       265       64       123       55       91       422       1,664       338       280       180       412       96       968  

 

Gold produced (000’ ounces)(4)

    180       280       247       81       100       29       74       531       1,522       258       247       219       388       98       952  

 

Total cash costs per ounce(5)

    922       1,189       935       765       1,220       1,793       1,014       652       911       1,178       (7) 640       644       711       827       759  

 

Total production costs per ounce(5)

    1,128       1,575       1,073       790       1,230       1,897       1,230       795       1,093       1,310       1,134       822       1,062       980       1,017  
                                                                                                                         

 

133


Table of Contents

For the year ended December 31, 2012

AngloGold Ashanti operations - Total

(in $ millions, except as otherwise noted)

 

      Total  

Production costs per financial statements

     3,183  

Plus:

  

Production costs of equity accounted joint ventures (1)

     210  

Less:

  

Rehabilitation costs & other non-cash costs

     (65

Plus/(less):

  

Inventory movement

     83  

Royalties

     185  

Related party transactions (2)

     (12

Adjusted for:

  

Noncontrolling interests (3)

     (79

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

     (20

Total cash costs

     3,485  

Plus:

  

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

     804  

Employee severance costs

     10  

Rehabilitation and other non-cash costs

     65  

Adjusted for:

  

Noncontrolling interests (3)

     (10

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

     (5

Total production costs

     4,349  

 

Gold produced (000’ ounces) (4)

     3,944  

 

Total cash costs per ounce (5)

     884  

Total production costs per ounce (5)

     1,103  
(1) 

Attributable production costs and related expenses of equity accounted joint ventures are included in the calculation of total cash costs per ounce and total production costs per ounce.

 

(2) 

Relates solely to production costs as included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements and has, accordingly, been included in total production costs and total cash costs.

 

(3)

Adjusting for noncontrolling interest of items included in calculation, to disclose the attributable portions only.

 

(4) 

Attributable production only.

 

(5)

In addition to the operational performances of the mines, total cash costs per ounce and total production costs per ounce are affected by fluctuations in the currency exchange rate. AngloGold Ashanti reports total cash costs per ounce and total production costs per ounce calculated to the nearest US dollar amount and gold produced in ounces.

 

(6) 

Corporate includes non-gold producing subsidiaries.

 

(7)

Total cash costs per ounce calculation includes heap-leach inventory change.

 

134


Table of Contents

For the year ended December 31, 2011

Operations in South Africa

(in $ millions, except as otherwise noted)

 

     

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

 

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

    

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

 

Production costs

     109       201       174       -        248       40       188       110       1,070       24  

Plus:

                                         

Production costs of equity accounted joint ventures (1)

     -        -        -        -         -        -        -        -        -        -   

Less:

                                         

Rehabilitation costs & other non-cash costs

     -        (2     -        -         -        (1     (1     -        (4     1  

Plus:

                                         

Inventory movement

     -        -        -        -         -        -        -        -        -        -   

Royalties

     4       13       11       -         29       3       14       -        74       -   

Related party transactions (2)

     (1     (2     (2     -         (3     -        (2     (1     (11     -   

Adjusted for:

                                         

Noncontrolling interests (3)

     -        -        -        -         -        -        -        -        -        -   

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

     -        -        -        -         -        -        -        -        -        (29

Total cash costs

     112       210       183       -         274       42       199       109       1,129       (4

Plus:

                                         

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

     23       78       101       -         70       1       75       4       352       16  

Employee severance costs

     1       2       1       -         2       1       2       -        9       1  

Rehabilitation and other non-cash costs

     -        2       -        -         -        1       1       -        4       (1

Adjusted for:

                                         

Noncontrolling interests (3)

     -        -        -        -         -        -        -        -        -        (24

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

     -        -        -        -         -        -        -        -        -        (7
Total production costs      136       292       285       -         346       45       277       113       1,494       (19

 

Gold produced (000’ ounces) (4)

     94       307       266       -         500       49       244       164       1,624       -   

 

Total cash costs per ounce (5)

     1,191       684       688       -         547       857       816       665       695       -   
Total production costs per ounce (5)      1,447       951       1,071       -         691       918       1,135       689       920       -   

 

135


Table of Contents

For the year ended December 31, 2011

Operations in Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Namibia, Tanzania, Australia, United States of America, Argentina and Brazil

(in $ millions, except as otherwise noted)

 

     

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

 

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

    

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

 
     

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

    

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

          

LOGO

    

LOGO

   

 

LOGO

 

   

 

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

        

Production costs

     176       324       252       -        -       -       59       220       1,031       325        135       53       220       119       527  

Plus:

                                                              

Production costs of equity accounted joint ventures (1)

     -        -       -        72        92       41       -        -        205       -         -        -        -        -        -   

Less:

                                                              

Rehabilitation costs & other non-cash costs

     (18     (69     (11     -         (2     (1     (1     (10     (112     -         (17     (8     (24     (18     (67

Plus:

                                                              

Inventory movement

     -        (1     (8     -         -        (1     1       8       (1     1        67       13       9       6       95  

Royalties

     9       15       23       9        11       3       3       23       96       9        8       27       -        2       37  

Related party transactions(2)

     -        -        -        -         -        1       -        -        1       -         -        -        -        -        -   

Adjusted for:

                                                              

Noncontrolling interests (3)

     -        -        (39     -         -        -        -        -        (39     -         -        (6     -        (52     (58

Total cash costs

     167       269       217       81        101       43       62       241       1,181       335        193       79       205       57       534  

Plus:

                                                              

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

     29       65       24       4        2       1       10       82       217       41        38       26       76       32       172  

Employee severance costs

     1       -        -        -         -        -        1       -        2       -         -        1       2       -        3  

Rehabilitation and other non-cash costs

     18       69       11       -         2       1       1       10       112       -         17       8       24       18       67  

Adjusted for:

                                                              

Noncontrolling interests(3)

     -        -        (5     -         -        -        -        -        (5     -         -        (3     -        (25     (28

Total production costs

     215       403       247       85        105       45       74       333       1,507       376        248       111       307       82       748  

 

Gold produced (000’ ounces)(4)

     199       313       249       99        121       29       66       494       1,570       246        267       196       359       67       889  

 

Total cash costs per ounce(5)

     839       859       871       818        835       1,483       939       488       752       1,362        (7)  569        403       571       851       601  
Total production costs per ounce(5)      1,080       1,288       992       859        868       1,552       1,121       674       960       1,528        929       566       855       1,224       841  

 

136


Table of Contents

For the year ended December 31, 2011

AngloGold Ashanti operations - Total

(in $ millions, except as otherwise noted)

 

      Total  

Production costs per financial statements

     2,977  

Plus:

  

Production costs of equity accounted joint ventures (1)

     205  

Plus:

  

Rehabilitation costs & other non-cash costs

     (182

(Less)/plus:

  

Inventory movement

     95  

Royalties

     216  

Related party transactions (2)

     (10

Adjusted for:

  

Noncontrolling interests (3)

     (97

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

     (29

Total cash costs

     3,175  

Plus/(less):

  

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

     798  

Employee severance costs

     15  

Rehabilitation and other non-cash costs

     182  

Adjusted for:

  

Noncontrolling interests (3)

     (57

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

     (7

Total production costs

     4,106  

 

Gold produced (000’ ounces) (4)

     4,329  

 

Total cash costs per ounce (5)

     733  

Total production costs per ounce (5)

     948  
(1) 

Attributable production costs and related expenses of equity accounted joint ventures are included in the calculation of total cash costs per ounce and total production costs per ounce.

 

(2) 

Relates solely to production costs as included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements and has, accordingly, been included in total production costs and total cash costs.

 

(3) 

Adjusting for noncontrolling interest of items included in calculation, to disclose the attributable portions only.

 

(4) 

Attributable production only.

 

(5)

In addition to the operational performances of the mines, total cash costs per ounce and total production costs per ounce are affected by fluctuations in the currency exchange rate. AngloGold Ashanti reports total cash costs per ounce and total production costs per ounce calculated to the nearest US dollar amount and gold produced in ounces.

 

(6)

Corporate includes non-gold producing subsidiaries.

 

(7)

Total cash costs per ounce calculation includes heap-leach inventory change.

 

(8)

There was no production attributable to AngloGold Ashanti in 2011. AngloGold Ashanti sold Tau Lekoa to Simmer & Jack Mines Limited (“Simmers”) in 2010.

 

137


Table of Contents

For the year ended December 31, 2010

Operations in South Africa

(in $ millions, except as otherwise noted)

 

    

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

 

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

 

Production costs

    120       192       181       59       233       24       177       89       1,075       12  

Plus:

                                       

Production costs of equity accounted joint ventures (1)

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -   

Less:

                                       

Rehabilitation costs & other non-cash costs

    (2     (5     (10     -        (5     -        (3     -        (25     (8

Plus:

                                       

Inventory movement

    (1     (1     (1     (1     -        -        -        -        (4     -   

Royalties

    2       4       4       -        18       1       9       -        38       -   

Related party transactions (2)

    (1     (3     (3     (1     (5     -        (2     (2     (17     -   

Adjusted for:

                                       

Noncontrolling interests (3)

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -   

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        (9

Total cash costs

    118       187       171       57       241       25       181       87       1,067       (5

Plus:

                                       

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

    27       73       108       1       58       5       71       6       349       15  

Employee severance costs

    5       3       2       1       5       1       3       -        20       -   

Rehabilitation and other non-cash costs

    2       5       10       -        5       -        3       -        25       8  

Adjusted for:

                                       

Noncontrolling interests (3)

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        (11

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        (5
Total production costs     152       268       291       59       309       31       258       93       1,461       2  

 

Gold produced (000’ ounces) (4)

    132       305       292       63       532       22       259       179       1,784       -   

 

Total cash costs per ounce (5)

    894       613       586       905       452       1,136       699       486       598       -   
Total production costs per ounce (5)     1,152       879       997       937       580       1,409       996       520       819       -   

 

138


Table of Contents

For the year ended December 31, 2010

Operations in Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Namibia, Tanzania, Australia, United States of America, Argentina and Brazil

(in $ millions, except as otherwise noted)

 

    

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

 

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

 
    

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

          

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

LOGO

   

 

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

        

Production costs

    151       238       184       -       -       -       57       256       886       261       114       63       169       76       422  

Plus:

                                                           

Production costs of equity accounted joint ventures (1)

    -       -       -       61       75       43       -       -       179       -       -       -       -       -       -   

Less:

                                                           

Rehabilitation costs & other non-cash costs

    (20     (16     (1     -       (3     (2     3       (8     (47     1       (13     (7     (18     -       (38

Plus:

                                                           

Inventory movement

    6       7       (1     -       1       1       (1     (12     1       -       58       -       (1     (2     55  

Royalties

    7       12       29       7       9       4       3       13       84       12       5       21       -       1       27  

Related party transactions(2)

    -       -       -       -       (1     3       -       -       2       -       -       -       -       -       -   

Adjusted for:

                                                           

Noncontrolling interests (3)

    -       -       (32     -       -       -       -       -       (32     -       -       (6     -       (38     (44

Total cash costs

    144       241       179       68       81       49       62       249       1,073       274       164       71       150       37       422  

Plus:

                                                           

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

    25       61       23       4       3       2       8       55       181       33       33       24       61       32       150  

Employee severance costs

    1       -       -       1       -       -       -       -       2       -       -       1       2       -       3  

Rehabilitation and other non-cash costs

    20       16       1       -       3       2       (3     8       47       (1     13       7       18       -       38  
Adjusted for:                                                            

Noncontrolling interests (3)

    -       -       (3     -       -       -       -       -       (3     -       -       (2     -       (16     (18
Total production costs     190       318       200       73       87       53       67       312       1,300       306       210       101       231       53       595  

 

Gold produced (000’ ounces)(4)

    185       317       273       95       118       60       86       357       1,491       396       233       194       338       77       842  

 

Total cash costs per ounce(5)

    778       760       656       716       686       817       721       697       720       692       (7) 500       366       444       481       501  
Total production costs per ounce (5)     1,027       1,003       733       768       737       883       779       874       872       773       901       521       683       688       707  

 

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For the year ended December 31, 2010

AngloGold Ashanti operations - Total

(in $ millions, except as otherwise noted)

 

      Total  

Production costs per financial statements

     2,656  

Plus:

  

Production costs of equity accounted joint ventures (1)

     179  

Less:

  

Rehabilitation costs & other non-cash costs

     (117

Plus/(less):

  

Inventory movement

     52  

Royalties

     161  

Related party transactions (2)

     (15

Adjusted for:

  

Noncontrolling interests (3)

     (76

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

     (9

Total cash costs

     2,831  

Plus:

  

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

     728  

Employee severance costs

     25  

Rehabilitation and other non-cash costs

     117  

Adjusted for:

  

Noncontrolling interests (3)

     (32

Non-gold producing companies and adjustments

     (5

Total production costs

     3,664  

 

Gold produced (000’ ounces) (4)

     4,515  

 

Total cash costs per ounce (5)

     627  

Total production costs per ounce (5)

     812  
(1) 

Attributable production costs and related expenses of equity accounted joint ventures are included in the calculation of total cash costs per ounce and total production costs per ounce.

 

(2) 

Relates solely to production costs as included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements and has, accordingly, been included in total production costs and total cash costs.

 

(3) 

Adjusting for noncontrolling interest of items included in calculation, to disclose the attributable portions only.

 

(4) 

Attributable production only.

 

(5) 

In addition to the operational performances of the mines, total cash costs per ounce and total production costs per ounce are affected by fluctuations in the currency exchange rate. AngloGold Ashanti reports total cash costs per ounce and total production costs per ounce calculated to the nearest US dollar amount and gold produced in ounces.

 

(6) 

Corporate includes non-gold producing subsidiaries.

 

(7) 

Total cash costs per ounce calculation includes heap-leach inventory change.

 

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Capital expenditure

Total capital expenditure of $2,154 million was recorded in 2012 compared to $1,527 million in 2011. This represents a $627 million, or 41 percent, increase from 2011. The increased capital expenditure during 2012 relates to increased capital spent on existing operations of $75 million and increased spending of $552 million for growth related projects. Capital expenditure increased at Tropicana by $242 million, the Kibali joint venture by $190 million, infrastructure spend at the Mongbwalu project by $76 million, Obuasi by $53 million, Cripple Creek & Victor by $33 million, Geita by $23 million, Sadiola by $23 million, Mponeng by $22 million and Iduapriem by $22 million.

Total capital expenditure of $1,527 million was recorded in the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to $1,015 million in the same period in 2010. This represents a $512 million, or 50 percent, increase from 2010. The increased capital expenditure during 2011 relates to increased spending to sustain existing operations of $265 million and growth related projects of $247 million. Capital expenditure increased at AngloGold Ashanti Córrego do Sítio Mineração by $117 million, Tropicana by $63 million, Iduapriem by $56 million, Mponeng by $50 million, Kibali joint venture by $43 million, Cerro Vanguardia by $35 million, Navachab by $34 million, Kopanang by $31 million, Moab Khotsong by $27 million, Obuasi by $23 million and Geita by $20 million.

Comparison of financial performance on a segment basis for 2012, 2011 and 2010

The Company produces gold as its primary product and does not have distinct divisional segments in terms of principal business activity, but manages its business on the basis of different geographic segments. Therefore, information regarding separate geographic segments is provided. Revenues presented below exclude allocated realized gains/losses on non-hedge derivatives to individual geographic areas.

Revenues

 

 (in millions)    Year ended December 31  
     2012             2011         2010      
      $     percent     $     percent     $     percent  

 Category of activity

            

 Total revenues

            

 Product sales

     6,353         6,570         5,334    

 Interest, dividends and other

     75         72         68    

 Total revenues

     6,428               6,642               5,402          

 Geographical area data

            

 Total revenues

            

 South Africa

     2,056       32       2,596       39       2,276       42  

 Continental Africa

     2,617       41       2,529       38       1,871       34  

 Australasia

     430       7       389       6       468       9  

 Americas

     1,658       25       1,499       23       1,125       21  

 Other, including Corporate and Non-gold producing

 subsidiaries

     20       -       17       -       (6     -  
     6,781         7,030         5,734    

 Less : Equity method investments included above

     (353     (5     (388     (6     (332     (6

 Total revenues

     6,428       100       6,642       100       5,402       100  

 

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Assets

 

 (in millions)    As at December 31  
     2012              2011              2010          
      $      percent      $      percent      $      percent  

 Geographical area data

                 

 Total segment assets

                 

 South Africa

     3,570        27        2,974        27        3,370        32  

 Continental Africa

     4,752        36        4,365        39        4,093        39  

 Australasia

     1,007        8        714        6        534        5  

 Americas

     2,894        22        2,527        23        2,170        21  

 Other, including Corporate, Assets held for sale and

 Non-gold producing subsidiaries

     879        7        605        5        221        2  

 Total segment assets

     13,102        100        11,185        100        10,388        100  

At December 31, 2012, 27 percent of AngloGold Ashanti’s total assets were located in South Africa compared with 27 percent at the end of 2011. The remaining operations collectively accounted for approximately 73 percent of AngloGold Ashanti’s total assets at December 31, 2012 compared to 73 percent at the end of the same period in 2011.

At December 31, 2011, 27 percent of AngloGold Ashanti’s total assets were located in South Africa compared with 32 percent at the end of 2010, mainly due to the weakening of the rand against the US dollar (2011: $/R8.0407, 2010: $/R6.5701). The remaining operations collectively accounted for approximately 73 percent of AngloGold Ashanti’s total assets at December 31, 2011 compared to 68 percent at the end of the same period in 2010.

Comparison of financial performance in 2012, 2011 and 2010

 

 Financial performance of AngloGold Ashanti    Year ended December 31              
 (in millions)    2012      2011      2010  

 Revenue

     6,428        6,642        5,402  

 Cost and expenses

     (5,217)                     (4,521)                 (5,021)   

 Taxation expense

     (340)         (705)         (255)   

 Equity (loss)/income in associates

     (23)         59        40  

 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (19)         (50)         (54)   

 Net income

     829        1,425        112  

 

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Comparison of financial performance in 2012 with 2011

Revenues

Revenues from product sales and other income decreased by $214 million from $6,642 million in 2011 to $6,428 million in 2012, representing a 3 percent decrease over the period. This decrease was mainly due to the decrease in production following the unprotected strike action at the South African operations. The decrease was partially offset by the increase in the average spot price of gold. The average spot price of gold was $1,668 per ounce during 2012, $96 per ounce, or 6 percent, higher than $1,572 per ounce in 2011.

Total revenues from the South African operations decreased by $540 million to $2,056 million from $2,596 million in 2011, mainly as a result of the decrease in production (1,213,000 ounces in 2012 compared to 1,624,000 ounces in 2011) following the unprotected strike action. This decrease was partially offset by the increase in the average spot price of gold.

Total revenues from the Continental Africa operations increased by $88 million to $2,617 million from $2,529 million in 2011, mainly as a result of the increase in the average spot price of gold. This increase was partially offset by the 48,000 attributable ounces decrease in production.

Total revenue from the Australian operation at Sunrise Dam increased from $389 million in 2011 to $430 million in 2012. The increase was mainly due to the increase in production from 246,000 attributable ounces in 2011 to 258,000 attributable ounces in 2012 and the increase in the average spot price of gold.

Total revenues from the Americas operations increased from $1,499 million in 2011 to $1,658 million in 2012 mainly as a result of the increase in the average spot price of gold and an increase in gold produced from 891,000 attributable ounces in 2011 to 952,000 attributable ounces in 2012.

Production costs

Production costs increased from $2,977 million in 2011 to $3,183 million in 2012, which represents a $206 million, or 7 percent increase. The increase was primarily due to an increase in operational costs including labor, consumables and fuel. In particular, increased service related costs in Obuasi in Ghana, South Africa, Córrego do Sítio Mineração in Brazil and Cerro Vanguardia in Argentina, contractor costs at Sunrise Dam in Australia and Geita in Tanzania and labor costs in Argentina, Brazil, Obuasi in Ghana and Siguiri in Guinea contributed to higher production costs. Fuel costs increased at Geita in Tanzania, Siguiri in Guinea and Navachab in Namibia and electricity costs increased in South Africa and Obuasi in Ghana. These increases were partially offset by the $30 million recovery from settled insurance claims during the third quarter of 2012 for the reimbursement of costs relating to the pitwall failure at Sunrise Dam (Australia) during 2011 and by the weakening of local currencies against the US dollar.

Exploration costs

Exploration costs increased from $279 million in 2011 to $388 million in 2012 mainly due to higher prefeasibility expenditure at La Colosa in Colombia, additional exploration at Tropicana in Australia and Mongbwalu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as increased exploration activities in Guinea. For a discussion of AngloGold Ashanti’s exploration activities in 2012, see “Item 4B.: Business overview – Global exploration”.

Royalties

Royalties paid by AngloGold Ashanti decreased from $193 million in 2011 to $164 million in 2012, mainly due to a decrease in payments of royalties under the South African Mineral and Petroleum Resources Act, which was a result of the unprotected strike action and the subsequent decrease in revenue. Royalties recorded by the South African mines decreased from $73 million in 2011 to $25 million in 2012. Royalties in Argentina increased from $27 million in 2011 to $33 million in 2012 primarily as a result of higher average spot prices of gold and higher production. In Argentina, royalties are payable to Fomicruz, a state owned company in the Santa Cruz Province, being the minority shareholder of the Cerro Vanguardia operation and are calculated as a percentage of revenues. Royalties paid in Tanzania amounted to $33 million in 2012 compared to $23 million in 2011 primarily due to the higher production and the higher gold price.

 

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Depreciation, depletion and amortization

Depreciation, depletion and amortization expense increased by $5 million or 1 percent, to $794 million in 2012 when compared to $789 million recorded in 2012.

Impairment of assets

In 2012, AngloGold Ashanti recorded impairments amounting to $367 million, compared to impairments amounting to $17 million in 2011. This was partly due to the impairment of Great Noligwa and Kopanang of $42 million and $14 million, respectively, in South Africa, due to changes in the mine plan resulting in certain areas being abandoned. Furthermore, due to a change in the mine plan at Obuasi in Continental Africa, certain infrastructure, development and assets have been impaired and written-off amounting to $296 million. See “Note 5 - Costs and expenses: Impairment of assets” to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Interest expense

Interest expense increased by $35 million to $213 million in 2012, compared to $178 million in 2011. The increase is mainly due to increases in the amortization of borrowing fees, interest charges on the new $750 million rated bonds issued in July 2012, senior floating and fixed rate notes (DMTNP) issued in October 2012 and the increase in discount on a long-term indirect tax receivables. Interest expense recorded in the year ended December 31, 2012 includes $6 million related to accelerated amortization of fees on the syndicated revolving credit facility ($1 billion) canceled in August 2012.

Accretion expense

Accretion expense of $33 million was recorded in 2012 compared with $28 million in 2011. Accretion relates to the unwinding of discounted future rehabilitation obligations to present values and increases in the reclamation obligations to its future estimated payout.

Employment severance cost

Employment severance costs decreased to $10 million in 2012 from $15 million in 2011. Employment severance costs recorded for the year ended December 31, 2012 relates to retrenchments in the South Africa region, South America and Continental Africa region reflecting rationalization of operations.

(Loss)/profit on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

In 2012, the Company recorded a loss of $35 million compared to a profit of $43 million recorded in 2011. The loss in 2012 mainly related to the reassessment of indirect taxes payable, mining contractor termination and settlement costs, the impairment of investments and the loss on disposal of land, equipment and assets, mineral rights and exploration properties. These losses were partially offset by royalties received from Newmont Mining Corporation (2009 sale of Boddington Gold mine) and Simmers & Jack Mines Limited (2010 sale of Tau Lekoa Gold mine), profit on part disposal of Rand Refinery Limited and profit on disposal of AGA-Polymetal Strategic Alliance.

In 2011, the Company recorded a profit of $43 million compared to a profit of $3 million recorded in 2010. The profit in 2011 mainly related to royalties received from Newmont Mining Corporation (2009 sale of Boddington Gold mine) and Franco Nevada Corporation (2011 sale of royalty stream in Ayanfuri mine). These profits were partially offset by the impairment of investments, the loss on disposal of land, equipment and assets, mineral rights and exploration properties, reassessment of indirect taxes payable and Black economic empowerment transaction restructuring costs.

 

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Non-hedge derivative gain/loss and movement on bonds

Non-hedge derivative gain

A gain on non-hedge derivatives of $93 million was recorded in 2012 compared to a gain of $83 million in 2011 relating to the use of non-hedging instruments. These represent derivatives not designated in formal hedge accounting relationships. The change in fair value of these derivatives are recorded each period in the income statement.

The net gain recorded for the year ended December 31, 2012 related to the fair value movements of the conversion features of convertible bonds amounting to $83 million, movements on other commodity contracts and the revaluation of non-hedge derivatives resulting from changes in the prevailing forward gold price, exchange rates, interest rates and volatilities during the year amounting to a gain of $10 million.

Non-hedge derivatives recorded for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 included:

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2012      2011  
     (in US Dollars, million)  

(Gain)/loss on unrealized non-hedge derivatives

     (10)          

Fair value gain on option component of convertible bonds

     (83)         (84)   
  

 

 

 

Net gain

     (93)         (83)   
  

 

 

 
Movement on bonds              
     Year ended December 31,  
     2012      2011  
     (in US Dollars, million)  

Fair value gain on mandatory convertible bonds

     (172)         (113)   

Fair value movements on the mandatory convertible bonds were based on the ex interest NYSE closing price of these bonds.

     

Equity loss/income in associates

Equity income in equity method investments decreased from an income of $59 million in 2011 to a loss of $23 million in 2012, mainly as a result of the decrease in revenue from gold sales at Sadiola and Morila mines in Mali from $189 million and $157 million, respectively, in 2011 to $169 million and $135 million, respectively, in 2012 due to the decrease in production. The decrease was partially offset by the increase in the average spot price of gold for 2012.

Taxation expense

A net taxation expense of $340 million was recorded in 2012, compared to a net taxation expense of $705 million in 2011. Charges for current tax in 2012 amounted to $414 million, compared to $406 million in 2011. The increase in the tax charge in 2012 was mainly due to higher taxable income as a result of the higher gold price, while 2011 was lower due to the utilization of tax losses. This was partially offset by lower taxes at the South African operations as a result of safety stoppages and the unprotected strike action. Charges for deferred tax in 2012 amounted to a net tax benefit of $74 million compared to a net tax expense of $299 million in 2011. The decrease in the deferred tax charge in 2012 is mainly due to the lower enacted statutory tax rates in South Africa, tax credits on impairments at Obuasi and corporate restructuring of Serra Grande, partially offset by the higher enacted statutory tax rates in Ghana. Refer to “Note 7 – Taxation” of the consolidated financial statements.

 

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Comparison of financial performance in 2011 with 2010

Revenues

Revenues from product sales and other income increased by $1,240 million from $5,402 million in 2010 to $6,642 million in 2011, representing a 23 percent increase over the period. This increase was mainly due to the increase in the average spot price of gold. The average spot price of gold was $1,572 per ounce during 2011, $345 per ounce, or 28 percent, higher than $1,227 per ounce in 2010. The year on year increase in revenue was partially offset by reduced gold production of 184,000 ounces in 2011 when compared to 2010. The majority of product sales consisted of US dollar-denominated gold sales.

Total revenues from the South African operations increased by $320 million to $2,596 million from $2,276 million in 2010, mainly as a result of the increase in the average spot price of gold. This increase was offset by the reduced gold production at the South African operations (1,624,000 ounces in 2011 compared to 1,784,000 ounces in 2010).

Total revenues from the Continental Africa operations increased by $658 million to $2,529 million from $1,871 million in 2010, mainly as a result of the increase in the average spot price of gold and the treatment of higher tonnes and higher grade material at Geita.

Total revenue from the Australian operation at Sunrise Dam decreased from $468 million in 2010 to $389 million in 2011. The decrease in revenue was mainly due to the decrease in production of 150,000 ounces in 2011.

Total revenues from the Americas operations increased from $1,125 million in 2010 to $1,499 million in 2011 mainly as a result of the increase in the average spot price of gold and an increase in gold produced from 842,000 attributable ounces in 2010 to 891,000 ounces in 2011.

Production costs

Production costs increased from $2,656 million in 2010 to $2,977 million in 2011, which represents a $321 million, or 12 percent increase. The production costs of most of the operations increased in 2011. The increase was mainly as a result of an increase in rehabilitation and operational costs including labor, consumables and power. Operational cost increases were mainly due to annual labor cost increases and increased contractor costs at Sunrise Dam, power tariff increases mainly in South Africa and at AngloGold Ashanti Córrego do Sítio Mineração in Brazil and higher rehabilitation costs that were recorded at Obuasi in Ghana and Serra Grande in Brazil.

Exploration costs

Exploration costs increased from $206 million in 2010 to $279 million in 2011 mainly due to higher prefeasibility expenditure at La Colosa in Colombia, additional exploration at Tropicana in Australia and Mongbwalu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as increased exploration activities in Guinea, the Solomon Islands and marine exploration areas. For a discussion of AngloGold Ashanti’s exploration activities in 2011, see “Item 4B.: Business overview – Global exploration”.

Royalties

Royalties paid by AngloGold Ashanti increased from $142 million in 2010 to $193 million in 2011, mainly due to payments of royalties under the South African Mineral and Petroleum Resources Act and the higher average spot price of gold. Royalties recorded by the South African mines increased from $38 million in 2010 to $73 million in 2011. Royalties in Argentina increased from $21 million in 2010 to $27 million in 2011 as a result of higher average spot prices of gold. In Argentina, royalties are payable to Fomicruz, a state owned company in the Santa Cruz Province, being the minority shareholder of the Cerro Vanguardia operation and are calculated as a percentage of revenues. Royalties paid in Tanzania amounted to $23 million in 2011 compared to $13 million in 2010. Royalties in Tanzania increased due to the higher production and the higher gold price.

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

Depreciation, depletion and amortization expense increased by $69 million or 10 percent, to $789 million in 2011 when compared to $720 million recorded in 2010. This increase was mainly due to increases in depreciation, depletion and amortization expense in Tanzania (Continental Africa) and the Americas from $55 million and $152 million, respectively, incurred in the year ended December 31, 2010 to $82 million and $173 million, respectively, for the same period of 2011 mainly as a result of higher production and changes in estimated useful life of assets which are used in the calculation of depreciation, depletion and amortization.

 

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Impairment of assets

In 2011, AngloGold Ashanti recorded impairments amounting to $17 million compared to $91 million in 2010. This was mainly due to the impairment of Savuka, waste wash plant at Kopanang and abandoned shaft pillar development at Tau Tona in South Africa during 2011 and the write-off of assets at Obuasi in Continental Africa. Tau Tona and Savuka were impaired due to changes in the mine plan resulting in areas being abandoned and safety related concerns. See “Note 5 Costs and expenses: Impairment of assets” to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Interest expense

Interest expense increased by $27 million to $178 million in 2011, compared to $151 million recorded in 2010. The increase is mainly due to interest charges for the full year on the rated bonds and mandatory convertible bonds which were issued in April 2010 and September 2010, respectively, partially offset by lower interest paid due to the repayment of the 2009 Term Facility during 2010. Interest expense recorded in the year ended December 31, 2010 includes $8 million related to accelerated amortization of fees on canceled debt facilities.

Accretion expense

Accretion expense of $28 million was recorded in 2011 compared with $22 million in 2010. Accretion relates to the unwinding of discounted future rehabilitation obligations to present values and increases in the reclamation obligations to its future estimated payout.

Employment severance cost

Employment severance costs decreased to $15 million in 2011 from $23 million in 2010. Employment severance costs recorded for the year ended December 31, 2011 relates to retrenchments in the South Africa region at Great Noligwa, Kopanang, TauTona and Mponeng and in Continental Africa reflecting rationalization of operations.

Profit/loss on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

In 2011, the Company recorded a profit of $43 million compared to a profit of $3 million recorded in 2010. The profit in 2011 mainly related to royalties received from Newmont Mining Corporation (2009 sale of Boddington Gold mine) and Franco Nevada Corporation (2011 sale of royalty stream in Ayanfuri mine). These profits were partially offset by the impairment of investments, the loss on disposal of land, equipment and assets, mineral rights and exploration properties, reassessment of indirect taxes payable and Black economic empowerment transaction restructuring costs.

The profit in 2010 mainly related to profit on sale of investments held in B2Gold Corporation and Red 5 Limited, an insurance claim recovery at Savuka mine and royalties received. These profits were partially offset by the mandatory convertible bond underwriting and professional fees, the loss on disposal of land, equipment and assets, mineral rights and exploration properties and reassessment of indirect taxes payable in Tanzania, Brazil, Guinea and South Africa.

Non-hedge derivative loss

A gain on non-hedge derivatives of $83 million was recorded in 2011 compared to a loss of $703 million in 2010 (which included normal purchase and sale exempted (“NPSE”) contracts re-designated to non-hedging instruments in previous years) relating to the use of non-hedging instruments. These represent derivatives not designated in formal hedge accounting relationships. The change in fair value of these derivatives is recorded each period in the income statement.

The net gain recorded for the year ended December 31, 2011 relates to the fair value movements of the conversion features of convertible bonds amounting to $84 million and the revaluation of non-hedge derivatives resulting from changes in the prevailing forward gold price, exchange rates, interest rates and volatilities during the year amounting to a loss of $1 million.

During 2010, the Company eliminated its gold hedge book. The loss on scheduled hedge book maturities during 2010 was $277 million. Loss on non-hedge derivatives included a realized loss of $2,698 million related to the final tranche of the accelerated hedge buy-back that commenced in September 2010 and was concluded on October 7, 2010. The final phase of hedge restructuring was funded with proceeds from the equity offering and the mandatory convertible bonds in September 2010, as well as cash from internal sources and debt facilities.

The loss on non-hedge derivatives recorded for the year ended December 31, 2010 relates to the accelerated hedge book settlement, normal realized losses on non-hedge derivatives, the fair value movement of the conversion features of convertible bonds and the revaluation of non-hedge derivative that resulted from changes in the prevailing spot gold price, exchange rates, interest rates, volatilities and non-performance risk during 2010.

 

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The hedge buy-back and re-designation of contracts (effected in 2009) resulted in an increase in current non-hedge derivative liabilities and a consequential loss recorded in (gain)/loss on non-hedge derivatives. During 2010, the opening balance of the derivative liability of $556 million further declined by $131 million in fair value, before all these contracts were settled for $687 million.

Non-hedge derivatives recorded for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 included:

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2011     2010  
     (in US Dollars, million)  

Loss on realized non-hedge derivatives

     -       2,975  

Loss/(gain) on unrealized non-hedge derivatives

     1       (2,273

Fair value (gain)/loss on option component of convertible bonds

     (84     1  
  

 

 

 

Net (gain)/loss

     (83     703  
  

 

 

 

Movement on bonds

 

    
     Year ended December 31,  
     2011     2010  
     (in US Dollars, million)  

Fair value (gain)/loss on mandatory convertible bonds

     (113     83  

Fair value movements on the mandatory convertible bonds were based on the ex interest NYSE closing price of these bonds.

    

Equity income in associates

Equity income in equity method investments increased from $40 million in 2010 to $59 million in 2011, mainly as a result of the increase in revenue from gold sales at Sadiola and Morila mines in Mali from $143 million and $117 million, respectively, in 2010 to $189 million and $157 million, respectively, in 2011. The increase was mainly due to the increase in the average spot price of gold for 2011.

Taxation expense

A net taxation expense of $705 million was recorded in 2011 compared to $255 million in 2010. Charges for current tax in 2011 amounted to $406 million compared to $117 million in 2010. The increase in the tax charge in 2011 is mainly due to higher income as a result of the higher gold price and losses having been fully utilized during the current year in South Africa and Tanzania. Charges for deferred tax in 2011 amounted to a net tax expense of $299 million compared to $138 million in 2010. The increase in the deferred tax charge in 2011 is mainly due to the reversal of deferred tax credits on losses utilized in South Africa, Geita and the Americas. Refer to “Note 7 – Taxation” of the consolidated financial statements.

 

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5B.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

In the board’s opinion, AngloGold Ashanti’s working capital is sufficient to meet the Company’s present requirements.

Operating activities

2012

Net cash provided by operating activities was $1,700 million in 2012, lower than the 2011 amount of $2,550 million. The decrease in net cash provided by operations was mainly as a result of higher costs and lower revenues.

Net cash outflow from operating working capital items amounted to $195 million in 2012, compared with an outflow of $131 million in 2011.

2011

Net cash provided by operating activities was $2,550 million in 2011, higher than the 2010 amount of $1,038 million. The increase in net cash provided by operations was mainly as a result of an increase in the average spot price of gold received during 2011 and the elimination of the hedge book in 2010.

Net cash outflow from operating working capital items amounted to $131 million in 2011, compared with an outflow of $314 million in 2010.

Investing activities

2012

Investing activities in 2012 resulted in a net cash outflow of $2,651 million, an increase of $1,048 million from an outflow of $1,603 million in 2011. Additions to property, plant and equipment increased to $1,758 million in 2012 compared to $1,393 million in 2011. The acquisition of First Uranium (Pty) Limited resulted in a cash outflow of $335 million in 2012.

2011

Investing activities in 2011 resulted in a net cash outflow of $1,603 million, which is a decrease of $284 million from an outflow of $1,887 million in 2010. Additions to property, plant and equipment increased to $1,393 million in 2011 compared to $973 million in 2010. Investing activities for non-hedge derivatives maturing resulted in an outflow of $nil million in the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to an outflow of $984 million for the same period in 2010.

Financing activities

2012

Net cash generated by financing activities in the year ended December 31, 2012 amounted to an inflow of $736 million, which is an increase of $1,055 million from an outflow of $319 million in the year ended December 31, 2011. Cash inflows from proceeds from loans in 2012 amounted to $1,432 million and included $200 million drawn down on the $1.0 billion four-year syndicated loan facility, $750 million proceeds on the bonds issued in July 2012 to fund ongoing capital projects as well as $262 million drawn down on the A$600 million syndicated loan for general corporate purposes, principally on the Tropicana project.

Cash outflows from repayment of debt of $217 million during the year ended December 31, 2012 included the repayment of $200 million on the $1.0 billion four-year syndicated loan facility and normal scheduled loan repayments of $17 million. Cash outflows for the acquisition of the remaining 50 percent stake of Serra Grande mine in Brazil amounted to $215 million.

Dividends paid increased from $169 million in 2011 to $236 million in 2012. Dividends are proposed and approved by the board of directors of AngloGold Ashanti, based on the Company’s financial performance.

2011

Net cash generated by financing activities in the year ended December 31, 2011 amounted to an outflow of $319 million, which is a decrease of $549 million from an inflow of $230 million in the year ended December 31, 2010. Cash inflows from proceeds from loans in 2011 amounted to $109 million and included gross proceeds of $100 million raised from the $1 billion syndicated loan facility.

Cash outflows from repayment of debt of $268 million during the year ended December 31, 2011 included the capital repayment of $99 million towards the FirstRand Bank Limited loan facility, $150 million towards the $1.0 billion syndicated loan facility and normal scheduled loan repayments of $19 million.

 

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Dividends paid increased from $117 million in 2010 to $169 million in 2011. Dividends are proposed and approved by the board of directors of AngloGold Ashanti, based on the Company’s financial performance. During the third quarter of 2011, the Company changed its frequency of dividend payments to quarterly, rather than half-yearly.

Liquidity

AngloGold Ashanti’s revenues are derived primarily from the sale of gold produced at its mines. Cash generated by operating activities is therefore the function of gold produced sold at a specific price. The market price of gold can fluctuate widely, which impacts the profitability of the Company’s operations and the cash flows generated by these operations.

AngloGold Ashanti’s cash and cash equivalents decreased to $892 million at December 31, 2012 compared with $1,112 million at December 31, 2011. In accordance with South African Reserve Bank regulations, cash generated by South African operations is held in rands and is therefore subject to exchange controls. At December 31, 2012, 77 percent of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents was held in US dollars, 13 percent was held in South African rands and 10 percent was held in other currencies.

On April 28, 2010, the Company completed an offering of a $700 million 10-year note and a $300 million 30-year note. The notes were issued by AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti Limited, and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by AngloGold Ashanti Limited. The notes are unsecured and interest is payable semi-annually at a rate of 5.375 percent on the $700 million bond and 6.50 percent on the $300 million bond. The bonds are payable in April 2020 and April 2040, respectively.

In September 2010, the Company issued mandatory convertible bonds at a coupon rate of 6 percent due in September 2013. The conversion of the mandatory convertible bonds into ADSs was subject to shareholder approval, which was granted in October 2010. These bonds are convertible into a variable number of shares ranging from 18,140,000 at a share price equal to or lesser than $43.50, to 14,511,937 at a share price equal to or greater than $54.375, each as calculated in accordance with the formula set forth in the indenture and subject to adjustment. Concurrent with the mandatory convertible bonds offering was an equity offering which resulted in the issue of 18,140,000 shares at an issue price of R308.37 per share. Total gross proceeds of $789 million were received from each of these offerings. The mandatory convertible bonds issued during 2010 are not included in basic earnings per ordinary share as they contain features that could result in their settlement in cash and therefore do not meet the definition of an equity instrument. The principal of this bond will be settled by the issue of shares as mentioned earlier and only the interest payments will be settled in cash.

On December 22, 2011, AngloGold Ashanti Australia Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti Limited, entered into a four year revolving credit facility of A$600 million with a syndication of banks. Interest is charged at BBSY plus 2 percent per annum. Each of AngloGold Ashanti Limited and AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc. has guaranteed all payments and other obligations of AngloGold Ashanti Australia Limited under the facility. Amounts may be repaid and redrawn under the facility during its four year term. No draw down was made during 2011 under the facility. An amount of $266 million was drawn down during the year ended December 31, 2012 under the facility. A commitment fee of 50 percent of the applicable margin (i.e. 1 percent) is payable quarterly in arrears on the undrawn portion of the facility. This facility will be used to fund general working capital requirements.

On July 20, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Inc., each a wholly-owned subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti Limited, as borrowers, and AngloGold Ashanti Limited entered into a $1.0 billion five-year unsecured revolving credit facility with a syndicate of lenders which replaced its existing $1.0 billion syndicated facility maturing in April 2014. AngloGold Ashanti Limited, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc. and AngloGold Ashanti USA Inc. each guaranteed the obligations of the borrowers under the facility. Amounts may be repaid and redrawn under the facility during its five-year term. Amounts outstanding under the facility bear interest at LIBOR plus a margin that varies based on the credit rating of AngloGold Ashanti Limited. No draw down was made during 2012 under the facility. A commitment fee of 0.525 percent is payable quarterly in arrears on the undrawn portion of the facility.

On July 30, 2012, the Company completed an offering of $750 million aggregate principal amount of 5.125 percent notes due 2022. The notes were issued by AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. The notes are unsecured and fully and unconditionally guaranteed by AngloGold Ashanti Limited.

On February 18, 2013, AngloGold Ashanti Limited entered into a syndicated bridge loan facility agreement pursuant to which a syndicate of banks agreed to make available $750 million to AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc. In the event that AngloGold Ashanti Limited chooses to draw on the loan, the proceeds are to be applied towards the repayment of the $732.5 million 3.5 percent convertible bonds due May 2014 issued by AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc.

 

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AngloGold Ashanti intends to finance its capital expenditure and debt repayment requirements in 2013 from cash on hand, cash flow from operations, existing credit facilities and, potentially, if deemed appropriate, long-term debt financing, the issuance of equity and equity linked instruments.

Short-term debt

AngloGold Ashanti’s short-term debt increased to $859 million at December 31, 2012 from $32 million at December 31, 2011. Included in the short-term debt at December 31, 2012, were:

 

 

$588 million payable under the mandatory convertible bonds, which are convertible into ADSs in September 2013 (interest charged at 6 percent per annum; the bonds are US dollar-based);

 

$84 million payable under the Senior Floating Rate Notes (DMTNP) (interest charged at 5.815 percent per annum; the notes are ZAR-based);

 

$59 million payable under the FirstRand Bank Limited demand facility and is ZAR-based;

 

$36 million payable under the Senior Fixed Rate Notes (DMTNP) (interest charged at 5.365 percent per annum; the notes are ZAR-based);

 

$16 million in interest payable under the $750 million 10-year bond (interest charged at 5.125 percent per annum; the bonds mature in August 2022 and are US dollar-based);

 

$8 million is payable under the Navachab Lewcor Mining contract loan (interest charged at 8.40 percent per annum; the loan matures in April 2015 and is Namibian dollar-based);

 

$7 million in interest payable under the $700 million 10-year bond (interest charged at 5.375 percent per annum; the bonds mature in April 2020 and are US dollar-based); and

 

$4 million in interest payable under the $300 million 30-year bond (interest charged at 6.50 percent per annum; the bonds mature in April 2040 and are US dollar-based).

Long-term debt

AngloGold Ashanti’s long-term debt increased to $2,750 million at December 31, 2012 compared with $2,473 million at December 31, 2011. As at December 31, 2012, the Company’s long-term borrowings included:

Unsecured loans:

 

 

$994 million outstanding under the $700 million 10-year and $300 million 30-year rated bonds issued April 2010 (interest charged at 5.375 percent and 6.50 percent, respectively, per annum; the bonds mature in April 2020 and April 2040, respectively, and are US dollar-based);

 

$745 million outstanding under the rated bonds issued July 2012 (interest charged at 5.125 percent per annum; the bonds mature in August 2022 and are US dollar-based);

 

$686 million outstanding under the convertible bonds issued on May 22, 2009 (interest charged at 3.50 percent per annum; the bonds are convertible, at holders’ option, into ADS up to May 2014 and are US dollar-based); and

 

$266 million outstanding under the A$600 million syndicated revolving credit facility (interest charged at BBSY plus 2 percent per annum; the loan matures in December 2015 and is Australian dollar-based).

Secured capital leases:

 

 

$14 million is repayable to Navachab Lewcor Mining Contract for equipment financed (interest charged at a rate of 8.4 percent per annum. Loans mature in April 2015 and are Namibian dollar-based. The equipment financed is used as security for these loans);

 

$30 million is repayable to Turbine Square Two (Proprietary) Limited for buildings financed (interest charged at an implied rate of 9.8 percent per annum, lease payments are payable in monthly installments terminating in March 2022, are rand-based and the buildings financed are used as security for these loans);

 

$9 million is repayable to California First National Bank (Interest charged at an average rate of 2.4 percent per annum. Loans are repayable in monthly installments terminating in December 2019 and are US dollar-based. The equipment financed is used as security for these loans); and

 

$5 million is repayable to Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation (Interest charged at an average rate of 5.46 percent per annum. Loans are repayable in monthly installments terminating in January 2015 and are US dollar-based. The equipment financed is used as security for these loans).

 

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As at December 31, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti’s total long-term debt, including the short-term portion maturing within 2012, was made up as follows:

 

      $ (million)  

Unsecured loans

     2,724   

Secured capital leases

     73   

Total

     2,797   

Less: Short-term maturities

     47   

Long-term debt

     2,750   

Debt maturities are scheduled as follows:

 

      $ (million)  

2013

     859   

2014

     703   

2015

     273   

2016

      

2017

      

Thereafter

     1,765   

Total

     3,609   

At December 31, 2012, the currencies in which the borrowings were denominated were as follows:

 

      $ (million)  

United States dollars

     3,107   

Australian dollars

     266   

South African rands

     210   

Brazilian real

      

Namibian dollars

     22   

Total

     3,609   

Repayments of short-term and long-term borrowings amounted to $2 million and $215 million, respectively, in 2012.

At December 31, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti had the following undrawn amounts available under its borrowing facilities:

 

      $ (million)  

Syndicated Loan Facility ($1.0 billion) – US dollar

     1,000   

Syndicated Loan Facility (A$600 million) – Australian dollar

     359   

FirstRand Bank Limited – rands

     30   

Total undrawn

     1,389   

AngloGold Ashanti had no other committed lines of credit as of December 31, 2012.

As of December 31, 2012, the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants and provisions related to potential defaults.

 

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AngloGold Ashanti, through its executive committee, reviews its short, medium and long-term funding, treasury and liquidity requirements and positions monthly. The Audit Committee also reviews these on a quarterly basis at its meetings.

Commitments and contingencies

For a detailed discussion of commitments and contingencies, see note 20 to the consolidated financial statements “Commitments and contingencies”.

As at December 31, 2012, capital commitments(1) and contingencies can be summarized over the periods shown below as follows:

 

      Expiration per period  

Commitment

 

(in millions)

   Total
amount
$
    

Less than
1 year

$

     1 – 3
years
$
     4 – 5
years
$
     Over 5
years
$
 

Capital expenditure

     3,317        1,609        1,708        -         -   

(contracted and not yet contracted)(1)

              

Guarantees

     3,970        803        736        266        2,165  

Other commercial commitments(2)

     745        643        65        25        12  

Total

     8,032        3,055        2,509        291        2,177  

(1) Including commitments through contractual arrangements with equity accounted joint ventures of $749 million.

(2) Excludes commitments through contractual arrangements with equity accounted joint ventures.

 

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Derivatives accounted for at fair value

In the normal course of its operations, the Company is exposed to gold and other commodity price, currency, interest rate, liquidity and non-performance risk, which includes credit risk. The Company is also exposed to certain by-product commodity price risk. In order to manage these risks, the Company may enter into transactions which make use of derivatives. The Company has developed a risk management process to facilitate, control and monitor these risks. The board approves and monitors this risk management process, inclusive of documented treasury policies, counterpart limits, controlling and reporting structures. The Company does not acquire, hold or issue derivatives for speculative purposes. Until 2010 the Company had utilized a number of derivatives as part of its hedging of these risks. In order to provide financial exposure to the rising spot price of gold and the potential for enhanced cash-flow generation the Company completed its final tranche of hedge buy-back program during 2010 and settled all forward gold and foreign exchange contracts that had been used by the Company in the past to manage those risks.

The estimated fair values of financial instruments are determined at discrete points in time based on relevant market information. The following table represents the change in fair value of all derivative financial instruments:

 

      $ (million)  

Fair value of derivatives at January 1, 2012

     (93)   

Option component of convertible bonds

     83   

Fair value of derivatives at December 31, 2012

     (10)   

The fair value of the on-balance sheet derivatives at December 31, 2012 included:

 

      $ (million)  

Derivatives – non-current liabilities

     (10)   

Derivatives – net liabilities

     (10)   

The maturity of the fair value of derivatives as at December 31, 2012 was as follows:

 

      Fair value of derivatives at December 31  
Source of fair value    Maturity      Maturity      Maturity      Maturity      Total  
(in millions)   

less than

1 year

$

    

1 - 3

years

$

    

4 - 5

years

$

    

excess of

5 years

$

    

Fair

value

$

 

Prices actively quoted

     -         -         -         -         -   

Prices provided by other external sources

     -         -         -         -         -   

Prices based on models and other valuation methods (1)

     -         (9)         -         (1)         (10)   

(1)Fair value of volatility-based instruments (i.e. options) is calculated based on market prices, volatilities, credit risk and interest rates.

Recent developments

For a detailed discussion of recent developments, see note 29 to the consolidated financial statements “Subsequent events”.

Related party transactions

For a detailed discussion of related party transactions, see “Item 7B.: Related party transactions”.

Recently adopted accounting policies and pending adoption of new accounting standards

AngloGold Ashanti’s accounting policies are described in note 4 to the consolidated financial statements “Significant accounting policies”. Recently adopted accounting policies are described in note 2 to the consolidated financial statements “Accounting changes”. Recent pronouncements are described in note 4.27 to the consolidated financial statements “Recent pronouncements”.

 

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Critical accounting policies

AngloGold Ashanti’s accounting policies are described in note 4 to the consolidated financial statements “Significant accounting policies”. The preparation of the Company’s financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the year. The following are considered to be the accounting policies that are most critical to the Company’s results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Use of estimates and making of assumptions

The most critical accounting estimates upon which AngloGold Ashanti’s financial reporting depends are those requiring estimates of Proven and Probable Reserves, recoverable ounces therefrom, and/or assumptions of future gold prices. Such estimates and assumptions affect the value of inventories (which are stated at the lower of average cost or net realizable value) and the potential impairment of long-lived assets and intangibles as detailed below. These estimates and assumptions also affect the rate at which depreciation and amortization are charged to earnings. On an ongoing basis, management evaluates its estimates and assumptions; however, actual amounts could differ significantly due to the ultimate conclusion of uncertainties.

Ore reserves and life-of-mines

AngloGold Ashanti estimates on an annual basis its Ore Reserves at its mining operations. There are a number of uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of reserves, including many factors beyond the Company’s control. Estimates of Ore Reserves are based upon engineering evaluations of assay values derived from samplings of drill holes and other openings. Additionally, declines in the market price of gold may render certain reserves containing relatively lower grades of mineralization uneconomic to mine. Further, availability of permits, changes in operating and capital costs, and other factors could materially and adversely affect Ore Reserves. The Company uses its estimates of Ore Reserves to determine the unit basis for mine depreciation and closure rates, and to evaluate mine asset impairments. Changes in estimates of Ore Reserves could significantly affect these items. At least annually, the Company reviews mining schedules, production levels and asset lives in the Company’s life-of-mine planning for all of the Company’s operating and development properties. Significant changes in the life-of-mine plans may occur as a result of mining experience, new ore discoveries, changes in mining methods and rates, process changes, investment in new equipment and technology and gold prices. Based on the life-of-mine analysis the Company reviews its accounting estimates and adjusts depreciation, amortization, reclamation costs and evaluation of each mine for impairment where necessary. Accordingly, this analysis and the estimates made therein have a significant impact on the Company’s results of operations and financial condition.

Drilling and related costs

Drilling and related costs incurred on sites without an existing mine and on areas outside the boundary of a known mineral deposit that contain proven and probable reserves are recorded as exploration expenditures and are expensed as incurred.

Drilling and related costs incurred to define and delineate a residual mineral deposit that has not been classified as proven and probable reserves at a development stage or production stage mine are capitalized when management determines that there is sufficient evidence that the expenditure will result in a future economic benefit to the Company in the accounting period when the expenditure is made. Management evaluates whether or not there is sufficient geologic and economic certainty of being able to convert a residual mineral deposit into a proven and probable reserve at a development stage or production stage mine, based on the known geology and metallurgy, existing mining and processing facilities, operating permits and environmental programs. Therefore, prior to capitalizing such costs, management determines that the following conditions have been met:

 

 

There is a probable future benefit;

 

AngloGold Ashanti can obtain the benefit and control access to it; and

 

The transaction or event giving rise to it has already occurred.

 

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The Company understands that there is diversity in practice within the mining industry, in that some companies expense the drilling and related costs incurred to define and delineate residual mineral deposits that have not been classified as proven and probable reserves at a development stage or production stage mine. Had AngloGold Ashanti expensed such costs as incurred, net income, earnings per share and retained earnings would have been lower by the following amounts:

 

        2012        2011        2010  

Net income ($ millions)

       34          10          27  

Earnings per share - basic(1) (cents)

       9          3          7  

Earnings per share - diluted(2) (cents)

       8          2          7  

Retained income – January 1 ($ millions)

       123          113          86  

Retained income – December 31 ($ millions)

       157          123          113  

(1)Impact per basic earnings per common share.

(2)Impact per diluted earnings per common share.

Contingencies

AngloGold Ashanti accounts for contingencies in accordance with the FASB ASC guidance for contingencies. It requires the recording of an estimated loss for a loss contingency when information available indicates that it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred, and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Accounting for contingencies such as legal and income tax matters requires the use of judgments to determine the amount to be recorded in the financial statements. By their nature, contingencies will only be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur, and typically, those events will occur a number of years into the future. The Company assesses such contingent liabilities, which inherently involves the exercise of significant management judgment and estimates of the outcome of future events. Also, see “Taxation” discussed below.

Impairment of long-lived assets

AngloGold Ashanti’s long-lived assets include property, plant and equipment, acquired properties, goodwill and other tangible assets. In assessing the potential impairment of its long-lived assets held for use, the Company must make assumptions regarding estimated future cash flows and other factors relating to the respective assets. To the extent that the carrying value of the long-lived asset as recorded in the consolidated financial statements exceeds the undiscounted cash flows associated with these assets, an impairment charge is recognized in the consolidated financial statements based on the fair value of the asset. The Company performs impairment tests for goodwill at least annually during the fourth quarter and whenever certain indicators of impairment exist. Impairment calculation assumptions are included in notes to the consolidated financial statements – Note 5 - “Costs and expenses”.

Taxation

AngloGold Ashanti follows the liability method of accounting for deferred taxation whereby the Company recognizes the tax consequences of temporary differences by applying current statutory tax rates applicable to future years to differences between financial statement amounts and the tax bases of certain assets and liabilities. Changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities include the impact of any tax rate changes enacted during the year. Deferred tax is estimated at the future average anticipated taxation rates at which temporary differences are expected to reverse. Future average anticipated taxation rates are determined from revenue and expenditure outlined in life-of-mine business plans that are revised annually. When a deferred tax asset arises the Company reviews the asset for recoverability and establishes a valuation allowance where the Company determines it is more likely than not that such an asset will not be realized. These determinations are based on the projected realization of tax allowances and tax losses. If these tax assets are not to be realized, an adjustment to the valuation allowance would be required, which would be charged to income in the period that the determination was made.

If the Company determines that it would be able to realize tax assets in the future in excess of the recorded amount thereof, an adjustment to reduce the valuation allowance would be recorded as a credit to income in the period that the determination is made. Management classifies taxes payable based on the likelihood of the amount required to be settled within twelve months, which are then reported within current liabilities. All other taxes payable are recorded within non-current liabilities.

 

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Provision for environmental rehabilitation

AngloGold Ashanti’s mining and exploration activities are subject to various laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment. The Company recognizes management’s best estimate for asset retirement obligations in the period in which they are incurred. Actual costs incurred in future periods could differ materially from the estimates. Additionally, future changes to environmental laws and regulations, life of mine estimates and discount rates could affect the carrying amount of this provision. Changes in Mineral Reserves could similarly affect the useful lives of assets depreciated on a straight-line-basis, where those lives are limited to the life of mine.

Discounted closure liabilities (excluding joint ventures) increased from $653 million in 2011 to $758 million in 2012. This change is largely attributable to a change in mine plans resulting in accelerated cash flows, change in economic assumptions and discount rates.

Ore on Leach Pads

The recovery of gold from certain oxide ores is achieved through the heap-leaching process. Under this method, ore is placed on leach pads where it is permeated with a chemical solution, which dissolves the gold contained in the ore. The resulting “pregnant” solution is further processed in a process plant where the gold is recovered. For accounting purposes, costs are added to leach pads based on current mining costs, including applicable depreciation, depletion and amortization relating to mining operations. Costs are removed from the leach pad as ounces are recovered in circuit at the leach plant based on the average cost per recoverable ounce of gold on the leach pad.

The engineering estimates of recoverable gold on the leach pads are calculated from the quantities of ore placed on the pads (measured tons added to the leach pads), the grade of ore placed on the leach pads (based on assay data) and a recovery percentage (based on metallurgical testing and ore type). Leach pad production cycles vary from several months to multiple years dependent on the height of the heap leach pad. The increased height of the pad and the resultant associated lengthy transport time of the solution to the internal collection ponds from which the pregnant solution is pumped significantly increase the time from placement of ore to the ultimate gold recovery.

Although the quantities of recoverable gold placed on the leach pads are reconciled by comparing the grades of ore placed on pads to the quantities of gold actually recovered (metallurgical balancing), the nature of the leaching process inherently limits the ability to precisely monitor recoverability levels. As a result, the metallurgical balancing process is constantly monitored and the engineering estimates are refined based on actual results over time. Historically, AngloGold Ashanti’s operating results have not been materially impacted by variations between the estimated and actual recoverable quantities of gold on its leach pads. For operations with long-term leach production cycles, variations in recovery estimates from new metallurgical data or production variances would be accounted for as an adjustment to the recoverable ounces and the average cost per recoverable ounce of gold on the leach pad. Variations between actual and estimated quantities resulting from changes in assumptions and estimates that do not result in write-downs to net realizable value are accounted for on a prospective basis. The ultimate recovery of gold from a pad will not be known until the leaching process has been concluded.

The costs of materials currently contained on the leach pad are reported as a separate line item. As at December 31, 2012 and 2011, $128 million and $98 million, respectively, was classified as short-term as the Company expects the related gold to be recovered within twelve months. The short-term portion of materials on the leach pad is determined by multiplying the average cost per ounce in inventory by the expected production ounces for the next twelve months. Heap-leach pad inventory occurs in two forms: (1) gold recoverable but yet to be dissolved (i.e. gold still in the ore), and (2) gold recoverable from gold dissolved in solution within the leach pad (i.e. pore water). This estimate calculation was used in determining the short-term portion of materials on the leach pad as at December 31, 2012. As at December 31, 2012, $445 million was classified as long-term compared with $393 million as at December 31, 2011.

 

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5C.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, PATENTS AND LICENSES, ETC.

Research and development expenditure included in the income statement amounted to $9 million, $1 million and $4 million during 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

5D.

TREND INFORMATION

For a discussion of trends affecting AngloGold Ashanti’s business and operations, see “Item 5A.: Operating Results – Key factors affecting results”.

 

5E.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

AngloGold Ashanti does not engage in off-balance sheet financing activities, and does not have any off-balance sheet debt obligations, special purpose entities or unconsolidated associates. The most significant off-balance sheet item is the unaccrued future rehabilitation obligations.

See note 19 to the consolidated financial statements “Provision for environmental rehabilitation”.

 

5F.

TABULAR DISCLOSURE OF CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

As at December 31, 2012 AngloGold Ashanti had the following known contractual obligations:

 

Contractual obligations                                      
     Total     Less than
1 year
     1-3     3-5      More than
5 years
 
                  years     years         
(in millions)    $     $      $     $      $  

Long-term debt obligations including interest(1)

     4,946       1,008        1,256       205        2,477  

Capital lease obligations

     96       20        31       14        31  

Operating lease obligations

     32       22        5       2        3  

Purchase obligations

            

- Contracted capital expenditure(2)

     1,075       1,075        -        -         -   

- Other purchase obligations(3)

     745       643        65       25        12  

Environmental rehabilitation costs(4)

     2,984       40        89       128        2,727  

Derivatives(5)

     (10     -         (9     -         (1

Pensions and other post retirement medical obligations(6)

     197       14        29       32        122  

Uncertain taxes(7)

     53       15        26       -         12  

Total

     10,118       2,837        1,492       406        5,383  

 

(1) 

Interest calculations are at the rate existing at the year end. Actual rates are set at floating rates for some of the debt (Refer Note 18 of Item 18). Certain of these obligations will be settled by the issue of equity, refer to “Item 5B.: Liquity and capital resources”.

(2) 

Represents contracted capital expenditure for which contractual obligations exist. Amounts stated include commitments of equity accounted joint ventures.

 

(3) 

Other purchase obligations represent contractual obligations for mining contract services, purchase of power, supplies, consumables, inventories, explosives and activated carbon. Amounts stated exclude purchase obligations of equity accounted joint ventures.

 

(4) 

Operations of gold mining companies are subject to extensive environmental regulations in the various jurisdictions in which they operate. These regulations establish certain conditions on the conduct of operations by AngloGold Ashanti. Pursuant to environmental regulations, AngloGold Ashanti is also obligated to close its operations and reclaim and rehabilitate the lands upon which it conducted its mining and gold recovery operations. The present estimated closure costs at existing operating mines and mines in various stages of closure are reflected in this table. For more information of environmental rehabilitation obligations, see “Item 4B.: Business overview - Mine site rehabilitation and closure” and “Item 4B.: Business overview - Environmental, health and safety matters”. Amounts stated include a total estimated liability of $61 million in respect of equity accounted joint ventures.

(5) 

Estimated fair value of all derivatives. Also see “Item 5B.: Liquidity and capital resources – Derivatives accounted for at fair value”. Amounts stated include derivatives of equity accounted joint ventures.

 

(6) 

Represents payments for unfunded plans or plans with insufficient funding.

 

(7) 

Certain of the uncertain tax positions will prescribe in 2013, 2014 and 2015.

 

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ITEM 6: DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

 

6A.

DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT

Directors

AngloGold Ashanti has a unitary board structure which comprises two executive directors and ten non-executive directors. Certain information with respect to AngloGold Ashanti’s directors as at December 31, 2012 is set forth below:

 

Name    Age    Position    Year first
appointed (1)

Mark Cutifani

   54    Executive director and chief executive officer    2007

SrinivasanVenkatakrishnan

   47    Executive director, and chief financial officer    2005

Tito T Mboweni(3)

   53    Independent non-executive director and chairman    2010

Frank B. Arisman(2)

   68    Independent non-executive director    1998

Rhidwaan Gasant(2)

   53    Independent non-executive director    2010

Nozipho January-Bardill (2)

   62    Independent non-executive director    2011

Michael J. Kirkwood

   65    Independent non-executive director    2012

William (Bill) A Nairn

   68    Independent non-executive director    2001

Lumkile W (Wiseman) Nkuhlu(2)

   68    Independent non-executive director    2006/2009

Ferdinand Ohene-Kena

   76    Independent non-executive director    2010

Sipho M Pityana(4)

   53    Independent non-executive director    2007

Rodney J. Ruston

   62    Independent non-executive director    2012

 

(1)

Directors who do not have a contract of employment with the company (non-executive directors) serve for a period of three years unless re-elected. At each annual general meeting, directors appointed since the previous annual general meeting are required to retire, but are eligible for re-election. In addition, one-third of the non-executive directors (rounded down to the next whole number), must retire according to seniority or by lot but may be re-elected.

 
(2)

Member of the Audit and Corporate Governance committee.

(3)

Appointed as chairman with effect from June 1, 2010.

(4)

With effect from February 19, 2013 S. Pityana is no longer independent, refer Item 7B.: - “Related Party Transactions”.

NON-EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN:

Mr TT Mboweni (53)

BA, MA (Development Economics)

Chairman and independent non-executive director

Tito Mboweni was appointed to the board and as Chairman on June 1, 2010. He is chairman of the Nominations and Transformation and Human Resources Development committees and a member of the Investment, Remuneration, Financial Analysis and Party Political Donations committees. He has a long and outstanding record of public service. As Labour Minister from 1994 to 1998, Tito was the architect of South Africa’s post-apartheid labor legislation which today continues to provide the basis for the mutually respectful labor relationships central to AngloGold Ashanti’s operational approach in South Africa. He was the eighth Governor of the South African Reserve Bank from 1999 to 2009, and Chancellor of the University of the North from 2002 to 2005. He is also non-executive chairman of Nampak Limited and an international adviser to Goldman Sachs. Tito is a founder member of Mboweni Brothers Investment Holdings. He is also chairman of the fund raising committee of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital and a trustee and chairman of the finance committee of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation. In December 2012, he was elected as a member of the National Executive Committee of the African National Congress.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS:

Mr M Cutifani (54)

BE (Mining Engineering)

Chief Executive Officer

Mark Cutifani was appointed to the board of AngloGold Ashanti on September 17, 2007 and as Chief Executive Officer on October 1, 2007. He was chairman of the Executive Committee and a member of the Social, Ethics and Transformation; Human Resources Development; Safety, Health and Sustainable Development; Risk and Information Integrity; Party Political Donations Committee; and Investment Committees. Mark has considerable experience in gold mining, having been associated with the industry since 1976. He has had responsibility across six countries, mining and marketing more than 25 commodities. Prior to joining AngloGold Ashanti, he was Chief Operating Officer at CVRD Inco, a Toronto-based company, where he was responsible for Inco’s global nickel business. Mr Cutifani left AngloGold Ashanti on March 31, 2012 to assume the CEO position at Anglo American plc. Mr AM O’Neill (who was appointed to the board of directors on February 20, 2013) and Mr S Venkatakrishnan will be acting CEOs until such time as a suitable replacement is found.

 

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Mr S Venkatakrishnan (Venkat) (47)

BCom, ACA (ICAI)

Chief Financial Officer

Venkat joined AngloGold Ashanti on July 1, 2004, having been chief financial officer at Ashanti Goldfields Company Limited (Ashanti) until that company’s merger with AngloGold Limited in May 2004. He was appointed to the board on August 1, 2005, is a member of the Executive, Risk and Information Integrity, and Investment committees, and is invited to attend meetings of the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee. Venkat has extensive financial experience, having been a director in the reorganization services division of Deloitte & Touche in London prior to joining Ashanti in 2000. He is a member of the audit committee of the World Gold Council and is a member of the Financial Reporting Investigation Panel, an advisory panel of the JSE. Venkat led the team that eliminated a 12 million ounce hedge book at an attractive average price, generating significant value for the company. He was also the key executive behind rebuilding the balance sheet through a series of successful and innovative financings that included debt, convertible debt and equity. His efforts to secure an international investment grade rating for AngloGold Ashanti and then to successfully defend that rating after a wave of industrial unrest in South Africa, have helped AngloGold Ashanti retain a competitive cost of capital. As the lead executive on all M&A activity, he has successfully negotiated a series of acquisitions and disposals, including the $1 billion sale of the Boddington stake to Newmont and the sale of Tau Lekoa to Simmer & Jack. (Acquisitions have largely been bolt-on in nature and value accretive.) Venkat became joint acting CEO of AngloGold Ashanti effective April 1, 2013.

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS:

Mr FB Arisman (68)

BA (Finance), MSc (Finance)

Independent non-executive director

Frank Arisman joined the board of AngloGold Ashanti on April 1, 1998. He is chairman of the Financial Analysis and Investment Committees, and a member of the Safety, Health and Sustainable Development; Audit and Corporate Governance; Nominations; Risk and Information Integrity; and Remuneration Committees. Frank, who resides in the United States, has a rich background in management and finance through his experiences at J.P. Morgan where he held various positions prior to his retirement.

Mr R Gasant (53)

CA (SA)

Independent non-executive director

Rhidwaan Gasant was appointed to the board of AngloGold Ashanti on August 12, 2010. He is chairman of the Risk and Information Integrity Committee and a member of the Audit and Corporate Governance, Nominations and Financial Analysis Committees. He is the former Chief Executive Officer of Energy Africa Limited and sits on the board of international companies in the MTN Group. He is currently chief executive officer of Rapid African Energy Holdings, a start-up oil and gas exploration company focused on Africa.

Mrs NP January-Bardill (62)

BA (UBCS), MA (Applied Linguistics)

Independent non-executive director

Nozipho January-Bardill was appointed to the board on October 1, 2011. She chairs the Social, Ethics and Transformation Committee and is a member of the Audit and Corporate Governance, Safety, Health and Sustainable Development, Party Political Donations, Nominations and Transformation and Human Resources Development committees. She recently retired from the MTN Group where she served on several of the company’s subsidiary boards and was an executive director on its main board. She is a former South African Ambassador to Switzerland, Lichtenstein and the Holy See, and former Deputy Director General, Human Capital Management, and Head of the Foreign Service Institute in the then Department of Foreign Affairs (now the Department of International Relations and Co-operation). She is the founder and executive director of Bardill & Associates, a consulting company focusing on strategic communications, high-level government relations and stakeholder management. She also serves on the boards of Credit Suisse Securities, Johannesburg, Multi Motion Fuels (Pty) Ltd and the Health and Welfare SETA, which she chairs. She was reappointed to the United Nations Expert Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerances for the period 2012-2016.

 

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Mr MJ Kirkwood (65)

AB, Stanford, (Engineering Econosystems Management)

Independent non-executive director

Michael Kirkwood joined the board on June 1, 2012 and is a member of the Investment, Remuneration, Social, Ethics and Transformation and Nominations committees. He is a highly experienced and respected former international banker, having worked at the highest levels of Citigroup during his 30-year career with the bank. He is currently chairman of Circle Holdings plc, sits on the boards of UK Financial Investments Ltd and Eros International plc, and is senior advisor (former chairman) of Ondra Partners LLP.

Mr WA Nairn (68)

BSc (Mining Engineering)

Independent non-executive director

Bill Nairn was appointed to the board in 2000 as an alternate director and on May 16, 2001 as a permanent non-executive director. He chairs the Remuneration Committee and is a member of the Safety, Health and Sustainable Development; Transformation and Human Resources Development; Investment; Party Political Donations; Risk and Information Integrity; Nominations and Social, Ethics and Transformation committees. Bill, a mining engineer, has considerable technical experience, having been the Group Technical Director of Anglo American plc until 2004 when he retired from the company. Having completed the three-year cooling-off period, he is now considered an independent non-executive director of AngloGold Ashanti.

Prof LW Nkuhlu (68)

BCom, CA (SA), MBA (New York University)

Independent non-executive director

Wiseman Nkuhlu was first appointed to the board on August 4, 2006 and resigned on April 30, 2009. He was reappointed on June 1, 2009. He is chairman of the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee and also serves as a member of the Financial Analysis, Investment, Nominations, Risk and Information Integrity, Safety, Health and Sustainable Development, Social, Ethics and Transformation, Party Political Donations, and Remuneration committees. Wiseman, a respected South African academic, educationist, professional and business leader, served as Economic Adviser to the former President of South Africa, Mr Thabo Mbeki, and as Chief Executive of the Secretariat of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) from 2000 to 2005. From 1989 to 2000, he served as director to a number of major South African companies, including Standard Bank, South African Breweries, Old Mutual, Tongaat Hulett, BMW and JCI. Wiseman was President of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants from 1998 to 2000, and Principal and Vice Chancellor of the University of Transkei from 1987 to 1991. He was elected President of the Geneva-based International Organisation of Employers (IOE) in May 2008 for a period of two years. He is currently a member of the board of directors of Datatec Limited, Rothschild SA and the Ethics Institute of South Africa. He serves on the Audit and Risk Committee of Datatec Limited and is a trustee of the International Financial Reporting Standards Foundation.

Mr F Ohene-Kena (76)

MSc (Engineering), DIC and ACSM

Independent non-executive director

Ferdinand (Fred) Ohene-Kena was appointed to the board of AngloGold Ashanti on June 1, 2010. He is the former Ghanaian Minister of Mines and Energy and is currently a member of the Ghana Judicial Council. He is the chairman of the Ghana Minerals Commission and a member of the President’s Economic Advisory Council. Mr Ohene-Kena is a member of the Safety, Health and Sustainable Development; Transformation and Human Resources Development; and Nominations Committees.

Mr SM Pityana (53)

BA (Hons) (Essex), MSc (London), Dtech (Honoris) (Vaal University of Technology)

Independent non-executive director

Sipho Pityana joined the board of AngloGold Ashanti on February 13, 2007. He is the chairman of the Safety, Health and Sustainable Development Committee and is a member of the Remuneration, Party Political Donations, Investment, Nominations, Financial Analysis, Risk and Information Integrity, Social, Ethics and Transformation and the Transformation and Human Resources Development Committees. Sipho has extensive experience in management and finance, and has occupied strategic roles in both the public and private sectors, including that of Director General of the national departments of both labor and foreign affairs. He was formerly a senior executive of Nedbank Limited and is currently the Executive Chairman of Izingwe Holdings (Proprietary) Limited, a local empowerment group and a significant investor in mining, engineering, infrastructure and logistics, and AngloGold Ashanti’s BEE partner. He serves as a Non-executive Director on the boards of several other South African companies.

 

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Mr RJ Ruston (62)

MBA, Business, BE (Mining)

Independent non-executive director

Rodney Ruston was appointed to the board on January 1, 2012. He is a member of the Investment, Safety, Health and Sustainable Development, Risk and Information Integrity, Nominations and the Social, Ethics and Transformation committees. Rodney, a mining engineer, has over 35 years of experience in the resources industry. He is currently the chief executive of County Coal Limited, an Australian-listed company which he joined in June 2012. He was previously chief executive officer and president of North American Energy Partners Inc., a large Canadian mining and construction contracting company listed on the NYSE and the TSX.

Board and Executive Committee movements during 2012 and subsequent to year end

The following movements in the board of directors, the Executive Committee and the position of company secretary took place during the period January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012, and subsequent to year-end:

Mr RJ Ruston was appointed to the board with effect from January 1, 2012;

Mr MJ Kirkwood was appointed to the board with effect from June 1, 2012;

Mr RL Lazare retired from the company and as a member of the Executive Committee with effect on March 31, 2012;

Mr MD MacFarlane was appointed Executive Vice President – Business Strategy and a member of the Executive Committee with effect from June 11, 2012;

Mr D Noko was appointed Executive Vice President – Social and Sustainable Development and a member of the Executive Committee on June 15, 2012;

Ms L Eatwell retired as company secretary effective August 31, 2012;

Ms ME Sanz Perez, Group General Counsel was appointed company secretary with effect from September 1, 2012;

Mark Cutifani, Chief Executive Officer, resigned with effect from March 31, 2013;

Sipho Pityana was reclassified as a non-executive director with effect from February 19, 2013. Refer Item 7B.: “Related Party Transactions”;

Until a new Chief Executive Officer is appointed, the board has asked Chief Financial Officer, Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan, and Executive Vice President: Business and Technical Development, Tony O’Neill, to act as joint interim Chief Executives. Venkat will be responsible for all finance and corporate functions and Tony for all operations, projects (including ERP and procurement) and technical functions; and

Tony O’Neill was appointed an executive director to the board with effect from February 20, 2013.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Day-to-day management of the group’s affairs is vested in the Executive Committee, which is chaired by the Chief Executive Officer and comprises 13 members. The committee’s work is supported by country and regional management teams. Given the importance of Colombia to AngloGold Ashanti, it was decided to restructure the work in Colombia under a dedicated EVP to manage the creation of a new social and sustainable mining model that delivers on the expectations of the people of Colombia and which creates frameworks for our Colombian business to be successful over the long term. Charles Carter has taken on the role of EVP – Colombia, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, while retaining his accountability for AngloGold Ashanti’s investor relations and financial public relations portfolio. During the year under review, two new members, Mike MacFarlane and David Noko, were appointed to the committee.

In addition to Mr M Cutifani and Mr S Venkatakrishnan, the following people are members of the Executive Committee.

 

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Ms I Boninelli (56)

MA (Psychology), post-graduate diploma in Labor Relations

Executive Vice President – People and Organizational Development

Italia Boninelli joined AngloGold Ashanti on October 15, 2010 as Senior Vice President: Human Resources, Strategy and Change Management and was appointed to the Executive Committee on December 1, 2011 where she is responsible for the company’s people strategy, transformation and change management initiatives. Italia has more than 25 years’ experience in human resources, marketing communications, customer relationship management and business transformation, in a variety of industries including mining, manufacturing, healthcare and banking. She is a registered industrial psychologist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa, holds a masters degree in psychology and a post-graduate diploma in labor relations.

Dr CE Carter (50)

BA (Hons), DPhil, EDP

Executive Vice President – Colombia and Investor Relations

Charles Carter has worked in the mining industry in South Africa and the United States since 1991, in a range of corporate roles with Anglo American Corporation, RFC Corporate Finance and AngloGold Ashanti. He has recently taken on executive responsibility for the company’s business in Colombia. Prior to this he was Executive Vice President – Business Strategy, responsible for Corporate Strategy and Business Planning, Risk Management, Project One implementation and Corporate Human Resources. He retains accountability for AngloGold Ashanti’s investor relations and financial public relations activities.

Mr RN Duffy (49)

BCom, MBA

Executive Vice President – Continental Africa

Richard Duffy joined Anglo American in 1987 and in 1998 was appointed Executive Officer and Managing Secretary of AngloGold. In November 2000, he was appointed Head of Business Planning and in 2004 assumed responsibility for all new business opportunities globally. In April 2005, this role was expanded to include greenfields exploration. He was appointed to the Executive Committee in August 2005. Richard was appointed Executive Vice President – Continental Africa in July 2008.

Mr GJ Ehm (56)

BSc Hons, MAusIMM, MAICD

Executive Vice President – Australasia

Graham Ehm has, since 1979, gained diverse experience in mine operations and project management, covering the nickel, phosphate, copper, uranium and gold sectors. He was appointed General Manager of Sunrise Dam gold mine in 2000, Regional Head – Australia in 2006 and Executive Vice President – Australasia in December 2007. He assumed the role of Executive Vice President – Tanzania on June 1, 2009 and during August 2010, resumed the position of Executive Vice President – Australasia.

Mr RW Largent (52)

BSc (Mining Engineering), MBA

Executive Vice President – Americas

Ron Largent has more than 30 years’ experience in the mining industry in both domestic and international operations as well as project management. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Colorado Mining Association, the Nevada Mining Association and the California Mining Association. He joined the company in 1994 as manager of gold operations for CC&V. He was named vice president and general manager of the Jerritt Canyon Joint Venture in 2000 and of CC&V in 2002. In January 2007, he was named Vice President for the North America Region and was appointed Executive Vice President: Americas in December 2007.

Mr MD MacFarlane (56)

Executive Vice President – Business Strategy

Mike MacFarlane was appointed as a consultant responsible for leading the South Africa Region’s Technology Innovation Consortium and drive to a new deep level mining paradigm in South Africa. He was appointed Executive Vice President – Business Strategy on June 11, 2012 and is accountable for Business Strategy and Planning, Risk Management and Project ONE, while also retaining a strategic guiding role for the South Africa Region’s Technology Innovation Project. Mike has a broad global mining experience, having previously been responsible for Vale’s Canadian mining operations, while also working on developing its sustainability approach. He has also worked in Australia with Mount Isa Mines.

 

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Mr D Noko (55)

MBA; Post Graduate Diploma in Company Direction; Higher National Diploma – Engineering

Executive Vice President – Social and Sustainable Development

David Noko joined the group on June 15, 2012 and assumed responsibility for social and sustainable development. The sustainability portfolio incorporates employee and community health and safety, environmental care, community development, global security, human rights and public affairs. Prior to joining AngloGold Ashanti, David served as the managing director of his consulting firm, Cela Corp (Pty) Limited. He also held a host of directorships in JSE listed companies and was until recently Deputy Chairman of the board of Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited. He has strong local and international business leadership knowledge and experience acquired through operating across various business platforms both within and outside the mining industry. His career includes, among others, the role of managing director, De Beers Consolidated Mines Ltd; Vice President, Chamber of Mines of South Africa; Chief Executive Officer, Air Chefs (Pty) Ltd and senior positions at Pepsi Cola international and South African Breweries Ltd. He is a member of the South African Institute of Directors.

Mr MP O’Hare (53)

BSc Engineering (Mining)

Executive Vice President – South Africa Region

Mike O’Hare joined Anglo American in 1977, and has held a number of positions at various gold mining operations within the group. His roles have included General Manager of Kopanang (1993), Great Noligwa (2003), Head of Mining and Mineral Resource Management Underground (2006), Vice President: Technical Support (2008), Senior Vice President: Operations and Business Planning for South Africa (2010), and in 2011, he was appointed Executive Vice President – South Africa Region.

Mr AM O’Neill (55)

BSc Engineering (Mining), MBA

Executive Director – Business and Technical Development

Tony O’Neill joined AngloGold Ashanti in July 2008 as Executive Vice President – Business and Technical Development, having consulted to the company prior to this on its asset portfolio strategy. He is a mining engineer with an MBA from the University of Melbourne. His extensive career in mining, predominantly in the gold sector, has spanned almost 35 years, including his previous role as executive in charge of operations at Newcrest Mining and before that as the executive in charge of the gold business of Western Mining Corporation. Tony is a recognized global business and technical expert in the mining industry. He has led strategy development and delivery of significant turnarounds in large, complex and geographically diverse mining businesses, capitalizing on his deep understanding of the resources sector, its inputs, and conditions for success. As Executive Vice President – Business and Technical Development, Tony has had full accountability for a wide global portfolio ranging from exploration, innovation and improvement, strategy, mergers and acquisitions, asset management, business knowledge and information technology, supply chain and safety and the environment. With effect from February 20, 2013, Tony was appointed an executive director and together with Venkat, he became a joint acting CEO of AngloGold Ashanti effective April 1, 2013.

Ms ME Sanz (47)

BCom LLB, H Dip Tax, Admitted Attorney

Group General Counsel and Company Secretary

Maria (Ria) Sanz joined AGA in June 2011 having worked in a number of industries and major corporate organizations. She has held legal roles at Investec Bank, Basil Read, Afrox and Sappi. She was also Group Head of Sustainability at Sappi. She is responsible for Group legal services as well as compliance and was appointed Company Secretary in September 2012.

Ms Y Simelane (47)

BA LLB, FILPA, MAP, EMPM

Senior Vice President – Corporate Affairs

Yedwa Simelane joined AngloGold in November 2000 as Managing Secretary to the board and Executive Committee. Prior to joining, she worked in financial services and gained experience in the retirement funding industry. She was appointed an executive officer in May 2004 and Vice President – Government Relations in July 2008. She is currently Senior Vice President – Corporate Affairs, a position she assumed in November 2009, with responsibility for government relations, corporate communications, marketing and the group’s sustainability reporting.

 

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COMPETENT PERSONS

As part of its suite of annual reports, AngloGold Ashanti produces a Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve statement and all the information in this report that relates to Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserve is based on information compiled by the Competent Persons.

During the past decade, the company has developed and implemented a rigorous system of internal and external reviews of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. A documented chain of responsibility exists from the Competent Persons at the operations to the Company’s Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Steering Committee. Accordingly, the Chairman of the Mineral Resources and Ore Reserve Steering Committee, Mr VA Chamberlain, assumes responsibility for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve processes for AngloGold Ashanti and is satisfied that the Competent Persons have fulfilled their responsibility.

VA Chamberlain (50)

MSc (Mining Engineering), BSc (Hons) (Geology), MAusIMM

Vaughan has 27 years’ experience and holds a Bachelor of Science (Honors) degree in Geology from the University of Natal and a Masters degree in Mining Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand. He started his career with Anglo American Corporation in 1987 as a geologist at Western Deep Levels East Mine (now TauTona mine). He joined AngloGold in 1998 and currently holds the position of Senior Vice President: Geology and Metallurgy and is chairman of the Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves Steering Committee.

 

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6B.

COMPENSATION

REMUNERATION COMMITTEE

Remuneration Committee

The Remuneration Committee comprises independent non-executive directors and the purpose of the committee is to discharge the responsibilities of the board relating to all compensation, including equity compensation of the company’s executives. The committee establishes and administers the company’s executive remuneration with the broad objective of aligning executive remuneration with company performance and shareholder interests, setting remuneration standards aimed at attracting, retaining and motivating a competent executive team, linking individual pay with operational and company performance in relation to strategic objectives; and evaluating compensation of executives including approval of salary, equity and incentive based awards. The committee also considers and makes recommendations to shareholders on non-executive director’s fees.

The performance of the executive team, including the executive directors, is considered relative to the prevailing business climate and market conditions, as well as to annual evaluations of the achievement of key performance objectives. Bonuses paid to the executives are a reflection of performance of each of the executives and the company as a whole.

The members of the remuneration committee during 2012 are reflected below:

Members

WA Nairn (Chairman)

FB Arisman

MJ Kirkwood (appointed October 1, 2012)

TT Mboweni

Prof LW Nkuhlu

SM Pityana

The meetings of the committee are attended by the chief executive officer, chief financial officer and executive vice president: people and organizational development, except when their own remuneration or benefits are being discussed.

Remuneration principles

A holistic remuneration approach is followed which includes guaranteed pay (comprising base pay and benefits) and variable pay (which is separated into long term incentives and short term incentives). All elements play a key role in attracting and retaining our people. To support this philosophy we therefore:

 

Align the behaviors and performance of our senior management and executives with the strategic goals of the organization, by offering competitive incentive plans with performance goals in place that align both their and our shareholders’ interests;

 

Benchmark our executive remuneration against a comparator group of global and South African mining and multi-national companies. The comparator group is reviewed annually to ensure that it continues to be appropriate;

 

Continue to encourage the development of our employees to meet our business needs;

 

Ensure that our employees share in the success of our company; and

 

Continue to ensure that the correct governance frameworks are applied to all decisions and practices around remuneration throughout AngloGold Ashanti.

Remuneration policy

The remuneration policy is designed to allow us to compete in a global market where growth and scarcity of key skills remain an obstacle. The focus is therefore to attract and retain these key skills whilst recognizing that cost and shareholder value are fundamental drivers of the policy delivery.

Linking pay and performance for our executives is important and by having a large portion of executive pay defined as at risk pay, we are ensuring executive compensation is aligned with the overall performance of the company, the regions and the business units and that the executives have an overriding focus on safety, as a large percentage of their variable pay is directly linked to keeping our employees safe.

 

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Total reward

Over the past few years, the demand for executives with mining-related skills and experience has increased. Fewer people have entered the mining industry globally which limits the talent supply. The company operates in a highly competitive market for executives and the attraction and retention of talented and experienced executives is one of the key objectives of the executive remuneration approach. AngloGold Ashanti has designed its executive remuneration program to emphasize performance-based incentives that reward its executives for the achievement of specific annual, medium and long-term business goals.

Executive directors do not receive payment of directors fees or committee fees.

Benchmarking

Our executives and non-executives are benchmarked against a global group of competitors. AngloGold Ashanti’s size and complexity as well as each individual executive’s role and personal performance are reviewed annually against the benchmark group from a base pay, benefits, guaranteed pay and variable pay perspective. The 2012 bespoke benchmark survey was completed by GRS/ Mercer. For the 2013 annual increases (awarded effectively January 2013) the benchmark group was modified, following on shareholder feedback, to a slightly smaller peer group of companies (11) that are more similar to AngloGold Ashanti in size and geographic spread.

Our salary benchmarks are targeted at the market median; where there is a shortage of specialist and/or key technical skills higher than the benchmark median is paid, typically targeting the 75th percentile.

Each executive’s role is individually sized to ensure the best match possible. The comparison is done on the same or similar roles irrespective of place of work (including a review of purchasing power parity between countries). Each component of remuneration (base salary, short-term incentives, long-term incentives and benefits) is analysed and compared with the benchmarks and the overall package is reviewed accordingly.

Retirement benefits/pension

Retirement benefits are granted to all executives. All new executives and employees receive retirement benefits under defined contribution plans. Legacy defined benefit plans remain in place for some executives. Contributions vary from those prescribed by the USA 401(k) defined contribution fund, to the legacy defined benefit plan.

 

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS’ AND EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT REMUNERATION

2012

  All figures in $000(1)

 

  

 

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  M Cutifani

   Full year             1,713         359         351         57         2,480         2,800 (10)      5,280   

  S Venkatakrishnan(6)

   Full year             1,063         314         209         522         2,108         2,283 (10)      4,391   

  Total executive directors

                   2,776         673         560         579         4,588         5,083       9,671   

  Prescribed officers

                               

 I Boninelli

   Full year             591         118         62         3         774         -        774   

 CE Carter(6)

   Full year             684         156         71         291         1,202         1,058 (10)      2,260   

 RN Duffy(6)

   Full year             755         106         148         326         1,335         -        1,335   

 GJ Ehm(6)

   Full year             688         119         62         175         1,044         -        1,044   

 RW Largent(6)

   Full year             827         177         191         356         1,551         1,711       3,262   

 RL Lazare(6)(7)

          March 31, 2012      173         320         30         374         897         1,243       2,140   

 M MacFarlane(5)

   From June 01, 2012             379         42         27         -         448         -        448   

 DC Noko(9)

   From June 15, 2012             299         56         37         275         667         -        667   

 MP O’Hare

   Full year             687         126         134         48         995         -        995   

 AM O’Neill(6)

   Full year             1,453         328         39         257         2,077         -        2,077   

 ME Sanz Perez(8)

   Full year             481         101         50         96         728         -        728   

 YZ Simelane

   Full year             427         73         83         14         597         -        597   

  Total Prescribed Officers

     7,444         1,722         934         2,215         12,315         4,012       16,327   

  Total executive director and management remuneration 2012

     10,220         2,395         1,494         2,794         16,903         9,095       25,998   

2011

  All figures in $000(1)

 

  

 

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  M Cutifani

   Full year             1,735         1,150         317         634         3,836         -         3,836   

  S Venkatakrishnan

   Full year             1,074         609         163         411         2,257         -         2,257   

  Total executive directors

                   2,809         1,759         480         1,045         6,093         -         6,093   

  Prescribed officers

                                

 I Boninelli

   From November 1, 2011             103         323         11         1         438         -         438   

 CE Carter

   Full year             704         332         75         201         1,312         353         1,665   

 RN Duffy

   Full year             712         335         147         222         1,416         172         1,588   

 GJ Ehm

   Full year             586         279         83         326         1,274         833         2,107   

 RW Largent

   Full year             671         313         42         259         1,285         -         1,285   

 RL Lazare

   Full year             707         634         138         567         2,046         1,001         3,047   

 MP O’Hare

   From June 1, 2011             357         287         71         534         1,249         284         1,533   

 AM O’Neill

   Full year             1,608         624         132         151         2,515         -         2,515   

 ME Sanz

   From June 13, 2011             232         197         24         106         559         -         559   

 TML Setiloane

          August 31, 2011      388         161         42         197         788         -         788   

 YZ Simelane

   Full year             440         194         83         23         740         720         1 460   

  Total Prescribed Officers

     6,508         3,679         848         2,587         13,622         3,363         16,985   

  Total executive director and management remuneration 2011

     9,317         5,438         1,328         3,632         19,715         3,363         23,078   

 

(1) 

Where directors’ compensation is paid in South African rands, for the purposes of this annual report on Form 20-F, the rand values have been converted to US dollar using the following year-to-date average rate of exchange R8.1961:$ (2011: R7.2569:$).

(2) 

Salaries are disclosed only for the period from or to which office was held.

(3) 

The performance related payments calculated on the year’s financial results.

(4) 

Includes health care and personal travel. Surplus leave days accrued are automatically encashed unless work requirements allow for carry over.

(5) 

M MacFarlane commutes between Canada and South Africa and the company carries the cost of flights and hotel accommodation in South Africa, these are excluded for reporting purposes.

(6) 

Received retention bonuses.

(7) 

Cash paid in lieu of LTIP for 2012.

(8) 

Received the remainder of sign-on bonus in July 2012 (paid over 24 months).

(9) 

Received a sign-on bonus.

(10) 

These executives and prescribed officers applied all of the after tax proceeds from the sale of their options to acquire – Messrs Cutifani 51,692; Venkatakrishnan 42,157 and Carter 19,541 ordinary shares in AngloGold Ashanti.

Rounding of figures may result in computational discrepancies.

 

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NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS’ COMPENSATION

The fees of non-executive directors are fixed by shareholders at the annual general meeting and, other than the fees they receive for their participation on board committees and allowances for traveling internationally to attend board meetings, non-executive directors receive no further payments from the company and are precluded from participation in the company’s share incentive scheme.

At the annual general meeting of shareholders held on May 10, 2012, shareholders approved an increase to the fees payable to non-executive directors.

The increases as approved by shareholders are shown below:

Non-Executive Directors’ fees for six board meetings per annum

 

            Board Meetings

 

  

Fees to  

May 31, 2012  

per annum  

   Fees from
June 1, 2012
per annum

South African resident Chairman

   R1,672,330      -

Chairman

   -      $251,325

South African resident director

   R310,500      $57,762

Non-South African resident director who is resident in Africa

   $42,188      $57,762
Non-South African resident director who is resident in jurisdictions other than Africa    $66,000      $69,000

Allowance for attendance by non-executive directors at additional board meetings

Each non-executive director will be entitled to an allowance for each board meeting attended by such director, in addition to the six scheduled board meetings per annum, as follows:

 

            Additional Board Meetings

 

  

Fees to  

May 31, 2012  

per meeting  

   Fees from
June 1,  2012
per meeting

South African resident Chairman

   R85,800      -

Chairman

   -      $12,894

South African resident director

   R18,400      $3,465

Non-South African resident director who is resident in Africa

   $2,500      $3,465
Non-South African resident director who is resident in jurisdictions other than Africa    $3,300      $3,465

Travel allowance to be paid to non-executive directors who travel from outside South Africa to attend board meetings

Each non-executive director who is not in South Africa and who travels to attend board meetings will be entitled to receive a travel allowance on the basis set out below. In addition to the travel allowance payable, the company will cover all accommodation and sundry costs. The travel allowance for directors outside South Africa who attend board meetings is as follows:

 

 

            Travel Allowance

 

   Travel allowance to:
   May 31, 2012      June 1, 2012

South African resident director

   Rnil      Rnil

Non-South African resident who is resident in Africa

   $7,500      $7,800
Non-South African resident director who is resident in jurisdictions other than Africa    $8,800      $9,152

 

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Board committee fees payable to non-executive directors

The fee paid to each non-executive director in respect of such director’s membership of a committee of the board is as follows:

 

Board Committee Meetings

 

   Fees to  
    May 31, 2012  
per annum  
   Fees from
    June 1, 2012
per annum

Audit and Corporate Governance Committee

 

         

Chairman - South African resident

   R184,000      $30,000

Member - South African resident

   R155,250      $21,393

Member - Non-South African resident who is resident in Africa

   $21,094      $21,393
Member - Non-South African resident who is resident in jurisdictions other than Africa    $27,847      $27,847

 

Remuneration Committee

 

         

Chairman - South Africa

   -      $26,000

Member - South African

   -      $17,730

Member - African

   -      $17,730

Member - Other than Africa

   -      $22,000

 

Other Committees (being Investment, Safety, Health and Sustainable Development, Transformation and Human Resource Development, Risk and Information Integrity, Social, Ethics and Transformation committee and such other committees of the board as may be established from time to time)

 

         

Chairman – South African resident

   R149,500      -

Chairman – South Africa and African

   -      $20,601

Chairman – Non-South African resident who is resident in Africa

   $20,313      -
Chairman – Non-South African resident who is resident in jurisdictions other than Africa    $27,500      $27,500

Member – South African resident

   R126,500      $17,432

Member – Non-South African resident who is resident in Africa

   $17,188      $17,432
Member – Non-South African resident who is resident in jurisdictions other than Africa    $22,000      $22,000

Fees payable for attendance at ad hoc meetings

Each non-executive director will be entitled to an allowance for each board committee meeting attended by such director in respect of those committees which meet on an ad hoc basis, including the Financial Analysis committee, the Party Political Donations committee, the Nominations committee and any special purpose committee established by the board as follows:

 

Board Committee and Special Purpose Committee

 

   Fees to  
    May 31, 2012  
per meeting  
   Fees from
    June 1, 2012
per meeting

South African resident director

   R18,630      $3,465

Non-South African resident who is resident in Africa

   $2,531      $3,465
Non-South African resident director who is resident in jurisdictions other than Africa    $3,300      $3,465

 

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NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION

 

          2012     2011
All figures stated to the nearest $000(1)   Appointment   Directors’
fees(3)
     Committee
fees
     Travel      Total     Directors’
fees(3)
     Committee
fees
     Travel      Total
     From(2)   To(2)          

T TMboweni (Chairman)

            293         64                 357        245         57               302

Dr TJ Motlatsi

      Feb 17, 2011                                      22         14               36

FB Arisman

            85         130         36         251        76         132         50       258

R Gasant

            67         51                 118        50         52               102

NP January-Bardill

  Oct 1, 2011         67         79                 146        11         6               17

MJ Kirkwood

  June 1, 2012           47         20         27         94                             

WA Nairn

            64         114                 178        45         101               146

Prof LW Nkuhlu

            60         118                 178        50         85               135

F Ohene-Kena

            55         40         23         118        41         43         27       111

SM Pityana

            64         111                 175        43         95               138

RJ Ruston

  Jan 1, 2012         81         63         45         189                             

Total – non-executive directors

            883         790         131         1,804        583         585         77       1,245

 

(1)

Where non-executive directors’ compensation is paid in South African rands in 2011, for the purposes of this annual report on Form 20-F, the rand values have been converted to US dollars using the following rate of exchange: R7.2569:$1.

(2)

Fees are disclosed only for the period from or to which, office is held.

(3)

At the annual general meeting of shareholders held on May 10, 2012, shareholders approved an increase in directors’ fees with effect from June 1, 2012. Directors fees for committees may vary depending on the number of committees on which the non-executive director is a member and whether he/she is chairman or a member of the committee.

Rounding may result in computational differences.

 

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6C.

BOARD PRACTICES

The Board of Directors

The strategic leadership of AngloGold Ashanti is the responsibility of a unitary board, comprising two executive directors and ten independent non-executive directors as at December 31, 2012. The board has delegated some of its responsibilities to its subcommittees but reserves certain areas of responsibility solely for itself.

The following movements to the board of directors took place during the period from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012 and subsequent to year-end.

Executive directors

There were no changes to the executive directors during the year under review. Subsequent to year end, the board of AngloGold Ashanti announced the resignation of Chief Executive Officer, Mark Cutifani, effective March 31, 2013. The board further announced the appointment of current Chief Financial Officer, Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan, and Executive Vice President: Business & Technical Development, Tony O’Neill, as joint interim Chief Executive Officers until a successor to Mark Cutifani is appointed.

On February 18, 2013, the board announced the appointment of Tony O’Neill as an executive director of the company with effect from February 20, 2013.

Non-executive directors

Rodney Ruston and Michael Kirkwood were appointed to the board with effect from January 1, 2012 and June 1, 2012 respectively. Rodney Ruston offered himself and was elected as a director by shareholders at the Annual General Meeting held on May 10, 2012. Michael Kirkwood will retire at the annual general meeting and offer himself for election by shareholders at the annual general meeting to be held on May 13, 2013.

The directors retiring by rotation at the forthcoming annual general meeting pursuant to the Memorandum of Incorporation, are Bill Nairn, Ferdinand Ohene-Kena, Frank Arisman and Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan. Bill Nairn, Ferdinand Ohene-Kena and Frank Arisman will not offer themselves for re-election.

The company’s Memorandum of Incorporation does not set a mandatory retirement age for non-executive directors. However, in accordance with recommendations of King III and the requirements of the Sarbanes Oxley Act, directors are required to step down from the board after nine consecutive years of service. Nevertheless, the board has discretion to extend this period with the consent of the individual director and after a rigorous assessment of the director’s independence and performance.

Non-executive directors do not hold service contracts with the company.

Company Secretary

Lynda Eatwell retired as Company Secretary on August 31, 2012 and Maria Sanz Perez was appointed as Company Secretary with effect from September 1, 2012.

Appointment of directors

The board is authorized by the company’s Memorandum of Incorporation to appoint new directors based on recommendations by the Nominations Committee. Newly appointed directors are required to retire at the next annual general meeting following their appointment and stand for election by shareholders. Eligibility for appointment as a director is guided by the Director’s Fit and Proper Standards Policy, requirements of the Companies Act, King III and best practice.

Non-executive directors receive fees for their services as directors which are approved by shareholders at annual general meetings. Non-executive directors do not participate in the company’s share incentive scheme.

Executive directors have contracts of employment with the company.

Retirement by rotation

One-third of the non-executive directors retire by rotation annually in accordance with the company’s Memorandum of Incorporation, with the longest serving directors being eligible for re-election. Executive directors are not subjected to the rotation process given their responsibility for the day-to-day running of the company and are held accountable for the operational and management performance of the company by regularly reporting to the board. Their performance is assessed annually by the board against pre-determined criteria.

 

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On March 27, 2013, shareholders approved the company’s new Memorandum of Incorporation. One of the key changes in this document, compared to the old constitutional document, is the provision for all directors, not only non-executive directors, to be subjected to retirement by rotation. In anticipation of the adoption of this provision, Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan, Chief Financial Officer, will stand for re-election by shareholders at the annual general meeting to be held on May 13, 2013 and shareholders will equally vote on confirming Tony O’Neill’s appointment to the board. The other directors to retire by rotation are Frank Arisman, Bill Nairn and Ferdinand Ohene-Kena, all of whom will not stand for re-election.

Independence of directors

Determination of independence is guided by King III, the Companies Act, the requirements of the JSE and the New York Stock Exchange’s rules on independence as well as best practice. The board complies, at all times, with the requirement to consist of a majority of independent directors.

Post year-end, Sipho Pityana’s status as an independent non-executive director was changed to non-executive director with effect from February 19, 2013. The company believed this to be appropriate after AngloGold Ashanti’s South African operations contracted with Izingwe Property Managers (Pty) Limited, after a competitive bidding process, to plan, design, develop and construct 200 residential accommodation units for its employees under a pilot employee homeownership program. Izingwe Property Managers (Pty) Limited is an associate of Sipho Pityana. This commercial transaction has resulted in his being deemed non-independent in terms of the company’s policy on director independence. As a result of this change of status, he has stepped down as a member of the Remuneration Committee.

Executive Committee

Day-to-day management of the group’s affairs is vested in the Executive Committee, which is chaired by the Chief Executive Officer and comprises 13 members, four of whom head the regional operations. The committee’s work is supported by country and regional management teams. During the year under review, two new members, M MacFarlane and D Noko, were appointed to the committee.

The committee held 12 meetings and two workshops to discuss operational matters and review the programs and activities being implemented to advance the achievement of the set of strategic goals on safety, asset portfolio-, financial-, people- and environmental management as well as stakeholder engagement.

Executive contracts

All members of the Executive Committee have permanent employment contracts which entitle them to standard group benefits as defined by their specific region and participation in the company’s short term incentive scheme, the Bonus Share Plan (BSP), and the Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP).

South African executives have dual contracts which reflect the percentage of their time focused on offshore business requirements.

The executive contracts are reviewed annually and currently continue to include a change of control provision. The change of control is subject to the following triggers:

 

 

The acquisition of all or part of AngloGold Ashanti; or

 

A number of shareholders holding less than 35 percent of the company’s issued share capital consorting to gain a majority of the board and make management decisions; and

 

The contracts of Executive Committee members are either terminated or their role and employment conditions are curtailed.

In the event of a change of control becoming effective, the executive will in certain circumstances be subject to both the notice periods and the change of control contract terms.

The notice period applied per category of executive and the change of control periods as at December 31, 2012 were as follows:

 

  Executive committee member

  Payment in lieu of notice period   Change of control

  Chief executive officer

  12 months   24 months

  Chief financial officer

    9 months     9 months

  Other executive committee members

    6 months     6 months

 

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The board in negotiation with the executive has the discretion to mutually agree the duration of the notice period, as a result:

 

 

Following on from his resignation and appointment to Anglo American, the board mutually agreed with Mark Cutifani to reduce his notice period from 12 months to three months;

 

In negotiating conditions for the acting chief executive officers in January 2013 with both Tony O’Neill and Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan, and in exchange for a ‘stay period’ to end September 2013, the board agreed it would review all acting arrangements upon appointment of a new chief executive officer or in June 2013 (whichever occurred sooner) and that both Tony O’Neill and Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan would be offered the option to return to their normal positions post appointment of a new chief executive officer or have the alternative to exit the company at the end of September 2013. Their notice periods would revert back to the standard notice period after September 2013.

Non-executive directors do not hold service contracts with the company. Executive directors do not receive payment of directors’ fees or committee fees.

Board activities in 2012

Outside of meeting on a collective basis, individual board members, especially the chairman of the board, the chairman of the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee and the chairmen of the other board committees, actively and continuously engage with management and other stakeholders on important matters, thereby enabling the board to provide the required strategic leadership.

The following are some key actions and programs undertaken and implemented by the board in 2012 in fulfilling its functions and responsibilities regarding strategic oversight:

 

 

Evaluated and approved management’s five-year strategic proposals;

 

Discussed and approved management’s budget proposals for the 2013 financial year;

 

Examined ways of improving long-term value to shareholders;

 

Successfully defended and maintained investment-grade credit rating, and completed a refinancing of the undrawn revolving credit facility; issued a new ten-year rated bond, and raised an aggregate of R1 billion from the South African debt markets under the Domestic Medium Term Note Program;

 

Discussed and approved capital expenditure proposals submitted by management on a quarterly basis;

 

Achieved substantial compliance with the provisions of the Companies Act;

 

Visited various mines and exploration sites to observe and acquire a better understanding of the operations;

 

Assessed the skills set of the board which resulted in the appointment of two new independent non-executive directors;

 

Carried out an annual evaluation of the board, its committees, independence of directors, performance of the Chairman of the board and the competence and qualifications of the Company Secretary;

 

Reviewed the independence of each non-executive director in accordance with policy and best practice guidelines;

 

Set up the Social, Ethics and Transformation Committee in fulfilment of Section 72(4) and Regulation 43 of the Companies Act; and

 

Considered and approved a number of regulatory compliance policies.

Board committees

The board has established and delegated specific roles and responsibilities to 11 standing committees, including the Executive Committee, to assist it in discharging its duties and responsibilities. The terms of reference of each committee are approved by the board and reviewed annually or as necessary.

All committees, except the Executive Committee, are chaired by independent non-executive directors and the following committees comprise non-executive directors only – Audit and Corporate Governance, Nominations, Remuneration and Financial Analysis.

All committees meet quarterly in accordance with their terms of reference, except the Party Political Donations, Nominations and Financial Analysis committees which meet on a need-to basis and the Executive Committee which meets monthly or as often as required. Members of the Executive Committee and other management attend meetings of the various committees as and when required. During 2012, all committees held the minimum number of meetings as required and discharged their duties as prescribed by the respective terms of reference.

The Social, Ethics and Transformation Committee held its first and only meeting in November 2012, following its establishment in April 2012.

 

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The Party Political Donations and Financial Analysis Committees did not meet during 2012.

Attendance at meetings by directors

 

  Director    Board      Audcom      Remcom      R&II      Nomcom      SE&T      SHSD      THRC      INVCOM  

  TT Mboweni

     10/10                 5/6                 3/3                         4/4         4/4   

  FB Arisman

     10/10         7/7         6/6         3/4         3/3                 3/5                 4/4   

  M Cutifani

     (3)7/10                         3/4                 1/1         4/5         4/4         4/4   

  R Gasant

     10/10         7/7                 4/4         3/3                                   

  NP January-Bardill

     10/10         7/7                         3/3         1/1         5/5         4/4           

  MJ Kirkwood(1)

     5/6                 2/2                 1/1         1/1                         1/1   

  WA Nairn

     10/10                 6/6         4/4         3/3         1/1         5/5         4/4         4/4   

  Prof LW Nkuhlu

     8/10         7/7         6/6         4/4         3/3         1/1         5/5                 4/4   

  F Ohene-Kena

     5/10                                 2/3                 4/5         3/4           

  SM Pityana

     10/10                 5/6         4/4         3/3         1/1         5/5         4/4         4/4   

  RJ Ruston(2)

     10/10                         2/2         3/3         1/1         3/3                 2/2   

  S Venkatakrishnan

     10/10                         4/4                                         4/4   

 

(1) 

Appointed to the board and Nomcom on June 1, 2012 and Remcom, SE&T and Invcom on October 1, 2012.

(2) 

Appointed to the board and Nomcom on January 1, 2012 and R&II, SHSD, SE&T and Invcom on June 1, 2012.

(3) 

M Cutifani was recused from attending two board meetings convened to discuss special matters relating to the CEO and one other meeting which he was unable to attend owing to an important industry meeting.

 

Key  

Audcom:

 

Audit and Corporate Governance Committee

Remcom:

 

Remuneration Committee

R&II:

 

Risk and Information Integrity Committee

Nomcom:

 

Nominations Committee

SHSD:

 

Safety, Health and Sustainable Development Committee

SE&T:

 

Social, Ethics and Transformation Committee

THRC:

 

Transformation and Human Resources Development Committee

INVCOM:

 

Investment Committee

Audit and Corporate Governance Committee

In accordance with best practice recommendations of King III and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of the United States, membership of this committee comprises four independent non-executive directors. Several members of the executive team and management, including the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Accounting Officer, Group General Counsel and Company Secretary, Vice President Treasury, Senior Vice President Group Internal Audit, Financial Controllers at the regional operations as well as the external auditors attended the committee’s quarterly meetings. Members of the committee regularly engage with key members of the financial management team for discussion on matters relevant to the committee’s role.

Pursuant to the Companies Act, King III and best practice, the committee, among other business:

 

 

Reviewed and approved the external auditors’ fees and the integrated audit plan for the 2012 financial year;

 

Reviewed the performance of the external auditors and recommended their reappointment;

 

Considered, and pre-approved, on a quarterly basis, non-audit services provided by all external auditors to the group;

 

Reviewed the independence of the external audit team and audit partner and concluded that they were independent for the 2012 audit year;

 

Reviewed the 2011 annual reports and 2012 quarterly reports on behalf of the board;

 

Received and reviewed, on a quarterly basis, the use of the company’s whistle-blowing facility and advised on ways to enhance its use;

 

Reviewed, on a quarterly basis, submissions by management on the state of the group’s financial affairs, internal control environment and auditing, and reported thereon to the board;

 

Performed liquidity and solvency tests in relation to dividends (quarterly) and guarantees (as necessary);

 

Monitored implementation of recommendations on audit findings;

 

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Monitored the activities of the group’s internal audit function and also ensured that it was sufficiently resourced to discharge its duties;

 

Reviewed and monitored the implementation of the combined assurance framework and an integrated audit process;

 

Monitored, on behalf of the board, application of the principles of King III and compliance with the requirements of the Companies Act;

 

Monitored developments in IFRS and US GAAP accounting standards through regular updates from management with the main objective of ensuring that the company’s accounting practices complied with relevant standards;

 

Received quarterly briefings and updates on the roll-out of the Code of Business Principles and Ethics and matters relating to compliance. This function was transferred to the Social, Ethics and Transformation Committee;

 

Received and reviewed on a quarterly basis, reports on major litigations and disputed cases so as to assess their likely outcome and their potential financial and other impact on the group; and

 

Assisted and advised management to develop a legal and regulatory framework to monitor compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Risk and Information Integrity Committee

Risk and information integrity committee assists the board in discharging its responsibilities relating to the governance of risk; the management of IT resources; and the integrity of information.

Safety, Health and Sustainable Development Committee

Safety, Health and Sustainable Development Committee seeks to ensure that operations are conducted in compliance with company policies in a socially responsible way.

Transformation and Human Resources Development Committee

Transformation and Human Resources Development Committee oversees compliance with laws on social transformation and the development of employees.

Remuneration Committee

Remuneration Committee monitors and aligns executive remuneration with company performance and shareholder interests, and seeks to maintain remuneration standards aimed at attracting and retaining a competent executive team.

Social, Ethics and Transformation Committee

Social, Ethics and Transformation Committee came into effect on April 30, 2012. The committee assists the board in discharging its responsibilities as prescribed by the Companies Act and in terms of the company’s specific needs on sustainable development, compliance and ethics, transformation and localization.

Nominations Committee

Nominations committee assists the board in identifying and accessing the eligibility of potential directors.

Investment Committee

Investment Committee is required to assess individual capital projects to ensure that investments, divestments and financing proposals are in accordance with AngloGold Ashanti’s objective of creating sustainable wealth.

Financial Analysis Committee

Financial Analysis Committee is an ad hoc committee that assists the board in assessing financial transactions. This committee did not meet during 2012.

Party Political Donations Committee

Party Political Donations Committee is an ad hoc committee which discharges the responsibilities delegated to it by the board in terms of the Party Political Donations policy. This committee did not meet during 2012.

 

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6D.

EMPLOYEES

The average number of attributable employees (including contractors) in the AngloGold Ashanti group over the last 3 financial years was:

 

        2012        2011        2010  

South Africa

       34,186           32,082           35,660   

Continental Africa

       16,621           16,539           15,761   

Australasia

       494           509           494   

Americas

       7,896           7,389           6,582   

Other, including corporate and non-gold producing subsidiaries

       6,625           4,723           3,549   

Total

       65,822           61,242           62,046   

Labor relations and collective bargaining

AngloGold Ashanti recognizes the fundamental right of freedom of association of all employees and contractors, and adheres to collective bargaining agreements with due regard to the relevant legislation in the countries in which it operates. Relations with organized labor are founded on mutual respect, and wage negotiations are conducted in line with the company’s values.

Approximately 91.5 percent of AngloGold Ashanti’s full-time employees are either members of a union or are catered for through collective bargaining agreements. In Australia, employees are not members of unions but a high degree of employee participation in wage discussions is encouraged. Wage settlements are specific to each jurisdiction in which AngloGold Ashanti operates and the company’s approach is to ensure that agreements are fair but realistic, taking into account the local economic context and the impact of any settlement on the long-term viability of the business.

In South Africa widespread labor unrest occurred in the mining sector during 2012. The mining unrest stemmed from inter-union rivalry, dissatisfaction with socio-economic conditions and a general demand for an increase in wages.

AGA was affected by unprotected strike action, during the period September 20, 2012 to October 25, 2012.

Following the unprotected strike, there appeared to be a considerable shift of membership towards the trade union AMCU (Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union) in the West Wits district. AMCU recruitment on a lesser scale also occurred in the Vaal River district.

The Mponeng mine in the West Wits was plagued by a number of underground sit-ins, which made a safe and orderly restart problematic. The mine was closed for the period November 7 to November 12, 2012 to stabilise labor relations and to ensure a halt to further sit-ins. Representatives of the traditional unions, as well as AMCU were engaged, and a facilitated process lead to an agreement setting out guiding principles for future labor matters.

Navachab Gold Mine in Namibia experienced a 13 day strike during the annual wage negotiations with the union which ended with a wage agreement for 2012 wages being concluded.

In Mali, after many years of engaging with one union, Sadiola management have seen the introduction of a second minority union. Wage negotiations for 2012 were successfully concluded.

In Ghana, a two year wage agreement was successfully concluded for the 2012 and 2013 wage period.

In Guinea a one year wage agreement was successfully concluded for 2012.

In Tanzania, Geita Gold Mine management signed a revised access agreement with the Tanzania Mine & Construction Workers Union (TAMICO) following which a recognition agreement was concluded for the purposes of communication and consultation.

 

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A pro-active approach to labor relations, integrated with other management initiatives, has been adopted at AngloGold Ashanti’s operations in Argentina, where the uncertain political and economic climate has the potential to affect relations between the various labor groups and between management and employees. Frequent dialogue with union leaders at local provincial and national level has taken place during the year. The climate among employees is also monitored, and management communicates proactively with employees to ensure that they are well informed about their conditions of employment.

The increase of salaries for unionized employees in Argentina was finalized in February 2012. The agreement included an increase of 20 percent from February 2013 to June 2013 and 7 percent from July 2013 to January 2014. Other companies in the region which have similar agreements are on average 30 percent higher than CVSA.

Since March 2013, CVSA recognized a new union for white collar workers. This union will represent all managers, supervisors and support employees.

Representation for our contractors (truckers and construction) is an increasing concern resulting in strikes on all projects and sites in Santa Cruz, including CVSA. Meetings with the different general managers of the sites in Santa Cruz are being held to address these issues.

 

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6E.

SHARE OWNERSHIP

DIRECTORS’ AND PRESCRIBED OFFICERS’ INTERESTS IN ORDINARY SHARES

The interests of directors and prescribed officers in the ordinary shares of the company at December 31, 2012 which did not individually exceed 1 percent of the company’s issued ordinary share capital, were:

 

 

 
       Beneficial        Beneficial      
       Direct     Indirect        Direct     Indirect  

 

 
       December 31, 2012                December 31, 2011          

 

 

Non-executive directors

             

FB Arisman

       -        4,984           -        4,984   

LW Nkuhlu

       -        800           -        800   

 

 

Total

       -        5,784           -        5,784   

 

 

Executive directors

             

M Cutifani

       61,692        -           10,000        -   

S Venkatakrishnan

       52,508        -           10,351        -   

 

 

Total

       114,200        -           20,351        -   

 

 

Prescribed officers

             

AM O’Neill

       -        7,000           -        7,000   

CE Carter

       25,078        -           7,037        -   

 

 
       25,078        7,000           7,037        7,000   

 

 

Grand total

       139,278        12,784           27,388        12,784   

 

 

A register detailing directors and prescribed officers’ interests in contracts is available for inspection at the company’s registered and corporate office.

CHANGE IN DIRECTOR’S AND PRESCRIBED OFFICER’S INTERESTS IN ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI SHARES SINCE DECEMBER 31, 2012

 

      Date of
transaction
   Type of transaction    Number
of shares
     Direct/indirect
beneficial
holding

Non-executive director

           

LW Nkuhlu

   February 22, 2013    On-market purchase of AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares      2,200       Indirect

Executive directors

           

S Venkatakrishnan

   February 27, 2013    On-market purchase of ordinary shares pursuant to the AngloGold Ashanti Co-Investment Plan      3,429       Direct

M Cutifani

   March 1, 2013    On market sale of shares      35,580       Direct
   March 1, 2013    Off market purchase of shares from the exercise of options      88,594       Direct

Company Secretary

           

ME Sanz Perez

   March 1, 2013    On-market purchase of ordinary shares pursuant to the AngloGold Ashanti Co-Investment Plan      1,135       Direct

Prescribed officers

           

GJ Ehm

   February 22, 2013    On-market purchase of ordinary shares pursuant to the AngloGold Ashanti Co-Investment Plan      1,256       Direct

MP O’Hare

   February 27, 2013    On-market purchase of ordinary shares pursuant to the AngloGold Ashanti Co-Investment Plan      927       Direct

 

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      Date of
transaction
   Type of transaction    Number
of shares
     Direct/indirect
beneficial
holding

I Boninelli

   February 27,2013    On-market purchase of ordinary shares pursuant to the AngloGold Ashanti Co-Investment Plan      1,284       Direct

CE Carter

   February 27,2013    On-market purchase of ordinary shares pursuant to the AngloGold Ashanti Co-Investment Plan      1,716       Direct

DC Noko

   February 27,2013    On-market purchase of ordinary shares pursuant to the AngloGold Ashanti Co-Investment Plan      615       Direct

RW Largent

   February 28, 2013    On-market purchase of ordinary shares pursuant to the AngloGold Ashanti Co-Investment Plan      1,881       Direct

RN Duffy

   March 1, 2013    On-market purchase of ordinary shares pursuant to the AngloGold Ashanti Co-Investment Plan      1,180       Direct

MD Macfarlane

   March 6, 2013    On-market purchase of ordinary shares pursuant to the AngloGold Ashanti Co-Investment Plan      452       Direct

SHARE OWNERSHIP OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS/EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT

Under the Listings Requirements of the JSE, AngloGold Ashanti is not required to disclose, and it does not otherwise disclose or ascertain, share ownership of individual executive officers/executive management in the share capital of AngloGold Ashanti. However, to the best of its knowledge, AngloGold Ashanti believes that AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares held by executive officers, in aggregate, do not exceed 1 percent of the company’s issued ordinary share capital.

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN E ORDINARY SHARES

SM Pityana, an independent non-executive director of AngloGold Ashanti as at December 31, 2012, has an indirect beneficial holding in the company given that he is a Trustee and beneficiary of a trust which holds a 44 percent interest in Izingwe Holdings, the company’s BEE partner. As at December 31, 2012, Izingwe Holdings held 700,000 E ordinary shares in the issued capital of the company (December 31, 2011: 1,050,000 E ordinary shares). This holding is unchanged at the date of this report.

MINIMUM SHAREHOLDING REQUIREMENT FOR EXECUTIVES

With effect from March 2013, a minimum shareholding requirement (MSR) will be applicable to all executives as indicated below:

Executive directors

 

Within three years of appointment (or for existing executives, from introduction of this rule) executive directors (CEO and CFO) are to accumulate a MSR of AngloGold Ashanti shares to the value of 100 percent of net annual base salary; and

 

At the end of six years, executive directors are to accumulate a MSR of AngloGold Ashanti shares to the value of 200 percent of net annual base salary (additional 100 percent MSR) which they will be required to hold on an on-going basis.

Executive Committee members

 

Within three years of appointment (or for existing executives, from the introduction of this rule), Executive Committee members are to accumulate a MSR of AngloGold Ashanti shares to the value of 75 percent of net annual base salary; and

 

At the end of six years, Executive Committee members are to accumulate a MSR of AngloGold Ashanti shares to the value of 150 percent of net annual base salary (additional 75 percent MSR) which they will be required to hold on an on-going basis.

 

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Co-Investment Executive Share Plan

To assist executives in meeting their MSR’s, with effect from February 2013, they were given the opportunity, on a voluntary basis, to participate in the Co-Investment Plan (CIP), this has been adopted on the conditions below:

Executives will be allowed to take up to 50 percent of their after tax cash bonus to participate in a further matching scheme by purchasing shares in AngloGold Ashanti, and the company will match their initial investment into the scheme at 150 percent, with vesting over a two-year period in two equal tranches.

SHARE OWNERSHIP OF EMPLOYEES

At a general meeting of shareholders held on December 11, 2006, members approved the creation of 4,280,000 E ordinary shares of 25 South African cents pursuant to an employee share ownership plan for the benefit of certain AngloGold Ashanti employees, of which the majority are historically disadvantaged South Africans as defined in the Broad-Based Socio-Economic Empowerment Charter for the South African Mining Industry. For details on the E ordinary share capital, see “Item 7: Shareholders and related party transactions – E Ordinary shares”.

At a general meeting held on May 11, 2011, shareholders approved an amendment to the BEE transaction authorising an additional issue of 48,923 ordinary shares to be made to the ESOP and the reinstatement of lapsed E ordinary shares to be made. The amendment also revised changes to the vesting criteria and duration of the scheme.

On June 9, 2011, a total of 1,329,164 E ordinary shares were reinstated.

AngloGold Share Incentive Scheme

AngloGold Ashanti operates a share incentive scheme through which executive directors, executive vice presidents and management groups of the company and its subsidiaries are given the opportunity to acquire shares in the company. The objective is to incentivize such employees to identify themselves more closely with the fortunes of the group and its continued growth and to promote the retention of such employees.

Non-executive directors are not eligible for participation in the share incentive scheme.

At the annual general meeting held on May 7, 2010, shareholders authorized that 17,000,000 shares may be allocated for the purposes of the scheme. Prior to this authorization, the maximum number of shares attributable to the scheme was 2.75 percent of the total number of ordinary shares in issue from time to time. The maximum aggregate number of shares which may be acquired by any one participant in the scheme is 5 percent of the shares attributable to the scheme or 850,000 ordinary shares per employee could be issued in aggregate (2011: 850,000).

Employees participate in the share incentive scheme to the extent that they are granted options or rights to acquire shares and accept them. All options or rights which have not been exercised within ten years from the date on which they were granted, automatically expire.

The incentives offered by AngloGold Ashanti are reviewed periodically to ensure that they remain globally competitive, so as to attract, reward and retain managers of the highest caliber. As a result, several types of incentives, each with their own issue and vesting criteria have been granted to employees. These are collectively known as the “AngloGold Share Incentive Scheme” or “share incentive scheme”.

Although the Remuneration Committee has the discretion to incentivize employees through the issue of shares, only options or rights have so far been granted.

The type and vesting criteria of the options or rights granted are:

Performance-related

The granting of performance-related options was approved by shareholders at the annual general meeting held on April 30, 2002 and amended at the annual general meeting held on April 29, 2005 when it was agreed that no further performance related options would be granted and all options granted hereunder will terminate on November 1, 2014, being the date on which the last options granted under this criteria may be exercised or they will expire.

 

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Bonus Share Plan (BSP)

The granting of awards pursuant to the BSP was approved by shareholders at the annual general meeting held on April 29, 2005 and amended at the general meeting held on May 6, 2008 when shareholders approved an increase in the maximum level of the bonus payable to eligible participants, as well as shortening the vesting period. Executive directors, executive vice presidents and other management groups and employees are eligible for participation. Each award made in respect of the BSP entitles the holder to acquire one ordinary share at “nil” cost. In respect of all awards granted to and including 2007, these awards vest in full, three years from the date of grant, provided that the participant is still in the employ of the company at the date of vesting unless an event, such as death, retirement or redundancy occurs which may result in an earlier vesting date. In respect of awards granted in 2008 and onwards, the vesting period has been shortened to 40 percent in year one and 60 percent in year two from the date of grant or, in the event that the exercising of awards only takes place in year three, then 120 percent of awards granted will be available to such participants.

Approval for the following changes was granted at the extraordinary general meeting on March 11, 2013. The 20 percent uplift for the retention of shares for 36 months will fall away and will now be added to the initial 100 percent resulting in an allocation of 120 percent share matching for all management. The Executive Committee members will receive an increased allocation from 120 percent to 150 percent. The vesting period has therefore been shortened to two years with 50 percent vesting 12 months after the date of issue and the remaining 50 percent vesting 24 months after the date of issue.

Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)

The granting of awards in terms of the LTIP was approved by shareholders at the annual general meeting held on April 29, 2005. Executive directors, executive vice presidents and selected senior management are eligible for participation. Each award made in respect of the LTIP entitles the holder to acquire one ordinary share at “nil” cost. Awards granted vest three years from date of grant, to the extent that the stretched company performance targets, under which the rights were granted, are met and provided that the participant is still in the employ of the company, or unless an event, such as death, retirement or redundancy occurs which may result in an earlier vesting date.

The Remuneration Committee has approved a new retention bonus scheme comprising both cash (40 percent of 2013 total base pay) and shares (60 percent of base pay) which will be implemented on March 1, 2013 for Executive Committee members. This will be implemented over the short term to support a strategy of retaining the top management for a minimum 18 months to ensure delivery on key business imperatives while a new Chief Executive Officer is identified and inducted. The share award will be a performance-based share (LTIP) granted in March 2013. Subject to the performance conditions, these shares will vest at the end of August 2014. In line with the LTIP vesting, the cash portion will be delivered at the end of August 2014, based on the achievement of the performance conditions.

The allocation to the Chief Financial Officer will be 80 percent cash and 60 percent shares.

 

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PARTICIPATION BY EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT AND OTHER MANAGERS IN THE ANGLOGOLD SHARE INCENTIVE SCHEME

Details of the options and rights to subscribe for ordinary shares in the company granted to, and exercised by, executive directors, executive management and other managers on an aggregate basis during the year to December 31, 2012 and subsequent to year-end are set out in the table below.

Number of options and awards granted

 

      Balance at
January 1,
2012
    

Granted
during

2012

    

Exercised
during

2012

    

Pre-tax

gains on share
options
exercised

($’000)

    

Lapsed
during

2012

    

Balance

as at
December 31,
2012(5)

 

  Executive Directors

                 

  M Cutifani

     258,210         112,183         86,293         2,800         12,209         271,891   

  S Venkatakrishnan

     160,966         52,176         70,375         2,283         6,372         136,395   
     419,176         164,359         156,668         5,083         18,581         408,286   

  Prescribed officers (1)

                 

  I Boninelli

     8,568         21,590         -         -         -         30,158   

  CE Carter

     76,627         25,507         32,621         1,058         3,182         66,331   

  RN Duffy

     85,394         27,790         -         -         3,536         109,648   

  GJ Ehm

     48,845         22,286         -         -         2,660         68,471   

  RW Largent

     88,331         26,083         52,069         1,711         6,139         56,206   

  RL Lazare(4)

     41,573         1,901         34,279         1,243         9,195         -   

  MP O’Hare

     54,281         22,809         -         -         2,471         74,619   

  M MacFarlane(2)

     -         -         -         -         -         -   

  AM O’Neill

     108,544         45,512         -         -         3,943         150,113   

  D Noko(3)

     -         -         -         -         -         -   

  ME Sanz Perez

     8,406         13,387         -         -         -         21,793   

  YZ Simelane

     32,008         13,350         -         -         2,389         42,969   

  Total prescribed officers

     552,577         220,215         118,969         4,012         33,515         620,308   

  Other management

     3,006,829         1,592,126         670,004         23,155         377,216         3,551,735   

  Total share incentive scheme

     3,978,582         1,976,700         945,641         32,250         429,312         4,580,329   

 

(1) 

Pursuant to the South African Companies Act 71, of 2008 (as amended), which came into effect on May 1, 2011, companies are required to identify and disclose the remuneration for the prescribed officers of the company.

(2) 

M MacFarlane was appointed to the Executive Committee with effect from June 1, 2012 and therefore has no holdings/grants to date.

(3) 

D Noko was appointed to the Executive Committee with effect from June 15, 2012 and therefore has no holdings/grants to date.

(4) 

RL Lazare retired from the company with effect from March 31, 2012.

(5) 

The latest expiry date of all options/awards granted and outstanding at December 31, 2012, is February 21, 2022.

Options/awards have been exercised by executive directors and prescribed officers subsequent to year-end.

The following Excom members have exercised options/awards subsequent to year end:

 

      Number of
options/awards
 

M Cutifani

     88,594   

CE Carter

     13,609   

RW Largent

     7,966   

MP O’Hare

     2,306   

A total of 1,264,872 options/awards out of the 4,580,329 options/awards granted and outstanding at December 31, 2012 are fully vested.

Awards granted since 2005 have been granted at nil cost to participants.

Non-executive directors are not eligible to participate in the share incentive scheme.

 

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Awards granted in respect of the previous year’s financial results:

 

  Number of awards issued in      Total(1)
2013  
       Total(2)
2012  
       Total  
2011  
 

  Executive Directors

              

  M Cutifani

       5,429             112,183             86,789     

  S Venkatakrishnan

       99,043             52,176             47,943     

  Total executive directors

       104,472             164,359             134,732     

  Prescribed officers

              

  I Boninelli

       52,314             21,590             8,568     

  CE Carter

       66,929             25,507             23,300     

  RN Duffy

       65,193             27,790             21,950     

  GJ Ehm

       59,443             22,286             18,702     

  RW Largent(3)

       76,865             26,083             22,730     

  RL Lazare(4)

       -             1,901             -     

  MP O’Hare

       66,699             22,809             12,852     

  M MacFarlane

       42,765             -             -     

  AM O’Neill

       124,961             45,512             41,528     

  D Noko

       45,334             -             -     

  ME Sanz Perez

       46,087             13,387             8,406     

  TML Setiloane(5)

       -             1,263             5,357     

  YZ Simelane

       36,218             13,350             12,085     

  Total prescribed officers

       682,808             221,478             175,478     

  Total awards to executive management

       787,280             385,837             310,210     

 

(1) 

Includes awards granted in respect of the 20 percent top-up for the 2010 BSP awards, 2013 BSP matching award and 2013 LTIP (inclusive of the 60 percent share retention bonus award, the 40 percent deferred cash portion will be reported in the year of payment i.e. 2014).

(2) 

Includes awards granted in respect of the 20 percent top-up for the 2009 BSP awards.

(3) 

Received a cash payment in lieu of the 2010 BSP top-up due to US tax restrictions.

(4) 

Ceased to be a prescribed officer with effect from March 31, 2012.

(5) 

Ceased to be a prescribed officer with effect from August 31, 2011.

Number of time-related, performance-related, BSP and LTIP awards granted

As is required to be disclosed in terms of the AngloGold Share Incentive Scheme and stock exchange regulations, the movement in respect of options and rights granted and the ordinary shares issued as a result of the exercise of options and rights during the period January 1, 2012 to February 28, 2013 is as follows:

 

      Performance
related
     Bonus
Share
Plan(1)
     Long-
Term
Incentive
Plan(1)
     Total
Share
Incentive
Scheme
     Total
shares
issued
 

 At January 1, 2012

     171,144         1,825,378         1,982,060         3,978,582         7,813,424   

 Movement during year

                

 – Granted

     -         993,146         983,554         1,976,700      

 – Exercised

     (47,107)         (558,042)         (340,492)         (945,641)         945,641   

 – Lapsed – terminations

     (31,070)         (104,026)         (294,216)         (429,312)            

 At December 31, 2012

     92,967         2,156,456         2,330,906         4,580,329         8,759,065   

 Average exercise/issue price per share

 outstanding

     220.09         317.88         316.28         315.08            

 Subsequent to year-end

                

 – Granted

     -         61,436         -         61,436      

 – Exercised

     (370)         (97,027)         (25,651)         (123,048)         123,048   

 – Lapsed – terminations

     -         (10,493)         (323,203)         (333,696)            

 At February 28, 2013

     92,597         2,110,372         1,982,052         4,185,021         8,882,113   

 

(1) 

BSP and LTIP awards granted at nil cost to participants.

 

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Following a change in the Schedule 14 of the JSE Listings Requirements (Share Incentive Schemes) on October 15, 2008, the maximum number of shares attributable to the scheme was changed from 2.75 percent of issued share capital from time to time to a fixed figure of 17,000,000. The maximum aggregate number of shares which may be acquired by any one participant in the scheme is 5 percent of the shares attributable to the scheme, being 850,000 ordinary shares in aggregate.

Also effective October 15, 2008, the recycling of options/awards that have vested and which have been delivered and for which AngloGold Ashanti shares have been issued, is no longer allowed. The table below reflects the total number of options/awards that are unissued in terms of the share incentive scheme, as affected by this Listings Requirements rule change:

 

 Details    Options/Awards  

 Total number of options/awards attributable to the scheme at December 31, 2012

     17,000,000  

 Less:

  

 – Total number of options/awards granted and outstanding at December 31, 2012

     (4,580,329)  

 – Total number of options/awards exercised:

  

– During the period October 15, to December 31, 2008

     (101,013

– During the period January 1 to December 31, 2009

     (1,131,916

– During the period January 1 to December 31, 2010

     (823,411

– During the period January 1 to December 31, 2011

     (889,593

– During the period January 1 to December 31, 2012

     (945,641

 Total options/awards available but unissued at December 31, 2012

     8,528,097  

 

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ITEM 7: SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

OVERVIEW

DESCRIPTION OF ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI’S SHARE CAPITAL

AngloGold Ashanti’s share capital consists of four classes of stock:

 

 

Ordinary shares, par value 25 South African cents each (the “ordinary shares”);

 

E-Ordinary shares, par value 25 South African cents each (the “E-ordinary shares”);

 

A redeemable preference shares, par value 50 South African cents each (the “A preference shares”); and

 

B redeemable preference shares, par value 1 South African cent each (the “B preference shares”).

The authorized and issued share capital of AngloGold at December 31, 2012, is set out below:

 

Title of class      Authorized        Issued  

Ordinary shares

       600,000,000            383,320,962    

E-Ordinary shares

       4,280,000            1,617,752    

A preference shares

       2,000,000            2,000,000    

B preference shares

       5,000,000            778,896    

 

 

All the issued ordinary shares, E ordinary shares, A redeemable preference shares and B redeemable preference shares are fully paid and are not subject to further calls or assessment by AngloGold Ashanti. For a discussion of rights attaching to the ordinary shares, E ordinary shares, the A redeemable preference shares and the B redeemable preference shares, see “Item 10B.: Memorandum of Incorporation”.

The following are the movements in the ordinary issued share capital at December 31:

Ordinary shares

 

      Number of
Shares
     Rand      Number of
Shares
     Rand      Number of
Shares
     Rand  
       2012         2011         2010   
       

At January 1

     382,242,343         95,560,586         381,204,080         95,301,020         362,240,669         90,560,167   

Issued during the year:

                       

- Equity raising – proceeds used to part fund the hedge elimination

                                     18,140,000         4,535,000   

- Bokamoso ESOP on conversion of E ordinary shares

     84,446         21,112         60,695         15,174                   

- Izingwe on conversion of E ordinary shares

     48,532         12,133         39,052         9,763                   

- BEE transaction (as approved by shareholders on May 11, 2011) Bokamoso ESOP

                     48,923         12,231                   

- Exercise of options by participants in the AngloGold share Incentive Scheme

     945,641         236,410         889,593         222,398         823,411         205,853   
       383,320,962         95,830,241         382,242,343         95,560,586         381,204,080         95,301,020   

During the period January 1, 2013 to and including April 19, 2013, 361,458 ordinary shares were issued at an average issue price of R324.35 per share, resulting in 383,682,420 ordinary shares being in issue at April 19, 2013. Of the 361,458 ordinary shares issued during the period January 1, 2013 to and including April 19, 2013, 2,138 ordinary shares were issued on conversion and cancellation of 12,392 E ordinary shares in accordance with the applicable conversion formula.

 

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E ordinary shares

The following are the movements in the E ordinary issued share capital at December 31:

 

           Number of
Shares
    Rand     Number of
Shares
    Rand     Number of
Shares
    Rand
           2012        2011        2010
       

At January 1

     2,582,962       645,741       2,806,126       701,532       3,794,998     948,749

Reinstated

           1,329,164       332,291        

Issued during the year:

                  

-

  Cancelled in exchange for ordinary shares in terms of the cancellation formula      (965,210     (241,303     (1,552,328     (388,082     (988,872   (247,217)
           1,617,752       404,438       2,582,962       645,741       2,806,126     701,532  

On December 11, 2006, shareholders in general meeting authorized the creation of a maximum of 4,280,000 E ordinary shares to be issued pursuant to an Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP) and a Black Economic Empowerment transaction with Izingwe Holdings (Pty) Limited (Izingwe) – (collectively, the BEE transaction).

In terms of the original authority granted by shareholders in 2006, on vesting, E ordinary shares were cancelled in exchange for ordinary shares in accordance with the cancellation formula.

However, in November 2011, in addition to the reinstatement of cancelled E ordinary shares, shareholders approved an amendment to the cancellation formula through the resetting of the strike price. Participants to the ESOP and Izingwe are now guaranteed a minimum conversion price of R40 per E ordinary share with a maximum of R90 per E ordinary share for the ESOP and R70 per E ordinary share for Izingwe from a base price of R320 and R330 per share, respectively.

E ordinary shareholders are entitled to vote at all ordinary shareholder meetings but do not hold veto rights.

Dividends are payable on E ordinary shares, in an amount equal to 50 percent of dividends payable to ordinary shareholders.

E ordinary shares which vest and are exchanged for ordinary shares are cancelled and may not be re-issued. Therefore, they do not form part of the unissued share capital of the company.

Redeemable preference shares

The A and B redeemable preference shares, all of which are held by wholly owned subsidiary, Eastvaal Gold Holdings Limited, may not be transferred and are redeemable from the realization of the assets relating to the Moab lease area after the cessation of mining operations in the area. The shares carry the right to receive dividends equivalent to the profits (net of royalty, ongoing capital expenditure and taxation) from operations in the area. No further A and B redeemable preference shares will be issued.

 

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7A.

MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS

According to information available to the directors, the following are the only shareholders holding, directly or indirectly, in excess of 5 percent of the ordinary issued share capital of the company:

 

Ordinary shares held at    December 31, 2012      December 31, 2011      December 31, 2010
Shareholder*    Number of
Shares
    

percent

Voting
Rights

     Number of
Shares
    

percent

Voting
Rights

     Number of
Shares
    

percent

Voting
Rights

         

Paulson & Co., Inc

     28,607,495         7.46         32,570,668         8.52         41,000,000       10.76

Allan Gray Unit Trust Management Limited

     20,510,646         5.35         24,710,806         6.46         31,668,339       8.31

Investec Asset Management Pty Ltd (South Africa)

     20,108,121         5.25                     

Public Investment Corp. of South Africa

     20,050,361         5.23                     

Fidelity Management & Research

                                         28,383,749       7.45

*Shares may not necessarily reflect the beneficial shareholder

At December 31, 2012, a total of 153,711,993 shares (or 40.10 percent of issued ordinary share capital) were held by The Bank of New York Mellon, as Depositary for the company’s American Depositary Receipt program. Each American Depositary Share (ADS) is equivalent to one ordinary share. At December 31, 2012, the number of persons who were registered holders of ADSs was reported at 3,196. AngloGold Ashanti is aware that many ADSs are held of record by brokers and other nominees, and accordingly the above numbers are not necessarily representative of the actual number of persons who are beneficial holders of ADSs or the number of ADSs beneficially held by these persons.

All shareholders have the same voting rights.

As at December 31, 2012, there were 9,535 holders of record of AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares. Of these holders 351 had registered addresses in the United States and held a total of 63,900 ordinary shares, approximately 0.017 percent of the total outstanding ordinary shares. In addition, certain accounts of record with registered addresses outside the United States, including The Bank of New York Mellon, hold AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares, in whole or in part, beneficially for United States persons.

At March 31, 2013,151,193,769 ADSs or approximately 39.4 percent of total issued ordinary share capital, were issued and outstanding and held of record by approximately 3,142 registered holders .

Insofar as is known to AngloGold Ashanti, there was no person who, directly or indirectly, jointly or severally, exercised or could exercise control over AngloGold Ashanti, nor is AngloGold Ashanti aware of any arrangements which might result in a change in control of AngloGold Ashanti.

 

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7B.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The Company had the following transactions with related parties during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010:

 

At December 31   2012     2011      2010   

 

(in millions)

 

Purchases

(by)/from

related party

$

   

Amounts

owed to/(by)

related party

$

   

Purchases 

(by)/from 

related party 

   

Amounts 

owed to/ (by) 

related party 

   

Purchases

(by)/from

related party

$

 
Purchases of goods and services (by)/from equity accounted joint ventures and associates                

Margaret Water Company

    4        -                      

Société d’Exploitation des Mines

d’Or de Sadiola S.A.

    (14)        (2)        (12)        (2)        (8)   

Société d’Exploitation des Mines

d’Or de Yatela S.A.

    (1)        -        (2)        (1)        (3)   

Société des Mines d’Or MorilaS.A.

    (3)        -        (4)               (8)   

Trans-Siberian Gold plc

    -        -                       
      (14)        (2)        (12)        (3)        (15)   

Amounts due by joint venture and associate related parties arising from purchases of goods and services are unsecured and non-interest bearing.

As at December 31, 2012 and 2011, there are no outstanding balances arising from purchases of goods and services owed to related parties.

On February 19, 2013, AngloGold Ashanti entered into an agreement (Agreement) with Izingwe Property Managers (Pty) Limited (Izingwe Property) under which Izingwe Property will assist AngloGold Ashanti in the planning, design, development and construction of 200 units of housing in South Africa for employees of AngloGold Ashanti. Izingwe Property’s roles will be those of development and project manager and main contractor. The terms of the Agreement call for payments from AngloGold Ashanti to Izingwe Property in the amount of $6.7 million in consideration for Izingwe Property’s services. Mr Sipho Pityana, a non-executive director of the company, is Chairman and a 44 percent shareholder of Izingwe Holdings (Proprietary) Limited (Izingwe), AngloGold Ashanti’s BEE partner. Izingwe Capital (Proprietary) Limited, an associate company of Izingwe is the majority shareholder of Izingwe Property.

Rand Refinery Limited (Rand Refinery) became an associate of AngloGold Ashanti on December 3, 2012 when AngloGold Ashanti sold five percent of Rand Refinery. AngloGold Ashanti held a 48.3 percent interest in Rand Refinery. Rand Refinery refines all of AngloGold Ashanti’s South African gold production and some of AngloGold Ashanti’s Continental Africa gold production.

Loans due by equity accounted joint ventures and associates as at December 31,

 

     

2012  

$  

  

2011

$

Oro Group (Proprietary) Limited (1)

   2      1

AuruMar (Proprietary) Limited (joint venture) (2)

   2      5

Societe d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Sadiola S.A. (joint venture) (3)

   36      -

Societe d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Yatela S.A. (joint venture) (4)

   -      -

Trans-Siberian Gold plc (5)

   -      3

Thani Ashanti Alliance Limited (joint venture) (6)

   -      20

 

(1)

The loan bears a market related interest rate determined by the Oro Group (Proprietary) Limited’s board of directors and is repayable at its discretion.

(2)

The loan is interest free and has no fixed terms of repayment.

(3)

The loan is repayable on demand and bears interest at a margin of 2 percent over the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) per annum.

(4)

A loan of $12 million granted during 2012 was fully impaired during the year. The loan, included in the carrying amount of the joint venture, was repayable on demand and carried interest at a margin of 2 percent over LIBOR per annum.

(5)

The loan was unsecured, carried interest at 8 percent per annum and was converted into ordinary shares during April 2012.

(6)

The loan was repayable in December 2012 but due to non-payment it was fully impaired. A write-off of $37 million is included in equity income in associates for 2012.

As at December 31, 2012 and 2011, there are no outstanding balances arising from loans owed to related parties.

 

7C.

INTERESTS OF EXPERTS AND COUNSEL

Not applicable.

 

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ITEM 8: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

8A.

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND OTHER INFORMATION

See “Item 18: Financial statements”.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

There is no material proceeding in which a director, officer or affiliate of AngloGold Ashanti is either a party adverse or has a material interest adverse to the company.

In addition to the proceedings described below, the company becomes involved, from time to time, in various claims, legal proceedings and complaints incidental to the ordinary course of its business.

 

 

The State of Goiás v. Mineração Serra Grande S.A. (MSG): In Brazil, in 2006, MSG received two tax assessments from the State of Goiás related to payments of state sales taxes at the rate of 12 percent on gold deliveries for export from one Brazilian state to another during the period from February 2004 to the end of May 2006. The first assessment (First Assessment) and the second assessment (Second Assessment) are approximately $96 million and $60 million, respectively. In November 2006, the administrative council’s second chamber ruled in favor of MSG and fully cancelled the tax liability related to the first period. In July 2011, the administrative council’s second chamber ruled in favor of MSG and fully cancelled the tax liability related to the second period. The State of Goiás has appealed to the full board of the State of Goiás tax administrative council. In November 2011, with respect to the First Assessment, and June 2012, with respect to the Second Assessment, the administrative council’s full board approved the suspension of proceedings and the remittance of the matter to the Department of Supervision of Foreign Trade (COMEX) for review and verification. Both the First Assessment and the Second Assessment have been remitted to the COMEX and are under review. MSG believes both assessments are in violation of federal legislation on sales taxes. A final hearing before the COMEX has been scheduled for May 28, 2013.

 

 

The State of Minas Gerais v. Mineração Serra Grande S.A.: In Brazil, MSG received a tax assessment in October 2003 from the State of Minas Gerais related to sales taxes on gold. The tax administrators rejected all MSG’s appeals against the assessment, reaching its closure under the Administrative Court in 2003. In 2005, the State of Minas Gerais began the Judicial Foreclosure of the assessment which is yet to be sentenced. The assessment is approximately $19 million.

As part of the acquisition by AngloGold Ashanti of the remaining 50 percent interest in MSG during June 2012 from Kinross Gold Corporation (Kinross), Kinross has provided an indemnity to a maximum amount of BRL255 million (approximately $127 million) against the specific exposures related to the tax assessments from the State of Goiás and the State of Minas Gerais.

 

 

Departamento Nacional de Produção Mineral (DNPM) v. AngloGold Ashanti Brazil Mineração (AABM): In Brazil, in November 2007, the DNPM, a federal mining authority, issued a tax assessment against AABM in the amount of $21 million relating to the calculation and payment by AABM of the financial contribution on mining exploitation in the period from 1991 to 2006.

 

 

AngloGold Ashanti’s subsidiaries in Brazil are involved in various other disputes with tax authorities. These disputes involve federal tax assessments including income tax, royalties, social contributions and annual property tax. The amount involved is approximately $17 million.

 

 

Notice from the Colombian Tax Office (DIAN) to AngloGold Ashanti Colombia S.A. (AGAC): AGAC received notice in January 2013 from DIAN that DIAN disagreed with the company’s tax treatment of certain items in AGAC’s 2010 income tax return. DIAN has requested that the company voluntarily amend its income tax return for the 2010 and 2011 periods. The company believes that the tax legislation has been applied correctly by AGAC and is considering defending AGAC’s position. An estimated additional tax of $26 million will be payable if the tax returns are amended. Penalties and interest for the additional tax are expected to be $135 million based on Colombian tax law.

 

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Ghanaian tax authorities v. AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited (AGAG): In Ghana, AGAG received tax assessments of $22.7 million in respect of the 2006-2008 and 2009-2011 tax years, following an audit by the tax authorities related to indirect taxes on various items. AGAG believes that the indirect taxes were not properly assessed and has lodged an objection to the assessment. AGAG has subsequently met with the Commissioner-General and provided its position in writing together with the relevant supporting documentation. AGAG has yet to receive a response from the Commissioner-General.

SOUTH AFRICA

 

 

Silicosis litigation

Mankayi v. AngloGold Ashanti. In October 2006, a former employee, Mr. Thembekile Mankayi, instituted a legal action in the Witwatersrand Local Division High Court of South Africa against AngloGold Ashanti, claiming approximately R2.6 million (approximately $0.3 million) for damages allegedly suffered as a result of silicosis. Mr. Mankayi’s case was heard in the High Court of South Africa in June 2008, and an appeal was heard in the Supreme Court of Appeal in 2010. In both instances judgment was awarded in favor of AngloGold Ashanti on the basis that an employer is indemnified against such a claim for damages by section 35 of the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act, 1993 (COIDA). A further appeal that was lodged by Mr. Mankayi was heard in the Constitutional Court of South Africa (Constitutional Court). On March 3, 2011, the Constitutional Court held that section 35 of COIDA does not cover an “employee” who qualifies for compensation in respect of “compensable diseases” under the Occupational Diseases in Mines and Workers Act, 1973 (ODMWA). This judgment allows such qualifying employee to pursue a civil claim for damages against the employer outside he provisions of either statute. Following the Constitutional Court judgment, Mr. Mankayi’s estate may proceed with his case in the High Court. Without paying any amount in settlement of the claim, AngloGold Ashanti paid to Mr. Mankayi’s estate agreed legal costs. The company will continue to defend the case on its merits.

Following the Constitutional Court decision, AngloGold Ashanti has become subject to numerous claims relating to silicosis and other Occupational Lung Diseases (OLD), including several potential class actions and individual claims.

Bangumzi Bennet Balakazi and others v. AngloGold Ashanti. On or about August 21, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti was served with an application instituted by Bangumzi Bennet Balakazi and others in which the applicants seek an order declaring that all mine workers (former or current) who previously worked or continue to work in specified South African gold mines for the period owned by AngloGold Ashanti and who have silicosis or other OLD constitute members of a class for the purpose of proceedings for declaratory relief and claims for damages. In the event the class is certified, such class of workers would be permitted to institute actions by way of a summons against AngloGold Ashanti for amounts as yet unspecified. On September 4, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti delivered its notice of intention to defend this application. AngloGold Ashanti has also delivered a formal request for additional information that it requires to prepare its affidavits in respect to the allegations and the request for certification of a class.

Bongani Nkala and others v. Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited, AngloGold Ashanti, Free State Consolidated Gold Mines (Operations) Limited and others. On or about January 8, 2013, AngloGold Ashanti and its subsidiary Free State Consolidated Gold Mines (Operations) Limited, alongside other mining companies operating in South Africa, were served with another application to certify a class. The applicants in the case seek to have the court certify two classes namely: (i) current and former mineworkers who have silicosis (whether or not accompanied by any other disease) and who work or have worked on certain specified gold mines at any time from January 1, 1965 to date; and (ii) the dependants of mineworkers who died as a result of silicosis (whether or not accompanied by any other disease) and who worked on these gold mines at any time after January 1, 1965. AngloGold Ashanti has filed a notice of intention to oppose the application.

Individual claimants’ actions against AngloGold Ashanti. In October 2012, a further 31 individual summonses and particulars of claim were received by AngloGold Ashanti relating to silicosis and/or other OLD. The total amount being claimed in the 31 summonses is R77 million (approximately $8 million). On October 22, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti filed a notice of intention to oppose these claims. AngloGold Ashanti has also served a notice of exception to the summonses which, if successful, is expected to require the plaintiffs to redraft the particulars of claim to correct certain errors.

 

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AngloGold Ashanti v. Pamodzi Gold (Orkney) (Pty) Limited (in Provisional Liquidation) (Pamodzi): AngloGold Ashanti sold certain mine shafts to another mining company in 1998 but continued to service them pursuant to the terms of a service contract. When Pamodzi later purchased the shafts, AngloGold Ashanti provided services to Pamodzi on the same basis that it had provided services to the previous owner, on the understanding that a new agreement would be entered into once all of the commercial terms of such an agreement were finalized. On March 10, 2009, prior to AngloGold Ashanti and Pamodzi entering into a new services agreement, a creditor of Pamodzi applied to have Pamodzi placed under provisional liquidation. This application was granted by the North Gauteng High Court.

AngloGold Ashanti alleges that at the time it was placed in provisional liquidation, Pamodzi owed AngloGold Ashanti approximately R59 million (approximately $6 million) for services rendered. AngloGold Ashanti also alleges that Pamodzi owes AngloGold Ashanti approximately R54 million (approximately $6 million) for services rendered subsequent to the liquidation application being made. The date of the final liquidation order has not yet been set.

On March 16, 2012, Pamodzi (in provisional liquidation) and four others issued summons against AngloGold Ashanti in the North Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, demanding the return of about R89.5 million (approximately $10 million) paid by Pamodzi to AngloGold Ashanti less than six months prior to the winding-up of Pamodzi. Plaintiffs further allege that AngloGold Ashanti took possession of some 26.9 kilograms of gold owned by Pamodzi in March 2009 and demand either that the gold be returned or that reimbursement be provided in the amount of R7.1 million (approximately $0.8 million).

 

 

Van der Post et al. v. AngloGold Ashanti Limited: In May 2007, a group of AngloGold Ashanti pensioners instituted an action against the company in the Witwatersrand Local Division of the High Court (now called the South Gauteng High Court). At issue was the introduction of an inflation-related cap on post-retirement health care contributions by the company. The company maintains that its action was justifiable and fair given the circumstances, precedents and the contractual nature of the undertaking. The plaintiffs issued a summons demanding that AngloGold Ashanti restore the level of contributions that prevailed before the introduction of the cap. In 2011, a private arbitration hearing was postponed pending settlement negotiations. The parties settled in May 2012. The settlement agreement provided that AngloGold Ashanti will make certain health care contributions on behalf of the pensioners and that AngloGold Ashanti contribute the sum of R800,000 ($0.1 million) toward the legal costs incurred by the pensioners.

COLOMBIA

 

 

La Colosa class action lawsuits: The following two class action lawsuits are currently pending before different Colombian state and federal courts in relation to AngloGold Ashanti Colombia S.A. (AGAC)’s La Colosa project, which is currently in its pre-feasibility phase and consists of three core concession contracts:

 

   

Usocoello, Cortolima, Procuraduria Regional Tolima, Universidad de Ibagué, Estudiantes de la Universidad del Rosario, Federarroz v. AGAC, Federal Department of Mines, Federal Department of the Environment, Housing and Territorial Development and Ingeominas (September 2010) (Uscocoello); and

 

   

Juan Ceballos v. Federal Department of the Environment, Housing and Territorial Development, Ingeominas, Cortolima and AGAC (February 2012).

Each lawsuit aims to stop exploration and mining in certain restricted areas affected by the La Colosa project due to environmental concerns or alleged breaches of environmental laws. Under Colombian law, restricted areas are State-protected land on which certain economic activities are restricted. AGAC has opposed, and has sought the dismissal of most of, the class action lawsuits that have been filed against it.

In 2013, the Tribunal de Cundinamarca (a Colombian appellate court) dismissed both cases known as Maria del Pilar Hurtado v. Federal Department of Mines, Ingeominas and AGAC.

The class action lawsuit that has progressed the most is Uscocoello, which was filed in the Third Administrative Court of the District of Ibagué on September 9, 2010. It named each of Ingeominas (the Colombian regulatory agency for mining activities), the Federal Department of the Environment, Housing and Territorial Development, as well as the Federal Department of Mines as defendants. AGAC was subsequently joined to the lawsuit as an additional defendant. The plaintiffs are the User Association of the Land Adequation District of Coello and Cucuana Rivers (Usocoello) (a cooperative representing local farmers), the Autonomous Regional Corporation of Tolima

 

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(“Cortolima”), (the government of the State of Tolima), the Office of the Attorney General of the State of Tolima (Procurador Judicial Ambiental y Agrario para el Tolima), the University of Ibagué (Estudiantes de la Universidad del Rosario), (a student association of the University of El Rosario) and Fedearroz (the Colombian association of rice growers).

The plaintiffs have petitioned the court to order the defendant governmental entities not to declare the La Colosa mining project feasible on the grounds that the project threatens a healthy environment, public health and food safety for Usocoello members and local residents. Such order by the court would result in the revocation of AGAC’s permit to temporarily use for its exploration activities on 6.39 hectares of forest reserve that are otherwise designated as restricted areas.

In addition, as each of AGAC’s three core mining concession contracts governing the La Colosa project provides that Ingeominas has the discretion to declare the underlying concession void if AGAC breaches applicable environmental laws or regulations, the plaintiffs have petitioned the court to direct Ingeominas to cancel such concession contracts on the ground that AGAC has violated the Code of Natural Resources. If plaintiffs prevail and Ingeominas is ordered to cancel AGAC’s three core concession contracts, the company would be required to abandon the La Colosa project and all of AGAC’s other existing mining concession contracts and pending proposals for new mining concession contracts would also be cancelled. In addition, AGAC would be banned from doing business with the Colombian government for a period of five years. As a result, AGAC would be unable to conduct any mining exploration or development activities during such period. However, this would not affect other AngloGold Ashanti subsidiaries operating in Colombia, which hold singularly or in concert with joint venture partners the majority of AngloGold Ashanti’s concession contracts in Colombia.

As no settlement was reached at a special conciliation hearing (Pacto de Cumplimiento) held on April 27, 2011, the trial has continued and the court is gathering evidence from the parties in preparation for its ruling.

Toche Anaima Belt class action lawsuit: In addition to the La Colosa class action lawsuits, the following lawsuit was filed in connection with the Toche Anaima Belt.

 

   

The Personero de Ibagué v. Federal Department of the Environment, Housing and Territorial Development, Ingeominas, AGAC, Continental Gold Ltda., Oro Barracuda Ltda., Fernando Montoya, Alberto Murillo and Eugenio Gomez (December 2011); and

In addition, in connection with the class action lawsuit in September 2011, the Superior Court of the District of Ibagué granted the plaintiff a preliminary injunction that resulted in the suspension of AGAC’s mining concession contracts relating to certain greenfield exploration activities in the Toche Anaima Belt. These contracts do not include AGAC’s core concession contracts relating to the La Colosa project. AGAC has appealed against this preliminary injunction and its appeal is still pending.

 

 

Cortolima’s injunction against AGAC: On March 11, 2013, Cortolima issued a regulatory injunction against AGAC alleging, among other things, that in relation to certain of AGAC’s La Colosa exploration activities, AGAC was operating without proper permits and regulatory permission and was engaging in drilling and other activities that were having negative effects on the environment. On March 22, 2013, AGAC delivered a resolution against the injunction, seeking an annulment of the action and the restoration of AGAC’s rights to continue exploration activities in the area. While the injunction remains in place, AGAC will not be able to engage in certain of its activities related to the La Colosa Project.

 

 

Department of the Environment, Housing and Territorial Development (DoE) v. AngloGold Ashanti Colombia S.A.: In Resolution No. 785 of April 29, 2009, the DoE opened an investigation against AGAC and brought a list of charges against it for carrying out exploratory activities at the La Colosa project without having obtained the applicable permit to partially or temporarily use the soil of a forest reserve that was designated as a restricted area. In particular, the DoE alleged that AGAC violated Article 210 of the Code of Natural Resources (the “Code”), which requires a company to obtain such a permit when it plans on carrying out an economic activity that will involve the cutting down of trees. In 2010, while conducting its investigation, the DoE also proceeded to update the existing mining terms of reference, which set forth the environmental studies and other environmental activities that each mining company is required to conduct in connection with the exploration phase of its respective mining project. As reflected in Article 34 of the Code, the new terms of reference specify that exploration may not be carried out in restricted areas without a permit sanctioning such exploration. The DoE then resolved that AGAC was in breach of the 2010 terms of reference and issued a fine against AGAC.

 

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As the parties were unable to reach an agreement at a conciliation meeting held on May 30, 2011, AGAC filed an action against the DoE in the Administrative Superior Court of the Cundinamarca District to annul the penalties. On April 16, 2012, the action was submitted to the court office of the Cundinamarca District for admission.

In November 2012, AGAC filed a legal action alleging a violation of AGAC’s constitutional rights, also known as a tutela action. A hearing on the tutela action has not yet been scheduled.

Should the DoE’s fine ultimately be upheld by the courts, Ingeominas would then have the discretion to terminate AGAC’s three core mining concession contracts relating to the La Colosa project. In the event of such termination, AGAC would be required to abandon the La Colosa project and all of AGAC’s other existing mining concession contracts and pending proposals for new mining concession contracts would also be cancelled. In addition, AGAC would be banned from doing business with the Colombian government for a period of five years. As a result, AGAC would be unable to conduct any mining exploration or development activities during such period. However, this would not affect other AngloGold Ashanti subsidiaries operating in Colombia, which hold singularly or in concert with joint venture partners the majority of AngloGold Ashanti’s concession contracts in Colombia.

DUBAI

 

 

AngloGold Ashanti v. Thani Investments LLC (TI): In September 2011, AGA made advances totaling $35 million under a loan agreement entered into with Thani Ashanti Alliance Limited (TAAL). The loan was guaranteed by TI and matured on December 31, 2012.

Payment of the loan plus interest was not made at maturity which gave rise to an event of default under the loan agreement. AngloGold Ashanti sent notices of demand to TI and other related parties. In February 2013, at the request of AngloGold Ashanti, a Dubai court issued an order granting the attachment of a bank account of TI in favor of AngloGold Ashanti. No funds could be recovered from the bank account. AngloGold Ashanti has brought in a claim against TI under the guarantee in the Dubai courts. In addition, AngloGold Ashanti has also brought an action to liquidate TI in the Dubai courts.

GHANA

 

 

Westchester Resources Limited (Westchester) / Africore Ghana Limited (Africore) vs. AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited (AGAG): Westchester and Africore (together, the “plaintiffs”) commenced separate actions in the High Court of Ghana claiming that AGAG breached the exploration agreement they respectively entered into with AGAG on October 31, 2000. The cases were consolidated.

On March 31, 2011 the High Court gave judgment in favor of the plaintiffs and awarded total damages of $17.4 million to Westchester and Africore jointly for breach of the agreements and total costs of GHc30,000. On April 4, 2011 AGAG filed an appeal to the Court of Appeal and subsequently applied to the trial court for an order for a stay of execution of the judgment pending the hearing and determination of the appeal. The court granted the application on condition that AGAG pay $3 million to each plaintiff (with the full amounts to be awarded upon execution of the judgment if appeals are unsuccessful) and that the plaintiffs give an undertaking that the said sums would be refunded in the event that AGAG’s appeal is successful. On October 24, 2011, following AGAG’s application before the Court of Appeal requesting a variation of the conditions of the stay of execution, the Court of Appeal altered the High Court’s decision by ordering AGAG to pay $1 million (rather than $3 million) to each plaintiff and deposit an additional $4 million total with the Registrar for investment pending the determination of the appeal. On December 20, 2012, the Court of Appeal affirmed the judgment of the High Court and dismissed AGAG’s appeal. AGAG filed an appeal to the Supreme Court contesting the decision of the High Court and an application for directions. In a ruling on March 27, 2013 the Court upheld the respondents’ objection to the application for directions and ordered that AGAG file its notice of appeal before the Court of Appeal and file a subsequent application for stay of execution. AGA has complied with the ruling of the Court. A date has not been set down for the application to be heard.

 

 

National Labour Commission (NLC) & 273 Others v. AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited: In December 2006, Appiah Agyei Boateng and 272 others claiming to be the employees of AGAG (affected employees) petitioned the NLC to compel AGAG to pay their gratuities. The affected employees claimed that they were transferred to Mining & Building Contractors Limited (MBC), an independent mining contractor, without their consent and allege that, as a result of their transfer, they suffered a diminution in their terms and conditions of service. The affected employees sought redundancy payments from AGAG.

 

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On August 20, 2009, the NLC found in favor of the petitioners and ordered AGAG to make redundancy payments totaling $4.7 million. AGAG applied to the High Court to have the NLC’s decision set aside. On April 7, 2011, the High Court found against AGAG. A stay of execution was granted on January 13, 2012, on condition that an appeal be heard within three months. On November 8, 2012, a settlement was reached among AGAG, the NLC and the affected employees. Terms of the settlement and a notice of withdrawal of appeal were filed with the court. The settlement provides that AngloGold Ashanti will pay approximately $4.7 million total to be divided among the affected employees and will pay $200,000 in legal fees to the affected employees’ lawyers. On December 12, 2012, the Court of Appeal granted AGAG’s application to withdraw the appeal and declared the matter settled as per the terms of settlement. All affected employees have been paid in full and have acknowledged receipt of payment. The matter is now settled.

 

 

National Labour Commission (NLC) v. AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited (in re early retirees): In March 2008, petitioners alleged to the NLC that AGAG had misrepresented to them that they could opt for an early retirement and receive enhanced benefits by way of their unpaid salaries and social security contributions. They claimed that, but for AGAG’s misrepresentation, they would have elected to exit by way of redundancy. They demanded that AGAG pay them the difference between what would have been their redundancy packages and the actual payments made to them under the retirement package. The total amount of the claim is the Ghanaian currency equivalent of $1.8 million.

On April 3, 2009, the NLC ordered AGAG to pay each petitioner the difference between the redundancy package and the early retirement benefit. The High Court upheld the order, but the Court of Appeal reversed the order on March 14, 2011 and allowed AGAG’s application for a stay of execution pending appeal. The records of appeal were settled and on November 26, 2012 AGAG filed its written submissions. The Court has fixed May 30, 2013 to deliver its judgement.

 

 

Abdul Waliyu and 152 others vs AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited (AGAG): AGAG is involved in litigation relating to the Pompora Treatment Plant (PTP) near the Obuasi mine which was decommissioned in 2000. On April 2, 2013 AGAG received a summons from Abdul Waliyu and 152 others in which the plaintiffs allege that they were or are residents of the Obuasi municipality or its suburbs and that their health has been adversely affected by emission and/or other environmental impacts arising in connection with the current and/or historical operations of the PTP. Plaintiffs’ alleged injuries include respiratory infections, skin diseases and certain cancers. The writ asks the court to award general damages, special damages for medical treatment and punitive damages, as well as several orders relating to operation of the PTP. AGAG has filed a notice of intention to defend.

In addition, in 2010, four separate writs, involving more than four hundred people resident in three suburbs of Obuasi, were issued to AGAG involving similar allegations that the plaintiffs’ health had been adversely affected by the operation of the PTP. In 2011, two of the writs were dismissed, with costs awarded in favour of AGAG, and a third writ was adjourned indefinitely. AngloGold Ashanti is currently in discussions with the plaintiffs in the fourth matter, Abena Manu and 41 others vs AngloGold Ashanti, Obuasi.

TANZANIA

 

 

Jackson Manyelo & others vs. Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGM): In January 2007, the plaintiffs filed a suit against GGM in the Mwanza High Court alleging that they were affected by blasting activities in the Katoma area carried out by GGM and had suffered damages in the amount of Tshs9.6 billion (approximately $6 million). The parties then attempted to solve the matter through mediation, but were unsuccessful. The matter is scheduled to be heard in the Mwanza High Court on April 25, 2013.

GUINEA

 

 

Government of Guinea (National Claim Commission) v. Société AngloGold Ashanti Goldfields de Guinée SA (SAG): A national claim recovery commission established by the government has demanded that SAG pay $43 million in dividends and penalties that would allegedly have been owed to the government for the accounting years 2004 – 2007. SAG opposes the claim. The two parties had originally decided to submit their dispute to an independent audit firm to be appointed by a common accord; however, the independent audit firm was never appointed. In December 2010, the national claim recovery commission was disbanded and the matter was turned over to the Inspector General of the Ministry of Finance.

 

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DIVIDENDS

Dividends are proposed and approved by the board of directors of AngloGold Ashanti, based on the company’s financial performance. Dividends are recognized when declared by the board of directors of AngloGold Ashanti. During the third quarter of 2011, the Company changed its timing of dividend payments to quarterly, rather than half-yearly.

Dividends may be declared in any currency at the discretion of the AngloGold Ashanti board or AngloGold Ashanti shareholders at a general meeting. Currently, dividends are declared in South African rands and paid in Australian dollars, South African rands, British pounds and Ghanaian cedis. Dividends paid to registered holders of AngloGold Ashanti ADSs are paid in US dollars converted from South African rands by The Bank of New York Mellon, as depositary, in accordance with the deposit agreement. Exchange rate fluctuations may therefore affect the value of the dividends received by registered shareholders and distributions paid by the relevant depositary to investors holding AngloGold Ashanti securities. Moreover, fluctuations in the exchange rates of the US dollar may affect the US dollar price of the ADSs on the NYSE. For details on taxation and exchange controls applicable to holders of ordinary shares or ADSs, see “Item 10D.: Exchange controls” and “Item 10E.: Taxation – Taxation of dividends”.

Dividends declared to foreign shareholders are not subject to the approval by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) in terms of South African foreign exchange control regulations. Dividends are freely transferable to foreign shareholders from both trading and non-trading profits earned in South Africa by publicly listed companies.

AngloGold Ashanti expects to continue to pay dividends, although there can be no assurance that dividends will be paid in the future or as to the particular amounts that will be paid from year to year. The payment of future dividends will be dependent upon the board’s ongoing assessment of AngloGold Ashanti’s earnings, after providing for long term growth, cash/debt resources, compliance with the solvency and liquidity requirements the Companies Act, the amount of reserves available for a dividend based on the going concern assessment, and restrictions placed by the conditions of the convertible bond, other debt facilities, protection of the investment grade credit rating and other factors. AngloGold Ashanti will continue to manage capital expenditure in line with profitability and cash flow, and its approach to the dividend on the basis of prudent financial management.

Under South African law, the company may declare and pay dividends from any reserves included in total shareholder’s equity (including share capital and share premium) calculated in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), subject to the solvency and liquidity test.

Dividends are payable to shareholders registered at a record date that is after the date of declaration. Dematerialized shareholders on the South African share register will receive payment of their dividends electronically, as provided for by STRATE. Certificated shareholders, who have elected to receive their dividends electronically, will be paid via the company’s electronic funds transmission service. Certificated shareholders who have not yet elected to receive dividend payments electronically are encouraged to mandate this method of payment for all future dividends.

Withholding tax

South Africa currently imposes a Dividend Withholding Tax on Companies (dividends tax) at a rate of 15 percent on the net amount of the dividend declared by a resident company, other than a Headquarter Company.

The dividends tax is generally imposed on the beneficial owner. The dividends tax could be reduced to a lower rate under an applicable double tax treaty, if all requirements are met. In the case of dividends paid to a US holder with respect to shares, the Treaty would generally limit the dividends tax rate to 5 percent of the gross amount of the dividends if a US holder (it must be a corporate) holds directly at least 10 percent of the voting stock of AngloGold Ashanti. In all other cases, the maximum tax rate under the Treaty is 15 percent of the gross amount of the dividend. There are different rules to consider if the beneficial owner of the dividends is a US resident who carries on business in South Africa through a permanent establishment situated in South Africa, or performs in South Africa independent personal services from a fixed base situated in South Africa, and the dividends are attributable to such permanent establishment or fixed base. Moreover, if the dividends tax rate is reduced under the auspices of an applicable double tax treaty, there are certain South African compliance requirements that must be met in order to access the double tax treaty relief.

 

8B.

SIGNIFICANT CHANGES

None.

 

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ITEM 9:  THE OFFER AND LISTING

 

9A.

OFFER AND LISTING DETAILS

The following table sets out, for the periods indicated, the reported high and low market quotations for AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares on the JSE and for its sponsored ADSs on the NYSE:

 

     JSE            NYSE(1)     
Year ended December 31   High   Low     High           Low  
     (South African cents per ordinary share)                (US dollars per ADS)      

Annual information

               

2008

  34,900   15,011     51.35   13.37  

2009

  34,679   28,630     47.52   36.05  

2010

  36,631   26,640     52.86   34.11  

2011

  39,182   27,333     51.69   38.97  

2012

  36,500   25,199     47.17   29.51  
   

2011

         

First quarter

  35,240   30,226     49.99   42.47  

Second quarter

  34,096   27,333     51.69   39.70  

Third quarter

  38,250   27,600     48.85   40.58  

Fourth quarter

  39,182   32,000     49.14   38.97  
   

2012

         

First quarter

  36,500   28,001     47.17   36.06  

Second quarter

  31,979   25,250     38.31   30.70  

Third quarter

  30,530   25,199     36.93   30.56  

Fourth quarter

  30,495   25,500     35.89   29.51  
   

2013

         

First quarter

  27,048   21,031     31.88   23.08  
   

September 2012

  30,530   26,091     36.93   31.15  

October 2012

  30,495   26,891     35.89   31.98  

November 2012

  30,172   26,133     34.97   29.58  

December 2012

  27,780   25,500     31.48   29.51  

January 2013

  27,048   24,450     31.88   27.02  

February 2013

  26,196   21,776     29.78   24.17  

March 2013

  23,547   21,031     25.47   23.08  

April 2013(2)

 

  217.96   161.33     23.55   17.45  

 

(1)

Each ADS represents one ordinary share.

(2)

Through April 19, 2013.

See “Item 7A.: Major shareholders” for the number of ADSs outstanding at December 31, 2012.

 

9B.

PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

Not applicable.

 

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9C.

MARKETS

NATURE OF TRADING MARKET

The principal trading markets for AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares are the New York Stock Exchange, in the form of ADSs, under the symbol “AU” and the JSE Limited, in the form of ordinary shares, under the symbol “ANG”.

AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares are also listed on the London Stock Exchange under the symbol “AGD” and the Ghana Stock Exchange under the symbol “AGA”. Its ordinary shares are also listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, in the form of Chess Depositary Interests (each representing one-fifth of an ordinary share) under the symbol “AGG” and on the Ghana Stock Exchange, in the form of Ghanaian Depositary Shares or GhDSs (each representing one one-hundredth of an ordinary share) under the symbol “AADS”.

 

9D.

SELLING SHAREHOLDERS

Not applicable.

 

9E.

DILUTION

Not applicable.

 

9F.

EXPENSES OF THE ISSUE

Not applicable.

 

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ITEM 10: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

 

10A.

SHARE CAPITAL

Authorized and Issued Shares

At the annual general meeting of shareholders held on May 15, 2009, shareholders approved an increase in the company’s authorized ordinary share capital. AngloGold Ashanti’s authorized and issued share capital as of December 31, 2012 and April 19, 2013 (being the latest practicable date prior to the publication of this document) is set out below:

 

Title of Class    Authorized        Issued  
      April 19, 2013      December 31, 2012  

Ordinary shares at par value of R0.25 each

     600,000,000          383,682,420          383,320,962    

E ordinary shares at par value of R0.25 each

     4,280,000          1,605,360          1,617,752    

A redeemable preference shares at par value of R0.50 each

     2,000,000          2,000,000          2,000,000    

B redeemable preference shares at par value of R0.01 each

     5,000,000          778,896          778,896    

All of the issued ordinary shares, E ordinary shares, A redeemable preference shares and B redeemable preference shares are fully paid and are not subject to further calls or assessment by AngloGold Ashanti.

The table below details changes in the issued ordinary share capital of AngloGold Ashanti since December 31, 2009 through December 31, 2012.

 

 

 
Period to    Description    Number of
Shares
 

 

 

December 31, 2009

        362,240,669   

Ordinary shares issued during 2010

   AngloGold Share Incentive Scheme      823,411   
   Employee Share ownership program – on conversion of E ordinary shares      –   
   Equity raising – proceeds used to part fund the hedge elimination      18,140,000   

 

 

December 31, 2010

        381,204,080    

Ordinary shares issued during 2011

   AngloGold Share Incentive Scheme      889,593    
   Employee Share ownership program – on conversion of E ordinary shares      99,747    
   BEE transaction Bokamoso ESOP      48,923    

 

 

December 31, 2011

        382,242,343   

Ordinary shares issued during 2012

   AngloGold Share Incentive Scheme      945,641   
   Employee Share ownership program – on conversion of E ordinary shares      132,978   

 

 

December 31, 2012

        383,320,962   

 

 

A and B Redeemable Preference shares

All of the A redeemable preference shares and B redeemable preference shares are held by Eastvaal Gold Holdings Limited, AngloGold Ashanti’s wholly-owned subsidiary. AngloGold Ashanti’s Memorandum of Incorporation provide that the A redeemable preference shares and B redeemable preference shares are not transferable.

 

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E ordinary shares

On December 11, 2006, shareholders in general meeting authorized the creation of a maximum of 4,280,000 E ordinary shares to be issued pursuant to an Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP) and a black economic empowerment transaction with Izingwe Holdings (Pty) Limited (Izingwe) – (collectively, BEE transaction). The E ordinary shares will not be listed.

At a general meeting held on May 11, 2011, shareholders approved an amendment to the terms of the BEE transaction by authorizing the issue of an additional 48,923 ordinary shares to the ESOP and the reinstatement of lapsed E ordinary shares – a maximum of 810,634 to the ESOP and a maximum of 560,000 to Izingwe. In addition to the reinstatement of cancelled E ordinary shares, shareholders approved an amendment to the cancellation formula through the resetting of the strike price. Participants to the ESOP and Izingwe are consequently guaranteed a minimum conversion price of R40 per E ordinary share with a maximum of R90 per E ordinary share for the ESOP and R70 per E ordinary share for Izingwe from a base price of R320 and R330 per share, respectively. The amendment also authorized changes to the duration of the scheme.

On June 9, 2011, a total of 1,329,164 E ordinary shares were reinstated to the BEE Transaction – 769,164 to the ESOP and 560,000 to Izingwe.

In terms of the original authority granted by shareholders in 2006, on vesting, E ordinary shares were cancelled in exchange for ordinary shares in accordance with the cancellation formula.

E ordinary share capital amounting to R51,842,313 in respect of 688,332 vested, unconverted and cancelled E ordinary shares, was transferred to ordinary share premium during 2011. Prior to the amendment of the BEE transaction, E ordinary shares did not convert into ordinary shares where the market price of an AngloGold Ashanti ordinary share was less than the strike price of the E ordinary share as calculated in accordance with the cancellation formula.

E ordinary shareholders are entitled to vote at all ordinary shareholder meetings. However, they do not hold a veto right.

Dividends are payable on E ordinary shares, in an amount equal to 50 percent of dividends payable to ordinary shareholders. The residual 50 percent of the dividend payable is taken into account in determining the cancellation formula.

E ordinary shares which vest and are exchanged for ordinary shares are automatically cancelled and may not be re-issued. Therefore, they do not form part of the unissued share capital of the company.

The table below details changes in the E-ordinary issued share capital of AngloGold Ashanti since December 31, 2009 through December 31, 2012.

 

 

 
Period to    Description    Number of
Shares
 

 

 

December 31, 2009

        3,794,998    

2010 E-ordinary shares movement

   Cancelled and exchanged for ordinary shares in accordance with the cancellation formula      (988,872)   

 

 

December 31, 2010

        2,806,126    

2011 E-ordinary shares movement

   Re-instated      1,329,164   
   Cancelled and exchanged for ordinary shares in accordance with the cancellation formula      (1,552,328)   

 

 

December 31, 2011

        2,582,962   

2012 E-ordinary shares movement

   Cancelled and exchanged for ordinary shares in accordance with the cancellation formula      (965,210)   

 

 

December 31, 2012

        1,617,752   

 

 

 

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Unissued shares

 

In terms of a general authority from shareholders in annual general meeting, granted on 10 May 2012, the directors of the Company are authorized to allot and issue, for such purposes and on such terms as they may, in their discretion, determine, ordinary shares of 25 SA cents each (shares) in the authorized but unissued share capital of the Company up to a maximum of 5 percent of the number of shares in issue from time to time. The directors annually seek renewal of such authority at the annual general meeting, and the next renewal will be requested at the annual general meeting to be held on 13 May 2013.

 

Authorized but unissued ordinary Shares under the control of the directors – amounting to 5 percent of issued shares from time to time      19,166,048   
Authorized but unissued ordinary shares attributable to the share incentive scheme (balance of – 17,000,000 total scheme allocation pursuant to shares issued from 15 October 2008)      13,108,426   
Authorized but unissued ordinary shares under specific authority for the convertible bonds (approved at the general meeting 30 July 2009)      15,384,615   
Authorized but unissued ordinary shares under specific authority for the mandatory convertible bonds (approved at the general meeting 26 October 2010)      18,140,000   

 

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10B.

MEMORANDUM OF INCORPORATION

On May 1, 2011, the South African Companies Act 71 of 2008 (as amended) (the Act) came into effect. In terms of the Act, companies were granted a two year period to amend their constitutional documents (previously referred to as the Memorandum and Articles of Association, but known under the Act as a Memorandum of Incorporation (MoI)), in order to harmonize such constitutional documents with the Act or adopt a new MoI, During the two year grace period certain provisions of the existing MoIs would continue to prevail over those of the Act in the case of a conflict. At a general meeting held on March 27, 2013, shareholders voted to adopt a new MoI for AngloGold Ashanti. This is furnished to the SEC as an exhibit to AngloGold Ashanti’s report on form 6-K on April 10, 2013.

REGISTRATION

AngloGold Ashanti is incorporated under the laws of the Republic of South Africa and registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission under registration number 1944/017354/06. The Act has abolished the requirement for specific “object and purpose” provisions to be included in an MoI, but the company continues to carry on as its main business, gold exploration, the mining and production of gold, the manufacturing, marketing and selling of gold products and the development of markets for gold.

AngloGold Ashanti’s new MoI is available for inspection as set out in “Item 10H.: Documents on Display” and a summary of pertinent provisions, including rights of the holders of shares in AngloGold Ashanti, are set out below.

This summary does not contain all the information pertaining to the rights of holders of AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the laws of South Africa and AngloGold Ashanti’s governing corporate documents. As well as being governed by the provisions of the MoI, the rights of holders of AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares are governed by the Act , the Companies Regulations, 2011, promulgated under the Act (Regulations), which include the Takeover Regulations, and the JSE Listings Requirements. Further, the rights of holders of AngloGold Ashanti ADSs are governed by the Deposit Agreement between AngloGold Ashanti and The Bank of New York Mellon. See “Share Rights, Preferences and Restrictions – The Deposit Agreement”.

The Act provides that shares will no longer have a par or nominal value and hence no new shares having a nominal or par value may be authorized. However any shares which have a nominal or par value authorized prior to the effective date continue to have that nominal or par value and can be issued as such for so long as there are par value shares in the company’s authorized share capital.

DIRECTORS

The management and control of any business of AngloGold Ashanti is vested in the directors. The authority of the board to manage and direct the business and affairs of the company is not limited, restricted or qualified by the MoI.

Appointment and Retirement of Directors

The shareholders of the company have the power to elect the directors, and they are entitled to elect one or more alternate directors, in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

The board of directors may appoint any person who satisfies the requirements for election as a director to fill any vacancy and serve as a director on a temporary basis provided such appointment must be approved by shareholders at the next shareholders’ meeting or annual general meeting.

The MoI authorizes the chairman of the board, subject to the written approval of the majority of the directors, to appoint any person as a director provided that such appointment is approved by shareholders at the next shareholders’ meeting or annual general meeting.

At every annual general meeting one-third of the directors, including executive directors, will retire by rotation, or if their number is not a multiple of three, then the number nearest to but not less than one third. Directors retiring by rotation are eligible for re-election. The directors so to retire at every annual general meeting will be those who have been the longest in office since their last election.

The MoI contains no provision for directors to hold qualification shares. The MoI does not impose an age limit for the retirement of directors, but in terms of the company’s governance policies directors are considered for retirement from age 70.

 

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Remuneration

In accordance with the Act, the MoI provides that the directors are entitled to such remuneration for their services as directors as AngloGold Ashanti’s shareholders may approve by special resolution in a general meeting or annual general meeting within the previous two years of the date of payment of such remuneration. If a director performs services that, in the opinion of the board of directors, are outside the scope of the ordinary duties of a director, he may be paid such extra remuneration as the directors determine.

Interests of Directors and Restriction on Voting

Although the interests of directors are not dealt with in the MoI, the provisions of the Act in this regard are unalterable and will automatically apply, together with the applicable common law. Under the Act, the procedures to deal with the personal financial interests of directors also apply to prescribed officers (i.e. persons who exercise general executive control over and management of the whole, or a significant portion, of the business and activities of the company or regularly participate to a material degree in the exercise of general executive control over and management of the whole, or a significant portion, of the business and activities of the company, irrespective of the office held or function performed by such persons) and any person who is a member of a committee of the board of the company, whether or not that person is also a member of the company’s board. The Act provides that a director or such other person with a personal financial interest must disclose this to the board and cannot vote at, and must leave, the meeting in which the matter is discussed, but will be counted as present for the purposes of a quorum.

Share Rights, Preferences and Restrictions

Allotment and Issue of Ordinary Shares

Subject to the Listings Requirements of the JSE, any unissued ordinary shares can be disposed of or dealt with in such manner as AngloGold Ashanti board of directors in their discretion think fit, if so authorised by shareholders at a general meeting or annual general meeting.

Dividends, Rights and Distributions

The ordinary shares participate fully in all dividends, other distributions and entitlements as and when declared by AngloGold Ashanti in respect of fully paid ordinary shares. Under South African law, AngloGold Ashanti may declare and pay dividends, subject to the company satisfying the solvency and liquidity test as provided by the Act and the board passing a resolution acknowledging that such test has been applied and it was reasonably concluded that the company would satisfy such test immediately after completing the distribution. No larger dividend will be declared by shareholders in general meeting than is recommended by the directors. Dividends are payable to shareholders registered at a record date that is after the date of declaration.

Although not stated in the MoI, dividends may be declared in any currency at the discretion of the board of directors or AGA shareholders in an extraordinary general meeting or annual general meeting. Currently, dividends are declared in South African rands and paid in Australian dollars, South African rands, Ghanaian cedis or United Kingdom pounds. Dividends paid to registered holders of AngloGold Ashanti ADSs are paid in US dollars converted from South African rands by The Bank of New York Mellon, as depositary, in accordance with the Deposit Agreement. See “The Deposit Agreement”.

Holders of E ordinary shares are entitled to receive a dividend, equal to 50 percent of the dividend per ordinary share declared from time to time by AngloGold Ashanti. In addition, the residual 50 percent of the dividend declared by AngloGold Ashanti from time to time is offset against the loan value of the E ordinary shares.

The holder of the B preference shares is entitled to an annual dividend amounting to the lesser of five percent of the issue price of the B preference shares, or an amount equivalent to the balance of the after-tax profits from income derived from mining the Moab Lease Area (which is part of the Vaal River operations in South Africa) as determined by the directors in each financial year. This annual dividend is a first charge on any profit available for distribution from the Moab Lease Area. The annual dividend is not payable from any of AngloGold Ashanti’s other profits.

The holder of the A preference shares is entitled to an annual dividend equivalent to the balance of the after-tax profits from income derived from mining the Moab Lease Area as determined by AngloGold Ashanti’s directors in each financial year, only once the annual dividend on the B preference shares has been paid in full.

 

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Although not stated in the MoI, any dividend may be paid and satisfied, either wholly or in part, by the distribution of specific assets, or in paid-up securities of AngloGold Ashanti or of any other company, or in cash, or in any one or more of such ways as the directors or AngloGold Ashanti in general meeting may at the time of declaring the dividend determine and direct.

All dividends remaining unclaimed for a period of not less than three years from the date on which they became payable, may, by a resolution of the directors, become forfeited for the benefit of the company.

Voting Rights

Each ordinary share confers the right to vote at all general meetings. Each holder present in person or by proxy or, in the case of a corporate entity, represented, has one vote on a show of hands. If a poll is held, holders present or any duly appointed proxy will have one vote for each ordinary share held. A holder of ordinary shares is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend, speak and vote at any meeting on his or her behalf and the proxy need not be a shareholder. Holders of ADSs are not entitled to vote in person at meetings, but may vote by way of proxy through The Bank of New York Mellon as the ADS issuer. Holders of CDIs and GhDSs are not entitled to vote in person or by proxy at meetings, but may vote by instructing Chess Depository Nominees and NTHC Limited as depositary, respectively, how to vote their shares.

There are no limitations on the right of non-South African registered shareholders to hold or exercise voting rights attaching to any of the ordinary shares.

Holders of E ordinary shares have the right to vote at all general meetings and are entitled to appoint a proxy to attend, speak and vote at any meeting on their behalf and the proxy need not be a shareholder. To the extent that holders of E ordinary shares will not be entitled to veto any resolution that would otherwise have been capable of being passed or not, by the required majority of votes of holders of ordinary shares and subject to the Listings Requirements of the JSE, holders of E ordinary shares will not be counted for categorization purposes in terms of section 9 of the Listings Requirements. These limitations on the E ordinary shares are a function of shareholder approval and the JSE Listings Requirements.

The A redeemable preference shares have similar voting rights t to those of ordinary shares. The B redeemable preference shares have limited voting rights, except in the event that a dividend on this class of share has not been paid and remains unpaid for six months, or in connection with resolutions directly affecting these preference shares or AngloGold Ashanti as a whole, such as disposal of substantially all of the company’s assets, winding up AngloGold Ashanti or reducing the company’s share capital.

At any meeting of AngloGold Ashanti at which the holders of the ordinary shares, A redeemable preference shares, and B redeemable preference shares are present and entitled to vote, on a poll, each holder of the A redeemable preference shares shall be entitled to 50 votes for every A redeemable preference share held, each holder of the ordinary shares is entitled to 50 votes for every ordinary share held and each holder of the B redeemable preference shares is entitled to one vote for every B redeemable preference share held

The MoI specifies that the rights relating to any class of shares may be modified or abrogated with the sanction of a resolution passed as if it were a special resolution of the holders of shares in that class at a separate general meeting. The MOI also specifies that the holders of the A and B preference shares may provide written consents to the modification of their rights.

Increase and Reduction of Capital

The company is authorized to issue the shares specified in the MOI and all such shares are required to be issued as fully paid up in accordance with the applicable approval and/or other requirements of the JSE Listings Requirements.

The directors are authorized, subject to any requirements of the JSE Listings Requirements and the MoI, to increase or decrease the number of authorized shares of any class of shares, reclassify any shares that have been authorized but not issued, classify any unclassified shares that have been authorized but not issued, and determine the preferences, rights, limitations or other terms of any class of authorized shares or amend any preferences, rights, limitations or other terms as determined. The JSE however currently does not allow the MoI to be amended to give effect to such capital amendments, without the approval of ordinary shareholders by special resolution.

 

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Rights Upon Liquidation

In the event of the winding up of AngloGold Ashanti:

 

the B redeemable preference shares confer the right, in priority to any payment in respect of the ordinary shares or the A preference shares in the capital of AngloGold Ashanti, to receive only so much of the net proceeds from the disposal of the assets relating to the Moab Lease Area as is available for distribution, but not exceeding a return for each B redeemable preference share of the capital paid up on that share and any share premium paid on the issue of the B redeemable preference shares outstanding at that time;

 

the A redeemable preference shares confer the right, in priority to any payment in respect of the ordinary shares but after any payment in respect of the B preference shares, to receive only so much of the net proceeds from the disposal of the assets relating to the Moab Lease Area as is then available for distribution;

 

the A redeemable preference and B redeemable preference shares do not confer the right to participation in the surplus funds of AngloGold Ashanti arising in any other manner; and

 

the ordinary shares and E ordinary shares confer the equal rights to any surplus arising from the liquidation of all other assets of AngloGold Ashanti.

Redemption Provisions

The A redeemable preference shares may be redeemed for their nominal value, plus a premium per share of an amount equal to the net proceeds available from the disposal of the assets relating to the Moab Lease Area, after redemption in full of the B preference shares and payment of the nominal value of the A preference shares, divided by 2,000,000.

The B redeemable preference shares may be redeemed for their nominal value, plus a premium of up to R249.99 per share, but limited to an amount equal to the net proceeds available from the disposal of the assets relating to the Moab Lease Area after payment of the nominal value of the B preference shares.

Description of AngloGold Ashanti ADSs

The Bank of New York Mellon issues AngloGold Ashanti’s American Depositary Shares, or ADSs. One ADS represents the ownership interest of one ordinary share of AngloGold Ashanti.

The Deposit Agreement

This section provides a summary description of AngloGold Ashanti’s ADSs.

AngloGold Ashanti has entered into an Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement dated June 3, 2008 with The Bank of New York Mellon as depositary and the owners and beneficial owners of American Depositary Receipts (Deposit Agreement).

The following is a summary of the material provisions of the Deposit Agreement. For more complete information, read the entire Deposit Agreement and the Form of American Depositary Receipt, which AngloGold Ashanti has filed with the SEC as an exhibit to AngloGold Ashanti’s registration statement on Form F-6/A (File No. 333-133049) on May 27, 2008. See “Item 10.H.: Documents On Display”. Copies of the Deposit Agreement are also available for inspection at the Corporate Trust Office of The Bank of New York Mellon currently located at 101 Barclay Street, New York, New York, 10286.

Description of the ADSs

The Bank of New York Mellon, as depositary, will register and deliver ADSs. Each ADS will represent one ordinary share (or a right to receive one share) deposited with The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited, Société Générale South Africa Limited, FirstRand Bank Limited, National Australia Bank Limited of Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited, each as a custodian for The Bank of New York Mellon, and all of which are referred to collectively as “the Custodian”. Each ADS will also represent any other securities, cash or other property which may be held by The Bank of New York Mellon. The Bank of New York Mellon’s Corporate Trust Office at which the ADSs will be administered is located at 101 Barclay Street, New York, New York 10286. The Bank of New York Mellon’s principal executive office is located at One Wall Street, New York, New York 10286.

ADSs may be held either (A) directly (i) by having an American Depositary Receipt, also referred to as an ADR, which is a certificate evidencing a specific number of ADSs, registered in the holder’s name, or (ii) by having ADSs registered in a holder’s name in the Direct Registration System, or (B) indirectly by holding a security entitlement in ADSs through a

 

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broker or other financial institution. If ADSs are held directly, such holders are ADS holders. This description applies to AngloGold Ashanti’s ADS holders. If ADSs are held indirectly, such holders must rely on the procedures of their broker or other financial institution to assert the rights of ADS registered holders described in this section. Such holders should consult with their broker or financial institution to find out what those procedures are.

The Direct Registration System, or DRS, is a system administered by DTC pursuant to which the depositary may register the ownership of uncertificated ADSs, which ownership will be evidenced by periodic statements sent by the depositary to the registered holders of uncertificated ADSs.

AngloGold Ashanti will not treat ADS holders as its shareholders and ADS holders do not have shareholder rights. South African law governs shareholder rights. The Bank of New York Mellon is the holder of the shares underlying the ADSs. Registered holders of ADSs have ADS holder rights. The Deposit Agreement sets out ADS holder rights as well as the rights and obligations of The Bank of New York Mellon. New York law governs the Deposit Agreement and the ADSs.

Dividends and Other Distributions

The Bank of New York Mellon has agreed to pay to holders of ADSs the cash dividends or other distributions it or a custodian receives on AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares or other deposited securities after deducting any fees and expenses and any applicable withholding taxes. Holders of ADSs will receive these distributions in proportion to the number of AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares that their ADSs represent.

Cash

The Bank of New York Mellon will convert any cash dividend or other cash distribution (in South African Rands) that AngloGold Ashanti pays on ordinary shares into US dollars (unless AngloGold Ashanti pays such dividend or cash distribution in US dollars). AngloGold Ashanti currently pays dividends on ordinary shares in South African rands. The Bank of New York Mellon will convert the South African rands it receives from AngloGold Ashanti to US dollars and distribute dividends in US dollars to registered holders of ADSs. If that is no longer possible or if any approval from any government is needed and cannot be obtained, The Bank of New York Mellon may distribute non-US currency only to those ADS holders to whom it is possible to make this type of distribution.

The Bank of New York Mellon may hold the non-US currency it cannot convert for the account of holders of ADSs who for one reason or the other have not been paid. It will not invest the non-US currency, and it will not be liable for the interest. Before making a distribution, any withholding taxes that must be paid will be deducted. See “Payment of Taxes” below. The Bank of New York Mellon will distribute only whole US dollars and cents and will round fractional cents to the nearest whole cent. If the exchange rates fluctuate during a time when The Bank of New York Mellon cannot convert the non-US currency, holders of ADSs may lose some or all of the value of the distribution.

Ordinary Shares

The Bank of New York Mellon may distribute to holders of ADSs additional ADSs representing ordinary shares that AngloGold Ashanti distributes as a dividend or free distribution, if AngloGold Ashanti provides such distribution promptly with satisfactory evidence that it is legal to do so. If The Bank of New York Mellon does not distribute additional ADSs, the outstanding ADSs will also represent the newly distributed AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares. The Bank of New York Mellon will only distribute whole ADSs. It will sell AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares that would require it to deliver a fraction of an ADS and distribute the net proceeds in the same way as it distributes cash. The Bank of New York Mellon may sell a portion of the distributed shares sufficient to pay its fees and expenses in connection with that distribution.

Rights to Subscribe for Additional Ordinary Shares

If AngloGold Ashanti offers holders of its ordinary shares any rights to subscribe for additional AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares or any other rights, The Bank of New York Mellon, after consultation with AngloGold Ashanti, may make these rights available to holders of ADSs or sell the rights and distribute the proceeds in the same way as it distributes cash. If The Bank of New York Mellon cannot do either of these things for any reason, it may allow these rights to lapse. In that case, holders of ADSs will receive no value for them.

 

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If The Bank of New York Mellon makes these types of subscription rights available to holders of ADSs, upon instruction from holders of ADSs, it will exercise the rights and purchase AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares on their behalf. The Bank of New York Mellon will then deposit the AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares and deliver ADSs to the holders of ADSs. It will only exercise these rights if holders of ADSs pay it the exercise price and any other charges the rights require them to pay.

US securities laws may restrict the sale, deposit, cancellation and transfer of the ADSs issued after the exercise of rights. For example, holders of ADSs may not be able to trade the ADSs freely in the United States. In this case, The Bank of New York Mellon may deliver ADSs which are “restricted securities” within the meaning of Rule 144 which will have the same provisions as the ADSs described here, except for the changes needed to put the restrictions in place.

Other Distributions

The Bank of New York Mellon will send to holders of ADSs any other distributions that AngloGold Ashanti makes on deposited securities by any means it thinks is legal, fair and practical. If it cannot make the distribution in that way, The Bank of New York Mellon may decide to sell what AngloGold Ashanti distributes, and then distribute the net proceeds in the same way as it distributes cash, or it may decide to hold what AngloGold Ashanti distributes, in which case the outstanding ADSs will also represent the newly distributed property. However, The Bank of New York Mellon is not required to distribute any securities (other than ADSs) to ADS holders unless it receives satisfactory evidence from AngloGold Ashanti that it is legal to make that distribution. The Bank of New York Mellon may sell a portion of the distributed securities or property sufficient to pay its fees and expenses in connection with that distribution.

The Bank of New York Mellon is not responsible if, based on available information, it decides that it is unlawful or impractical to make a distribution available to any ADS holders. AngloGold Ashanti has no obligation to register ADSs, AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares, rights or other securities under the US Securities Act of 1933. AngloGold Ashanti also has no obligation to take any other action to permit the distribution of ADSs, AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares, or any other rights to ADS holders. This means that the holders of ADSs may not receive the distribution AngloGold Ashanti makes on its ordinary shares or any value for them if it is illegal or impractical for AngloGold Ashanti to make them available to the holders of ADSs.

Deposit, Withdrawal and Cancellation

The Bank of New York Mellon will deliver ADSs if a holder of AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares or their broker deposits AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares or evidence of rights to receive ordinary shares with the Custodian. Upon payment of its fees and expenses and of any taxes or charges, such as stamp taxes or stock transfer taxes or fees, The Bank of New York Mellon will register the appropriate number of ADSs in the names such holder of AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares requests and will deliver the ADSs at its Corporate Trust office to the persons such holders request.

Holders of ADSs may turn in their ADSs at The Bank of New York Mellon’s Corporate Trust Office. Upon payment of its fees and expenses and of any taxes or charges, such as stamp taxes or stock transfer taxes or fees, The Bank of New York Mellon will deliver (1) the underlying ordinary shares to an account designated by the relevant holder of ADSs and (2) any other deposited securities underlying the ADSs at the office of the Custodian, or, at the request, risk and expense of ADS holders, The Bank of New York Mellon will deliver the deposited securities at its Corporate Trust Office.

Interchange Between Certificated ADSs and Uncertificated ADSs

ADS registered holders may surrender their ADR to The Bank of New York Mellon for the purpose of exchanging such ADR for uncertificated ADSs. The Bank of New York Mellon will cancel that ADR and will send to the ADS registered holder a statement confirming that the ADS registered holder is the registered holder of uncertificated ADSs. Alternatively, upon receipt by The Bank of New York Mellon of a proper instruction from a registered holder of uncertificated ADSs requesting the exchange of uncertificated ADSs for certificated ADSs, The Bank of New York Mellon will execute and deliver to the ADS registered holder an ADR evidencing those ADSs.

Voting Rights

ADS registered holders may instruct The Bank of New York Mellon to vote the number of deposited shares their ADSs represent. The Bank of New York Mellon will notify ADS registered holders of shareholders’ meetings and arrange to deliver AngloGold Ashanti’s voting materials to them if AngloGold Ashanti asks it to. Those materials will describe the matters to be voted on and explain how ADS registered holders may instruct The Bank of New York Mellon how to vote. For instructions to be valid, they must reach The Bank of New York Mellon by a date set by The Bank of New York Mellon.

 

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Otherwise, ADS registered holders will not be able to exercise their right to vote unless they withdraw the shares. However, ADS registered holders may not know about the meeting sufficiently in advance to withdraw the shares.

The Bank of New York Mellon will try, as far as practical, to vote or to have its agents vote the ordinary shares or other deposited securities as holders of ADSs instruct, but this is subject to South African law, the provisions of AngloGold Ashanti’s MoI and of the deposited securities and any applicable rule of the JSE. The Bank of New York Mellon will only vote or attempt to vote as such holders of ADSs instruct.

AngloGold Ashanti cannot assure the holders of ADSs that they will receive the voting materials in time for them to instruct The Bank of New York Mellon to vote their ordinary shares. In addition, The Bank of New York Mellon and its agents are not responsible for failing to carry out voting instructions or for the manner of carrying out voting instructions. This means that holders of ADSs may not be able to exercise their right to vote and there may be nothing they can do if their ordinary shares are not voted as they requested.

 

  Fees and expenses       
    ADS holders must pay:       

For:

   
   

$5.00 (or less) per 100 ADSs

      

Each issuance of an ADS, including as a result of a distribution of AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares or rights or other property

 

Each cancellation of an ADS, including if the Deposit Agreement terminates

   
   

$0.02 (or less) per ADS

      

Any cash payment

 

   
   

Registration or transfer fees

      

Transfer and registration of AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares on the AngloGold Ashanti share register to or from the name of The Bank of New York Mellon or its agent when AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares are deposited or withdrawn

   
   

$0.02 (or less) per ADS per year

      

Depositary services

 

   
   

Expenses of The Bank of New York Mellon

      

Conversion of non-US currency to US dollars

 

Cable, telex and facsimile transmission expenses

 

Servicing the deposited securities

   
   

Taxes and other governmental charges that The Bank of New York Mellon or any custodian has to pay on any ADS or AngloGold Ashanti ordinary share underlying an ADS, for example, stock transfer taxes, stamp duty or withholding taxes

      

As necessary

   
   

A fee equivalent to the fee that would have been payable if the securities distributed had been ordinary shares deposited for issuance of ADSs

      

Distribution of securities distributed to holders of deposited securities that are distributed by The Bank of New York Mellon to ADS holders

   

Payment of Taxes

Holders of ADSs will be responsible for any taxes or other governmental charges payable on their ADSs or on the deposited securities underlying their ADSs. The Bank of New York Mellon may refuse to transfer their ADSs or allow them to withdraw the deposited securities underlying their ADSs until such taxes or other charges are paid. It may apply payments owed to holders of ADSs or sell deposited securities underlying their ADSs to pay any taxes they owe, and they will remain liable for any deficiency. If the Bank of New York sells deposited securities, it will, if appropriate, reduce the number of ADSs to reflect the sale and pay to holders of ADSs any proceeds, or send to them any property remaining after it has paid the taxes.

 

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Reclassifications

 

    If AngloGold Ashanti:       Then:    
   

Reclassifies, splits up or consolidates any of the deposited securities;

 

Distributes securities on the ordinary shares that are not distributed to holders of ADSs; or

 

Recapitalizes, reorganizes, merges, liquidates, sells all or substantially all of AngloGold Ashanti’s assets, or takes any similar action.

     

The cash, ordinary shares or other securities received by The Bank of New York Mellon will become deposited securities. Each ADS will automatically represent its equal share of the new deposited securities.

 

The Bank of New York Mellon may, and will if AngloGold Ashanti asks it to, distribute some or all of the cash, AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares or other securities it receives. It may also issue new ADSs or ask holders of ADSs to surrender their outstanding ADSs in exchange for new ADSs identifying the new deposited securities.

   

Amendment and Termination

AngloGold Ashanti may, for any reason, agree with The Bank of New York Mellon to amend the Deposit Agreement and the ADSs without the consent of holders. If the amendment increases fees or charges (except for taxes and other governmental charges or registration fees, cable, telex or facsimile transmission costs, delivery costs or other such expenses) or if the amendment prejudices an important right of ADS holders, it will only become effective 30 days after The Bank of New York Mellon notifies holders of ADSs of the amendment. At the time an amendment becomes effective, holders of ADSs are considered, by continuing to hold their ADSs, to agree to the amendment and to be bound by the ADSs and the agreement as amended.

The Bank of New York Mellon may terminate the Deposit Agreement by mailing notice of termination to ADS holders at least 30 days prior to the date fixed in the notice if AngloGold Ashanti asks it to do so. The Bank of New York Mellon may also terminate the Deposit Agreement if The Bank of New York Mellon has told AngloGold Ashanti that it would like to resign and AngloGold Ashanti has not appointed a new depositary bank within 90 days. In both cases, The Bank of New York Mellon must notify holders of AngloGold Ashanti ADSs at least 30 days before termination.

After termination, The Bank of New York Mellon and its agents will be required to do only the following under the Deposit Agreement: collect distributions on the deposited securities, sell rights, and, upon surrender of ADSs, deliver AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares and other deposited securities. Four months after the date of termination or later, The Bank of New York Mellon may sell any remaining deposited securities by public or private sale and will hold the proceeds of the sale, as well as any other cash it is holding under the Deposit Agreement, for the pro rata benefit of the ADS holders who have not surrendered their ADSs. It will not invest the money and will have no liability for interest. The Bank of New York Mellon’s only obligations will be to account for the proceeds of the sale and other cash. After termination, AngloGold Ashanti’s only obligations will be with respect to indemnification of, and payment of certain amounts to, The Bank of New York Mellon.

Limitations on Obligations and Liability to ADS Holders

The Deposit Agreement expressly limits AngloGold Ashanti’s obligations and the obligations of The Bank of New York Mellon, and limits AngloGold Ashanti’s liability and the liability of The Bank of New York Mellon. AngloGold Ashanti and The Bank of New York Mellon:

 

are only obligated to take the actions specifically set forth in the Deposit Agreement without negligence or bad faith;

 

are not liable if either of AngloGold Ashanti or The Bank of New York Mellon is prevented or delayed by law or circumstances beyond their control from performing their obligations under the Deposit Agreement;

 

are not liable if either of AngloGold Ashanti or The Bank of New York Mellon exercises discretion permitted under the Deposit Agreement;

 

are not liable for the inability of any holder of ADSs to benefit from any distribution on deposited securities that is not made available to holders of ADSs under the terms of the Deposit Agreement, or for any special, consequential or punitive damages for any breach of the terms of the Deposit Agreement;

 

have no obligation to become involved in a lawsuit or other proceeding related to the ADSs or the Deposit Agreement on behalf of the holders of ADSs or on behalf of any other party;

 

may rely on advice of or information from legal counsel, accountants, and any persons presenting AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares for deposit, any registered holder or any other person believed by AngloGold Ashanti in good faith to be competent to give such advice or information; and

 

pursuant to the Deposit Agreement, AngloGold Ashanti and The Bank of New York Mellon agree to indemnify each other under certain circumstances.

 

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Requirements for Depositary Action

Before The Bank of New York Mellon will issue, transfer or register the transfer of an ADS, make a distribution on an ADS, or allow withdrawal of AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares, The Bank of New York Mellon may require:

 

payment of stock transfer or other taxes or other governmental charges and transfer or registration fees charged by third parties for the transfer of any ordinary shares or other deposited securities;

 

production of satisfactory proof of the identity and genuineness of any signature or other information it deems necessary; and

 

compliance with regulations it may establish, from time to time, consistent with the Deposit Agreement, including presentation of transfer documents.

The Bank of New York Mellon may refuse to deliver, transfer or register transfers of ADSs generally when the books of The Bank of New York Mellon or AngloGold Ashanti’s books are closed, or at any time if either AngloGold Ashanti or The Bank of New York Mellon thinks it advisable to do so.

Holders of ADSs have the right to cancel their ADSs and withdraw the underlying ordinary shares at any time except:

 

when temporary delays arise because: (1) either AngloGold Ashanti or The Bank of New York Mellon have closed AngloGold Ashanti’s transfer books; (2) the transfer of the ordinary shares is blocked in connection with voting at a general meeting of shareholders; or (3) AngloGold Ashanti is paying a dividend on the ordinary shares;

 

when ADS holders seeking to withdraw the ordinary shares are liable for unpaid fees, taxes and similar charges; or

 

when it is necessary to prohibit withdrawals in order to comply with any laws or governmental regulations that apply to ADSs or to the withdrawal of the ordinary shares or other deposited securities.

This right of withdrawal may not be limited by any other provision of the Deposit Agreement.

Pre-release of ADSs

In certain circumstances, subject to the provisions of the Deposit Agreement, The Bank of New York Mellon may deliver ADSs before deposit of the underlying ordinary shares. This is called a pre-release of the ADS.

The Bank of New York Mellon may also deliver AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares upon cancellation of pre-released ADSs (even if the ADSs are cancelled before the pre-release transaction has been closed out). A pre-release is closed out as soon as the underlying AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares are delivered to The Bank of New York Mellon. The Bank of New York Mellon may receive ADSs instead of ordinary shares to close out a pre-release.

The Bank of New York Mellon may pre-release ADSs only under the following conditions:

 

 

before or at the time of the pre-release, the person to whom the pre-release is being made must represent to The Bank of New York Mellon in writing that it or its customer: (a) owns the ordinary shares or ADSs to be remitted, (b) assigns all beneficial rights, title and interest in such ADSs or ordinary shares, as the case may be, to The Bank of New York Mellon in its capacity as the depositary and for the benefit of the ADS holders, and (c) will not take any action with respect to such ADSs or ordinary shares, as the case may be, that is consistent with the transfer of beneficial ownership (including, without the consent of The Bank of New York Mellon, disposing of such ADSs or ordinary shares, as the case may be) other than satisfaction of such pre-release;

 

the pre-release must be fully collateralized with cash, US government securities, or other collateral that The Bank of New York Mellon considers appropriate; and

 

the Bank of New York Mellon must be able to close out the pre-release on not more than five business days’ notice. Each pre-release will be subject to any further indemnities and credit regulations that The Bank of New York Mellon deems appropriate. The Bank of New York Mellon will normally limit the number of AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares not deposited but represented by ADSs outstanding at any time as a result of pre-release so that they do not exceed 30 percent of the ordinary shares deposited, although The Bank of New York Mellon may disregard this limit from time to time, if it thinks it is appropriate to do so.

 

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Direct Registration System

In the Deposit Agreement, all parties to the Deposit Agreement acknowledge that the DRS and Profile Modification System, or Profile, will apply to uncertificated ADSs upon acceptance thereof to DRS by The Depository Trust Company, also referred to as DTC. DRS is the system administered by DTC pursuant to which the depositary may register the ownership of uncertificated ADSs, which ownership will be evidenced by periodic statements sent by the depositary to the registered holders of uncertificated ADSs. Profile is a required feature of DRS which allows a DTC participant, claiming to act on behalf of a registered holder of ADSs, to direct the depositary to register a transfer of those ADSs to DTC or its nominee and to deliver those ADSs to the DTC account of that DTC participant without receipt by the depositary of prior authorization from the ADS registered holder to register that transfer.

In connection with and in accordance with the arrangements and procedures relating to DRS/Profile, the parties to the Deposit Agreement understand that The Bank of New York Mellon will not verify, determine or otherwise ascertain that the DTC participant which is claiming to be acting on behalf of an ADS holder in requesting registration of transfer and delivery described in the paragraph above has the actual authority to act on behalf of the ADS holder (notwithstanding any requirements under the Uniform Commercial Code). In the Deposit Agreement, the parties agree that The Bank of New York Mellon’s reliance on and compliance with instructions received by The Bank of New York Mellon through the DRS/Profile System and in accordance with the Deposit Agreement will not constitute negligence or bad faith on the part of The Bank of New York Mellon.

Shareholder Communications: Inspection of Register of Holders of ADSs

The Bank of New York Mellon will make available for inspection at its office all communications that it receives from AngloGold Ashanti as a holder of deposited securities that AngloGold Ashanti makes generally available to holders of deposited securities. The Bank of New York Mellon sends copies of those communications if requested by AngloGold Ashanti. ADS holders have a right to inspect the register of holders of ADSs, but not for the purpose of contacting those holders about a matter unrelated to AngloGold Ashanti’s business or the ADSs.

Shareholders’ meetings

The directors may convene meetings of AngloGold Ashanti shareholders. Subject to the provisions of the Companies Act, the shareholders may requisition for the convening of a meeting.

Notice of each AngloGold Ashanti annual general meeting and general meeting of AngloGold Ashanti shareholders must be delivered at least 15 business days before that shareholders’ meeting is to begin. In accordance with the Act, business days are calculated by excluding the first day, including the last day and excluding Saturdays, Sundays and any public holiday in the Republic of South Africa. In terms of the MoI, all shareholders are entitled to attend shareholders’ meetings.

In the case of a class meeting of the A or B preference shares, the sole holder of such shares shall constitute a quorum. Save as aforesaid, the quorum of a shareholders’ meeting to begin is sufficient persons present, in person or by proxy, at the meeting to exercise, in aggregate, at least 25 percent of all of the voting rights that are entitled to be exercised in respect of at least one matter to be decided at the meeting and a quorum must remain present for the continuation of that shareholders meeting, provided that at least three shareholders must be present at the meeting. Such quorum requirement also applies for the consideration of any matter to be decided at the meeting. If the meeting is not quorate within 30 minutes after the appointed time for the meeting to begin (or such longer or shorter period as the chairperson may determine), it will be postponed, without motion, vote or further notice, for 1 week and the shareholders present, in person or by proxy, at the postponed meeting will constitute a quorum. For an ordinary resolution to be approved by shareholders, it must be supported by more than 50 percent of the voting rights exercised on the resolution. For a special resolution to be approved by shareholders, it must be supported by at least 75 percent of the voting rights exercised on the resolution.

 

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Disclosure of Interest in Shares

Under South African law, a person must notify AngloGold Ashanti within three business days after that person acquires a beneficial interest in sufficient securities of a class issued by AngloGold Ashanti such that, as a result of the acquisition, the person holds a beneficial interest in securities amounting to 5 percent, 10 percent, 15 percent or any further whole multiple of 5 percent of the issued securities of that class or disposes of any beneficial interest in sufficient securities of a class issued by AngloGold Ashanti such that the result of the disposition the person no longer holds a beneficial interest in securities amounting to a particular multiple of 5 percent of issued securities of that class. When AngloGold Ashanti has received the notice referred to above it must file a copy with the Takeover Regulation Panel and report the information to holders of the relevant class of security unless the notice concerned a disposition of less than 1 percent of the class of securities.

If the securities of AngloGold Ashanti are registered in the name of a person who is not the holder of the beneficial interest in all of the securities in AngloGold Ashanti held by that person, that registered holder of the securities must disclose the identity of the person on whose behalf that security is held and the identity of each person with a beneficial interest in securities so held, the number and the class of securities held for each such person with a beneficial interest and the extent of each such beneficial interest. This information must be disclosed in writing to the company within five business days after the end of every month during which a change has occurred in the information or more promptly or frequently to the extent so provided by the requirements of a Central Securities Depository. A company that knows or has reasonable cause to believe that any of its securities are held by one person for the beneficial interest of another may by notice in writing require either of those persons to confirm or deny that fact, provide particulars of the extent of the beneficial interest held during the three years preceding the date of the notice and disclose the identity of each person with a beneficial interest in the securities held by that person, which information must be provided within 10 business days of the receipt of the notice.

AngloGold Ashanti is obligated to establish and maintain a register of the disclosures described above and to publish in its annual financial statements a list of the persons who hold beneficial interest equal to or in excess of 5 percent of the total number of ordinary shares issued by AngloGold Ashanti together with the extent of those beneficial interests.

Rights of Minority Shareholders

Majority shareholders of South African companies have no fiduciary obligations under South African common law to minority shareholders. However, under the Companies Act, a shareholder may, under certain circumstances, seek relief from the court if he has been unfairly prejudiced by the company. There may also be personal and derivative actions available to a shareholder of a company.

Pursuant to the Act, a shareholder may petition a South African court for relief from the actions or omissions or, business conduct of the company or the actions of the company’s directors or officers that is oppressive or unfairly prejudicial to, or unfairly disregards the interest of the shareholder. In addition, a shareholder who voted against a resolution to amend the company’s MoI, or to approve a fundamental transaction, (and complied with other requirements set out in the Act) may exercise its appraisal right to demand that the company pay to it the fair value for all the shares of the company held by that shareholder.

Golden Share

Under the Stability Agreement, the Government of Ghana (Government) has confirmed and agreed that the Government’s rights with respect to the Golden Share apply only in respect of AngloGold Ashanti’s assets and operations in Ghana. The rights do not extend to any other assets or operations of AngloGold Ashanti outside Ghana, nor to any assets or operations of AngloGold Ashanti.

The Government has also agreed to waive any right it may have under Section 60(I) of the Minerals and Mining Law, 1986, as amended to acquire a special share in AngloGold Ashanti or any of its direct or indirect subsidiaries or joint ventures.

The Golden Share may only be held by or transferred to a Minister of the Government or any person acting on behalf of such Government and authorized in writing by such Minister.

 

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The following matters require, and will not be effective without, the written consent of the holder of the Golden Share:

 

(i)

any amendment to or removal of the relevant provisions of the AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited Regulations setting out the rights and restrictions attaching to the Golden Share;

(ii)

the voluntary winding-up or voluntary liquidation of AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited;

(iii)

the redemption of or purchase by AngloGold Ashanti of the Golden Share;

(iv)

the disposal of any mining lease held by AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited or any subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited; and

(v)

any disposal by AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited (other than any disposal in the ordinary course of business of AngloGold Ashanti) which, alone or when aggregated with any disposal or disposals forming part of, or connected with, the same or a connected transaction, constitutes a disposal of the whole or a material part of the assets of the AngloGold Ashanti group taken as a whole. For this purpose, a part of the AngloGold Ashanti group’s assets will be considered material if either (a) its book value (calculated by reference to the then latest audited consolidated accounts), or the total consideration to be received on its disposal, is not less than 25 percent of the book value of the net assets of the AngloGold Ashanti group or (b) the average profits attributable to it represent at least 25 percent of the average profits of the AngloGold Ashanti group for the last three years for which audited accounts are available (before deducting all charges, except taxation and extraordinary items).

Upon a return of assets in a winding-up or liquidation of AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited, the holder of the Golden Share is entitled to the sum of 0.10 cedis (approximately 5 US cents) in priority to any payment to other members, but the Golden Share confers no further right to participate in the profits or assets of AngloGold Ashanti. The Golden Share carries no right to any dividend or any right to participate in any offer of securities to existing shareholders or in any capitalization issue.

The holder of the Golden Share may require AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited to redeem the Golden Share at any time in consideration of the payment to such holder of 0.10 cedis (approximately 5 US cents).

 

10C.

MATERIAL CONTRACTS

Revolving Credit Facility

General

On July 20, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Incorporated, as borrowers, entered into a credit agreement (the Revolving Credit Agreement) with Barclays Bank plc, as facility agent, and certain financial institutions party thereto as lenders. The Revolving Credit Agreement provides for a $1.0 billion revolving credit facility (the Revolving Credit Facility) available for drawing in US dollars. As of April 19, 2013, we have drawn $nil under the Revolving Credit Facility.

Guarantees

The Revolving Credit Facility is guaranteed by AngloGold Ashanti Limited, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Incorporated. The obligations of AngloGold Ashanti USA Incorporated, in its capacity as a guarantor, are subject to certain limitations set forth in the Revolving Credit Agreement in order to comply with applicable U.S. laws. The guarantees constitute unconditional obligations of the guarantors and rank at least pari passu with all other future unsecured obligations of the guarantors, except for obligations mandatorily preferred by law.

Security

The obligations under the Revolving Credit Agreement are unsecured.

Amount and repayment of borrowings

Loans under the Revolving Credit Facility must be for a minimum of $10 million (or for the balance of the undrawn total commitments at the time of the drawing), and no more than 14 loans may be outstanding at any time. Each loan must be repaid on the last day of the loan’s interest period, which can be a period of one, two, three or six months or any other period agreed by AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc, in its capacity as obligors’ agent, and the lenders. All loans must be repaid in full on the final maturity date. The final maturity date is July 20, 2017.

 

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Interest rates and fees

The annual interest rate on loans is calculated based on LIBOR, plus a margin that varies between 1.25 percent and 2.00 percent per annum depending on the long term debt rating of AngloGold Ashanti Limited, and certain mandatory costs. Interest on loans is payable on the last day of the loan’s interest period and, if the interest period exceeds six months, on the dates falling at six month intervals after the day the loan was made.

The borrowers are required to pay a commitment fee equal to 35 percent of the then applicable margin per annum on the undrawn and uncancelled amount of each lender’s commitment during the commitment period. The borrowers are also required to pay a utilization fee of 0.20 percent per annum (if the aggregate outstanding loans are less than one third of the total commitments then in effect), 0.40 percent per annum (if the aggregate outstanding loans are equal to or greater than one third but less than two thirds of the total commitments then in effect) or 0.60 percent per annum (if the aggregate outstanding loans are equal to or greater than two thirds of the total commitments then in effect).

Financial covenant

The Revolving Credit Agreement includes a financial maintenance covenant which requires that the ratio of Total Net Financial Indebtedness to EBITDA (as such terms are defined in the Revolving Credit Agreement) does not at any time exceed 3:00 to 1:00.

Change of control

If a lender so requires, the commitment of such lender under the Revolving Credit Agreement will be cancelled and the participation of such lender in all outstanding loans, together with accrued interest and all other amounts accrued, will become immediately due and payable in case any person or group of persons acting in concert becomes (directly or indirectly) the beneficial owner of more than 50 percent of the issued share capital of AngloGold Ashanti Limited.

Undertakings

The Revolving Credit Agreement contains negative covenants, including restrictions on the granting of security, a change of business of AngloGold Ashanti Limited and its subsidiaries, acquisitions or participations in joint ventures and mergers and disposals.

The Revolving Credit Agreement also contains, among others, the following affirmative covenants: mandatory periodic reporting of financial and other information, notice upon the occurrence of events of default and certain other events, compliance with environmental laws, and other obligations requiring each of AngloGold Ashanti Limited and its subsidiaries to maintain its corporate existence and qualifications to conduct its business as currently conducted in all applicable jurisdictions and to maintain insurance coverage.

The covenants are subject to exceptions and materiality thresholds.

Events of default

The Revolving Credit Agreement contains events of default including failure to make payment of amounts due, breach of obligations under the loan documents, defaults under other agreements evidencing indebtedness, certain bankruptcy events and a cessation of business, failure of either of the borrowers to be a wholly-owned subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti Limited and the occurrence of a material adverse change in the business and financial condition of the borrowers and guarantors under the Revolving Credit Agreement, or AngloGold Ashanti and its subsidiaries as a whole, or in the ability of the borrowers and guarantors to perform their payment obligations under the loan documents. The occurrence of an event of default could result in the immediate and automatic cancellation of all commitments and the acceleration of all payment obligations under the Revolving Credit Agreement and the other loan documents.

The above description is only a summary of certain provisions of the Revolving Credit Agreement and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the provisions of the Revolving Credit Agreement, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit 19.4.5 and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

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Term Loan Facility

General

On February 18, 2013, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc, as borrower, entered into a credit agreement (the Term Credit Agreement) with Citibank International plc, as facility agent, and certain financial institutions party thereto as lenders. The Revolving Credit Agreement provides for a $750 million syndicated bridge loan facility (the Term Facility) available for drawing in US dollars from the period starting on May 15, 2014 and ending on May 22, 2014 (as such period may be extended pursuant to the terms of the Term Credit Agreement). In the event that the borrower chooses to draw on the loan, the proceeds thereof are to be applied towards the repayment of the $732.5 million 3.5 percent convertible bonds due May 2014 issued by AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc.

Guarantees

The Term Facility is guaranteed by AngloGold Ashanti Limited, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Incorporated. The obligations of AngloGold Ashanti USA Incorporated, in its capacity as a guarantor, are subject to certain limitations set forth in the Term Credit Agreement in order to comply with applicable U.S. laws. The guarantees constitute unconditional obligations of the guarantors and rank at least pari passu with all other future unsecured obligations of the guarantors, except for obligations mandatorily preferred by law.

Security

The obligations under the Term Credit Agreement are unsecured.

Amount and repayment of borrowings

The borrower is required to repay the full amount of the Term Facility on the final maturity date. The final maturity date is May 22, 2014 (or such later date as agreed pursuant to the extension option under the Term Credit Agreement).

Interest rates and fees

Interest on the loan is payable on the last day of the loan’s interest period and, if the interest period exceeds six months, on the dates falling at six month intervals after the day the loan was made. The annual interest rate on the loan is calculated based on LIBOR, plus a margin that varies between 1.25 percent and 2.00 percent per annum depending on the long term debt rating of AngloGold Ashanti Limited (the initial margin being 1.50% per annum), and certain mandatory costs. If the final maturity date is extended beyond May 22, 2014, the applicable margin shall be increased by 0.50 percent per annum on May 22, 2014, and the applicable margin range described in the immediately preceding sentence shall be increased by 0.50 percent per annum (i.e., varying between 1.75 percent and 2.50 percent), and shall be further increased by 0.30 percent per annum at the end of each three month period thereafter.

The borrowers are required to pay a commitment fee equal to 35 percent of the then applicable margin per annum on the undrawn and uncancelled amount of each lender’s commitment for the period starting from the date of the Term Credit Agreement and ending on the earlier of (i) the last day of the commitment period, (ii) the date on which the total commitments are cancelled or (iii) the date on which the loan is drawn.

Financial covenant

The Term Credit Agreement includes a financial maintenance covenant which requires that the ratio of Total Net Financial Indebtedness to EBITDA (as such terms are defined in the Term Credit Agreement) does not at any time exceed 3:00 to 1:00.

Change of control

If a lender so requires, the commitment of such lender under the Term Credit Agreement will be cancelled and the participation of such lender in the outstanding loan, together with accrued interest and all other amounts accrued, will become immediately due and payable in case any person or group of persons acting in concert becomes (directly or indirectly) the beneficial owner of more than 50 percent of the issued share capital of AngloGold Ashanti Limited.

 

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Undertakings

The Term Credit Agreement contains substantially the same negative and affirmative covenants set forth in the Revolving Credit Agreement. The covenants are subject to exceptions and materiality thresholds.

Events of default

The Term Credit Agreement contains substantially the same events of default set forth in the Revolving Credit Agreement. The occurrence of an event of default could result in the immediate and automatic cancellation of all commitments and the acceleration of all payment obligations under the Term Credit Agreement and the other loan documents.

The above description is only a summary of certain provisions of the Term Credit Agreement and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the provisions of the Term Credit Agreement, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit 19.4.6 and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

10D.

EXCHANGE CONTROLS

Exchange controls and other limitations affecting security holders

The following is a general outline of South African exchange controls and such outline may not apply to former residents of South Africa. Investors should consult a professional advisor as to the exchange control implications of their particular investments.

South African law provides for exchange control regulations, which restrict the export of capital from the Common Monetary Area, which comprises South Africa, the Kingdoms of Lesotho and Swaziland and the Republic of Namibia. The exchange control regulations, which are administered by the Exchange Control Department of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), are applied throughout the Common Monetary Area and regulate transactions involving South African residents, including natural persons and legal entities. Government officials have from time to time stated their intentions to relax South Africa’s exchange control regulations when economic conditions permit such action. In his budget speech in March 1998, the then Minister of Finance announced that restrictions relating to offshore investments by South African companies and individuals subject to South African exchange control would, to a limited extent, be lifted.

Since then, the government has incrementally relaxed aspects of exchange control for financial institutions and individuals. However, it is impossible to predict with any certainty if and when the government will remove exchange controls in their entirety.

The comments below relate to exchange controls in place at the date of this annual report.

Investments in South African companies

A foreign investor may invest freely in ordinary shares in a South African company. Any foreign investor may also sell shares in a South African company and transfer the proceeds out of South Africa without restriction. Acquisitions of shares or assets of South African companies by non-South African purchasers are not generally subject to review by the SARB when the consideration is in cash, but may require SARB review in certain circumstances, including when the consideration is equity in a non-South African company or when the acquisition is financed by a loan from a South African lender.

Dividends

Dividends declared to foreign stockholders are not subject to the approval by the SARB. Dividends are freely transferable to foreign stockholders from both trading and non-trading profits earned in South Africa by publicly listed companies.

Interest

Interest on foreign loans is freely remittable abroad, provided that the loans have received prior SARB approval.

 

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Voting rights

There are no limitations imposed by South African law or by the memorandum of incorporation of AngloGold Ashanti on the rights of non-South African shareholders to vote the ordinary shares.

Overseas financing and investments

AngloGold Ashanti and its South African subsidiaries require SARB approval to raise debt from and repay debt to non-residents of the Common Monetary Area, mainly in respect of the interest rate and terms of repayment applicable to the loan.

Debt raised outside the Common Monetary Area by AngloGold Ashanti’s non-South African subsidiaries is not restricted under South African exchange control regulations and can be used for overseas investment, subject to any conditions imposed by the SARB in connection with establishing such a subsidiary. AngloGold Ashanti and its South African subsidiaries would, however, require SARB approval in order to provide guarantees for the obligations of any of its subsidiaries with regard to funds obtained from non-residents of the Common Monetary Area.

Debt raised outside the Common Monetary Area by AngloGold Ashanti’s non-South African subsidiaries must be repaid or serviced by AngloGold Ashanti’s foreign subsidiaries.

A listing by a South African company on any stock exchange other than the JSE in connection with raising capital requires permission from the SARB.

Under current exchange control regulations, offshore investments by AngloGold Ashanti and its South African subsidiaries require the approval of the SARB. Subject to approval, there is no limit on the amount of capital that may be invested offshore.

 

10E.

TAXATION

SOUTH AFRICAN TAXATION

The following discussion summarizes South African tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of shares or ADSs by a US holder (as defined below). This summary is based upon current South African tax law and South African Revenue Service (SARS) practice, the Convention Between the Government of the United States of America and the Republic of South Africa for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income and Capital Gains, signed February 17, 1997 (the “Treaty”), and in part upon representations of the depositary, and assumes that each obligation provided for in, or otherwise contemplated by, a Deposit Agreement and any related agreement will be performed in accordance with its respective terms.

The following summary of South African tax considerations does not address the tax consequences to a US holder that is resident in South Africa for South African tax purposes, whose holding of shares or ADSs is effectively connected with a permanent establishment in South Africa through which such US holder carries on business activities or, in the case of an individual who performs independent personal services, with a fixed base situated therein, or who is otherwise not entitled to full benefits under the Treaty.

The statements of law set forth below are subject to any changes (which may be applied retroactively) in South African law or in the interpretation thereof by SARS, or in the Treaty, occurring after the date hereof. It should be expressly noted that South African tax law does not specifically address the treatment of ADSs. However, it is reasonable to assume (although no assurance can be made) that the tax treatment of US holders of shares is also applicable to US holders of ADSs.

Holders are strongly urged to consult their own tax advisors as to the consequences under South African, US federal, state and local, and other applicable laws, of the ownership and disposition of shares or ADSs.

Taxation of dividends

South Africa currently imposes a Dividend Withholding Tax on Companies (dividends tax) at a rate of 15 percent on the net amount of the dividend declared by a resident company, other than a Headquarter Company.

 

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The dividends tax is generally imposed on the beneficial owner. The dividends tax could be reduced to a lower rate under an applicable double tax treaty, if all requirements are met. In the case of dividends paid to a US holder with respect to shares, the Treaty would generally limit the dividends tax rate to 5 percent of the gross amount of the dividends if a US holder (it must be a corporate) holds directly at least 10 percent of the voting stock of AngloGold Ashanti. In all other cases, the maximum tax rate under the Treaty is 15 percent of the gross amount of the dividend. There are different rules to consider if the beneficial owner of the dividends is a US resident who carries on business in South Africa through a permanent establishment situated in South Africa, or performs in South Africa independent personal services from a fixed base situated in South Africa, and the dividends are attributable to such permanent establishment or fixed base. Moreover, if the dividends tax rate is reduced under the auspices of an applicable double tax treaty, there are certain South African compliance requirements that must be met in order to access the double tax treaty relief.

Taxation of capital gains on sale or other disposition

South African residents are (subject to certain exemptions) taxed on their worldwide income, while non-residents are only taxed on South African sourced income (subject to the provisions of any relevant double taxation agreement).

Capital gains tax is not a separate tax to income tax; instead, a percentile of the taxpayer’s net capital gain (that is the taxable capital gain) is included in its taxable income on which it is taxed at the income tax rate.

Non-residents are only subject to the South African capital gains tax provisions in respect of the disposal of any immovable property (such as land or mining rights) or any interest or right of whatever nature to or in immovable property situated in South Africa, or any asset of a permanent establishment through which that non-resident is carrying on a trade in South Africa. In the instance of a shareholder holding shares in a South African company, the ‘interest in immovable property’ requirements are met if 80 percent or more of the market value of the shares is directly or indirectly attributable to South African immovable property held on capital account, and that shareholder (whether alone or together with any connected person in relation to that person), directly or indirectly, holds at least 20 percent of the equity shares of that South African company.

If South Africa has such a right to taxation under its domestic law, the provisions of the Treaty must be analyzed when determining the right of taxation of the source state (South Africa) compared to the country of residence (the US).

UNITED STATES TAXATION

The following is a general summary of the material US federal income tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of shares or ADSs to a US holder (as defined below) that holds its shares or ADSs as a capital asset. This summary is based on US tax laws including the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code), Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, rulings, judicial decisions, administrative pronouncements, and the Treaty, all as currently in effect as of the date of this annual report, and all of which are subject to change or changes in interpretation, possibly with retroactive effect. In addition, this summary is based in part upon the representations of the depositary and the assumption that each obligation in the Deposit Agreement relating to the ADSs and any related agreement will be performed in accordance with its terms.

This summary does not address all aspects of US federal income taxation that may apply to holders that are subject to special tax rules, including US expatriates, nonresident aliens present in the United States for at least 183 days during the calendar year, insurance companies, tax-exempt entities, banks, certain financial institutions, persons subject to the alternative minimum tax, regulated investment companies, securities broker-dealers, traders in securities who elect to apply a mark-to-market method of accounting, investors that own (directly, indirectly or by attribution) 10 percent or more of the outstanding share capital or voting stock of AngloGold Ashanti, partnerships, persons holding their shares or ADSs as part of a straddle, hedging or conversion transaction, persons who acquired their shares or ADSs pursuant to the exercise of employee stock options or otherwise as compensation, accrual basis taxpayers, or persons whose functional currency is not the US dollar. Such holders may be subject to US federal income tax consequences different from those set forth below.

As used herein, the term “US holder” means a beneficial owner of shares or ADSs that is (a) a citizen or individual resident of the United States for US federal income tax purposes; (b) a corporation (or other entity taxable as a corporation for US federal income tax purposes) created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any state thereof (including the District of Columbia); (c) an estate the income of which is subject to US federal income taxation regardless of its source; or (d) a trust if a court within the United States can exercise primary supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more US persons are authorized to control all substantial decisions of the trust. If a partnership (including for this purpose any entity treated as a partnership for US federal income tax purposes)

 

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holds shares or ADSs, the tax treatment of a partner generally will depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. If a US holder is a partner in a partnership that holds shares or ADSs, the holder is urged to consult its own tax advisor regarding the specific tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of the shares or ADSs.

US holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the specific South African and US federal, state and local tax consequences of owning and disposing of shares or ADSs in light of their particular circumstances as well as any consequences arising under the laws of any other taxing jurisdiction. In particular, US holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding whether they are eligible for benefits under the Treaty.

For South African and US federal income tax purposes, a US holder of ADSs should be treated as owning the underlying shares represented by those ADSs. Therefore, deposits or withdrawals by a US holder of shares for ADSs or of ADSs for shares will not be subject to US federal income tax. The following discussion (except where otherwise expressly noted) applies equally to US holders of shares and US holders of ADSs.

Taxation of dividends

The gross amount of any distribution (including the amount of any South African withholding tax thereon) paid to a US holder by AngloGold Ashanti generally will be taxable as dividend income to the US holder for US federal income tax purposes on the date the distribution is actually or constructively received by the US holder, in the case of shares, or by the depositary, in the case of ADSs. Corporate US holders will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction in respect of dividends paid by AngloGold Ashanti. For foreign tax credit limitation purposes, dividends paid by AngloGold Ashanti will be income from sources outside the United States. As noted above in ‘Taxation – South African Taxation – Taxation of dividends, the South African government has enacted a dividend withholding tax. As a result, US holders who are eligible for benefits under the current Treaty will be subject to a maximum withholding tax of 15 percent on the gross amount of dividend distributions paid by AngloGold Ashanti.

The amount of any distribution paid in foreign currency (including the amount of any South African withholding tax thereon) generally will be includible in the gross income of a US holder of shares in an amount equal to the US dollar value of the foreign currency calculated by reference to the spot rate in effect on the date of receipt by the US holder, in the case of shares, or by the depositary, in the case of ADSs, regardless of whether the foreign currency is converted into US dollars on such date. If the foreign currency is converted into US dollars on the date of receipt, a US holder of shares generally should not be required to recognize foreign currency gain or loss in respect of the dividend. If the foreign currency received in the distribution is not converted into US dollars on the date of receipt, a US holder of shares generally will have a tax basis in the foreign currency equal to its US dollar value on the date of receipt. Any gain or loss recognized upon a subsequent conversion or other disposition of the foreign currency generally will be treated as US source ordinary income or loss. In the case of a US holder of ADSs, the amount of any distribution paid in a foreign currency generally will be converted into US dollars by the depositary upon its receipt. Accordingly, a US holder of ADSs generally will not be required to recognize foreign currency gain or loss in respect of the distribution. Special rules govern and specific elections are available to accrual method taxpayers to determine the US dollar amount includible in income in the case of taxes withheld in a foreign currency. Accrual basis taxpayers are therefore urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the requirements and elections applicable in this regard.

Subject to certain limitations, South African withholding taxes will be treated as foreign taxes eligible for credit against a US holder’s US federal income tax liability. The limitation on foreign taxes eligible for credit is calculated separately with respect to specific classes of income. Dividend income generally will constitute ‘passive category’ income, or in the case of certain US holders, ‘general category’ income. The use of foreign tax credits is subject to complex conditions and limitations. In lieu of a credit, a US holder who itemizes deductions may elect to deduct all of such holder’s foreign taxes in the taxable year. A deduction does not reduce US tax on a dollar-for-dollar basis like a tax credit, but the deduction for foreign taxes is not subject to the same limitations applicable to foreign tax credits. US holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the availability of foreign tax credits.

Certain US holders (including individuals) are eligible for reduced rates of US federal income tax in respect of “qualified dividend income” received. For this purpose, qualified dividend income generally includes dividends paid by a non-US corporation if, among other things, the US holders meet a certain minimum holding period and other requirements and the non-US corporation satisfies certain requirements, including that either (i) the ordinary shares (or ADSs) with respect to which the dividend has been paid are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States, or (ii) the non-US corporation is eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive US income tax treaty (such as the Treaty) which provides for the exchange of information. AngloGold Ashanti currently believes that dividends paid with respect to its shares and ADSs should constitute qualified dividend income for US federal income tax purposes. AngloGold Ashanti anticipates that its dividends will be reported as qualified dividends on Forms 1099-DIV delivered to US holders. Each individual US holder of AngloGold Ashanti shares or ADSs is urged to consult his own tax advisor regarding the availability to him of the reduced dividend tax rate in light of his own particular situation.

 

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The US Treasury has expressed concern that parties to whom ADSs are pre-released may be taking actions that are inconsistent with the claiming of foreign tax credits for US holders of ADSs. Such actions would also be inconsistent with the claiming of the reduced rate of tax described above, applicable to dividends received by certain non-corporate holders. Accordingly, the analysis of the creditability of South African withholding taxes or the availability of qualified dividend treatment could be affected by future actions that may be taken by the US Treasury with respect to ADSs.

Taxation of dispositions

If a US holder is a resident of the United States for purposes of the Treaty, such holder will not be subject to South African tax on any capital gain if it sells or disposes of its shares or ADSs. Special rules apply to individuals who are residents of more than one country.

In general, upon a sale, exchange or other disposition of shares or ADSs, a US holder will recognize capital gain or loss for US federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference between the US dollar value of the amount realized on the disposition and the holder’s tax basis, determined in US dollars, in the shares or ADSs. Such gain or loss generally will be US source gain or loss, and will be treated as a long-term capital gain or loss if the holder’s holding period in the shares exceeds one year at the time of disposition. If the US holder is an individual, any capital gain generally will be subject to US federal income tax at preferential rates if specified minimum holding periods are met. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to significant limitations.

A US holder’s tax basis in a share will generally be its US dollar cost. The US dollar cost of a share purchased with foreign currency will generally be the US dollar value of the purchase price on the date of purchase, or the settlement date for the purchase in the case of shares traded on an established securities market that are purchased by a cash basis US holder or an electing accrual basis US holder. The amount realized on a sale or other disposition of shares for an amount in foreign currency will be the US dollar value of this amount on the date of sale or disposition. On the settlement date, the US holder will recognize US source foreign currency gain or loss (taxable as ordinary income or loss) equal to the difference (if any) between the US dollar value of the amount received based on the exchange rates in effect on the date of sale or other disposition and the settlement date. However, in the case of shares traded on an established securities market that are sold by a cash basis US holder (or an accrual basis US holder that so elects), the amount realized will be based on the exchange rate in effect on the settlement date for the sale, and no exchange gain or loss will be recognized at that time. If an accrual basis US holder makes either of the elections described above, it must be applied consistently from year to year and cannot be revoked without the consent of the Internal Revenue Services (IRS).

Foreign currency received on the sale or other disposition of a share will have a tax basis equal to its US dollar value on the settlement date. Any gain or loss recognized on a sale or other disposition of foreign currency (including its use to purchase shares or upon exchange for US dollars) will be US source ordinary income or loss.

Passive foreign investment company considerations

A non-US corporation will be classified a Passive Foreign Investment Company (PFIC) for any taxable year if at least 75 percent of its gross income consists of passive income (such as dividends, interest, rents or royalties (other than rents or royalties derived in the active conduct of a trade or business and received from an unrelated person), or gains on the disposition of certain minority interests), or at least 50 percent of the average value of its assets consists of assets that produce, or are held for the production of, passive income. AngloGold Ashanti believes that it was not treated as a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2012 or any prior taxable years and does not expect to become a PFIC in the foreseeable future. If AngloGold Ashanti were characterized as a PFIC for any taxable year, a US holder would suffer adverse tax consequences with respect to that taxable year and all future years during which it holds AngloGold Ashanti ordinary shares (or ADSs).

These consequences may include having gains realized on the disposition of shares treated as ordinary income rather than capital gains and being subject to punitive interest charges on the receipt of certain dividends and on the proceeds of the sale or other disposition of the shares. Furthermore, dividends paid by AngloGold Ashanti would not be “qualified dividend income” and would be taxed at the higher rates applicable to other items of ordinary income. US holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the potential application of the PFIC rules to their ownership of the shares.

 

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US information reporting and backup withholding

Dividend payments made to a holder and proceeds paid from the sale, exchange, or other disposition of shares may be subject to information reporting to the IRS. US federal backup withholding generally is imposed at a current rate of 28 percent on specified payments including dividends and gross sale proceeds to persons who fail to furnish required information. Backup withholding will not apply to a holder who furnishes a correct taxpayer identification number or certificate of foreign status and makes any other required certification, or who is otherwise exempt from backup withholding. US persons who are required to establish their exempt status generally must provide IRS Form W-9 (Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification). Non-US holders generally will not be subject to US information reporting or backup withholding. However, these holders may be required to provide certification of non-US status (generally on IRS Form W-8BEN) in connection with payments received in the United States or through certain US-related financial intermediaries. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Amounts withheld as backup withholding may be credited against a holder’s US federal income tax liability. A holder may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules by filing the appropriate claim for refund with the IRS and furnishing any required information.

Information with respect to foreign financial assets

Individuals that own “specified foreign financial assets” with an aggregate value in excess of $50,000 are generally required to file information reports with respect to such assets with their U.S. federal income tax returns. Depending on the individual’s circumstances, higher threshold amounts may apply. “Specified foreign financial assets” include any financial accounts maintained by foreign financial institutions, as well as any of the following, but only if they are not held in accounts maintained by financial institutions: (i) stocks and securities issued by non–United States persons, (ii) financial instruments and contracts held for investment that have non-United States issuers or counterparties and (iii) interests in non-United States entities. The shares may be treated as specified foreign financial assets. You may be subject to this information reporting regime and be required to file IRS form 8938 listing these assets with your U.S. federal income tax return. Failure to file information reports may subject you to penalties. You are urged to consult your own tax advisor regarding your obligations to file information reports with respect to the shares.

 

 

 

10F.

DIVIDENDS AND PAYING AGENTS

Not applicable.

 

 

 

10G.

STATEMENT BY EXPERTS

Not applicable.

 

 

 

10H.

DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY

AngloGold Ashanti files annual reports on Form 20-F and reports on Form 6-K with the SEC. You may read and copy this information at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100F Street, N.E., Room 1580, Washington D.C. 20549 or by accessing the SEC’s home page (http://www.sec.gov). You can also request copies of documents, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by writing to the Public Reference Section of the SEC. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the Public Reference Room. In addition, AngloGold Ashanti’s reports and other information may be inspected at the offices of the New York Stock Exchange, 20 Broad Street, New York, New York 10005. Copies of the documents referred to herein may also be inspected at AngloGold Ashanti’s offices by contacting AngloGold Ashanti at 76 Jeppe Street, Newtown, Johannesburg, 2001 (P.O. Box 62117, Marshalltown, 2107) South Africa, Attention: Company Secretary, telephone number: +27 11 637 6000.

 

 

 

10I.

SUBSIDIARY INFORMATION

Not applicable.

 

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ITEM 11:  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

TREASURY POLICY

Risk management activities within the group are the ultimate responsibility of the board of directors. The chief executive officer is responsible to the board of directors for the design, implementation and monitoring of the risk management plan. The Risk and Information Integrity Committee is responsible for overseeing risk management plans and systems, and the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee oversees financial risks which include a review of treasury activities and exposure to the group’s counterparties.

Under the treasury and risk management policy, hedges may be put in place using approved instruments over the group’s planned gold production and resultant gold sales currency exposures. The tenor of the hedges may extend out to ten years. The treasury and risk management policy sets limits on the extent to which the hedge position may change for the various levels of treasury management from dealer, through treasurer, executive management and board.

The financial risk management activities objectives of the group are as follows:

 

Safeguarding the group’s core earnings stream through the effective control and management of gold and other commodity price risk, foreign exchange risk and interest rate risk;

 

Effective and efficient usage of credit facilities through the adoption of reliable liquidity planning and procedures;

 

Ensuring that investment and hedging transactions are undertaken with creditworthy counterparts; and

 

Ensuring that all contracts and agreements related to financial risk management activities are co-ordinated and consistent throughout the group and comply where necessary with all relevant regulatory and statutory requirements.

Under the treasury and risk management policy, treasury reports that are produced at the following minimum intervals for review by management and the board of directors.

 

Daily

  

Treasurer

Monthly

  

Executive Committee

Quarterly

  

Audit and Corporate Governance Committee, Board of Directors and shareholder reports

The Treasury Risk Analyst is responsible for monitoring all reports for completeness and accuracy which are reviewed by the Treasurer.

At AngloGold Ashanti, all front office (dealing), middle office (risk reporting), back office (deal confirmations) and payment (treasury settlements) activities are segregated. All treasury transactions are captured on a third party developed treasury and risk management system that is widely used in corporate treasuries. The group internal audit function conducts regular and ad-hoc reviews of the activities of treasury and the group’s treasury system.

GOLD PRICE RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

In the normal course of its operations, the Company is exposed to gold and other commodity price, currency, interest rate, equity price, liquidity and non-performance risk, which includes credit risk. The Company is also exposed to certain by-product commodity price risk. In order to manage these risks, the Company may enter into transactions which make use of derivatives. The Company has developed a risk management process to facilitate, control and monitor these risks.

Gold price risk arises from the risk of an adverse effect of current or future earnings resulting from fluctuations in the price of gold. The Company eliminated its hedge book during 2010 and has since had full exposure to the spot price of gold.

 

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FASB ASC guidance on derivatives and hedging requires that derivative instruments be accounted for as follows:

 

Contracts that meet the criteria for hedge accounting are designated as the hedging instruments hedging the variability of forecasted cash flows from the sale of production into the spot market and from capital expenditure denominated in a foreign currency and are classified as cash flow hedges under the FASB ASC guidance. Cash flow hedge losses pertaining to capital expenditure of $3 million as at December 31, 2012 (2011: $3 million; 2010: $3 million) are expected to be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income and recognized as an adjustment to depreciation expense equally until 2019.

 

All other derivatives are measured at their estimated fair value, with the changes in estimated fair value at each reporting date reported as gains or losses on derivatives in earnings in the period in which they occur.

Cash flows related to these instruments designated as qualifying hedges are reflected in the consolidated statement of cash flows in the same category as the cash flow from the items being hedged. Accordingly, cash flows relating to the settlement of forward sale commodity derivatives contracts hedging the forecasted sale of production into the spot market as well as the forward sale currency derivative contracts hedging the forecasted capital expenditure, will be reflected upon settlement as a component of operating cash flows.

As at December 31, 2012 and 2011 the Company had no outstanding commitments against future production as a result of the elimination of the hedge book during 2010.

Foreign exchange price risk protection agreements

The Company, from time to time, may enter into currency forward exchange and currency option contracts to hedge certain anticipated transactions denominated in foreign currencies. The objective of the Company’s foreign currency hedging activities is to protect the Company from the risk that the eventual cash flows resulting from transactions denominated in US dollars will be adversely affected by changes in exchange rates.

As at December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had no open forward exchange or currency option contracts in its currency hedge position.

Interest rate and liquidity risk

Fluctuations in interest rates impacts interest paid and received on the short-term cash investments and financing activities, giving rise to interest rate risk.

In the ordinary course of business, the Company receives cash from the proceeds of its gold sales and is required to fund working capital requirements. This cash is managed to ensure surplus funds are invested in a manner to achieve market related returns while minimizing risks.

The Company is able to actively source financing at competitive rates. The counterparts are financial and banking institutions and their credit ratings are regularly monitored by the Company.

Cash and loans advanced maturity profile

 

            2012     2011  
Maturity date   Currency     Fixed rate
investment
amount
(million)
    Effective
rate %
    Floating rate
investment
amount
(million)
    Effective
rate %
    Fixed rate
investment
amount
(million)
    Effective
rate %
    Floating rate
investment
amount
(million)
    Effective
rate %
 

All less than one year

    $        1       2.50       611       0.30       10       0.48       467       0.20  
    ZAR        780       3.55       215       2.10       3,030       5.50       164       3.55  
    AUD        -       -       29       3.00       81       4.65       23       4.45  
    BRL        -       -       34       7.51       -       -       27       6.61  
    ARS        -       -       73       15.00       -       -       1       10.23  
      NAD        -       -       2       4.30       -       -       119       4.08  

 

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Borrowings maturity profile

 

          Within one year     

            Between

  one and two years

    

            Between

  two and five years

         After five years      Total  
        Currency    Borrowings
amount
(million)
    

Effective
rate

%

     Borrowings
amount
(million)
    

Effective
rate

%

     Borrowings
amount
(million)
    

Effective
rate

%

     Borrowings
amount
(million)
    

Effective
rate

%

     Borrowings
amount
(million)
 
$      669        5.7        691        3.5        6        2.9        1,741        5.5        3,107  
ZAR      1,521        5.7        8        9.8        59        9.8        186        9.8        1,774  
BRL      4        9.3        2        5.8        -         -         2        4.5        8  
NAD      68        8.4        84        8.4        34        8.4        -         -         186  
AUD      -        -         -         -         256        5.1        -         -         256  

Interest rate risk

 

    

Fixed for less than one year

 

   

Fixed for between one and three

years

 

   

Fixed for greater than three years

 

   

Total

 

 
Currency  

    Borrowings

amount

(million)

   

Effective

rate

%

   

    Borrowings

amount

(million)

   

Effective

rate

%

   

Borrowings

amount

(million)

   

Effective

rate

%

   

Borrowings

amount

(million)

 
$     669       5.7       693       3.5       1,745       5.4       3,107  
ZAR     1,521       5.7       25       9.8       228       9.8       1,774  
BRL     4       9.3       2       5.8       2       4.5       8  
NAD     68       8.4       118       8.4       -        -        186  
AUD     -       -        256       5.1       -        -        256  

Non-performance risk

Realization of contracts is dependent upon counterparts’ performance. The Company has not obtained collateral or other security to support the financial instruments subject to non-performance risk, but the credit standing of counterparts was monitored on a regular basis throughout the year. The Company spreads its business over a number of financial and banking institutions to minimize the risk of potential non-performance risk. Furthermore, the approval process of counterparts and the limits applied to each counterpart were monitored by the board of directors. Where possible, ISDA netting agreements were put in place.

The combined maximum credit risk exposure at balance sheet date amounts to $183 million (2011: $198 million). Credit risk exposure netted by open derivative positions with counterparts was $nil (2011: $nil). No set-off is applied to balance sheet amounts due to the different maturity profiles of assets and liabilities.

Fair value of financial instruments

The estimated fair values of financial instruments are determined at discrete points in time based on relevant market information. The estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments, as measured at December 31, 2012 and 2011, are as follows (assets (liabilities)):

 

        December 31, 2012        December 31, 2011       
      Carrying
amount
$
    

Fair value

$

    

Carrying
amount

$

    

Fair value

$

      

Cash and cash equivalents

     892         892         1,112         1,112     

Restricted cash

     64         64         58         58     

Short-term debt

     (271)         (271)         (30)         (30)     

Short-term debt at fair value

     (588)         (588)         (2)         (2)     

Long-term debt

     (2,750)         (2,871)         (1,715)         (1,857)     

Long-term debt at fair value

                     (758)         (758)     

Derivatives

     (10)         (10)         (93)         (93)     

Marketable equity securities - available for sale

     69         69         82         82     

Marketable debt securities - held to maturity

            11                11     

Non-marketable equity securities - available for sale

                               

Non-marketable assets - held to maturity

                             

Non-marketable debt securities - held to maturity

     86         86         85         85       

 

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The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instrument:

Cash restricted for use, cash and cash equivalents and short-term debt

The carrying amounts approximate fair value because of the short-term duration of these instruments.

Long-term debt

The mandatory convertible bonds are carried at fair value. The fair value of the convertible and rated bonds are shown at their quoted market value. Other long-term debt re-prices on a short-term floating rate basis, and accordingly the carrying amount approximates fair value.

Derivatives

The fair value of volatility-based instruments (i.e. options) are estimated based on market prices, volatilities, credit risk and interest rates for the periods under review.

Investments

Marketable equity securities classified as available-for-sale are carried at fair value. Marketable debt securities classified as held to maturity are measured at amortized cost. Non-marketable assets classified as held to maturity are measured at amortized cost. The fair value of marketable debt securities and non-marketable assets has been calculated using market interest rates. Investments in non-marketable debt securities classified as held to maturity are measured at amortized cost. Non-marketable equity securities classified as available for sale are carried at cost or fair value, where fair value can be reliably measured.

The following is the fair value of the derivative (liabilities)/assets split by accounting designation:

 

 

 
    December 31, 2012  
   

Liabilities

 

 
    Balance Sheet location         

Non-hedge
accounted

$

      

Total

$

 

 

 

Option component of convertible bonds

 

Non-current liabilities - derivatives

       (9)           (9)   

Embedded derivatives

 

Non-current liabilities - derivatives

       (1)           (1)   
 

 

 

Total derivatives

         (10)           (10)   

 

 
           

 

 
    December 31, 2011  
    Liabilities  
    Balance Sheet location          Non-hedge
accounted
$
      

Total

$

 

 

 

Option component of convertible bonds

 

Non-current liabilities - derivatives

       (92)           (92)   

Embedded derivatives

 

Non-current liabilities - derivatives

       (1)           (1)   
 

 

 

Total derivatives

         (93)           (93)   

 

 
           

 

 

 

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Non-hedge derivative (gain)/loss recognized

 

                                                                             

 

 
     Year ended December 31,  
     2012       2011       2010   
  

 

 

 
     $      $      $  

 

 

Realized (1)

        

Forward sales type agreements - commodity

                     377    

Option contracts - commodity

                     2,573    

Forward sales agreements - currency

                     13    

Option contracts - currency

                     (3)   

Interest rate swaps - Gold

                     15    
  

 

 

 
                     2,975   (2) 

Unrealized (1)

        

Forward sales type agreements - commodity

                     (265)   

Option contracts - commodity

                     (1,999)   

Interest rate swaps - Gold

                     (13)   

Option component of convertible bonds

     (83)         (84)           

Other commodity contracts

     (10)                   

Embedded derivatives

                    (1)   

Warrants on shares

                       
  

 

 

 
     (93)         (83)         (2,272)   
  

 

 

 

Non-hedge derivatives (gain)/loss

     (93)         (83)         703   
  

 

 

 

 

(1)

Realized and unrealized gains and losses on non-hedge derivatives are included in “Non-hedge derivative (gain)/loss and movement on bonds” in the income statement.

(2)

Included $2,698 million loss related to the final tranche of the accelerated hedge buy-back executed during 2010.

Other comprehensive income

 

 

 
   

Accumulated other
comprehensive income
as of    January 1, 2012

$

   

Changes in fair
value recognized
in 2012

$

   

Reclassification
adjustments

$

   

 

Accumulated other
comprehensive income
as of December 31,
2012

$

 

 

 

Derivatives designated as

       

Capital expenditure

    (3)                    (3)   
 

 

 

 

Before tax totals

    (3)                    (3)   
 

 

 

 

After tax totals

    (2)                    (2)   
 

 

 

 
       

 

 
    Accumulated other
comprehensive income
as of    January 1, 2011
$
   

Changes in fair
value recognized
in 2011

$

   

Reclassification
adjustments

$

   

 

Accumulated other
comprehensive income
as of December 31,
2011

$

 

 

 

Derivatives designated as

       

Capital expenditure

    (3)                    (3)   
 

 

 

 

Before tax totals

    (3)                    (3)   
 

 

 

 

After tax totals

    (2)                    (2)   
 

 

 

 

 

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Maturity profile of derivatives, at carrying value

 

                                                              

 

 
    

Total

$

    

 

2012

Assets

$

    

Liabilities

$

 

 

 

Amounts to mature within twelve months of balance sheet date

                      

Amounts maturing between one and two years

     (9)                (9)   

Amounts maturing between two and five years

                       

Amounts to mature thereafter

     (1)                 (1)   
  

 

 

 

Total

     (10)                 (10)   
  

 

 

 
        

 

 
    

Total

$

    

 

2011

Assets

$

    

Liabilities

$

 

 

 

Amounts to mature within twelve months of balance sheet date

                      

Amounts maturing between one and two years

                      

Amounts maturing between two and five years

     (92)                 (92)   

Amounts to mature thereafter

     (1)                 (1)   
  

 

 

 

Total

     (93)                 (93)   
  

 

 

 

Sensitivity analysis

Derivatives

The Company monitors the sensitivity of the convertible bonds to changes in its share price.

The following table discloses the approximate sensitivity, in US dollars, of the convertible bonds to the Company’s share price at December 31, 2012 (actual changes in the timing and amount of the following variables may differ from the assumed changes below).

 

                                                              

 

 
     2012  
  

 

 
    

 

Change in
          underlying

factor

  Non-hedge
accounted
    Total change in
fair value
 
         $     $  

 

 

Convertible bonds

      

AngloGold Ashanti Limited share price ($)

   Spot (+$5)     (14)        (14)   

AngloGold Ashanti Limited share price ($)

   Spot (-$5)              
      

 

 

Mandatory convertible bonds

The mandatory convertible bond valuation is primarily linked to the AngloGold Ashanti Limited share price traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and fluctuates with reference to the NYSE share price and market interest rates. An increase or decrease of $5 in the AngloGold Ashanti Limited share price will generally impact the value of the mandatory convertible bond liability in a stable interest environment by approximately +$72 million and -$83 million, respectively.

 

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Foreign exchange risk

Foreign exchange risk arises on financial instruments that are denominated in a foreign currency.

The following table discloses the approximate foreign exchange risk sensitivities of debt at December 31, 2012 (actual changes in the timing and amount of the following variables may differ from the assumed changes below).

 

 

 
     2012  
  

 

 
    

Change in
          exchange rate

 

  

 

Change in
borrowings

total

 
       

 

$

 

 

 

Debt

     

ZAR denominated (R/$)

   Spot (+R1)      (22)   

BRL denominated (BRL/$)

   Spot (+BRL0.25)       

NAD denominated (NAD/$)

   Spot (+NAD1)      (2)   

AUD denominated (AUD/$)

   Spot (+AUD0.05)      (13)   
     

 

 
     2012  
  

 

 
    

Change in
exchange rate

 

  

Change in
borrowings

total

 
       

 

$

 

 

 

Debt

     

ZAR denominated (R/$)

   Spot (-R1)      28   

BRL denominated (BRL/$)

   Spot (-BRL0.25)       

NAD denominated (NAD/$)

   Spot (-NAD1)       

AUD denominated (AUD/$)

   Spot (-AUD0.05)      14   
     

 

 

 

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ITEM 12: DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

 

12A.

Debt Securities

 

    

Not applicable

 

12B.

Warrants and Rights

 

    

Not applicable

 

12C.

Other Securities

 

    

Not applicable

 

12D.

American Depositary Shares

12D.3 Depositary Fees and Charges

AngloGold Ashanti’s American Depositary Shares, or ADSs, each representing one of AngloGold Ashanti’s ordinary shares, are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “AU.” The ADSs are evidenced by American Depositary Receipts, or ADRs, issued by The Bank of New York Mellon, as Depositary under the Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement dated as of June 3, 2008, among AngloGold Ashanti Limited, The Bank of New York Mellon and owners and beneficial owners of from time to time of ADRs. ADS holders may have to pay the following service fees to the Depositary:

 

Service

  

Fees (USD)

Issuance of ADSs

   Up to 5 cents per ADS(1)

Cancellation of ADSs

   Up to 5 cents per ADS(1)

Distribution of cash dividends or other cash distributions

   Up to 2 cents per ADS(2)

Distribution of securities pursuant to

  

•    (i) stock dividends, free stock distributions or

  

•    (ii) exercises of rights to purchase additional ADSs

   Up to 5 cents per ADS(2)

ADR Depositary Services fee

   Up to 2 cents per year(2)

 

(1)

These fees are typically paid to the Depositary by the brokers on behalf of their clients receiving the newly-issued ADSs from the Depositary and by the brokers on behalf of their clients delivering the ADSs to the Depositary for cancellation. The brokers in turn charge these transaction fees to their clients.

(2)

In practice, the Depositary has not collected these fees. If collected, such fees are offset against the related distribution made to the ADR holder.

In addition, ADS holders are responsible for certain fees and expenses incurred by the Depositary on their behalf including (1) taxes and other governmental charges, (2) such registration fees as may from time to time be in effect for the registration of transfers of ordinary shares generally on the share register and applicable to transfers of ordinary shares to the name of the Depositary or its nominee or the Custodian or its nominee on the making of deposits or withdrawals, and (3) such cable, telex and facsimile transmission expenses as are expressly incurred by the Depositary in the conversion of foreign currency.

Fees and other charges payable by the Depositary, any of the Depositary’s agents, including the Custodian, or the agents of the Depositary’s agents in connection with the servicing of Shares or other Deposited Securities, shall be collected at the sole discretion of the Depositary by billing such owners for such charge or by deducting such charge from one or more cash dividends or other cash distributions.

For further information, refer to “Item 10B.: Memorandum of Incorporation – The deposit agreement”.

12D.4 Depositary Payments for 2012

For the year ended December 31, 2012, The Bank of New York Mellon, as Depositary, reimbursed AngloGold Ashanti an amount of $24,220 (2011: $725,780) mainly for investor relations related expenses.

 

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PART II

ITEM 13:  DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

None.

 

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Table of Contents

ITEM 14:    MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

None.

 

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Table of Contents

ITEM 15: CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

(a)

Disclosure Controls and Procedures: As of December 31, 2012 (the “Evaluation Date”), the company, under the supervision and with the participation of its management, including the chief executive officer and chief financial officer has evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13(a) – 15(e) and 15(d) – 15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“the Exchange Act”). Based on such evaluation, the chief executive officer and chief financial officer have concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, the company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective, and are reasonably designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the company in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission. These disclosure controls and procedures include without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the company in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the company’s management, including its chief executive officer and chief financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure.

 

(b)

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting: Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the company, as defined in the Exchange Act Rule 13(a) – 15(f) and 15(d) -15(f). The company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the company’s financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America.

The company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

 

   

Pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company;

   

Provide reasonable assurance that the transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the Directors of the company; and

   

Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods is subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with policies and procedures may deteriorate.

The company’s management assessed the effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting as of the Evaluation Date. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control – Integrated Framework. Based on this assessment, and using those criteria, management concluded that the company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of the Evaluation Date.

 

(c)

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting: There have been no changes in the company’s internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by paragraph (d) of Exchange Act Rule 13(a) – 15 during the year ended December 31, 2012 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

(d)

Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm: The company’s independent registered accounting firm, Ernst & Young Inc., has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting. This report appears below.

 

/s/ AM O’Neill

     

/s/ S Venkatakrishnan

Tony O’Neill

     

Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan

     

Chief Financial Officer

/s/ S Venkatakrishnan

     

Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan

     

Joint Chief Executive Officers

     

 

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REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The board of directors and stockholders of AngloGold Ashanti Limited

We have audited AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Controls over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, AngloGold Ashanti Limited maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the 2012 consolidated financial statements of AngloGold Ashanti Limited and our report dated April 26, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

 

/s/ Ernst & Young Inc.

Registered Auditor

Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa

April 26, 2013

 

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ITEM 16A: AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

Membership of the audit and corporate governance committee, including its chairman, comprises only independent non-executive directors, in compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. This also fulfils the guidelines of King III, which became effective in March 2010, and the requirements of the Companies Act of 2008, which became effective on May 1, 2011. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires the board to identify a financial expert from within its ranks. The board has resolved that the committee’s chairman, Prof Wiseman Nkuhlu is the Audit and Corporate Governance committee’s financial expert. Three of the four members of the committee have considerable financial knowledge and experience to help oversee and guide the board and the company in respect of the audit and corporate governance disciplines.

 

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ITEM 16B: CODE OF ETHICS AND WHISTLE BLOWING POLICIES

In order to comply with the company’s obligation in terms of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and King III, and in the interests of good governance, the company has systems and procedures to introduce, monitor and enforce its ethical codes and has adopted a code of business principles and ethics for employees and directors, a code of ethics for the chief executive officer, principal financial officer and senior financial officers, and a whistle-blowing policy that encourages employees to report anonymously if they wish and without fear of retaliation acts of an unethical or illegal nature that affect the company’s interests. The code of business principles and ethics expresses the company’s commitment to the conduct of its business in line with ethical standards and is designed to enable employees and directors perform their roles and duties with integrity and responsibility.

The whistle-blowing policy provides channels for employees to report acts and practices that are in conflict with the company’s code of business principles and ethics or are unlawful, including financial malpractice or dangers to the public or the environment. Reports may be made to management or through several mediums including the intranet, internet, telephone, short messaging system (sms), fax and post. All reports not made to management are administered by a third party, Tip-Offs Anonymous, to ensure independence of the process. Reported cases are relayed to management through internal audit. A report is provided by internal audit to the Executive Committee and the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee on a quarterly basis. Reporters have the option to request feedback on reported cases. The whistle-blowing policy encourages reports to be made in good faith in a responsible and ethical manner. Employees are encouraged to first seek resolution of alleged malpractices through discussion with their direct managers, if appropriate, or other management including legal, compliance, human resources or internal audit.

The code of business principles and ethics for employees and directors and the code of ethics for the chief executive officer, principal financial officer and senior financial officers are available on the company’s website at

http://www.anglogoldashanti.co.za/About+our+business/Gov+Policies.htm.

 

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ITEM 16C: PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

Ernst & Young Inc. has served as AngloGold Ashanti’s independent public accountants for each of the financial years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2012 for which audited financial statements appear in this annual report on Form 20-F.

The following table presents the aggregate fees for professional services and other services rendered by Ernst & Young Inc. to AngloGold Ashanti in 2012 and 2011.

 

 (in millions)         

2012

$

      

2011 

 Audit fees(1)

        6.83         6.97 

 Audit-related fees(2)

          4.17         6.76 

 Tax fees(3)

          0.39         0.39 

 Total

          11.39         14.12 

Rounding may result in computational differences.

 

(1)

The Audit fees consist of fees billed for the annual audit services engagement and other audit services, which are those services that only the external auditor reasonably can provide, and include the Company audit; statutory audits; attest services; and assistance with and review of documents filed with the SEC.

(2)

Audit-related fees consist of fees billed for assurance and related services.

(3)

Tax fees include fees billed for tax advice and tax compliance services.

Audit and Corporate Governance Committee Pre-approval Policies and Procedures

It is the policy of AngloGold Ashanti to maintain compliance with the requirements of the various applicable legislation and good governance practices when appointing or assigning work to the Company’s external auditor. Non-audit services may not be undertaken without an employee of AngloGold Ashanti obtaining the pre-approval of the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee as is laid out in the procedures relating to the pre-approval process.

The Audit and Corporate Governance Committee has delegated the approval authority to the chairman of the committee, Prof Wiseman Nkuhlu or his designated official. The approval may take the form of a written or oral instruction, and in the case of an oral instruction this would be ratified at the next Audit and Corporate Governance Committee meeting. On a quarterly basis a summary of all approvals and work to date is tabled at the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee meeting.

All non-audit services provided to AngloGold Ashanti by the principal independent registered public accounting firm during 2012 were reviewed and approved according to the procedures above. None of the services provided during 2012 were approved under the de minimis exception allowed under the Exchange Act.

No work was performed by persons other than the principal accountant’s employees in respect of the audit of AngloGold Ashanti’s financial statements for 2012.

ITEM 16D: EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

Not applicable.

ITEM 16E: PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

Neither the issuer nor any affiliate of the issuer purchased any of the company’s shares during 2012.

 

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ITEM 16F: CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

Not applicable.

ITEM 16G: CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The following is a summary of the significant ways in which AngloGold Ashanti’s corporate governance practices differ from those followed by US domestic companies under the New York Stock Exchange’s corporate governance listing standards (NYSE listing standards).

The NYSE listing standards require the appointment of a Nominations Committee to oversee the appointment of new directors to the board, and that such committee be comprised solely of independent directors. The JSE Listing Requirements also require the appointment of such a committee, but require that it be comprised solely of non-executive directors, the majority of whom must be independent.

The company has appointed a Nominations Committee of the board. The nominations committee’s membership comprises only non-executive board members, all of whom, but one, are independent, as defined in the JSE Listing Requirements, and is chaired by the independent chairman of the board.

AngloGold Ashanti’s home country practices are regulated by the JSE Securities Exchange South Africa Listings Requirements (JSE listing requirements). The JSE listing requirements require that AngloGold Ashanti adhere to King III. Although there are differences between King III and the NYSE corporate governance rules, AngloGold Ashanti has voluntarily adopted corporate governance practices that do not differ in any significant ways from the requirements of the NYSE corporate governance rules.

ITEM 16H: MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

The information concerning certain mine safety violations or other regulatory matters required pursuant to Section 1503(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and this Item 16H is included in Exhibit 19.16 to this annual report on Form 20-F.

 

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PART III

ITEM 17:  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Not applicable.

 

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ITEM 18: FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The board of directors and stockholders of AngloGold Ashanti Limited

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of AngloGold Ashanti Limited (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We did not audit the financial statements of Kibali Goldmines SPRL (“Kibali”), a corporation in which the Company has a 45 percent interest. In the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s investment in Kibali is stated at $797 million as of December 31, 2012, and the Company’s equity in the net income of Kibali is stated at $2 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. Those statements were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for Kibali, is based solely on the report of the other auditors.

We did not audit the financial statements of Société d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Sadiola S.A. (“Sadiola”), a corporation in which the Company has a 41 percent interest. In the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s equity in the net income of Sadiola is stated at $35 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. Those statements were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for Sadiola, is based solely on the report of the other auditors.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits and the reports of the other auditors provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, based on our audits and the reports of other auditors, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of AngloGold Ashanti Limited at December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012 in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated April 26, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ Ernst & Young Inc.

Registered Auditor

Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa

April 26, 2013

 

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REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors and stockholders Kibali Goldmines Sprl

We have audited the accompanying statement of financial position of Kibali Goldmines Sprl as of December 31, 2012 and the related statement of comprehensive loss, statement of changes in shareholders’ deficit, and statement of cash flows for the year then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Kibali Goldmines Sprl at December 31, 2012, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

 

/s/ BDO LLP

London

United Kingdom

April 19, 2013

 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and stockholders of Societe d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Sadiola S.A.

We have audited the balance sheet of Societe d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Sadiola S.A. (the company) as of December 31, 2010, and the related statements of income, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the year then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

ln our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Societe d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Sadiola SA as of December 31, 2010, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2010 in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

 

/s/ KPMG Inc. Registered Auditor

Bloemfontein, South Africa

May 26, 2011

 

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ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Consolidated statements of income

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010

(In millions, except share and per share information)

 

          Notes         

2012 

$

    

2011 

$

    

2010 

$

   

Sales and other income

           6,428         6,642       5,402   
                

Product sales

           6,353         6,570       5,334   

Interest, dividends and other

           75         72       68   

 

Costs and expenses

           5,217         4,521       5,021   

 

Production costs

           3,183         2,977       2,656   

Exploration costs

           388         279       206   

Related party transactions

   6         (14)         (12)       (15)  

General and administrative

           299         287       228   

Royalties

           164         193       142   

Market development costs

           10              14   

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

           794         789       720   

Impairment of assets

   5         367         17       91   

Interest expense

   5         213         178       151   

Accretion expense

   5         33         28       22   

Employment severance costs

   5         10         15       23   

Loss/(profit) on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

   5         35         (43)       (3)  

Non-hedge derivative (gain)/loss and movement on bonds

   5         (265)         (196)       786   
                              

Income from continuing operations before income tax and equity

income in associates

           1,211         2,121       381   

Taxation expense

   7         (340)         (705)       (255)  

Equity (loss)/income in associates

           (23)         59       40   

Net income

           848         1,475       166   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

           (19)         (50)       (54)  

Net income - attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

           829         1,425       112   

Earnings per share attributable to AngloGold Ashanti common stockholders: (cents)

                

Net income

   8              

Ordinary shares

           215         371       30   

E Ordinary shares

           108         185       15   

Ordinary shares - diluted

           161         317       30   

E Ordinary shares - diluted

           84         160       15   

Weighted average number of shares used in computation

   8              

Ordinary shares

           384,374,029         383,010,809       368,688,159   

Ordinary shares - diluted

           419,738,843         418,107,439       370,257,765   

E Ordinary shares - basic and diluted

           2,392,316         2,950,804       3,182,662   

Dividend paid per ordinary share (cents)

           56         34       18   

Dividend paid per E ordinary share (cents)

           28         17        

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 

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ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Consolidated statements of comprehensive income

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010

(In millions)

 

          Notes          2012 
$
    

2011 

$

     2010 
$
 

Net income

           848         1,475         166   

Other comprehensive income consists of the following:

              

Translation (loss)/gain

           (93)         (394)         234   
Net loss on cash flow hedges removed from other comprehensive income and reported in income, net of tax                          20   

Net (loss)/gain on available-for-sale financial assets arising during the period, net of tax

           (21)         (81)         69   

Release on disposal of available-for-sale financial assets during the period, net of tax

                         (51)   
Reclassification of other-than-temporary impairments on available-for-sale financial assets to Net income during the period, net of tax            16         21          
                                

Other comprehensive income

           (98)         (453)         274   

Comprehensive income

           750         1,022         440   

Total comprehensive income attributable to:

              

AngloGold Ashanti

           733         978         381   

Noncontrolling interests

           17         44         59   
           750         1,022         440   

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

              

 

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ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Consolidated balance sheets

AT DECEMBER 31, 2012 and 2011

(In millions, except share information)

 

      Notes           

2012 

$

            

2011 

$

   

ASSETS

                    

Current Assets

             2,790            2,631   

Cash and cash equivalents

             892              1,112   

Restricted cash

   9           35            35   

Receivables

             496              351   

Trade

             104            46   

Recoverable taxes, rebates, levies and duties

             247            170   

Other

   10           145              135   

Inventories

   11           1,165            959   

Materials on the leach pad

   11           128            98   

Deferred taxation assets

   7           74            75   

Assets held for sale

   16                        

Property, plant and equipment, net

   12           7,235            6,123   

Acquired properties, net

   13           748            779   

Goodwill

   14           193            182   

Other intangibles, net

   14           112            31   

Other long-term inventory

   11           180            31   

Materials on the leach pad

   11           445            393   

Other long-term assets

   15           1,360            1,001   

Deferred taxation assets

   7           39            14   

Total assets

             13,102            11,185   

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

                    

Current liabilities

             1,959            919   

Trade accounts payable

             590              473   

Payroll and related benefits

             215            186   

Other current liabilities

   17           202            120   

Short-term debt

   18           271            30   

Short-term debt at fair value

   18           588             

Tax payable

             93              108   

Other non-current liabilities

   17           379            63   

Long-term debt

   18           2,750            1,715   

Long-term debt at fair value

   18                     758   

Derivatives

   23           10            93   

Deferred taxation liabilities

   7           1,157            1,242   

Provision for environmental rehabilitation

   5 / 19           758            653   

Provision for labor, civil, compensation claims and settlements

             32            35   

Provision for pension and other post-retirement medical benefits

   25           209            185   

Commitments and contingencies

   20                      

Equity

             5,848            5,522   

Common stock

                    
Share capital - 600,000,000 (2011 - 600,000,000) authorized common stock of 25 ZAR cents each. Share capital - 4,280,000 (2011 - 4,280,000) authorized E ordinary shares of 25 ZAR cents each. Ordinary shares issued 2012 - 383,166,205 (2011 - 381,915,437). E ordinary shares issued 2012 - 700,000 (2011 - 1,050,000)              13              13   

Additional paid in capital

             8,808            8,740   

Accumulated deficit

             (2,103)            (2,575)  

Accumulated other comprehensive income

             (928)            (832)  

Other reserves

             36            36   

Total AngloGold Ashanti stockholders’ equity

             5,826              5,382   

Noncontrolling interests

             22              140   
                    

Total liabilities and equity

             13,102              11,185   

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 

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ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Consolidated statements of cash flows

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010

(In millions)

 

      Notes           

2012 

$

      

2011 

$

      

2010 

$

     

Net cash provided by operating activities

             1,700           2,550           1,038     

Net income

             848           1,475           166     

Reconciled to net cash provided by operations:

                        

Loss on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

             35           27           22     

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

             794           789           720     

Impairment of assets

             367           17           91     

Deferred taxation

             (74)           299           138     

Cash utilized for hedge book settlements

                                 (2,611)     

Movement in non-hedge derivatives and bonds

             (265)           (196)           2,544     

Equity loss/(income) in associates

             23           (59)           (40)     

Dividends received from associates

             79           111           143     

Other non cash items

             53           29           48     

Net increase in provision for environmental rehabilitation, pension and other post-retirement medical benefits

             35           189           131     

Effect of changes in operating working capital items:

                        

Receivables

             (117)           (13)           (153)     

Inventories

             (324)           (244)           (215)     

Accounts payable and other current liabilities

             246           126           54     

Net cash used in investing activities

             (2,651)           (1,603)           (1,887)     

Available for sale investments acquired

             (6)           (47)           (22)     

Held to maturity investments acquired

             (91)           (100)           (92)     

Associates and equity accounted joint ventures acquired

             (2)           (8)           (3)     

Contributions to associates and equity accounted joint ventures

             (347)           (107)           (41)     

Acquisition of subsidiary and loan

             (335)                         

Additions to property, plant and equipment

             (1,758)           (1,393)           (973)     

Interest capitalized and paid

             (12)                         

Expenditure on intangible assets

             (79)           (16)               

Proceeds on sale of mining assets

                      19           69     

Proceeds on sale of available for sale investments

                                79     

Proceeds on redemption of held to maturity investments

             86           89           63     

Proceeds on disposal of associates and equity accounted joint ventures

             20                        

Proceeds on disposal of subsidiary

                                   

Cash outflows from derivatives purchased

                                 (984)     

Loans receivable advanced

             (45)                     (6)     

Loans receivable repaid

                                    

Loans advanced to associates and equity accounted joint ventures

             (65)           (25)           (3)     

Loans repaid by associates and equity accounted joint ventures

                                    

Cash of subsidiary acquired

                                    

Cash of subsidiary disposed

             (31)           (11)               

Change in restricted cash

             (3)           (19)           25     

Net cash generated/(used) by financing activities

             736           (319)           230     

Short-term debt repaid

             (2)           (118)           (1,522)     

Short-term debt raised

             220                    363     

Issuance of stock

                      10           798     

Share issue expenses

                       (1)           (20)     

Long-term debt repaid

             (215)           (150)           (120)     

Long-term debt raised

             1,212           100           1,953     

Debt issue costs

             (30)                     (39)     

Acquisition of noncontrolling interest

             (215)                         

Cash outflows from derivatives with financing

                                 (1,066)     

Dividends paid to common stockholders

             (215)           (131)           (67)     

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests

             (21)           (38)           (50)     
                                              

Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents

             (215)           628           (619)     

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

             (5)           (102)           105     

Cash and cash equivalents - January 1,

             1,112           586           1,100     

Cash and cash equivalents - December 31,

                 892           1,112           586  (1)   

 

(1) 

Includes cash and cash equivalents of held for sale assets of $11 million at December 31, 2010.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Table of Contents

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010

(In millions, except share information)

      AngloGold Ashanti stockholders                
     

Common

stock

    

        Common

stock

$

    

Additional paid

in capital

$

    

Accumulated other

comprehensive income*

$

    

Accumulated

deficit

$

    

Other

        reserves

$

    

Noncontrolling

interests

$

    

            Total

$

Balance - January 1, 2010      362,974,807         12         7,836         (654)         (3,914)         37         128        3,445 
Net income                  112             54        166 
Other comprehensive income               269                     274 
Stock issues as part of equity offering      18,140,000                772                   773 
Stock issues as part of Share Incentive Scheme      823,411                 26                   26 
Stock issues in exchange for E Ordinary shares cancelled                      12                   12 
E Ordinary shares of common stock cancelled - Izingwe Holdings      (280,000)                                  
Stock issues transferred from Employee Share Ownership Plan to exiting employees      230,921                 10                   10 
Stock based compensation expense            14                   14 
Dividends                                          (67)                  (64)       (131)
Balance - December 31, 2010      381,889,139         13         8,670         (385)         (3,869)         37         123       4,589 
Net income                  1,425            50       1,475 
Other comprehensive income               (447)               (6)       (453)
Share of equity accounted joint venture’s other comprehensive income                     (1)          (1)
Stock issues as part of Share Incentive Scheme      889,593                 33                   33 
Stock issues in exchange for E Ordinary shares cancelled      99,747                 20                   20 
E Ordinary shares of common stock cancelled - Izingwe Holdings      (70,000)                                  
Stock issues transferred from Employee Share Ownership Plan to exiting employees      156,958                                 
Stock based compensation expense            10                   10 
Dividends                                          (131)                  (27)       (158)
Balance - December 31, 2011      382,965,437         13         8,740         (832)         (2,575)         36         140       5,522 
Net income                  829            19       848 
Other comprehensive income               (96)               (2)       (98)
Acquisition of noncontrolling interest(1)                  (142)            (73)       (215)
Disposal of subsidiary(2)                        (45)       (45)
Stock issues as part of Share Incentive Scheme      945,641                 33                   33 
Stock issues in exchange for E Ordinary shares cancelled      132,978                                 
E Ordinary shares of common stock cancelled - Izingwe Holdings      (350,000)                                  
Stock issues transferred from Employee Share Ownership Plan to exiting employees      172,149                                 
Stock based compensation expense            21                   21 
Dividends                  (215)            (17)       (232)
Balance - December 31, 2012      383,866,205         13         8,808         (928)         (2,103)         36         22       5,848 

 

(1) 

Acquisition of remaining 50 percent interest in Serra Grande mine on June 28, 2012. See Note 3.

(2) 

The Company disposed of a 5 percent interest in Rand Refinery Limited on December 3, 2012. See Note 3.

*The cumulative translation loss included in accumulated other comprehensive income amounted to $1,015 million (2011: $924 million). The translation loss has no tax effect. The cumulative charge, net of deferred taxation of $1 million (2011: $1 million), included in accumulated other comprehensive income in respect of cash flow hedges amounted to $2 million (2011: $2 million). The cumulative gain, net of deferred taxation of $6 million (2011: $nil million), included in accumulated other comprehensive income in respect of available for sale financial assets amounted to $25 million (2011: $30 million). The cumulative gain included in accumulated other comprehensive income in respect of the hedge of a net investment in foreign entities amounted to $64 million (2011: $64 million). This gain is offset by $64 million (2011: $64 million) arising from translation of net investments in foreign entities.

As at December 31, 2012 and 2011, $556 million and $305 million, respectively, of retained earnings arising from the Company’s equity accounted joint ventures and certain subsidiaries may not be remitted without third-party shareholder consent.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 

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Table of Contents

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010

(In millions, except share and per share information)

 

1.

NATURE OF OPERATIONS

 

    

AngloGold Limited was formed in June 1998 with the consolidation of the gold mining interests of Anglo American plc. AngloGold Ashanti Limited, as the company exists today, was formed on April 26, 2004 following the business combination between AngloGold and Ashanti Goldfields Company Limited.

 

    

AngloGold Ashanti is a global gold mining company headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa. AngloGold Ashanti’s main product is gold. As part of extracting gold the Company also produces silver, uranium oxide and sulfuric acid as by-products. The Company sells its products on world markets.

 

    

AngloGold Ashanti conducts gold-mining operations in the following regions, which represent its business segments:

    

• South Africa (comprising the Vaal River and West Wits operations)

    

• Continental Africa (comprising Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Namibia and Tanzania operations)

    

• Australasia (comprising an Australian operation)

    

• Americas (comprising Argentina, Brazil and United States of America operations)

 

2.

ACCOUNTING CHANGES

 

    

Goodwill impairment testing

 

    

In September 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“the Codification” or “ASC”) guidance was issued which simplifies how an entity tests goodwill for impairment. The guidance allows both public and nonpublic entities an option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. Under that option, an entity no longer would be required to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit unless the entity determines, based on that qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that its fair value is less than its carrying amount. The adoption of the updated guidance on January 1, 2012 had no impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

    

Presentation of comprehensive income

 

    

In June 2011, the FASB issued guidance for disclosures about comprehensive income. The guidance is intended to increase the prominence of other comprehensive income in financial statements. The main provisions of the guidance provide that an entity that reports items of other comprehensive income has the option to present comprehensive income in either one statement or two consecutive statements. The Company adopted the two consecutive statement approach on January 1, 2012. Except for presentation changes, the adoption had no impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

    

Fair value measurements

 

    

In May 2011, the FASB issued updated guidance on fair value measurement and disclosure requirements. The requirements do not extend the use of fair value accounting, but provide guidance on how it should be applied where its use is already required or permitted by other standards within US GAAP. The update will supersede most of the FASB ASC guidance for fair value measurements, although many of the changes are clarifications of existing guidance or wording changes. The adoption of the updated guidance on January 1, 2012 had no impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

F - 6


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

3.

ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSALS OF BUSINESSES AND ASSETS

 

    

2012 acquisitions

    

The Company made the following acquisitions during the year:

 

    

•     Acquisition of First Uranium

    

On July 20, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti acquired the entire share capital of First Uranium (Pty) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Toronto-based First Uranium Corporation and the owner of Mine Waste Solutions in South Africa, for a cash consideration of $335 million. Mine Waste Solutions is a recently commissioned tailings retreatment operation located in South Africa’s Vaal River region and in the immediate proximity of AngloGold Ashanti’s own tailings facilities. In connection with the acquisition, AngloGold Ashanti agreed to guarantee the observance and performance of existing delivery obligations of a wholly owned subsidiary of Mine Waste Solutions to sell to an existing customer at a pre-agreed price, 25 percent of the gold produced at a gold recovery plant located in northwest South Africa, subject to a cap of 312,500 ounces over the life of the contract. The transaction was funded from cash reserves and debt facilities. The acquisition has been accounted for as a purchase business combination under US GAAP whereby identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed were recorded at their fair market values as of the date of acquisition. The excess of the purchase price over fair value was recorded as goodwill and as such, the acquisition resulted in goodwill of $9 million being recorded, relating mainly to the expected synergies arising from the immediate proximity of AngloGold Ashanti’s own tailings facilities to the Mine Waste Solutions plant that will allow processing of AngloGold Ashanti’s Vaal River tailings without having to build additional processing facilities.

 

    

In accordance with FASB ASC guidance, goodwill is assigned to specific reporting units. The Company’s reporting units are generally consistent with the operating mines underlying segments identified in Note 26 – Segment and geographical information. An individual operating mine is not a typical “going-concern” business because of the finite life of its reserves. The allocation of goodwill to an individual operating mine likely will result in an eventual goodwill impairment due to the wasting nature of the primary asset of the reporting unit. The Company evaluates its held-for-use long lived assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amount likely will not be recoverable over the long term and, in accordance with the FASB ASC guidance, performs its annual impairment review of assigned goodwill during the fourth quarter of each year. The accounting treatment of goodwill arising on acquisition of First Uranium (Pty) Limited is consistent with FASB ASC guidance. Goodwill related to the acquisition is non-deductible for income tax purposes. The assets and liabilities of First Uranium (Pty) Limited are included in the South Africa segment for disclosure purposes.

 

    

The operations and financial condition of the companies and assets acquired are included in the financial statements from July 20, 2012, the effective date of the acquisition.

 

    

For information purposes only, the following unaudited pro-forma financial data reflects the consolidated results of operations of AngloGold Ashanti as if the acquisition had taken place on January 1, 2012, 2011 and 2010:

 

     

2012

$

  

2011

$

  

2010

$

Total revenue

   6,494     6,767     5,483 
  

 

Net income - attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

   838     1,442     137 
  

 

 

    

The pro forma information is not indicative of the results of operations that would have occurred had the acquisition been consummated on January 1, 2012 or the group’s future results of operations.

 

    

From the date of acquisition, First Uranium (Pty) Limited has contributed $41 million of revenue and $33 million to the Net income before taxation of the Company.

 

F - 7


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

3.

ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSALS OF BUSINESSES AND ASSETS (continued)

 

    

The fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities of First Uranium (Pty) Limited as at the date of acquisition was:

 

      $

Assets

  

Property, plant and equipment

   616 

Other long-term assets

  

Restricted cash

  

Deferred taxation assets

   52 

Inventories

   134 

Trade and other receivables

  

Cash and cash equivalents

  
   815 

Liabilities

  

Other non-current liabilities

   342 

Deferred taxation liabilities

   61 

Provision for environmental rehabilitation

   37 

Loans from group companies

   204 

Accounts payable and other current liabilities

   49 
   693 

Total identifiable net assets at fair value

   122 

Purchase consideration

   131 

Goodwill recognized on acquisition

  

Analysis of cash flows on acquisition:

  

Net cash acquired with the subsidiary

  

Cash paid - Share capital acquired

   (131)

Cash paid - Loan acquired

   (204)
   (330)

Delivery obligations of Mine Waste Solutions acquired as part of the business combination have been recognized on acquisition as a loss making executory contract, and are amortized as the deliveries of ounces occur.

  

The transaction costs of $3 million are a non-recurring expense and have been included in General and administrative expenses in the condensed consolidated statements of income and are included in operating cash flows in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.

  

Financial assets acquired include trade and other receivables with a fair value of $2 million. Trade and other receivables are expected to be collectible.

  

There were no material non-recurring pro-forma adjustments directly attributable to the acquisition of First Uranium (Pty) Limited.

  

 

F - 8


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

3.

ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSALS OF BUSINESSES AND ASSETS (continued)

 

    

•     Acquisition of remaining 50 percent interest in Serra Grande

    

On May 29, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti, which holds, through a subsidiary, a 50 percent interest in the Serra Grande (“Crixás”) mine in Brazil, acquired the remaining 50 percent stake in the mine from Kinross Gold Corporation for $215 million in cash. The transaction was accounted for as an equity transaction and funded from existing cash reserves and borrowings under the Company’s existing debt facilities and closed on June 28, 2012.

 

    

2012 Disposals

    

The Company’s disposals during the year included:

 

    

•     Part disposal of Rand Refinery Limited

    

On December 3, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti Limited disposed of a 5 percent interest in Rand Refinery Limited for a total cash consideration of $6 million. AngloGold Ashanti Limited holds a remaining interest of 48.03 percent as at December 31, 2012 which is accounted for using the equity method. The disposal resulted in a profit of $14 million due to the recognition of the fair value of the residual interest as summarized below:

 

      $

Fair value of consideration received

  

Fair value of residual value of investment

   57 

Noncontrolling interest

   45 

Less: Carrying value of assets disposed

   (94)

Total profit on disposal

   14 
Subsequent to year-end, the Company disposed of an additional 4.24 percent interest in Rand Refinery Limited. See Note 29.     

 

    

•     Disposal of AngloGold Ashanti-Polymetal Strategic Alliance

    

On February 8, 2012, the transaction to dispose of the AngloGold Ashanti-Polymetal Strategic Alliance consisting of AngloGold Ashanti-Polymetal Strategic Alliance Management Company Holdings Limited, Amikan Holdings Limited, AS APK Holdings Limited, Imitzoloto Holdings Limited and Yeniseiskaya Holdings Limited to Polyholding Limited was completed. The Company realized a profit equating to proceeds of $20 million on disposal.

 

    

2011 acquisitions

    

The Company made the following acquisition during the year:

 

    

•     Acquisition of an interest in First Uranium

    

On July 22, 2011, AngloGold Ashanti acquired 47,065,916 shares (or 19.79 percent) in First Uranium Corporation, a Canadian incorporated company, from Village Main Reef Limited, a South African incorporated company, at a price of CAD0.60 per share ($0.64 per share), representing an aggregate consideration of $30 million.

 

    

2011 disposal

    

The Company’s disposal during the year included:

 

    

•     Disposal of ISSI

    

AngloGold Ashanti disposed of its subsidiary ISS International Limited (“ISSI”) during the first quarter of 2011. The Company entered into a memorandum of understanding with The Institute of Mine Seismology relating to the disposal of ISSI. The sale was concluded on February 28, 2011, proceeds amounted to $9 million and the Company realized a profit of $2 million on disposal.

 

F - 9


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

3.

ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSALS OF BUSINESSES AND ASSETS (continued)

 

    

2010 disposals

    

The Company’s disposals during the year included:

 

    

•     Disposal of Tau Lekoa

    

On February 17, 2009, AngloGold Ashanti announced the terms of the sale of its Tau Lekoa mine, together with the adjacent properties Weltevreden, Jonkerskraal and Goedgenoeg, to Simmer & Jack Mines Limited (“Simmers”). The sale was concluded effective August 1, 2010. The selling price of R600 million ($85 million) was payable in two tranches, R450 million ($64 million) was paid in cash on August 4, 2010 with the remaining R150 million ($21 million) (which was subject to certain offset adjustments) being settled on November 1, 2010. The Company realized a loss of $7 million on the sale of Tau Lekoa.

 

    

•     Disposal of B2Gold

    

AngloGold Ashanti realized net proceeds of $68 million from the sale of its entire holding of 31,556,650 shares in Vancouver-based gold producer B2Gold Corp (“B2Gold”). This stake, equivalent to about 10.17 percent of B2Gold’s outstanding shares, was sold on November 9, 2010 and the Company realized a profit of $45 million on disposal. The Company acquired a 15.9 percent direct interest in B2Gold during May 2008.

 

F - 10


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

    

Basis of presentation: The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The Company presents its consolidated financial statements in United States dollars. The functional currency of a significant portion of the group’s operations is the South African rand. Other main subsidiaries have functional currencies of US dollars and Australian dollars.

 

    

Use of estimates: The preparation of the financial statements requires the Company’s management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The determination of estimates requires the exercise of judgment based on various assumptions and other factors such as historical experience, current and expected economic conditions, and in some cases actuarial techniques. The Company regularly reviews estimates and assumptions that affect the annual financial statements, however, actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

    

The more significant areas requiring the use of management estimates and assumptions include mineral reserves that are the basis of future cash flow estimates and unit-of-production depreciation, depletion and amortization calculations; environmental, reclamation and closure obligations; estimates of recoverable gold and other materials in heap leach pads; asset impairments (including impairments of goodwill, long-lived assets, and investments); write-downs of inventory to net realizable value; post employment, post retirement and other employee benefit liabilities; valuation allowances for deferred taxation assets; reserves for contingencies and litigation; and the fair value and accounting treatment of financial instruments.

 

    

The following are the accounting policies used by the Company which have been consistently applied:

 

  4.1

Consolidation

      

The consolidated financial information includes the financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries. Where the Company has a direct or indirect controlling interest in an entity through a subsidiary, the entity is classified as a subsidiary. Interests in incorporated mining joint ventures in which the Company has joint control are accounted for by the equity method.

 

      

The financial statements of subsidiaries and the Environmental Trust Fund (a rehabilitation trust under the Company’s control) are prepared for the same reporting period as the Company, using the same accounting policies.

 

      

Subsidiaries are consolidated from the date on which control is transferred. They are de-consolidated from the date on which control ceases.

 

      

All significant intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation.

 

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Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.2

Investments in equity investees (associates and incorporated joint ventures)

      

An associate is an entity other than a subsidiary in which the Company has a material long-term interest and in respect of which the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence over operational and financial policies, normally owning between 20 percent and 50 percent of the voting equity.

 

      

A joint venture is an entity in which the Company holds a long-term interest and which is jointly controlled by the Company and one or more external joint venture partners under a contractual arrangement that provides for strategic, financial and operating policy decisions relating to the activities requiring unanimous consent.

 

      

Investments in associates and incorporated joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method.

 

      

Goodwill relating to associates and incorporated joint ventures is included in the carrying value of the Company’s investment. The total carrying value of equity accounted investments in associates and incorporated joint ventures, including goodwill, is evaluated for impairment when conditions indicate that a decline in fair value below the carrying amount is other than temporary or at least annually. When an impairment indicator exists, the carrying value of the Company’s investment in those entities is written down to its fair value. The Company’s share of results of equity accounted investees, that have financial years within three months of the fiscal year-end of the Company, is included in the consolidated financial statements based on the results reported by those investees for their financial years. There were no significant adjustments required to be made in respect of equity accounted investees which have financial years that are different to those of the Company.

 

      

Profits realized in connection with transactions between the Company and associated companies are eliminated in proportion to ownership.

 

  4.3

Foreign currency transactions and foreign currency statements

      

Items included in the financial statements of each of the Company’s entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates (the ‘functional currency’).

 

      

Transactions and balances

      

Transactions in foreign currencies are converted at the rates of exchange ruling at the date of these transactions. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at rates of exchange ruling at balance sheet date. Non-monetary items are translated at historic rates. Gains, losses and costs associated with foreign currency transactions are recognized in the income statement in the period to which they relate, except where hedge accounting is applied. These transactions are included in the determination of other income.

 

      

Group companies

      

The results and financial position of all group entities that have a functional currency different from the presentation currency are translated into the presentation currency as follows:

 

 

share capital and premium are translated at historical rates of exchange;

 

equity items other than profit attributable to equity shareholders are translated at the closing rate;

 

assets and liabilities for each balance sheet presented are translated at the closing rate;

 

income and expenses for each income statement are translated at average exchange rates (unless this average is not a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in which case income and expenses are translated at the dates of the transactions); and

 

all resulting exchange differences are recognized as a separate component of equity and included within accumulated other comprehensive income.

 

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Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.3

Foreign currency transactions and foreign currency statements (continued)

 

      

Exchange differences arising from the translation of the net investment in foreign operations, and of borrowings and other currency instruments designated as hedges of such investments, are taken to stockholders’ equity on consolidation.

 

      

When a foreign operation is sold, cumulative exchange differences are recognized in the income statement as part of the gain or loss on sale.

 

      

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign operation are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign operation and translated at the closing rate at each balance sheet date.

 

  4.4

Segmental reporting

      

A segment is a group of assets and operations engaged in providing products or services that are subject to risks and returns that are different from those of other segments and are reported on a reporting segment basis using the management approach. This approach is based on the way management organizes segments within the Company for making operating decisions and assessing performance. The Chief Operating Decision Maker, defined as the Executive Committee, has determined that the Company operates primarily in the production of gold.

 

  4.5

Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash

      

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash balances and highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less. Due to the short maturity of cash equivalents, their carrying amounts approximate their fair value. Restricted cash, classified as short-term, is reported separately in the consolidated balance sheets. Cash that is restricted as to withdrawal or use for other than current operations is classified as non-current and is included in Other long-term assets.

 

  4.6

Non-marketable equity investments and debt securities

      

Non-marketable equity investments which are considered available for sale, are carried at fair value, where fair value can be determined, or at cost less impairment if fair value cannot be reliably measured.

 

      

Investments in non-marketable debt securities, for which the Company does not control or exercise significant influence, are classified as held to maturity and are subsequently measured at amortized cost. If there is evidence that held to maturity financial assets are impaired the carrying amount is reduced and the loss recognized in the income statement.

 

  4.7

Marketable equity investments and debt securities

      

Marketable equity investments and debt securities which are considered available-for-sale, are carried at fair value, and the unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, computed in marking these securities to market are reported within accumulated other comprehensive income in the period in which they arise. These amounts are removed from accumulated other comprehensive income and reported in income when the asset is derecognized or when there is evidence that the asset is impaired in accordance with the FASB ASC guidance on accounting for certain investments in debt and equity securities. AngloGold Ashanti considers several factors in determining other-than-temporary impairment losses: including the current and expected long-term business prospects of the issuer; the length of time and relative magnitude of the price decline and its ability and intent to hold the investment until the price recovers.

 

      

Marketable debt securities that are classified as held to maturity are subsequently measured at amortized cost. If there is evidence that held to maturity financial assets are impaired the carrying amount is reduced and the loss recognized in the income statement.

 

F - 13


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.8

Inventories

      

Inventories, including metals in process, gold on hand (doré/bullion), uranium oxide, sulfuric acid, ore stockpiles and supplies, are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Metals in process are valued at the average total production cost at the relevant stage of production as described below. The cost of gold, uranium oxide and sulfuric acid is determined principally by the weighted average cost method using related production costs.

 

      

Ore stockpiles are valued at the average moving cost of mining the ore. Supplies are valued at the lower of weighted average cost or market value. Heap leach pad materials are measured on an average total production cost basis.

 

      

The cost of inventory is determined using the full absorption costing method. Metals in process and ore stockpile inventory include all costs attributable to the stage of completion. Costs capitalized to inventory include amortization of property, plant and equipment and capitalized mining costs, direct and indirect materials, direct labor, shaft overhead expenses, repairs and maintenance, utilities, metallurgy costs, attributable production taxes and royalties, and directly attributable mine costs. Gold on hand (doré/bullion) includes all metals in process and refining costs. Ore is recorded in inventory when blasted underground, or when placed on surface stockpiles in the case of open-pit operations.

 

      

The costs of materials currently contained on the leach pad are reported as a separate line item and classified as either short-term or long-term. Materials on the leach pad are classified as short-term if the Company expects the related gold to be recovered within twelve months. The short-term portion is determined by multiplying the average cost per ounce in inventory by the expected production ounces for the next twelve months. Heap leach pad inventory occurs in two forms: (1) gold recoverable but yet to be dissolved (i.e. gold still in the ore), and (2) gold recoverable from gold dissolved in solution within the leach pad (i.e. pore water). This estimate was used in determining the short-term portion of materials on the leach pad.

 

  4.9

Development costs and stripping costs

      

Development costs relating to major programs at existing mines are capitalized. Development costs consist primarily of expenditures to initially establish a mine and to expand the capacity of operating mines.

 

      

Post production stripping costs are considered costs of the extracted minerals under a full absorption costing system and recognized as a component of inventory to be recognized in cost of sales in the same period as the revenue from the sale of the inventory. Additionally, capitalization of such costs only occurs to the extent inventory exists at the end of a reporting period.

 

      

Costs associated with the opening of a new pit, are capitalized as mine development costs.

 

F - 14


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.10

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

      

Mine development costs, mine plant facilities and other fixed assets

      

Mine development costs, mine plant facilities and other fixed assets are recorded at cost less accumulated amortization and impairments. Cost includes pre-production expenditure incurred during the development of a mine and the present value of future decommissioning costs.

 

      

Capitalized mine development costs include expenditure incurred to develop new orebodies, to define further mineralization in existing orebodies and to expand the capacity of a mine. Where funds have been borrowed specifically to finance a project, the amount of interest capitalized represents the actual borrowing costs incurred.

 

      

Depreciation, depletion and amortization of mine development costs are computed principally by the units-of-production method based on estimated proven and probable mineral reserves. Proven and probable mineral reserves reflect estimated quantities of economically recoverable reserves which can be recovered in the future from known mineral deposits.

 

      

Mine plant facilities are amortized using the lesser of their useful life or units-of-production method based on estimated proven and probable mineral reserves. Main shafts are depleted using the units-of-production method based on total proven and probable reserves as the shaft will be used over the life of the mine. Other infrastructure costs including ramps, stopes, laterals, etc. and ore reserve development are depleted using proven and probable reserves applicable to that specific area. When an area is vacated and there is no longer an intention to mine due to a change in mine plans, all costs that have not been depleted are written off.

 

      

Other fixed assets comprising vehicles and computer equipment, are depreciated by the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives as follows:

 

vehicles up to five years; and

 

computer equipment up to three years.

 

      

Acquired properties

 

      

Acquired properties are carried at amortized cost. Purchased undeveloped mineral interests are acquired mineral rights and are recorded as tangible assets as part of acquired properties. The amount capitalized related to a mineral interest represents its fair value at the time it was acquired, either as an individual asset purchase or as a part of a business combination. “Brownfield” stage mineral interests represent interests in properties that are believed to potentially contain other mineralized material, such as measured, indicated or inferred mineral resources with insufficient drill spacing to qualify as proven and probable mineral reserves, that is in proximity to proven and probable mineral reserves and within an immediate mine structure. “Greenfield” stage mineral interests represent interests in properties that are other mine-related or greenfields exploration potential that are not part of measured or indicated resources and are comprised mainly of material outside of a mine’s infrastructure. The Company’s mineral rights are enforceable regardless of whether proven and probable mineral reserves have been established. The Company has the ability and intent to renew mineral rights where the existing term is not sufficient to recover all identified and valued proven and probable mineral reserves and/or undeveloped mineral interests.

 

      

Both Brownfield properties and Greenfield mineral interests are carried at acquired costs until such time as a mineral interest enters the production stage and are amortized using the unit-of-production method based on estimated proven and probable mineral reserves.

 

      

Both Brownfield properties and Greenfield mineral interests are evaluated for impairment as held-for-use assets in accordance with the Company’s asset impairment accounting policy. See Note 4.13.

 

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Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.11

Other mining costs

      

Other mining costs including repair and maintenance costs incurred in connection with major maintenance activities are charged to the income statement as incurred.

 

  4.12

Goodwill and other intangibles

      

Goodwill

      

Where an investment in a subsidiary, joint venture or an associate is made, any excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the attributable mineral reserves including value beyond proven and probable, acquired properties and other net assets is recognized as goodwill.

 

      

Goodwill relating to subsidiaries is tested for impairment when indicators of impairment exist and is carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Potential impairment is identified by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. The fair value of a reporting unit is determined using an expected present value technique.

 

      

Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold. Goodwill is allocated to reporting units for the purpose of impairment testing.

 

      

Goodwill relating to incorporated joint ventures and associates is included within the carrying value of the investment in incorporated joint ventures and associates and tested for impairment when indicators exist. See Note 4.2.

 

      

The allocation of goodwill to an individual operating mine will result in an eventual goodwill impairment due to the wasting nature of the mine reporting unit. The Company performs its annual impairment review of assigned goodwill during the fourth quarter of each year.

 

      

Software

      

Software purchased, including direct costs associated with customization and installation of the software, is capitalized as other intangible assets.

 

      

Internally-developed software is capitalized when it meets the criteria for capitalization. Other software development expenditure is charged to the income statement as incurred. Software is amortized on a straight-line basis over its useful life which is determined to be the lesser of:

 

 

the license period of the software;

 

the period to the manufacturer’s next announced upgrade that management intends to implement; or

 

three years.

 

      

Useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at the beginning of each financial year.

 

  4.13

Asset impairment

      

The Company evaluates its held-for-use long lived assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the sum of estimated future cash flows on an undiscounted basis is less than the carrying amount of the related asset, including goodwill, if any, an asset impairment is considered to exist. The related impairment loss is measured by comparing estimated future cash flows on a discounted basis to the carrying amount of the asset. Management’s estimate of future cash flows is subject to risk and uncertainties. It is therefore reasonably possible that changes could occur which may affect the recoverability of the group’s mining assets. The Company records a reduction of a group of assets to fair value as a charge to earnings if expected future cash flows are less than the carrying amount. The Company estimates fair value by discounting the expected future cash flows using a discount factor that is commensurate with the risks involved, considering the term of the expected cash flows and any asset specific and country risks. In addition, an asset impairment is considered to exist where the fair value less costs to sell of an asset held for sale is below its carrying amount.

 

F - 16


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.14

Borrowing costs

      

Interest on borrowings relating to the financing of major capital projects under construction is capitalized during the construction phase as part of the cost of the project. Such borrowing costs are capitalized over the period during which the asset is being acquired or constructed and borrowings have been incurred. Capitalization ceases when construction is interrupted for an extended period or when the asset is substantially complete. Other borrowing costs are expensed as incurred.

 

  4.15

Leased assets

      

Assets subject to finance leases are capitalized at the lower of fair value or present value of minimum lease payments with the related lease obligation recognized at the same amount. Capitalized leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of their estimated useful lives and the lease term. Finance lease payments are allocated using the effective interest rate method, between the lease finance cost, which is included in finance costs, and the capital repayment, which reduces the liability to the lessor.

 

      

Operating lease rentals are charged against operating profits in a systematic manner related to the period the assets concerned will be used.

 

  4.16

Provisions

      

Provisions are recognized when the Company has a present obligation, whether legal or constructive, as a result of a past event for which it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

 

      

Provisions are measured at the present value of management’s best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the present obligation at the balance sheet date. The discount rate used to determine the present value reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability.

 

  4.17

Taxation

      

Current and deferred taxation is recognized as income or expense and included in the profit or loss for the period, except to the extent that the tax arises from a transaction or event which is recognized, in the same or a different period directly in equity; or a business combination that is an acquisition. See Note 4.22.

 

      

Current taxation is measured on taxable income at the applicable enacted statutory rates.

 

      

The Company’s operation involves dealing with uncertainties and judgments in the application of complex tax regulations in multiple jurisdictions. The final taxes paid are dependent upon many factors, including negotiations with taxing authorities and resolution of disputes arising from federal, state, and international tax audits. A tax position is recognized in the financial statements when it is ‘more-likely-than-not’ that the tax position will be sustained upon examination by the relevant taxing authority based on the technical merits. The Company recognizes tax liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues in tax jurisdictions based on its estimate of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due. The Company recognizes interest and penalties, if any, in the income statement as part of taxation expense.

 

F - 17


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.18

Asset retirement obligations and rehabilitation costs

      

The Company accounts for asset retirement obligations (“AROs”) in accordance with the FASB ASC guidance on accounting for asset retirement obligations.

 

      

AROs, also referred to as decommissioning costs, arise from the acquisition, development, construction and operation of mining property, plant and equipment, due to government controls and regulations that protect the environment on the closure and reclamation of mining properties. The fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation is recorded in the period in which it is incurred. When the liability is initially recorded, the cost is capitalized by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. Over time, the liability is increased to reflect an interest element (accretion) considered in its initial measurement at fair value, and the capitalized cost is amortized over the useful life of the related asset. Where the obligation arises from activities that are operational in nature and does not give rise to future economic benefit, the capitalized cost is amortized in the period incurred. Upon settlement of the liability, a gain or loss will be recorded if the actual cost incurred is different from the liability recorded.

 

      

Rehabilitation costs and related liabilities are based on the Company’s interpretation of current environmental and regulatory requirements.

 

      

Based on current environmental regulations and known rehabilitation requirements, management has included its best estimate of these obligations in its rehabilitation accrual. However, it is reasonably possible that the Company’s estimates of its ultimate rehabilitation liabilities could change as a result of changes in regulations or cost estimates.

 

      

Environmental liabilities other than rehabilitation costs which relate to liabilities from specific events are accrued when they are known, probable and reasonably estimable.

 

  4.19

Product sales

      

Revenue from product sales is recognized when:

 

persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists;

 

delivery has occurred or services have been rendered;

 

the seller’s price to the buyer is fixed or determinable; and

 

collectability is reasonably assured.

 

      

The sales price, net of any taxes, is fixed on either the terms of gold sales contracts or the gold spot price.

 

  4.20

Financial instruments

      

Financial instruments recognized on the balance sheet include investments, loans receivable, trade and other receivables, cash and cash equivalents, borrowings, derivatives, and trade and other payables. Financial instruments are initially measured at cost, including transaction costs, when the Company becomes a party to the contractual arrangements. Subsequent measurement of derivative instruments is dealt with below.

 

      

Derivatives

      

The Company accounts for derivative contracts in accordance with the FASB ASC guidance on accounting for derivative instruments and hedging activities, which requires all contracts that meet the definition of a derivative to be recognized on the balance sheet as either assets or liabilities and recorded at fair value. Gains or losses arising from remeasuring derivatives to fair value at each reporting period are accounted for either in the income statement or in accumulated other comprehensive income, depending on the use and designation of the derivative and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting. The key criterion which must be met in order to qualify for hedge accounting, is that the derivative must be highly effective in offsetting the change in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item.

 

F - 18


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.20

Financial instruments (continued)

 

      

Contracts that meet the criteria for hedge accounting are designated as the hedging instruments hedging the variability of forecasted cash flows from capitalized expenditure and the sale of production into the spot market, and are classified as cash flow hedges. Where a derivative qualifies as the hedging instrument in a cash flow hedge, changes in fair value of the hedging instruments, to the extent effective, are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income and reclassified to earnings as product sales or as an adjustment to depreciation expense pertaining to capital expenditure, when the hedged transaction occurs. The ineffective portion of changes in fair value of the cash flow hedging instruments is reported in earnings as gains or losses on non-hedge derivatives in the period in which they occur.

 

      

All other contracts not meeting the criteria for the normal purchases and sales exemption or hedge accounting are recorded at their fair market value, with changes in value at each reporting period recorded in earnings as gains or losses on non-hedge derivatives.

 

      

Cash flows from derivative instruments accounted for as cash flow hedges and non-hedge derivatives are included in net cash provided by operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. Contracts that contain ‘off-market’ terms that result in the inflow of cash at inception are analogous to borrowing activities and, as such, are treated as financing activities. All current and future cash flows associated with such instruments are classified as financing activities within the consolidated statements of cash flows. Contracts that contain ‘off-market’ terms that result in the outflow of cash at inception are analogous to lending activities and, as such, are treated as investing activities. All current and future cash flows associated with such instruments are classified within the investing activities of the consolidated statements of cash flows.

 

      

The estimated fair values of derivatives are determined at discrete points in time based on relevant market information. These estimates are calculated with reference to the market rates using industry standard valuation techniques.

 

      

Certain derivative instruments are designated as hedges of foreign currency denominated borrowings and investments in foreign entities. This designation is reviewed at least quarterly, or as borrowing and investment levels change. The hedge amounts (to the extent effective) are recorded as an offset to the translation gains/losses being hedged.

 

  4.21

Employee benefits

      

Pension obligations

      

Group companies operate various pension schemes. The schemes are funded through payments to insurance companies or trustee administered funds, determined by annual actuarial calculations. The Company has both defined benefit and defined contribution plans.

 

      

The current service cost in respect of defined benefit plans is recognized as an expense in the current year. Past service costs, experience adjustments, the effect of changes in actuarial assumptions and the effects of plan amendments in respect of existing employees are recognized as an expense or income as and when they arise. This method is applied consistently in each period end to all gains and losses.

 

      

The asset/liability recognized in the balance sheet in respect of defined benefit pension plans is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date less the fair value of plan assets. The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method.

 

      

The contributions on defined contribution plans are recognized as employee benefit expense when due. Prepaid contributions are recognized as an asset to the extent that a cash refund or a reduction in the future payments is available.

 

F - 19


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.21

Employee benefits (continued)

 

      

Other post-employment benefit obligations

      

Some group companies provide post-retirement healthcare benefits. The expected costs of these benefits are accrued over the period of employment using an accounting methodology on the same basis as that used for defined benefit pension plans. These obligations are valued annually by independent qualified actuaries. Actuarial gains and losses arising in the plan are recognized as income or expense as and when they arise.

 

      

Termination benefits

      

The Company recognizes termination benefits when it is demonstrably committed to either: terminating the employment of current employees according to a detailed formal plan; or providing termination benefits as a result of an offer made to encourage voluntary redundancy based on the number of employees expected to accept the offer. Benefits falling due more than twelve months after balance sheet date are discounted to present value.

 

  4.22

Deferred taxation

      

The Company follows the liability method of accounting for deferred taxation whereby the Company recognizes the tax consequences of temporary differences by applying enacted tax rates applicable to future years to differences between financial statement amounts and the tax bases of certain assets and liabilities. Changes in deferred taxation assets and liabilities include the impact of any tax rate changes enacted during the year. Principal temporary differences arise from depreciation on property, plant and equipment, derivatives, provisions and tax losses carried forward. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amounts of deferred taxation assets if it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized.

 

  4.23

Dividends

      

Dividends are recognized when declared by the board of directors. Dividends may be payable in Australian dollars, South African rands, United Kingdom pounds or Ghanaian cedis. Dividends declared to foreign stockholders are not subject to approval by the South African Reserve Bank in terms of South African foreign exchange control regulations. Dividends are freely transferable to foreign stockholders from both trading and non-trading profits earned in South Africa by publicly listed companies. Under South African law, the Company may declare and pay dividends from any reserves included in total shareholders’ equity (including share capital and premium) calculated in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), subject to the solvency and liquidity test per the Companies Act.

 

  4.24

Earnings per share

      

Earnings and diluted earnings per share have been calculated, for each class of common stock outstanding, using the two class method which requires that basic net income (loss) per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed using the weighted average number of Ordinary shares and, if dilutive, potential common shares outstanding during the period. The computation of the diluted income (loss) per share of Ordinary shares assumes the conversion of E Ordinary shares.

 

      

The rights, including the liquidation, voting and dividend rights, of holders of Ordinary shares and E Ordinary shares are identical. As a result, the undistributed earnings for each year are allocated based on the contractual participation rights of the Ordinary and E Ordinary shares as if the earnings for the year had been distributed. As only 50 percent of dividends are paid to E ordinary shareholders in cash (the remaining 50 percent reduces the exercise price of the E ordinary shares), the undistributed earnings are allocated between E ordinary shares and ordinary shares based on this proportionate basis. Further, as the Company assumes the conversion of E Ordinary shares in the computation of the diluted net income (loss) per share of Ordinary shares, the undistributed earnings are equal to net income (loss) for the computation.

 

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Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.25

Exploration and evaluation costs

      

The Company expenses all exploration costs until the directors conclude that a future economic benefit is more likely than not of being realized. In evaluating if expenditures meet this criterion to be capitalized, the directors utilize several different sources of information depending on the level of exploration. While the criteria for concluding that expenditure should be capitalized is always probable, the information that the directors use to make that determination depends on the level of exploration.

 

 

Costs on greenfields sites, being those where the Company does not have any mineral deposits which are already being mined or developed, are expensed as incurred until the directors are able to demonstrate that future economic benefits are probable, which generally will be the establishment of proven and probable reserves at this location.

 

 

Costs on brownfields sites, being those adjacent to mineral deposits which are already being mined or developed, are expensed as incurred until the directors are able to demonstrate that future economic benefits are probable, which generally will be the establishment of increased proven and probable reserves after which the expenditure is capitalized as a mine development cost.

 

 

Costs relating to extensions of mineral deposits, which are already being mined or developed, including expenditure on the definition of mineralization of such mineral deposits, are capitalized as mine development costs.

 

      

Costs relating to property acquisitions are capitalized within development costs.

 

      

Drilling and related costs incurred on sites without an existing mine and on areas outside the boundary of a known mineral deposit that contain proven and probable reserves are recorded as exploration expenditures and are expensed as incurred.

 

      

Drilling and related costs incurred to define and delineate a residual mineral deposit that has not been classified as proven and probable reserves at a development stage or production stage mine are capitalized when management determines that there is sufficient evidence that the expenditure will result in a future economic benefit to the Company in the accounting period when the expenditure is made. Management evaluates whether or not there is sufficient geologic and economic certainty of being able to convert a residual mineral deposit into a proven and probable reserve at a development stage or production stage mine, based on the known geologic and metallurgy, existing mining and processing facilities, operating permits and environmental programs. Therefore prior to capitalizing such costs, management determines that the following conditions have been met:

 

  a.

There is a probable future benefit;

  b.

AngloGold Ashanti can obtain the benefit and control access to it; and

  c.

The transaction or event giving rise to it has already occurred.

 

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Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.25

Exploration and evaluation costs (continued)

 

      

The Company understands that there is diversity in practice within the mining industry, in that some companies expense the drilling and related costs incurred to define and delineate residual mineral deposits that have not been classified as proven and probable reserves at a development stage or production stage mine. Had AngloGold Ashanti expensed such costs as incurred, net income, earnings per share and retained earnings would have been lower by the following amounts:

 

 

     2012    2011    2010 

 

Net income ($ millions)

   34     10     27 

Earnings per share - basic (1)(cents)

        

Earnings per share - diluted (2)(cents)

        

Retained income - January 1 ($ millions)

   123     113     86 

Retained income - December 31 ($ millions)

   157     123     113 

 

(1) Impact per basic earnings per common share.

        

(2) Impact per diluted earnings per common share.

        

 

  4.26

Stock-based compensation plans

      

The Company’s management awards certain employees stock options on a discretionary basis.

 

      

The fair value of the stock-based payments is calculated at grant date using an appropriate model. For equity settled stock-based payments, the fair value is determined using a Black-Scholes method and expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period based on the group’s estimate of shares that will eventually vest.

 

      

Option schemes which include non-market vesting conditions have been calculated using the Black-Scholes model. For all other stock-based payments to employees the fair value is determined by reference to the market value of the underlying stock at grant date adjusted for the effects of the relevant terms and conditions.

 

      

For schemes with non-market related vesting conditions, the likelihood of vesting has been taken into account when determining the income statement charge. Vesting assumptions are reviewed during each reporting period.

 

      

Stock options are subject to a three year vesting condition and their fair value is recognized as an employee benefit expense with a corresponding increase in Additional paid in capital over the vesting period. The proceeds received, net of any directly attributable transaction costs are credited to Common stock and Additional paid in capital when the options are exercised.

 

F - 22


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

4.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

  4.27

Recent pronouncements

 

      

Reporting of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income

      

In February 2013, the FASB issued guidance which requires additional disclosure of items reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (“AOCI”). An entity is required to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of AOCI by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of AOCI by the respective line items of net income. For public entities the amendments are effective prospectively for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. Except for presentation changes, the Company does not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

      

Cumulative translation adjustments upon derecognition

      

In March 2013, the FASB issued guidance which indicates that a cumulative translation adjustment (“CTA”) is attached to the parent’s investment in a foreign entity and should be released in a manner consistent with derecognition guidance on investments in entities. For public entities the guidance is effective prospectively for reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2013. The Company does not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

5.

COSTS AND EXPENSES

 

    

Employment severance costs

 

     2012     2011     2010 
     $    $    $

 

South Africa

         19 

Continental Africa

        

Americas

        
  

 

   10     15     23 
  

 

 

    

Employee severance costs were due to retrenchments reflecting downsizing and rationalization of operations resulting in a planned reduction in workforce.

 

    

Interest expense

 

     2012     2011     2010 
          

 

Finance costs on rated bonds and corporate notes (1)

   74     56     38 

Finance costs on convertible bonds (2)

   27     25     22 

Finance costs on mandatory convertible bonds (3)

   47     47     13 

Finance costs on bank loans and overdrafts

   18     10     19 

Unwinding of discount on convertible bonds

   30     28     27 

Amortization of deferred loan fees (4)

   15        20 

Capital lease charges

        

Discounting of non-current trade and other debtors

        

Other

        
  

 

   225     181     151 

Less : Amounts capitalized on qualifying assets

   (12)    (3)   
  

 

   213     178     151 
  

 

 

  (1) 

On April 28, 2010, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc issued $1.0 billion of 10-year and 30-year unsecured notes. The issue consisted of $700 million of 10-year unsecured notes at a semi-annual coupon of 5.375 percent due 2020 and $300 million of 30-year unsecured notes at a semi-annual coupon of 6.5 percent due 2040. On July 30, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc issued $750 million 5.125 percent notes due 2022. See Note 18.

  (2) 

On May 22, 2009, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc issued $732.5 million 3.5 percent guaranteed convertible bonds due May 2014, convertible into ADSs. See Note 18.

  (3) 

In September 2010, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc issued $789 million of mandatory convertible bonds at a coupon rate of 6 percent due in September 2013. See Note 18.

  (4) 

Includes once-off charges of $6 million and $8 million related to the cancellation of debt facilities during 2012 and 2010, respectively.

 

F - 24


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

5.

COSTS AND EXPENSES (continued)

 

    

Impairment of assets

 

    

Impairments are made up as follows:

 

     2012     2011     2010 
     $    $    $

 

South Africa

        

Impairment of Great Noligwa(1)

   42       

Impairment of abandoned development areas at Kopanang mine(2)

   14       

Impairment of abandoned shaft pillar development at TauTona(3)

        

Impairment and write-off of Savuka(4)

         16 

Impairment and write-off of waste wash plant at Kopanang mine(5)

        

Below 120 level at TauTona(6)

         47 

Impairment of Tau Lekoa(7)

        

Continental Africa

        

Impairment and write-off of mine development at Siguiri(8)

   14       

Impairment and write-off of mine infrastructure, development and assets at Obuasi(9)

   296       

Impairment and write-off of vehicles and mining equipment at Obuasi mine

        

Impairment of Iduapriem obsolete tailings storage facility(10)

        

Impairment and write-off of vehicles and heavy mining equipment at Geita mine

        

Impairment and write-off of tailings treatment plant at Obuasi mine(11)

        

Americas

        

Write-off of mining assets at Serra Grande

        

Other

        

Impairment and write-off of various minor tangible assets, mine infrastructure and equipment

        
  

 

   367     17     91 
  

 

 

  (1) 

Due to a change in the mine plan during 2012, resulting from a reduction in reserves from abandonment of certain areas, grade factors and an increase in the cost of extraction, the carrying value of Great Noligwa was written down to an estimated fair value using a pre-tax discount rate of 13 percent.

  (2) 

Due to a change in the mine plan, certain development areas have been abandoned and are not expected to generate future cash flows.

  (3) 

Due to a change in the mine plan resulting from safety related concerns following seismic activity, the VCR shaft pillar and ore pass development have been abandoned and is no longer expected to generate future cash flows.

  (4) 

Due to a further change in the mine plan during 2011, the Savuka assets have been abandoned and are not expected to generate future cash flows.

  (5) 

The use of the waste wash plant was discontinued as it did not yield the desired benefit.

  (6) 

Due to a change in the mine plan resulting from safety related concerns following seismic activity, a portion of the below 120 level development has been abandoned and is not expected to generate future cash flows.

  (7) 

Following the classification of Tau Lekoa as held for sale in 2009, impairment testing was performed on the held for sale asset. As the estimated fair value less costs to sell did not support the carrying value, an impairment was recorded for held for sale assets. The sale of Tau Lekoa was concluded effective August 1, 2010.

  (8) 

Due to depleted reserves in the Sintroko, Kozan and Kintinia pits, costs previously capitalized are not expected to generate future cash flows. Certain areas were also abandoned due to safety-related concerns.

  (9) 

Due to a change in the mine plan, certain areas have been abandoned mainly due to depletion of reserves and assets in poor physical condition or considered obsolete were written-off.

  (10) 

The use of the tailings storage facility was discontinued as no further economic benefit is expected to be derived.

  (11) 

Due to safety related concerns the use of the tailings treatment plant was discontinued.

 

F - 25


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

5.

COSTS AND EXPENSES (continued)

 

    

The following estimates and assumptions were used by management when reviewing goodwill and long-lived assets for impairment:

 

 

the gold price assumption represented management’s best estimate of the future price of gold. In arriving at the estimated long-term gold price, management considered all available market information including current prices, historical averages, and forward pricing curves. The long-term gold price is based on a range of economic and market conditions expected to exist over the remaining useful life of the assets; (1)

 

proven and probable ore reserves as well as value beyond proven and probable reserves estimates. For these purposes proven and probable ore reserves of approximately 74.1 million ounces (including joint ventures) as at December 31, 2012 were determined;

 

the real pre-tax discount rate is commensurate with the risks involved which is consistent with the basis used in 2011. The risk factors considered were country risk as well as asset risk for cash flows relating to mines that are not yet in production and deep level mining projects. The country risk factor was based on the Company’s internal assessment of country risk relative to the issues experienced in the countries in which it operates and explores;

 

foreign currency cash flows were translated at estimated forward exchange rates and then discounted using appropriate discount rates for that currency; and

 

cash flows used in impairment calculations were based on life of mine plans.

 

      

Estimates and assumptions used by management included the following:

 

 

 
        

2012 

$ per ounce

  

2011 

$ per ounce

  

2010 

$ per ounce

 
 

 

 

(1)

 

Long-term real gold price

   1,584     1,530       1,113   

 

    

When reviewing goodwill and other long-lived assets for impairment, AngloGold Ashanti’s assumption on gold price represents its best estimate of the future price of gold. In arriving at the estimated long-term gold price, AngloGold Ashanti considers all available market information including current prices, historical averages, and forward pricing information and data. The long term gold price of $1,584 per ounce in 2012 and $1,530 per ounce in 2011, were based on a range of economic and market conditions, which were expected to exist over the remaining useful life of the assets.

 

    

AngloGold Ashanti considers the long term fundamentals that provide support to the gold price assumption. These include, amongst other things, gold as a long term store of value, hedge against inflation, safe haven status, strong physical demand from emerging markets, central bank purchases, quantitative easing and devaluation of paper currency, falling global mine production and rising costs of producing gold, all of which represent significant and enduring trends supportive of AngloGold Ashanti’s gold price assumption.

 

    

The actual gold price averaged $1,668 per ounce in 2012 and $1,572 per ounce in 2011. The gold price in 2013 has been subject to volatile short term swings and has averaged $1,632 per ounce in the first quarter of 2013 and closed at $1,404 per ounce on April 19, 2013.

 

    

AngloGold Ashanti will continue to monitor the underlying long term factors driving the gold price and will review its gold price assumption, should it consider it appropriate to do so. Should the gold price assumption used in 2012 be revised significantly downward for any reason (by more than 10 percent), goodwill related to Mine Waste Solutions and long-lived assets related to Great Noligwa are most vulnerable to impairment.

 

    

Furthermore, should the gold price fall and remain at such lower levels, management will consider, in addition to other mitigating factors, reviewing and amending the life of mine plans to reduce expenditures, optimize costs and increase cash flows in respect of its mining assets.

 

    

The real pre-tax discount rates applied in the 2012 impairment calculations on reporting units with significant assigned goodwill were as follows:

 

 

     Percentage

 

Australasia

  

Sunrise Dam

   6.1%

Americas

  

Cripple Creek & Victor

   8.2%

 

 

    

In addition to the gold price and discount rate assumptions described above, the factors affecting the estimates include:

 

 

changes in proven and probable ore reserves as well as value beyond proven and probable reserves;

 

the grade of ore reserves as well as value beyond proven and probable reserves may vary significantly from time to time;

 

differences between actual commodity prices and commodity price assumptions;

 

unforeseen operational issues; and

 

changes in capital, operating mining, processing and reclamation costs and foreign exchange rates.

 

F - 26


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

5.

COSTS AND EXPENSES (continued)

 

    

Environmental rehabilitation obligations

    

Long-term environmental obligations comprising decommissioning and restoration are based on the Company’s environmental management plans, in compliance with the current environmental and regulatory requirements.

 

     $

The following is a reconciliation of the total liabilities for asset retirement obligations:

  

Balance as at December 31, 2011

   653 

Additions to liabilities

   14 

Liabilities settled

   (21)

Accretion expense

   33 

Change in assumptions(1)

   50 

Other movements

  

Acquisition of subsidiary(2)

   37 

Translation

   (9)
  

 

Balance as at December 31, 2012

   758 
  

 

 

  (1) 

Revisions relate to an overall average change in mine plans resulting in accelerated cash flows, change in economic assumptions, discount rates and changes in design of tailings storage facilities. These liabilities are anticipated to unwind beyond the end of the life of mine.

  (2) 

Acquisition of First Uranium (Pty) Limited during July 2012. See Note 3.

 

    

These liabilities mainly relate to obligations at the Company’s active and inactive mines to perform reclamation and remediation activities in order to meet applicable existing environmental laws and regulations.

 

    

Certain amounts have been contributed to rehabilitation trusts and an environmental protection bond under the Company’s control. The monies in the trusts and bond are invested primarily in interest bearing debt securities and cash and are included in Other long-term assets in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. Cash balances held in the trusts and bond are classified as restricted cash and are included in Other long-term assets in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. As at December 31, the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of balances held in the trusts and bond were as follows:

 

 
         December 31, 2012      December 31, 2011  
                   
        

Carrying

amount

$

    

Fair value

$

    

Carrying

amount

$

    

Fair value

$

 

 

 

Securities

       115         119         111         114   

Cash

       28         28         22         22   
    

 

 

 
       143         147         133         136   
    

 

 

 

 

    

Operating lease charges

    

Operating lease rentals are charged against income in a systematic manner related to the period the leased property will be used. Lease charges relate mainly to the hire of plant and machinery and other land and buildings.

 

    

Operating leases for plant and machinery are for contracts entered into with mining contractors. The contracts are for specified periods and include escalation clauses. Renewals are at the discretion of the respective operating mine. Certain contracts include the provision of penalties payable on early exiting or cancellation.

 

    

Rental expense(1)

 

    

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

  

2010 

$

 

Comprising of:

        

Minimum rentals

   42     29     23 
  

 

(1)Included in production costs for each period presented.

Future minimum rental payments are:

        

2013

   22       

2014

        

2015

        

2016

        

2017

        

Thereafter

        
  

 

     
   32       
  

 

     

 

F - 27


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

5.

COSTS AND EXPENSES (continued)

 

    

   Loss/(profit) on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

  

 

         

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

  

2010 

$

  

 

   Indirect tax expenses and legal claims(1)    40        17 
   Mining contractor termination and settlement costs(2)    21       
   Impairment of investments    16     21    
   Loss on disposal of land, equipment and assets, mineral rights, exploration properties and other    14        19 
   Reassessment of other receivables       (1)   
   Royalties received(3)    (23)    (79)    (8)
   Profit on disposal of AGA-Polymetal Strategic Alliance(4)    (20)      
   Profit on partial disposal of Rand Refinery Limited(5)    (14)      
   Black economic empowerment transaction restructuring costs for Izingwe Holdings (Proprietary) Limited         
   Insurance claim recovery on capital items at Obuasi       (3)   
   Profit on disposal of the Company’s subsidiary ISS International Limited(6)       (2)   
   Mandatory convertible bonds underwriting and professional fees          26 
   Loss on sale of Tau Lekoa Gold mine(7)         
   Profit on disposal of investments(8)          (52)
   Net insurance claim recovery(9)          (19)
   Recovery on consignment inventory          (5)
     

 

      35     (43)    (3)
     

 

(1)

   Indirect taxes and legal claims are in respect of:         
             Colombia    16       
             Guinea    11        10 
             Ghana    11       
             United States of America         
             Brazil       (1)   
             Argentina    (1)      
             Namibia    (1)      
             Tanzania       (10)   
             South Africa         

(2)

   Mining contractor termination and settlement costs include:         
             Mining and Building Contractors Limited (“MBC”) termination costs at Obuasi    17       
             Contract settlement costs at Siguiri         
             Contractor termination costs at Geita         

(3)

   Royalties received include:         
             Newmont Mining Corporation (2009 sale of Boddington Gold mine)    (18)    (38)    (4)
             Franco Nevada Corporation (2011 sale of royalty stream in Ayanfuri mine)       (35)   
             Simmers & Jack Mines Limited (2010 sale of Tau Lekoa Gold mine)    (5)    (5)    (3)
             Other royalties       (1)    (1)

(4)

  

On February 8, 2012, the transaction to dispose of the AGA-Polymetal Strategic Alliance consisting of AGA-Polymetal Strategic Alliance Management Company Holdings Limited, Amikan Holding Limited, AS APK Holdings Limited, Imitzoloto Holdings Limited and Yeniseiskaya Holdings Limited to Polyholding Limited was completed. These assets were fully impaired as at December 31, 2011.

        

(5)

  

On December 3, 2012, the Company disposed of a 5 percent stake in Rand Refinery Limited. See Note 3.

        

(6)

  

ISS International Limited (“ISSI”) was classified as held for sale in 2010. The sale was concluded on February 28, 2011.

        

(7)

  

The sale of Tau Lekoa Gold mine was concluded effective August 1, 2010.

        

(8)

  

Profit on disposal of investments include:

        
  

          B2Gold Corporation (Colombia)

         (45)
  

          Red 5 Limited (Australia)

         (7)

(9)

  

Includes business interruption insurance following a seismic event which resulted in the suspension of operations at Savuka Gold mine (in South Africa) during 2009. The Company recovered $46 million from its insurers. Amounts received included:

        
  

          Business interruption recoveries

         (19)
  

          Reimbursement of costs (included in Production costs)

         (16)

 

F - 28


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

5.

COSTS AND EXPENSES (continued)

 

    

Non-hedge derivative (gain)/loss and movement on bonds

 

    

Non-hedge derivative (gain)/loss

 

    

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

  

2010 

$

 

(Gain)/loss on non-hedge derivatives

   (93)    (83)    703

 

    

The net gain recorded for the year ended December 31, 2012 relates to the fair value movements of the conversion features of convertible bonds amounting to $83 million (see Note 18), movements on other commodity contracts and the revaluation of non-hedge derivatives resulting from changes in the prevailing forward gold price, exchange rates, interest rates and volatilities during the year, amounting to a gain of $10 million.

 

    

The net gain recorded for the year ended December 31, 2011 mainly relates to the fair value movements of the conversion features of convertible bonds amounting to $84 million (see Note 18).

 

    

During 2010, the Company eliminated its gold hedge book. The loss of scheduled hedge book maturities during 2010 was $277 million. Loss on non-hedge derivatives includes a realized loss of $2,698 million relating to the final tranche of the accelerated hedge buy-back that commenced in September 2010 and was concluded on October 7, 2010. The final phase of the hedge restructuring was funded with proceeds from the equity offering (see Note 21) and the three-year mandatory convertible bonds (see Note 18) issued in September, as well as cash from internal sources and debt facilities.

 

    

Effects of the accelerated hedge settlements

 

 

   

        2012 

$

   

        2011 

$

   

2010 

$

 

Accelerated hedge settlement of non-hedge derivatives

                2,698 

Previously designated NPSE contracts

                405 

Other non-hedge derivative contracts

                2,293 

 

    

As a result of the accelerated cash settlement of the normal purchase and sale exempted (“NPSE”) contracts during July 2009, the FASB ASC guidance on derivatives and hedging necessitated a review of the continuing designation of, and accounting treatment for, the remaining NPSE contracts that were not part of the accelerated settlement. Management concluded, in accordance with the provisions of the FASB ASC guidance, to re-designate all remaining NPSE contracts as non-hedge derivatives and to account for such contracts at fair value on the balance sheet with changes in fair value accounted for in the income statement.

 

    

The hedge buy-back and re-designation of contracts effected in 2009 resulted in an increase in current non-hedge derivative liabilities and a consequential loss on non-hedge derivatives. During 2010, all the contracts that were previously designated as NPSE were closed out and recorded as a non-hedge derivative loss.

 

    

Movement on bonds

 

    

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

  

2010 

$

 

Fair value (gain)/loss on mandatory convertible bonds (See Note 18)

   (172)    (113)    83

 

F - 29


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

6.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

    

The Company had the following transactions with related parties during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010:

 

     December 31, 2012      December 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
  

 

 

    

Purchases

(by)/from

      related party

    

Amounts

owed to/(by)

related party

    

Purchases

(by)/from

related party

    

Amounts

owed to/(by)

related party

    

Purchases

(by)/from

related party

(in millions)    $      $      $      $      $

 

Purchases of goods and services (by)/from equity accounted joint ventures and associates

              
Margaret Water Company                                 
Societe d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Sadiola S.A.      (14)         (2)         (12)         (2)       (8)
Societe d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Yatela S.A.      (1)                 (2)         (1)       (3)
Societe des Mines de Morila S.A.      (3)                 (4)               (8)
Trans-Siberian Gold plc                                   
  

 

 

     (14)         (2)         (12)         (3)       (15)
  

 

 

 

    

Amounts due by joint venture and associate related parties arising from purchases of goods and services are unsecured and non-interest bearing. See Note 10.

 

    

As at December 31, 2012 and 2011, there are no outstanding balances arising from purchases of goods and services owed to related parties.

 

    

Loans due by equity accounted joint ventures and associates included in Other long-term assets

 

 

         

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

 

Oro Group (Proprietary) Limited (1)

      2   

AuruMar (Proprietary) Limited (joint venture) (2)

      2   

Societe d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Sadiola S.A. (joint venture) (3)

      36   

Societe d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Yatela S.A. (joint venture) (4)

      -   

Trans-Siberian Gold plc (5)

      -   

Thani Ashanti Alliance Limited (joint venture) (6)

      -    20 

 

  (1) 

The loan bears a market related interest rate determined by the Oro Group (Proprietary) Limited’s board of directors and is repayable at its discretion.

  (2) 

The loan is interest free and has no fixed terms of repayment.

  (3) 

The loan is repayable on demand and bears interest at a margin of 2 percent over the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) per annum.

  (4) 

A loan of $12 million granted during 2012 was fully impaired during the year. The loan, included in the carrying amount of the joint venture, was repayable on demand and carried interest at a margin of 2 percent over LIBOR per annum.

  (5) 

The loan was unsecured, carried interest at 8 percent per annum and was converted into ordinary shares during April 2012.

  (6) 

The loan was repayable in December 2012 but due to non-payment it was fully impaired. A write-off of $37 million is included in equity income in associates.

 

    

There are no allowances for credit losses relating to the loans described above. Credit quality of loans is monitored on an ongoing basis.

 

    

As at December 31, 2012 and 2011, there are no outstanding balances arising from loans owed to related parties.

 

F - 30


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

7.

TAXATION

 

 

         2012     2011     2010 
              

 

Income/(loss) from continuing operations before income tax and equity income in associates was derived from the following jurisdictions:

        
 

    South Africa

   363     813     203 
 

    Continental Africa

   316     745     391 
 

    Australasia

   (16)    (25)    (149)
 

    Americas

   627     690     282 
 

    Other, including Corporate and Non-gold producing subsidiaries (1)

   (79)    (102)    (346)
    

 

     1,211     2,121     381 
    

 

(1)

  The decrease in 2011 over 2010 is mainly due to fair value movements on the mandatory convertible and rated bonds.         

(Charge)/benefit for income taxes attributable to continuing operations is as follows:

        
Current:         
      South Africa(1)    (70)    (128)    106 
      Continental Africa(2)    (218)    (146)    (81)
      Australasia(3)    10        (36)
      Americas(4)    (131)    (124)    (106)
      Other    (5)    (8)   
    

 

Total current

   (414)    (406)    (117)
    

 

(1)

 

The lower tax charge in 2012 is mainly due to the lower earnings as a result of safety stoppages and the unprotected strike action at the South African operations. The increase in the tax charge in 2011 is mainly due to higher income and non-hedge derivative losses having been fully utilized during the year. The tax benefit in 2010 is mainly related to tax benefits on losses relating to the early hedge settlement and tax benefits relating to prior years.

        

(2)

 

The increase in the tax charge in 2012 is mainly due to withholding taxes on dividends and higher earnings at Geita from an improved gold price, whilst 2011 was lower due to the utilization of tax losses. The higher taxes relative to lower earnings is mainly due to the impairment and write-off of assets at Obuasi of $296 million, the tax benefit of which is reflected under deferred taxes.

        

(3)

 

The tax credit in 2012 is due to an adjustment related to the 2011 tax assessment. The lower tax charge in 2011 is due to lower earnings resulting from flooding and the ramp failure which severely affected all aspects of the operation at Sunrise Dam during 2011.

        

(4)

 

The increase in the tax charge in 2012 is mainly due to Annual Minimum Tax payable by Cripple Creek & Victor in North America. The increase in the tax charge in 2011 mainly relates to higher earnings in line with the improved gold price.

        

 

Mining tax on mining income in South Africa is determined according to a formula which adjusts the tax rate in accordance with the ratio of profit to revenue from operations. This formula also allows an initial portion of mining income to be free of tax. Non-mining income is taxed at a standard rate.

        
        

Deferred:

        
 

    South Africa(1)

   86     (212)    (119)
 

    Continental Africa(2)

   14     (93)    (19)
 

    Australasia

   (6)       (1)
 

    Americas(3)

   (21)       (1)
 

    Other

        
    

 

Total deferred

   74     (299)    (138)
    

 

          
    

 

Total income and mining tax expense

   (340)    (705)    (255)
    

 

(1)

 

The lower tax charge in 2012 includes a tax benefit of $134 million resulting from changes in enacted statutory tax rates and $8 million from changes in estimated deferred taxation rate. The increase in the tax charge in 2011 is mainly due to the reversal of deferred tax credits on losses utilized. The tax charge in 2010 included the reversal of deferred tax on unrealized non-hedge derivative losses.

        

(2)

 

The decrease in the tax charge in 2012 is mainly due to tax credits on impairments at Obuasi of $89 million, partly offset by the increase in enacted statutory taxation rate change in Ghana (capped at 30 percent in terms of a special tax rate Stability Agreement) of $62 million. The increase in the tax charge in 2011 is mainly due to the reversal of deferred tax credits from the utilization of tax losses at Geita.

        

(3)

 

The lower deferred tax charge is partly due to deferred tax credits arising from a corporate restructuring of Serra Grande of $59 million.

        

 

F - 31


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

7.

TAXATION (continued)

 

Estimated deferred taxation rates in South Africa reflect the future anticipated taxation rates at the time temporary differences reverse.         
During 2012, 2011 and 2010, deferred taxation in South Africa was provided at the future anticipated taxation rates ranging as follows:         

 

     2012     2011     2010 

 

Maximum anticipated deferred taxation rate

   30%    39%    38%

Minimum anticipated deferred taxation rate

   28%    36%    35%

The effect of the change in estimated deferred taxation rate in South Africa on the results for 2012, 2011 and 2010 were as follows:

 

 

        Year ended December 31
   

 

 

        2012     2011     2010      

 

             

Per basic

and diluted

common

         

Per basic

and diluted

common

         

Per basic

and diluted

common

     
      Impact        share (a)(b)      Impact        share (a)(b)      Impact        share (a)(b)   
        $     cents     $     cents     $     cents      

 

Net benefit/(expense)

      8       2        (11)       (3)        8       2     
   

 

 

(a)     Per basic and diluted ordinary and E ordinary shares.

               

(b)     The calculation of diluted earnings per common share did not assume the effect of the following number of shares as their effects are anti-dilutive.

               

 

 

 
     2012      2011      2010  

 

 

Issuable upon the exercise of convertible bonds

     -         -         33,524,615  

 

    

Unutilized tax losses

 

    

Unutilized tax losses as at December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 amounted to:

 

 

     2012     2011     2010 
     $    $    $

 

Unutilized tax losses(1)(2)

   691     469     1,356 

(1)     Increase in unutilized operating loss carryforwards in 2012 mainly relates to Colombia and Brazil. Decrease in unutilized operating loss carryforwards in 2011 over 2010 are due to utilization of losses in South Africa, Tanzania, North America and Brazil.

        

(2)     The prior period comparatives have been adjusted to include unutilized tax losses in Colombia of $148 million and $156 million for 2011 and 2010, respectively.

        
Unutilized operating loss carryforwards remaining to be used against future profits can be split into the following periods:         

Within one year

   143       

Within one and two years

   93       

Within two and five years

   111       

In excess of five years

   344       
  

 

     
   691       
  

 

     

 

F - 32


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

7.

TAXATION (continued)

 

    

Reconciliation between corporate income tax and statutory income tax is as follows:

 

 

        

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

  

2010 

$

 

Corporate income tax at statutory rates

   (339)    (742)    (133)

Formula variation in mining taxation rate

      (7)   

Disallowable items(1)

   (38)    (37)    (89)

(Increase)/reversal of valuation allowances(2)

   (17)    42    

Effect of income tax rates of other countries

   (38)    50     (46)

Impact of change in estimated deferred taxation rate

      (11)   

Impact of change in statutory taxation rate

   72       

Other

         (1)
    

 

Total income and mining tax expense

   (340)    (705)    (255)
    

 

(1)    

Disallowable items include the impact of hedge losses in non-taxable jurisdictions and share expense costs.

        
(2)    

The prior period comparatives have been adjusted to include unutilized tax losses in Colombia.

        

 

    

Deferred taxation liabilities and assets on the balance sheet as at December 31, 2012 and 2011, relate to the following:

 

 

         

2012 

  

2011 

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

        

        Depreciation, depletion and amortization

      1,578     1,611 

        Product inventory not taxed

      58     24 

        Derivatives

        

        Other

      15    
     

 

Total

      1,653     1,648 
     

 

Deferred tax assets:

        

        Provisions, including rehabilitation accruals

      (465)    (389)

        Derivatives

      (1)    (1)

        Other

      (18)    (28)

        Tax loss carry forwards (1)

      (220)    (118)
     

 

Total

      (704)    (536)

Less: Valuation allowances (1)

      115     56 
     

 

Total

      (589)    (480)
     

 

Disclosed as follows:

        

        Long-term portion deferred taxation assets

      39     14 

        Short-term portion deferred taxation assets

      74     75 

        Long-term portion deferred taxation liabilities

      1,157     1,242 

        Short-term portion classified as other current liabilities. See Note 17.

      20     15 

 

(1)    The prior period comparatives have been adjusted to include unutilized tax losses in Colombia.

        

The classification of deferred taxation assets is based on the related asset or liability creating the deferred taxation. Deferred taxes not related to a specific asset or liability are classified based on the estimated period of reversal. As at December 31, the Company’s losses in South Africa, on which deferred tax had been provided at the anticipated tax rate to be utilized are noted as follows:

        

 

          2012    2011 

 

South Africa

        

Losses ($ millions)

      2   

Deferred tax at the anticipated tax rate to be utilized (percent)

      29    37 

 

F - 33


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

7.

TAXATION (continued)

 

Unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries and foreign incorporated joint ventures

       

 

Provision has been made for South African income tax or foreign taxes that may result from future remittances of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries or foreign corporate joint ventures, where the group is able to assert that the undistributed earnings are not permanently reinvested. In all other cases, the foreign subsidiaries reinvest the undistributed earnings into future capital expansion projects, maintenance capital and ongoing working capital funding requirements. In the event that the Company repatriated these earnings, income taxes and withholding taxes may be incurred. The determination of such taxes is subject to various complex calculations and accordingly, the Company has determined that it is impractical to estimate the amount of the deferred tax liability on such unremitted earnings. The amounts of these unremitted earnings are as follows:

     

 

        

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

 

Unremitted earnings as at December 31

     1,649     1,812 

 

    

Analysis of valuation allowances

 

    

The movement in valuation allowances for the three years in the period ended December 31, is summarized as follows:

 

 

     Balance at beginning              Balance at end of
   of period       Movement (1)    period
     $         $    $

 

Year ended December 31, 2012

           

- Valuation allowance

   56        59     115 

Year ended December 31, 2011

           

- Valuation allowance

   177        (121)    56 

Year ended December 31, 2010

           

- Valuation allowance

   194        (17)    177 

 

(1)     The prior period comparatives have been adjusted to include valuation allowances in Colombia of $49 million and $52 million for 2011 and 2010, respectively.

  

 

The deferred tax assets for the respective periods were assessed for recoverability and, where applicable, a valuation allowance recorded to reduce the total deferred tax asset to an amount that will, more-likely-than-not, be realized. The valuation allowance relates primarily to certain net operating loss carryforwards, tax credit carryforwards and deductible temporary differences for which it is more-likely-than-not that these items will not be realized.

   

 

Although realization is not assured, the Company has concluded that it is more-likely-than-not that the deferred tax assets for which a valuation allowance was determined to be unnecessary will be realized based on the available evidence, including scheduling of deferred tax liabilities and projected income from operating activities. The amount of the net deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could change in the near term if actual future income or income tax rates differ from that estimated, or if there are differences in the timing or amount of future reversals of existing taxable or deductible temporary differences.

   

 

F - 34


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

7.

TAXATION (continued)

 

    

Uncertain tax positions

 

    

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits, is as follows:

 

 

        

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

 

Balance at January 1,

     78     52 

Additions for tax positions of prior years

     17     38 

Reductions for tax position of prior years

        (3)

Translation

     (2)    (9)
    

 

Balance at December 31,

     93     78 
    

 

Unrecognized tax benefits are summarized as follows:

       

Recognized as a reduction of deferred tax assets

     40     29 

Recognized in other non-current liabilities (See Note 17) (1)

     53     49 
    

 

Balance at December 31,

     93     78 
    

 

 

(1)  Unrecognized tax benefits which, if recognized, would affect the Company’s effective tax rate.

     

The Company’s continuing practice is to recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as part of its income tax expense. For the years ended and as at December 31, interest recognized and interest accrued amounted to:

 

     

 

   

2012             

$            

  

2011 

$

  

2010 

$

 

Interest recognized

  3                   

Interest accrued as at December 31

  14                 12    

As at December 31, 2012, the Company’s South African tax assessments for the years 2004 – 2012 remain open to scrutiny by the South African Revenue Service.

     

 

In other jurisdictions, the revenue system is based on a self-assessment process, all tax filings due by December 31, 2012 have been filed, and the self-assessed position recorded in the consolidated financial statements. The legislation of individual jurisdictions provides for different periods for the authorities to review the filings with specified expiry dates. The Company is disputing assessments received in some jurisdictions where it operates and these arguments are under consideration by the authorities. Based on current legal advice, the Company does not expect the resolution will significantly affect the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

     

 

F - 35


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

8.

INCOME PER COMMON SHARE

     

 

2012

$

   

2011

$

   

2010

$

 
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted income per share (in millions, except per share data):       

Ordinary shares undistributed income

     612       1,289       45   

E Ordinary shares undistributed income

     2       5         
  

 

 

 

Total undistributed income

     614       1,294       45   
  

 

 

 

Ordinary shares distributed income

     214       131       67   

E Ordinary shares distributed income

     1       -          
  

 

 

 

Total distributed income(1)

     215       131       67   
  

 

 

 

Numerator - Net income

      

Attributable to Ordinary shares

     826       1,420       112   

Attributable to E Ordinary shares

     3       5         
  

 

 

 

Total attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

     829       1,425       112   
  

 

 

 

In calculating diluted income per ordinary share, the following were taken into consideration:

      

Income attributable to equity shareholders

     826       1,420       112   

Interest expense on convertible bonds

     74       72         

Amortization of issue cost and discount on convertible bonds

     32       31         

Fair value adjustment on convertible bonds included in income

     (255     (197       
  

 

 

 

Income used in calculation of diluted earnings per ordinary share

     677       1,326       112   
  

 

 

 

Denominator for basic income per ordinary share

      

Ordinary shares

           382,757,790           381,621,687           367,664,700   

Fully vested options(2)

     1,616,239       1,389,122       1,023,459   
  

 

 

 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares

     384,374,029       383,010,809       368,688,159   

Effect of dilutive potential ordinary shares

      

Dilutive potential of stock incentive options

     1,840,199       1,572,015       1,569,606   

Dilutive potential of convertible bonds(3)

     33,524,615       33,524,615         

Dilutive potential of E Ordinary shares(4)

     -        -          
  

 

 

 

Denominator for diluted income per share – adjusted weighted average number of ordinary shares and assumed conversions

     419,738,843       418,107,439       370,257,765   
  

 

 

 

Weighted average number of E Ordinary shares used in calculation of basic and diluted income per E Ordinary share

     2,392,316       2,950,804       3,182,662   
  

 

 

 

Income per share attributable to AngloGold Ashanti common stockholders (cents)

      

Net income per share

      

Ordinary shares(5)

     215       371       30   

E Ordinary shares

     108       185       15   

Ordinary shares – diluted

     161       317       30   

E Ordinary shares – diluted(6)

     84       160       15   
  

 

 

 

(1)        Withholding tax on dividends and other distributions to shareholders of 15 percent became effective on April 1, 2012. The withholding tax, which was announced by the South African government on February 21, 2007, replaced the Secondary Tax on Companies.

      

(2)        Compensation awards are included in the calculation of basic income per common share from when the necessary conditions have been met, and it is virtually certain that shares will be issued as a result of employees exercising their options.

      

The calculation of diluted income per common share did not assume the effect of the following number of shares as their effects are anti-dilutive:

      

(3)          Issuable upon the exercise of convertible bonds

         33,524,615  

(4)        Issuable upon the conversion of E Ordinary shares

     246,665       343,716    

(5)        The mandatory convertible bonds issued during 2010 are not included in basic income per common share as they contain features that could result in their settlement in cash and therefore do not meet the definition of an equity instrument.

      

(6)         The prior period comparatives have been adjusted to take into account the earnings effect of the convertible bonds.

      

The effect of rounding may result in computational differences.

      

 

F - 36


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

9.

RESTRICTED CASH

 

     

                2012

$

    

            2011 

Cash classified as restricted for use comprise of the following:

     

Cash restricted by prudential solvency requirements

     11     

Cash balances held by the Tropicana project

     23      22 

Other

     1     
  

 

 

     35      35 
  

 

 

 

Long-term restricted cash balances are included in Other long-term assets (See Note 15).

     

 

10.

OTHER RECEIVABLES

 

    

                  2012

$

   

              2011 

Other receivables include:

   

Prepayments and accrued income

    86     80 

Interest receivable

    1    

Related parties. See Note 6.

    2    

Exploration debtors

    4    

Royalties receivable

    -     14 

Short-term loans

    45     12 

Deferred loan fees

    2    

Other debtors

    5     11 
 

 

 

    145     135 
 

 

 

 

11.

INVENTORIES

 

    

                   2012

$

   

           2011 

Short-term:

   

Metals in process

    267     189  

Gold on hand (doré/bullion)

    91     94  

Ore stockpiles

    512     454  

Uranium oxide and sulfuric acid

    11     24  

Supplies

    412     296  
 

 

 

    1,293     1,057  

Less: Materials on the leach pad(1)

    (128   (98) 
 

 

 

    1,165     959  
 

 

 

(1)    Short-term portion relating to heap leach inventory classified separately, as materials on the leach pad.

   

Long-term:

   

Metals in process

    445     393  

Ore stockpiles(2)

    180     31  
 

 

 

    625     424  

Less: Materials on the leach pad(3)

    (445   (393) 
 

 

 

    180     31  
 

 

 

(2)     Includes long-term ore stockpiles of First Uranium (Pty) Limited acquired on July 20, 2012.

   

(3)     Long-term portion relating to heap leach inventory classified separately, as materials on the leach pad.

   
The aggregate write-down of inventory to reduce the carrying value to net realizable value for the years ended December 31 were as follows:    

 

     

2012

$

   

           2011

$

   

              2010 

Inventory write-downs (included in production costs)

     5       4     21

 

F - 37


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

12.

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET

 

 

 
     2012       2011   
     $      $  

 

 

Mine development

     7,185         6,652   

Buildings and mine infrastructure

     4,686         3,613   

Mineral rights and dumps

     916         1,023   

Assets under construction

     1,074         522   

Land

     51         41   
  

 

 

 
             13,912                 11,851   

Accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization

     (6,677)         (5,728)   
  

 

 

 

Net book value December 31,

     7,235         6,123   
  

 

 

 

Net book value of mining assets encumbered by capital leases (See Note 18).

     59         67   

 

13.

ACQUIRED PROPERTIES, NET

 

 

 
     2012       2011   
     $      $  

 

 

Acquired properties, at cost

               1,976                   2,010   

Accumulated amortization

     (1,228)         (1,231)   
  

 

 

 

Net book value December 31,

     748         779   
  

 

 

 

 

F - 38


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

14.

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES

Goodwill

The carrying amount of goodwill by reporting unit as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 and changes in the carrying amount of goodwill are summarized as follows:

                   
    

South Africa

$

   

Americas

$

   

Australasia

$

   

Continental

Africa

$

   

Total

$

Balance at January 1, 2011

          18        151        11      180 

Translation

                          

Balance at December 31, 2011

          18        153        11      182 

First Uranium (Pty) Limited acquisition (1)

                           

Translation

                          

Balance at December 31, 2012

          18        155        11      193 

(1)  See Note 3.

         

Net carrying amount of goodwill as at December 31, 2012 and 2011 is reconciled as follows:

 

         

- Gross carrying amount

          18        155        310      492 

- Accumulated impairment losses

                        (299)      (299)

Net carrying amount as at December 31, 2012

          18        155        11      193 

- Gross carrying amount

          18        153        310      481 

- Accumulated impairment losses

                        (299)      (299)

Net carrying amount as at December 31, 2011

          18        153        11      182 

 

Other intangibles, net

         
           

Royalty rate

concession

agreement (2)

$

   

Software and

licenses (3)

$

   

Service

agreements

$

   

Total

$

Gross carrying value at January 1, 2011

      30                  30 

Additions

            16            16 

Accumulated amortization

      (15)                  (15)

Balance at December 31, 2011

      15        16            31 

Gross carrying value at January 1, 2012

      30        16            46 

Additions

            78            85 

Accumulated amortization

      (17)                  (17)

Translation

            (2)            (2)

Balance at December 31, 2012

      13        92            112 

(2)  The government of Ghana agreed to a concession on royalty payments at a fixed rate of 3 percent per year for a period of fifteen years from 2004.

             

       

(3)  During 2011, the Company undertook the implementation of an Enterprise Resource Plan (“ERP”) system. Phase 1 of the ERP was brought into use in February 2013.

                

       

The royalty rate concession, software and licenses and service agreements are amortized on a straight line basis with nil residual value. The amortization expense included in the consolidated statements of income were as follows:

                     

 

                2012      2011      2010 
                $     $     $

 

Royalty rate concession amortization expense

                 

Software and licenses amortization expense (4)

                 

Service agreements amortization expense (5)

                 

(4)  No amortization expense was recorded for purchased software and licenses as these have not been brought into use.

             

       

(5)  Less than $1 million in 2012.

      

       

 

F - 39


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

14.

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES (continued)

 

Based on carrying value at December 31, 2012, the estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the next five years is as follows:      
    

Royalty rate
concession
agreement

$

 

    Software and
licenses

$

 

Service
    agreements

$

2013

    28   

2014

    31   

2015

    31   

2016

     

2017

     
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

F - 40


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

15.

OTHER LONG-TERM ASSETS

 

 

 

           

        2012 

$

 

2011 

$

 

 

 

 

Investments in associates - unlisted

    63   
 

Investments in associates - listed

    18    15 
 

Investments in equity accounted joint ventures

    972    671 
     

 

 

Carrying value of equity method investments

    1,053    691 
 

Investment in marketable equity securities – available for sale

    69    82 
 

Investment in marketable debt securities – held to maturity

     
 

Investment in non-marketable equity securities – available for sale

     
 

Investment in non-marketable assets – held to maturity

     
 

Investment in non-marketable debt securities – held to maturity

    86    85 
 

Restricted cash

    29    23 
 

Other non-current assets

    111    101 
     

 

      1,360    1,001 
     

 

   

 

Investments in associates

           
 

 

           

December 31,
2012

percentage
held

 

December 31,
2011

percentage
held

 

 

 

Unlisted

     
 

South Africa

     
 

Rand Refinery Limited(1)

    48.03   -
 

Oro Group (Proprietary) Limited(2)

    36.00   25.00
 

Margaret Water Company

    33.33   33.33
 

Listed

     
 

Other

     
 

Trans-Siberian Gold plc(2)(3)

    31.17   30.90
 

Mariana Resources Limited(2)(4)(5)

    19.86   19.86
       
 

 

       

2012 

$

 

2011 

$

 

2010 

$

 

 

(1)

 

Rand Refinery Limited is equity accounted as at December 31, 2012. See Note 3. Subsequent to year-end, the Company disposed of an additional 4.24 percent interest in Rand Refinery Limited. See Note 29.

     

(2)

 

Results are included to September 30, 2012, adjusted for material transactions.

     

(3)

 

Market value of the Company’s investment in Trans-Siberian Gold plc as at December 31

  22   35   33

(4)

 

Market value of the Company’s investment in Mariana Resources Limited as at December 31

  3   7   -

(5)

 

The Company acquired its stake in Mariana Resources Limited for $8 million during December 2011 and accounts for it using the equity method as it has the right to representation on the Mariana Resources Limited board of directors and is therefore considered to have significant influence in the company.

     

 

F - 41


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

15.

OTHER LONG-TERM ASSETS (continued)

 

 

Investments in equity accounted joint ventures

     
 

The Company holds the following interests in incorporated mining joint ventures, of which the significant financial operating policies are, by contractual arrangement, jointly controlled:

     
 

 

           

December 31,
2012

percentage
held

 

December 31,
2011

percentage
held

 

 

 

South Africa

     
 

AuruMar (Proprietary) Limited

    50.00   50.00
 

Continental Africa

     
 

Société d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Sadiola S.A.

    41.00   41.00
 

Société des Mines de Morila S.A.

    40.00   40.00
 

Société d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Yatela S.A.

    40.00   40.00
 

Kibali Goldmines s.p.r.l.

    45.00   45.00
 

Other

     
 

AGA-Polymetal Strategic Alliance(1)

    -   50.00
 

Thani Ashanti Alliance Limited

    50.00   50.00

(1)

 

The AGA-Polymetal Strategic Alliance consisting of the AGA-Polymetal Strategic Alliance Management Company Holdings Limited, Amikan Holding Limited (“Amikan”), AS APK Holdings Limited, Imizoloto Holdings Limited and Yeniseiskaya Holdings Limited were disposed of during February 2012. See Note 5.

   
   

 

Impairments of associates and equity accounted joint ventures(2)

 

 

The Company recognized the following impairments which are included in equity income in associates:

 

     
 

 

        Year ended December 31,
                    2012    2011    2010 
   

 

        $   $   $
 

 

 

Associates

     
 

Mariana Resources Limited(3)

     
 

Margaret Water Company(4)

     
 

Orpheo (Proprietary) Limited(5)(6)

     
 

Equity accounted joint ventures

     
 

Thani Ashanti Alliance Limited(7)

  37     
 

Société d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Yatela S.A.(5)

     
 

AGA-Polymetal Strategic Alliance(5)

      23 
   

 

    45    10    24 
   

 

(2)

 

The impairments recognized had no tax effects.

     

(3)

 

The carrying amount of the listed associate was written down to fair value.

     

(4)

 

Contributions to the investment during 2012, 2011 and 2010 were impaired in full.

     

(5)

 

Investments fully impaired.

     

(6)

 

Sold effective July 1, 2011.

     

(7)

 

Loan impaired in full. See Note 6.

     

 

F - 42


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

15.

OTHER LONG-TERM ASSETS (continued)

 

 

         

2012 

$

 

2011 

$

 

Investment in marketable equity securities – available for sale

       
Available for sale investments in marketable equity securities consists of investments in ordinary shares and collective investment schemes.        

Cost

      50    51 

Gross unrealized gains

      21    34 

Gross unrealized losses

      (2)   (3)
     

 

Fair value (net carrying value)

      69    82 
     

 

Other-than-temporary impairments and disposals of marketable equity securities – available for sale

 

     Year ended December 31,
  

 

     2012     2011    2010 
     $    $   $

 

Other-than-temporary impairments

       

First Uranium Corporation (South Africa)

      19   

Stratex International plc (Isle of Man)

       

Commander Resources Limited (Isle of Man)

       

Laurentian Goldfields Limited (Isle of Man)

       

Village Main Reef Limited (South Africa)

       

Corvus Gold Incorporated (United States of America)

       
  

 

      21   
  

 

The impairments recognized resulted in a transfer of fair value adjustments previously included in accumulated other comprehensive income to the income statement. See Note 5.

       

Disposals of marketable equity securities

       

 

The Company’s disposals of marketable equity securities resulted in the following reclassification of losses/(gains) of fair value adjustments to the income statement:

       

Equity investments held by the Environmental Rehabilitation Trust Fund (net of tax of $nil million)

      1  

B2Gold Corporation (net of tax of $nil million)

        (47)

Red5 Limited (net of tax of $2 million)

        (4)
  

 

      1   (51)
  

 

In addition, the Company holds various equities as strategic investments in gold exploration companies. Four of the strategic investments are in an unrealized loss position and the Company has the intent and ability to hold these investments until the losses are recovered.

    

The following tables present the gross unrealized losses and fair value of the Company’s investments with unrealized losses that are not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, aggregated by length of time that the individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position:

 

    

 

    

Less than
12 months

$

  

More than
12 months

$

 

Total

$

 

2012

       

Aggregate fair value of investments with unrealized losses

   27       27 

Aggregate unrealized losses

   (2)      (2)

2011

       

Aggregate fair value of investments with unrealized losses

       

Aggregate unrealized losses

   (3)      (3)

 

F - 43


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

15.

OTHER LONG-TERM ASSETS (continued)

 

  

 

               2012     2011 
               $    $
  

 

  

Investment in marketable debt securities - held to maturity

        
  

Investments in marketable debt securities represent held to maturity government bonds held by the Environmental Rehabilitation Trust Fund with a total fair value of $11 million (2011: $11 million) and gross unrealized gains of $4 million (2011: $3 million).

        
  

Investment in non-marketable equity securities - available for sale

        
  

The non-marketable equity investments mainly represent shares held in XDM Resources Limited.(1)

        
  

Investment in non-marketable assets - held to maturity

        
  

Investments in non-marketable assets represent secured loans and receivables secured by pledge of assets.

        
  

Investment in non-marketable debt securities - held to maturity

      86     85 
  

Investments in non-marketable debt securities represent the held to maturity fixed-term deposits required by legislation for the Environmental Rehabilitation Trust Fund and Nufcor Uranium Trust Fund.

        
  

As at December 31, 2012 the contractual maturities of debt securities were as follows:

        
  

 

Marketable debt securities

        
  

Less than one year

        
  

After ten years

        
        

 

  
           
        

 

  
  

Non-marketable debt securities

        
  

Less than one year

      86    
        

 

  
  

Restricted cash

      29     23 
  

Restricted cash mainly represent cash balances held by environmental rehabilitation trust funds and an environmental protection bond.

        
  

Financing receivables

        
  

Loans to equity accounted joint ventures and associates of $40 million (2011: $29 million) are disclosed in Note 6.

        
  

 

Other non-current assets

        
  

Unsecured

        
  

Other loans and assets(2)

        
  

 

Non-current debtors

        
  

Prepayments and accrued income

      31     22 
  

Recoverable tax, rebates, levies and duties

      20     14 
  

Reclamation sites trust fund

      20     29 
  

Unamortized issue costs of long-term debt, bonds and syndicated revolving credit facilities

      33     26 
  

Other debtors

        
        

 

         111    101
        

 

(1)

  

During 2012, XDM Resources Limited was impaired by $7 million due to a significant decline in value. The fair value of this non-marketable equity investment was based on a share price of C$0.25 per share, being the issue price obtained in a private equity raising which was completed during December 2012. During 2011, the fair value could not be estimated as there were no identified events or changes in circumstances that would have had a significant adverse effect on fair value of the investment and therefore it was not practicable to estimate the fair value of the investment. See Note 5.

        

(2)

  

Other comprises the following:

        
  

Loans and receivables measured at amortized cost

        
  

Post-retirement assets measured according to the employee benefits accounting policy

        

 

F - 44


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

15.

OTHER LONG-TERM ASSETS (continued)

 

    

Equity accounted joint ventures

 

Summarized financial statements of the joint ventures which have been equity accounted are as follows (100 percent shown):

    

 

 

     2012     2011    2010 
     $    $   $

 

Statements of income for the period

       

Sales and other income

   886     966    823 

Costs and expenses

   (828)    (679)   (528)

Taxation

   (78)    (120)   (126)
  

 

Net (loss)/income

   (20)    167    169 
  

 

Balance sheets as at December 31

       

Non-current assets

   2,019     1,337   

Current assets

   1,577     675   
  

 

 
   3,596     2,012   

Long-term liabilities

   (58)    (64)  

Loans from shareholders

   (63)    (53)  

Current liabilities

   (1,280)    (473)  
  

 

 

Net assets

   2,195     1,422   
  

 

 

 

F - 45


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

16.

ASSETS AND LIABILITIES HELD FOR SALE

 

 

 

              2012    2011 
              $   $
 

 

 

Effective December 2007, Rand Refinery Limited in South Africa transferred parts of its premises that were no longer utilized, to held for sale. On April 1, 2008, a sale agreement was concluded, subject to achievement of the suspensive condition regarding rezoning of the land and transfer of title deeds. On December 3, 2012, the Company disposed of a 5 percent stake in Rand Refinery Limited reducing its shareholding to 48.03 percent and at year-end this investment is accounted for using the equity method. See Note 3.

       
 

As at December 31, 2012 and 2011 the carrying amounts of major classes of assets and liabilities classified as held for sale included:

       
 

Property, plant and equipment

       
       

 

 

17.

OTHER LIABILITIES

 

 

Current

       
 

Deferred income

       
 

Deferred taxation. See Note 7.

      20    15 
 

Pension and other post-retirement medical benefits. See Note 25.

      12    12 
 

Accrual for power

      43    27 
 

Short-term portion of commodity contract(1)

      34   
 

Other (including accrued liabilities)

      90    60 
       

 

        202    120 
       

 

 

Non-current

       
 

Deferred income

       
 

Provision for uncertain tax positions. See Note 7.

      53    49 
 

Commodity contract(1)

      316   
 

Other creditors

        11 
       

 

        379    63 
       

 

(1)

 

Chemwes (Pty) Limited, subsidiary of First Uranium (Pty) Limited acquired by AngloGold Ashanti Limited during 2012, agreed to sell 25 percent of its production, capped at 312,500 ounces from January 1, 2012, to Franco-Nevada (Barbados) Corporation. Franco Nevada is required to pay $400 per ounce which inflates at 1 percent compounded annually from 2013. The obligation is calculated as the present value of the portion which is deemed a loss making executory contract in light of the market conditions that existed at the acquisition date. As at December 31, 2012, the remaining production due to Franco Nevada is 292,672 ounces. Included in the long-term obligation are future royalty obligations to Buffelsfontein Gold Mines and Premier Royalty Company of $14 million and environmental legal claims of $3 million.

       

 

F - 46


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

18.

LONG-TERM DEBT

 

 

         

2012 

$

 

2011 

$

 

Unsecured

       

Debt carried at fair value

       

Mandatory convertible bonds - issued September 2010(1)

      588    760 

Quarterly coupon of 6 percent per annum. The bonds are convertible into ADS’s in September 2013 and are US dollar-based. The bonds are convertible into a variable number of shares as set forth in the indenture.

       

Included in short-term debt at fair value

      (588)   (2)
     

 

Long-term debt at fair value

        758 
     

 

Debt carried at amortized cost

       

Rated bonds - issued April 2010(2)

      1,005    1,006 

The rated bonds have two components, $700 million 10-year bonds and $300 million 30-year bonds. Semi-annual coupons of 5.375 percent per annum on $700 million 10-year bonds and 6.5 percent per annum on $300 million 30-year bonds. The $700 million 10-year bonds are repayable in April 2020 and the $300 million 30-year bonds are repayable in April 2040. The bonds are US dollar-based.

       

Rated bonds - issued July 2012(3)

      761   

Semi-annual coupon of 5.125 percent per annum. The bonds are repayable in August 2022 and are US dollar-based.

       

3.5 percent Convertible bonds(4)

      689    659 

Semi-annual coupon of 3.5 percent per annum. The bonds are convertible, at the holders’ option, into ADSs up to May 2014 and are US dollar-based. The bonds are convertible at an initial conversion price of $47.6126 per ADS.

       

Syndicated revolving credit facility (A$600 million)(5)

      266   

Interest charged at BBSY plus 2 percent per annum. The applicable margin is subject to a ratings grid. The loan is repayable in December 2015 and is Australian dollar-based.

       

Grupo Santander Brasil

       

Interest charged at 8.11 percent per annum. Loans are repayable in monthly installments terminating in November 2013 and April 2014 and are Brazilian real-based.

       

Brazilian Economic and Social Development Bank

       

Interest charged at a rate of 2.3 percent plus delta exchange rate on individual installments per annum. Loans are repayable in monthly installments terminating in April 2014 and are Brazilian real-based.

       

Banco de Desenvolvimento de Minas Gerais

       

Interest charged at a rate of 4.5 percent per annum. Loans are repayable in monthly installments terminating in June 2020 and are Brazilian real-based.

       

 

F - 47


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

18.

LONG-TERM DEBT (continued)

 

 

         

2012 

$

 

2011 

$

 

Secured

       

Capital leases

       

Turbine Square Two (Proprietary) Limited(6)

      31    33 

The leases are capitalized at an implied interest rate of 9.8 percent per annum. Lease payments are due in monthly installments terminating in March 2022 and are ZAR-based. The buildings financed are used as security for these loans. See Note 12.

       

Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation(6)

        10 

Interest charged at an average rate of 5.46 percent per annum. Loans are repayable in monthly installments terminating in January 2015 and are US dollar-based. The equipment financed is used as security for these loans. See Note 12.

       

Mazuma Capital Corporation(6)

       

Interest charged at an average rate of 5.6 percent per annum. Loans were repaid in monthly installments and terminated in November 2012 and were US dollar-based. The equipment financed was used as security for these loans. See Note 12.

       

CSI Latina Arrendamento Mercantil S.A.(6)

       

Interest charged at a rate of 10.4 percent per annum. Loans are repayable in monthly installments terminating in December 2015 and are Brazilian real-based. The equipment financed is used as security for these loans. See Note 12.

       

Navachab Lewcor Mining Contract(6)

      22    29 

Interest charged at a rate of 8.4 percent per annum. Loans are repayable in April 2015 and are Namibian dollar-based. The equipment financed is used as security for these loans. See Note 12.

       

California First National Bank(6)

      11   

Interest charged at an average rate of 2.4 percent per annum. Loans are repayable in monthly installments terminating in December 2019 and are US dollar-based. The equipment financed is used as security for these loans. See Note 12.

       
     

 

Total long-term debt at amortized cost

      2,797    1,745 

Current maturities included in short-term debt

      (47)   (30)
     

 

Long-term debt at amortized cost

      2,750    1,715 
     

 

Certain long-term debt facilities are subject to debt covenant arrangements for which no breaches have occurred.

       

 

F - 48


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

18.

LONG-TERM DEBT (continued)

 

 

         

2012 

$

 

2011 

$

 

Short-term debt at amortized cost

       

Current maturities of long-term debt

      47    30 

Unsecured

       

Senior Floating Rate Notes (Domestic Medium-Term Note Program (“DMTNP”))

      84   

Senior Fixed Rate Notes (DMTNP)

      36   

FirstRand Bank Limited demand facility

      59   

Other loans

      45   
     

 

Short-term debt at amortized cost

      271    30 
     

 

Scheduled minimum total debt maturities are:

       

2013

      859   

2014

      703   

2015

      273   

2016

       

2017

       

Thereafter

      1,765   
     

 

 
      3,609   
     

 

 

The currencies in which the borrowings are denominated are as follows:

       

United States dollars

      3,107    2,437 

Australian dollars

      266   

South African rands

      210    33 

Brazilian real

       

Namibian dollars

      22    29 
     

 

      3,609    2,505 
     

 

Undrawn borrowing facilities as at December 31 are as follows:

       

Syndicated revolving credit facility ($1.0 billion) - US dollar

      1,000    1,000 

Syndicated revolving credit facility (A$600 million) - Australian dollar

      359    617 

FirstRand Bank Limited - US dollar

        50 

Absa Bank Limited - US dollar

        42 

Nedbank Limited - US dollar

       

FirstRand Bank Limited - rands

      30    14 

Standard Bank of South Africa Limited - rands

        23 

Nedbank Limited - rands

        13 

Absa Bank Limited - rands

       
     

 

      1,389    1,765 
     

 

 

F - 49


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

18.

LONG-TERM DEBT (continued)

 

(1)

 

Mandatory convertible bonds

   
 

In September 2010, the Company issued mandatory convertible bonds at a coupon rate of 6 percent due in September 2013. The conversion of the mandatory convertible bonds into ADSs was subject to shareholder approval, which was granted in October 2010. These bonds are convertible into a variable number of ADSs, ranging from 18,140,000 at a share price equal to or lesser than $43.50, to 14,511,937 at a share price equal to or greater than $54.375, each as calculated in accordance with the formula set forth in the indenture and subject to adjustment.

   
 

The mandatory convertible bonds contain certain embedded derivatives relating to change in control and anti-dilution protection provisions. The FASB ASC guidance contains an election for the Company to record the entire instrument at fair value as opposed to separating the embedded derivatives from the instrument. The shareholders have authorized that the convertible bonds will be settled in equity and not have any cash settlement potential except if a fundamental change or conversion rate adjustment causes the number of ADSs deliverable upon conversion to exceed the number of shares reserved for such purpose, among other circumstances provided in the indenture, and therefore the Company has chosen to recognize the instrument, in its entirety, at fair value. Depending on the final calculated share price on the date of conversion, the liability recognized may differ from the principal amount.

   
 

Other convertible bonds that have been issued by the Company will only be settled in equity if future events, outside of the control of the Company, result in equity settlement and thus have a potential cash settlement at maturity that will not exceed the principal amount, in those circumstances the liabilities are recognized at amortized cost.

   
 

In determining the fair value liability of the mandatory convertible bonds, the Company has measured the effect based on the ex interest NYSE closing price on the reporting date. The ticker code used by the NYSE for the mandatory convertible bonds is AUPRA. The accounting policy of the Company is to recognize interest expense separately from the fair value adjustments in the income statement. Interest is recognized at a quarterly coupon rate of 6 percent per annum. Fair value adjustments are included in Non-hedge derivative gain/loss and movement on bonds in the income statement – see Note 5.

   
 

The contractual principal amount of the mandatory convertible bonds is $789 million, provided the calculated share price of the Company is within the range of $43.50 to $54.375. If the calculated share price is below $43.50, the Company will recognize a gain on the principal amount and above $54.375 a loss. As at December 31, 2012, the actual share price was $31.37 (December 31, 2011: $42.45).

   
 

The mandatory convertible bonds were issued by AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc, a finance company wholly-owned by AngloGold Ashanti Limited. AngloGold Ashanti Limited has fully and unconditionally guaranteed the mandatory subordinated convertible bonds issued by AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc. There are no significant restrictions on the ability of AngloGold Ashanti Limited to obtain funds from its subsidiaries by dividend or loan.

   

 

F - 50


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

18.

LONG-TERM DEBT (continued)

 

 

             

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

 

(2)

 

Rated bonds - issued April 2010

        
 

Senior unsecured fixed rate bonds

      1,000     1,000 
 

Less: Unamortized discount

      (6)    (6)
 

Add: Accrued interest

      11     12 
       

 

        1,005     1,006 
       

 

          
 

On April 22, 2010, the Company announced the pricing of an offering of 10-year and 30-year notes. The offering closed on April 28, 2010. The notes were issued by AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti Limited, and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by AngloGold Ashanti Limited. The notes are unsecured and interest is payable semi-annually.

     
(3)  

Rated bonds - issued July 2012

        
 

Senior unsecured fixed rate bonds

      750    
 

Less: Unamortized discount

      (5)   
 

Add: Accrued interest

      16    
       

 

        761    
       

 

 

On July 25, 2012, the Company announced the pricing of an offering of $750 million notes. The notes were issued by AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, at an issue price of 99.398 percent. The notes are unsecured and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by AngloGold Ashanti Limited. The transaction closed on July 30, 2012.

     

 

F - 51


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

18.

LONG-TERM DEBT (continued)

 

 

             

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

 

(4)

 

3.5 percent Convertible bonds

        
 

Senior unsecured fixed rate bonds

      686     656 
 

Add: Accrued interest

        
       

 

        689     659 
       

 

 

The issue of convertible bonds in the aggregate principal amount of $732.5 million at an interest rate of 3.5 percent was concluded on May 22, 2009. These bonds are convertible into ADSs at an initial conversion price of $47.6126. The conversion price is subject to standard weighted average anti-dilution protection. The convertible bonds were issued by AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc, a finance company wholly-owned by AngloGold Ashanti Limited. AngloGold Ashanti Limited has fully and unconditionally guaranteed the convertible bonds issued by AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc. There are no significant restrictions on the ability of AngloGold Ashanti Limited to obtain funds from its subsidiaries by dividend or loan.

     
 

The convertible bonds mature on May 22, 2014. However, at any time on or after June 12, 2012 the Company has the right, but not the obligation, to redeem all (but not part) of the convertible bonds at their principal amount together with accrued interest if the volume weighted average price of the ADSs that would be delivered by the Company on the conversion of a convertible bond of a principal amount of $100,000 exceeds $130,000 on each of at least 20 consecutive dealing days ending not earlier than five days prior to the date that the Company gives notice of the redemption.

     
 

Upon the occurrence of a change of control of the Company, each convertible bond holder will have the right to require the Company to redeem its convertible bonds at their principal amount plus accrued interest thereon. If the convertible bond holder elects to convert its convertible bonds in connection with such change of control, the Company will pay a “make whole” premium to such convertible bond holder in connection with such conversion. The conversion price is subject to adjustment on occurrence of certain events, as described in the terms and conditions of the bonds.

     
 

The Company is separately accounting for the conversion features of the convertible bonds at fair value as a derivative liability with subsequent changes in fair value recorded in earnings each period. The total fair value of the derivative liability on May 22, 2009 (date of issue) amounted to $142.2 million. The difference between the initial carrying value and the stated value of the convertible bonds is being accreted to interest expense using the effective interest method over the 5 year term of the bonds.

     
 

The associated derivative liability (which has been accounted for separately) is summarized as follows:

     
 

Convertible bond derivative liability

        
 

Balance at beginning of period

      92     176 
 

Fair value movements on conversion features of convertible bonds

      (83)    (84)
       

 

 

Balance at end of period

         92 
       

 

 

Subsequent to year-end, the Company entered into a syndicated bridge loan facility of $750 million, the proceeds of which may be applied towards the repayment of the $732.5 million 3.5 percent Convertible bonds, due May 2014. See Note 29.

     

(5)

 

Syndicated revolving credit facility (A$600 million)

        
 

Drawn down

      266    
       

 

 

On December 22, 2011, AngloGold Ashanti Australia Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti Limited, entered into a four-year revolving credit facility of A$600 million with a syndication of banks. AngloGold Ashanti Limited together with AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc has each guaranteed all payments and other obligations of AngloGold Ashanti Australia Limited under the facility. Amounts may be repaid and reborrowed under the facility during its four-year term. A commitment fee of 50 percent of the applicable margin (i.e. 1 percent) is payable quarterly in arrears on the undrawn portion of the facility.

     

 

F - 52


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

18.

LONG-TERM DEBT (continued)

 

 

Syndicated revolving credit facility ($1.0 billion)

     
 

On April 20, 2010, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Inc., each a wholly-owned subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti Limited, as borrowers, and AngloGold Ashanti Limited entered into a $1.0 billion four-year revolving credit facility with a syndicate of lenders. AngloGold Ashanti Limited, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Inc. each guaranteed the obligations of the borrowers and other guarantors under the facility. Amounts may be repaid and reborrowed under the facility during its four-year term. During 2012, the Company drew down $200 million under the facility. This facility has been repaid and cancelled.

   
 

On July 20, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Inc., each a wholly owned subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti Limited, as borrowers, and AngloGold Ashanti Limited entered into a $1.0 billion five-year unsecured revolving credit facility with a syndicate of lenders which replaced its existing $1.0 billion syndicated facility maturing in April 2014. AngloGold Ashanti Limited, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Inc. each guaranteed the obligations of the borrowers under the facility. Amounts may be repaid and reborrowed under the facility during its five-year term. Amounts outstanding under the facility bear interest at LIBOR plus a margin that varies depending on the credit rating of AngloGold Ashanti Limited. No draw down was made during 2012 under the facility. A commitment fee of 0.525 percent is payable quarterly in arrears on the undrawn portion of the facility.

   

 

(6)

 

Capital leases

           
 

Capital leases are for specific periods, with terms of renewal but no purchase options. Renewals are at the discretion of the entity that holds the lease.

           
 

 

Property, plant and equipment, allocated to Buildings and mine infrastructure, includes the following assets under capital leases:

           
 

 

        2012     2011
       

Cost

$

   Accumulated
depreciation
$
   

Cost

$

  

Accumulated
depreciation

$

 

 

 

Turbine Square Two (Proprietary) Limited

  30       11      39     18 
 

Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation

  16           16    
 

Mazuma Capital Corporation

             
 

CSI Latina Arrendamento Mercantil S.A.

             
 

Navachab Lewcor Mining Contract

  30       10      31    
 

California First National Bank

  12             
   

 

    99       40      97     30 
   

 

 

 

Amortization charges relating to capital leases are included in Depreciation, depletion and amortization expense.

  

    
 

Future minimum lease payments under all the above capital leases together with the present value of minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2012 are:

        

 

 

              

2012 

$

 

2013

         20 

2014

         20 

2015

         11 

2016

        

2017

        

Thereafter

         31 
        

 

Total minimum lease payments

         96 

Less interest

         (23)
        

 

Present value of net minimum lease payments

         73 

Less current portion

         (15)
        

 

Long-term capital lease obligation

         58 
        

 

 

F - 53


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

19.

PROVISION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL REHABILITATION

 

 

   

2012 

$

 

2011 

$

 

Accrued environmental rehabilitation costs

  758    653 
 

 

Long-term environmental obligations comprising decommissioning and restoration are based on the Company’s environmental management plans, in compliance with the current environmental and regulatory requirements.

   

While the ultimate amount of rehabilitation is uncertain, the Company has estimated that the total cost for mine rehabilitation and closure, on an undiscounted basis, will be $2,984 million (2011: $2,542 million) which includes a total estimated liability of $61 million (2011: $57 million) in respect of equity accounted joint ventures. Environmental and reclamation bonds of $184 million (2011: $131 million) have been posted with federal and governmental agencies to cover environmental rehabilitation obligations. See Note 20.

   

The Company intends to finance the ultimate rehabilitation costs from the monies invested with rehabilitation trust funds, the environmental protection bond as well as the proceeds on sale of assets and gold from plant clean-up at the time of mine closure.

   

 

F - 54


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

20.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

 

 
   

2012 

$

   

2011 

$

 

 

 

Capital expenditure commitments(1)

   

Contracts for capital expenditure

    1,075        202  

Authorized by the directors but not yet contracted for

    2,242        1,128  
 

 

 

 
                3,317                    1,330  
 

 

 

 

Allocated for:

   

Project expenditure

   

- within one year

    1,092        832   

- thereafter

    1,708        46   
 

 

 

 
    2,800        878   
 

 

 

 

Other capital expenditure

   

- within one year

    517        421   

- thereafter

          31   
 

 

 

 
    517        452   
 

 

 

 

(1) Including commitments through contractual arrangements by equity accounted joint ventures amounting to:

    749        14   
   

Other contractual purchase obligations(2)

   

- within one year

    643        334   

- thereafter

    102        129   
 

 

 

 
    745        463   
 

 

 

 

(2) Other purchase obligations represent contractual obligations for the purchase of mining contract services, power, supplies, consumables, inventories, explosives and activated carbon. Amounts exclude purchase obligations of equity accounted joint ventures.

   

 

F - 55


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

20.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)

 

Contingencies and guarantees are summarized as follows for disclosure purposes. Amounts represent possible losses for loss contingencies, where an estimate can be made, and quantification of guarantees:

 

 

   

2012 

$

 

2011 

$

 

Contingent liabilities

   

Groundwater pollution (1)

   

Deep groundwater pollution (2)

   

Sales tax on gold deliveries - Mineração Serra Grande S.A. (3)

  156    88 

Other tax disputes - Mineração Serra Grande S.A. (4)

  19   

Other tax disputes - AngloGold Ashanti Brasil Mineração Ltda (5)

  38    29 

Indirect taxes - Ghana (6)

  23    12 

Occupational Diseases in Mines and Works Act (“ODMWA”) litigation (7)

   

Tax dispute - AngloGold Ashanti Colombia S.A (8)

  161   

Contingent assets

   

Indemnity - Kinross Gold Corporation (9)

  (90)  

Royalty - Boddington Gold Mine (10)

   

Royalty - Tau Lekoa Gold Mine (11)

   

Financial guarantees

   

Oro Group surety (12)

  12    12 

AngloGold Ashanti USA reclamation bonds (13)

  132    101 

AngloGold Ashanti Australia environmental bonds (14)

  52    30 

AngloGold Ashanti environmental guarantees (15)

  162    166 

AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem environmental guarantees (16)

  32   

AngloGold Ashanti Kilo Sarl environmental guarantees (17)

  10   

Guarantee provided for syndicated revolving credit facility (18)

   

Guarantee provided for rated bonds - issued April 2010 (19)

  1,011    1,012 

Guarantee provided for rated bonds - issued July 2012 (20)

  766   

Guarantee provided for convertible bonds (21)

  736    736 

Guarantee provided for mandatory convertible bonds (22)

  791    791 

Guarantee provided for A$ syndicated revolving credit facility (23)

  266   

Performance guarantees

   

Gold delivery - Mine Waste Solutions (24)

   

Hedging guarantees

   

Gold delivery guarantees (25)

   
 

 

  4,277    2,986 
 

 

 

  (1) 

Ground water pollution

 

The Company has identified groundwater contamination plumes at certain of its operations, which have occurred primarily as a result of seepage. Numerous scientific, technical and legal studies have been undertaken to assist in determining the extent of the contamination and to find sustainable remediation solutions. The Company has instituted processes to reduce future potential seepage and it has been demonstrated that Monitored Natural Attenuation (“MNA”) by the existing environment will contribute to improvements in some instances. Furthermore, literature reviews, field trials and base line modeling techniques suggest, but have not yet proven, that the use of phyto-technologies can address the soil and groundwater contamination. Subject to the completion of trials and the technology being a proven remediation technique, no reasonable estimate can be made for the obligation.

       

 

F - 56


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

20.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)

 

 

 

 

 
        

2012 

$

  

            2011 

$

   
 

 

 

 

(2)

 

 

Deep ground water pollution

       
 

The Company has identified a flooding and future pollution risk posed by deep groundwater in certain underground mines in Africa. Various studies have been undertaken by AngloGold Ashanti Limited since 1999. Due to the interconnected nature of mining operations, any proposed solution needs to be a combined one supported by all the mines located in these gold fields. As a result, in South Africa, the Department of Mineral Resources and affected mining companies are involved in the development of a “Regional Mine Closure Strategy”. In view of the limitation of current information for the estimation of a liability, no reasonable estimate can be made for the obligation.

       

(3)

 

Sales tax on gold deliveries - Mineração Serra Grande S.A.

       
 

In 2006, Mineração Serra Grande S.A. (“MSG”) received two tax assessments from the State of Goiás related to payments of state sales taxes at the rate of 12 percent on gold deliveries for export from one Brazilian state to another during the period from February 2004 to the end of May 2006. In November 2006, the administrative council’s second chamber ruled in favor of MSG and fully cancelled the tax liability related to the first period. In July 2011, the administrative council’s second chamber ruled in favor of MSG and fully cancelled the tax liability related to the second period. The State of Goiás has appealed to the full board of the State of Goiás tax administrative council. In November 2011 (first case) and June 2012 (second case), the administrative council’s full board approved the suspension of proceedings and the remittance of the matter to the Department of Supervision of Foreign Trade (“COMEX”) for review and verification. Both cases have been remitted to the COMEX and are under review. The Company believes both assessments are in violation of federal legislation on sales taxes. A final hearing before the COMEX has been scheduled for May 28, 2013.

       
 

The first and second assessments are as follows:

       
 

First assessment

   96    54   (a)
 

Second assessment

   60    34   (a)
    

 

 
     156    88   
 

(a)  Represents the attributable share in 2011 only.

       

(4)

 

Other tax disputes - Mineração Serra Grande S.A.

       
 

MSG received a tax assessment in October 2003 from the State of Minas Gerais related to sales taxes on gold. The tax administrators rejected the Company’s appeal against the assessment. The Company is now appealing the dismissal of the case. The assessment is approximately:

   19    (a)  
 

(a)  Represents the attributable share in 2011 only.

       

(5)

 

Other tax disputes - AngloGold Ashanti Brasil Mineração Ltda

       
 

In November 2007, the Departamento Nacional de Produçâo Mineral (“DNPM”), a Brazilian federal mining authority, issued a tax assessment against AngloGold Ashanti Brazil Mineração (“AABM”) relating to the calculation and payment by AABM of the financial contribution on mining exploitation (“CFEM”) in the period from 1991 to 2006. The amount involved is approximately:

   21    21  
 

Subsidiaries of the Company in Brazil are involved in various other disputes with tax authorities. These disputes involve federal tax assessments including income tax, royalties, social contributions and annual property tax. The amount involved is approximately:

   17    8  
    

 

 
     38    29  
 

Management is of the opinion that these taxes are not payable.

       

(6)

 

Indirect taxes - Ghana

       
 

AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited received a tax assessment for the 2006 to 2008 and for the 2009 to 2011 tax years following audits by the tax authorities which related to various indirect taxes. Management is of the opinion that the indirect taxes were not properly assessed and the Company has lodged an objection.

       
 

The assessment is approximately:

   23    12  

 

F - 57


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

20.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)

 

 

 

        

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

 

 

 

(7)

 

 

ODMWA litigation

     
 

 

On March 3, 2011, in Mankayi vs. AngloGold Ashanti, the Constitutional Court of South Africa held that section 35(1) of the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act, 1993 does not cover an “employee” who qualifies for compensation in respect of “compensable diseases” under the ODMWA. This judgment allows such qualifying employee to pursue a civil claim for damages against the employer. Following the Constitutional Court decision, AngloGold Ashanti has become subject to numerous claims relating to silicosis and other Occupational Lung Diseases (“OLD”), including several potential class actions and individual claims.

     
 

 

For example, on or about August 21, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti was served with an application instituted by Bangumzi Bennet Balakazi and others in which the applicants seek an order declaring that all mine workers (former or current) who previously worked or continue to work in specified South African gold mines for the period owned by AngloGold Ashanti and who have silicosis or other OLD constitute members of a class for the purpose of proceedings for declaratory relief and claims for damages. In the event the class is certified, such class of workers would be permitted to institute actions by way of a summons against AngloGold Ashanti for amounts as yet unspecified. On September 4, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti delivered its notice of intention to defend this application. AngloGold Ashanti has also delivered a formal request for additional information that it requires to prepare its affidavits in respect to the allegations and the request for certification of a class.

     
 

 

In addition, on or about January 8, 2013, AngloGold Ashanti and its subsidiary Free State Consolidated Gold Mines (Operations) Limited, alongside other mining companies operating in South Africa, were served with another application to certify a class. The applicants in the case seek to have the court certify two classes namely: (i) current and former mineworkers who have silicosis (whether or not accompanied by any other disease) and who work or have worked on certain specified gold mines at any time from January 1, 1965 to date; and (ii) the dependants of mineworkers who died as a result of silicosis (whether or not accompanied by any other disease) and who worked on these gold mines at any time after January 1, 1965. AngloGold Ashanti has filed a notice of intention to oppose the application.

     
 

 

In October 2012, a further 31 individual summonses and particulars of claim have been received relating to silicosis and/or other OLD. The total amount being claimed in the 31 summonses is approximately $9 million. On October 22, 2012, AngloGold Ashanti filed a notice of intention to oppose these claims. AngloGold Ashanti has also served a notice of exception to the summonses which, if successful, is expected to require the plaintiffs to redraft the particulars of claim to correct certain errors.

     
 

 

It is possible that additional class actions and/or individual claims relating to silicosis and/or other OLD will be filed against AngloGold Ashanti in the future. AngloGold Ashanti will defend all current and subsequently filed claims on their merits. Should AngloGold Ashanti be unsuccessful in defending any such claims, or in otherwise favorably resolving perceived deficiencies in the national occupational disease compensation framework that were identified in the earlier decision by the Constitutional Court, such matters would have an adverse effect on its financial position, which could be material. The Company is unable to reasonably estimate its share of the amounts claimed.

     

(8)

 

Tax dispute - AngloGold Ashanti Colombia S.A.

     
 

AngloGold Ashanti Colombia S.A. (“AGAC”) received notice from the Colombian Tax Office (“DIAN”) that it disagreed with the Company’s tax treatment of certain items in the 2010 and 2011 income tax returns. The Company believes that it has applied the tax legislation correctly. The Company is considering defending AGAC’s position.

     
 

Details of the disputes are as follows:

     
 

Estimated additional tax payable if tax returns are amended

   26    
 

Expected penalties and interest on the above (based on Colombian tax law)

   135    
    

 

     161    

 

F - 58


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

20.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)

 

 

 

        

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

 

 

 

(9)

 

 

Indemnity - Kinross Gold Corporation

   (90)    -
 

As part of the acquisition by AngloGold Ashanti Limited of the remaining 50 percent interest in MSG during June 2012, Kinross Gold Corporation has provided an indemnity to a maximum amount of BRL255 million ($125 million at December 31, 2012 exchange rates) against the specific exposures discussed in items 3 and 4 above.

     

(10)

 

Royalty - Boddington Gold Mine

     
 

As a result of the sale of the interest in the Boddington Gold Mine during 2009, the Company is entitled to receive a royalty on any gold recovered or produced by the Boddington Gold Mine, where the gold price is in excess of Boddington Gold Mine’s cash costs plus $600 per ounce. The royalty is payable in each quarter from and after the second quarter in 2010, within forty five days of reporting period close and is capped at a total of $100 million.

     
 

Details of the royalty are as follows:

     
 

Total royalties recorded to date

   60     42

(11)

 

Royalty - Tau Lekoa Gold Mine

     
 

As a result of the sale of the Tau Lekoa Gold Mine during 2010, the Company is entitled to receive a royalty on the production of a total of 1.5 million ounces by the Tau Lekoa Gold Mine and in the event that the average monthly rand price of gold exceeds R180,000 per kilogram (subject to an inflation adjustment). Where the average monthly rand price of gold does not exceed R180,000 per kilogram (subject to an inflation adjustment), the ounces produced in that quarter do not count towards the total 1.5 million ounces upon which the royalty is payable. The royalty will be determined at 3 percent of the net revenue (being gross revenue less state royalties) generated by the Tau Lekoa assets. Royalties on 304,643 ounces produced have been received to date.

     
 

Royalties received during the year ended December 31

      5

(12)

 

Oro Group surety

   12     12
 

The Company has provided surety in favor of a lender on a gold loan facility with its associate Oro Group (Proprietary) Limited and one of its subsidiaries. The Company has a total maximum liability, in terms of the suretyships, of R100 million. The probability of the non-performance under the suretyships is considered minimal. The suretyship agreements have a termination notice period of 90 days.

     

(13)

 

AngloGold Ashanti USA reclamation bonds

   132     101
 

Pursuant to US environmental and mining requirements, gold mining companies are obligated to close their operations and rehabilitate the lands that they mine in accordance with these requirements. AngloGold Ashanti USA has posted reclamation bonds with various federal and state governmental agencies to cover potential rehabilitation obligations. The Company has provided a guarantee for these obligations which would be payable in the event of AngloGold Ashanti USA not being able to meet its rehabilitation obligations. The obligations will expire upon completion of such rehabilitation and release of such areas by the applicable federal and/or state agency. AngloGold Ashanti is not indemnified by third parties for any of the amounts that may be paid by AngloGold Ashanti under its guarantee.

     

 

F - 59


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

20.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)

 

  

 

         

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

  

 

 

(14)

  

 

AngloGold Ashanti Australia environmental bonds

   52     30
  

Pursuant to Australia environmental and mining requirements, gold mining companies are obligated to close their operations and rehabilitate the lands that they mine in accordance with these requirements. AngloGold Ashanti Australia has posted bonds with state governmental agencies to cover potential rehabilitation obligations. The Company has provided a guarantee for these obligations which would be payable in the event of AngloGold Ashanti Australia not being able to meet its rehabilitation obligations. The obligations will expire upon completion of such rehabilitation and release of such areas by the applicable state agency. AngloGold Ashanti is not indemnified by third parties for any of the amounts that may be paid by AngloGold Ashanti under its guarantee.

     

(15)

  

AngloGold Ashanti environmental guarantees

   162     166
  

Pursuant to South African mining laws, mining companies are obligated to close their operations and rehabilitate the lands that they mine in accordance with these laws. In order to cover against premature closure costs, the Company has secured bank guarantees to cover potential rehabilitation obligations of certain mines in South Africa. The Company has provided a guarantee for these obligations which would be payable in the event of the South African mines not being able to meet such rehabilitation obligations. The obligations will expire upon compliance with all provisions of the environment management program in terms of South African mining laws. AngloGold Ashanti is not indemnified by third parties for any of the amounts that may be paid by AngloGold Ashanti under its guarantee.

     

(16)

  

AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem environmental guarantees

   32     -
  

Pursuant to Ghanaian mining laws, mining companies are obligated to close their operations and rehabilitate the lands that they mine in accordance with these laws. In order to cover against premature closure costs, AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Limited has secured bank guarantees to cover potential rehabilitation obligations for the Iduapriem mine. The obligations will expire upon compliance with all provisions of the environment management program in terms of Ghanaian mining laws. AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem is not indemnified by third parties for any of the amounts that may be paid by AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem under its guarantee.

     

(17)

  

Ashanti Goldfields Kilo Sarl environmental guarantees

   10     -
  

Pursuant to the Democratic Republic of Congo (“DRC”) mining laws, mining companies are obligated to close their operations and rehabilitate the lands that they mine in accordance with these laws. In order to cover against premature closure costs, Ashanti Goldfields Kilo Sarl has secured bank guarantees to cover potential rehabilitation obligations for the Mongbwalu project. The obligations will expire upon compliance with all provisions of the environment management program in terms of the DRC mining laws. Ashanti Goldfields Kilo Sarl is not indemnified by third parties for any of the amounts that may be paid by Ashanti Goldfields Kilo Sarl under its guarantee.

     

(18)

  

Guarantee provided for syndicated revolving credit facility

     
  

AngloGold Ashanti Limited, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Incorporated, as guarantors, each guaranteed all payments and other obligations of the borrowers and the other guarantors under the $1.0 billion four-year revolving credit facility. This facility was repaid and cancelled during 2012.

     
  

AngloGold Ashanti Limited, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Inc., as guarantors, each guaranteed all payments and other obligations of the borrowers and the other guarantors under the $1.0 billion five-year revolving credit facility entered into during July 2012.

     
  

The total amount outstanding under these facilities as at December 31 were:

   -    -

 

F - 60


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

20.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)

 

 

 

        

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

 

 

 

(19)

 

 

Guarantee provided for rated bonds - issued April 2010

   1,011    1,012
 

AngloGold Ashanti Limited has fully and unconditionally guaranteed all payments and other obligations of AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc regarding the issued $700 million 5.375 percent rated bonds due 2020 and the issued $300 million 6.5 percent rated bonds due 2040.

     

(20)

 

Guarantee provided for rated bonds - issued July 2012

   766    -
 

AngloGold Ashanti Limited has fully and unconditionally guaranteed all payments and other obligations of AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc regarding the issued $750 million 5.125 percent rated bonds due 2022.

     

(21)

 

Guarantee provided for convertible bonds

   736    736
 

AngloGold Ashanti Limited has fully and unconditionally guaranteed all payments and other obligations of AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc regarding the issued $732.5 million 3.5 percent convertible bonds due 2014.

     

(22)

 

Guarantee provided for mandatory convertible bonds

   791    791
 

AngloGold Ashanti Limited has fully and unconditionally guaranteed all payments and other obligations of AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc regarding the issued $789 million 6 percent mandatory convertible bonds due 2013.

     

(23)

 

Guarantee provided for A$ syndicated revolving credit facility

     
 

AngloGold Ashanti Limited together with AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc, as guarantors, has each guaranteed all payments and other obligations of AngloGold Ashanti Australia Limited under the A$600 million four-year revolving credit facility entered into during December 2011.

     
 

The total amount outstanding under this facility as at December 31 amounted to:

   266    -

(24)

 

Gold delivery - Mine Waste Solutions

   -    -
 

As part of the acquisition by AngloGold Ashanti of First Uranium (Pty) Limited, the owner of Mine Waste Solutions, AngloGold Ashanti agreed to guarantee the observance and performance of existing delivery obligations of a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mine Waste Solutions to sell to an existing customer at a pre-agreed price, 25 percent of the gold produced at a gold recovery plant located in northwest South Africa, subject to a cap of 312,500 ounces over the life of the contract. As at December 31, 2012, 292,672 ounces remain to be delivered against the guarantee over the life of the contract.

     

(25)

 

Gold delivery guarantees

   -    -
 

The Company has issued gold delivery guarantees to several counterpart banks pursuant to which it guarantees the due performance of its subsidiaries AngloGold (USA) Trading Company, AngloGold South America Limited and Cerro Vanguardia S.A. under their respective gold hedging agreements. At December 31, 2012 and 2011 the Company had no open gold hedge contracts.

     

 

F - 61


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

20.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)

 

 

 

        

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

 

 

 

Vulnerability from concentrations

     
 

The majority of AngloGold Ashanti’s 65,822 employees (2011: 61,242, 2010: 62,046) are subject to collective bargaining agreements. In South Africa agreements are established in negotiations between the Chamber of Mines, the body that represents the gold mining industry in South Africa, and representative groups of labor. The agreements have a two-year validity period. The most recent settlement negotiation was completed in August 2011, when the parties reached an agreement covering the period from July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2013.

     
 

There is a concentration of risk in respect of recoverable value added tax, fuel duties and appeal deposits from the Tanzanian government. The outstanding amounts have been discounted to their present value at a rate of 7.82 percent.

     
 

The recoverable value added tax, fuel duties and appeal deposits are summarized as follows:

     
 

Recoverable value added tax

   16   
 

Recoverable fuel duties (1)

   35   
 

Appeal deposits

   4   
 

 

(1)  Fuel duty claims are required to be submitted after consumption of the related fuel and are subject to authorization by the Customs and Excise authorities.

     

 

F - 62


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

21.

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

The authorized common stock of the Company is 600,000,000 shares of common stock of 25 ZAR cents each.

 

    No of shares  

At the annual general meeting of shareholders held on May 10, 2012, shareholders approved, as a general authority, authorization to the board of directors to allot and issue, in their discretion, and for such purpose and on such terms as they may in their discretion determine, up to a maximum of 5 percent of the total number of common stock of 25 ZAR cents each in the issued share capital of the Company from time to time. Shareholders will be asked to renew this authority at the forthcoming annual general meeting to be held on May 13, 2013. At December 31, 2012, the number of shares of common stock placed under the control of the directors, amounted to:

    19,166,048  

The Company’s redeemable preference shares, held within the group, consist of the following:

 

 

A redeemable preference shares issued

    2,000,000  

 

B redeemable preference shares issued

    778,896  

 

A and B redeemable preference shares issued which are held by a wholly-owned subsidiary Eastvaal Gold Holdings Limited, may not be transferred and are redeemable from the realization of the assets relating to the Moab Lease area after cessation of mining operations in the area. The shares carry the right to receive dividends equivalent to the profits (net of royalty, ongoing capital expenditure and taxation) from operations in the area. No further A and B redeemable preference shares will be issued.

 

The issues of common stock and the cancellations of E shares of common stock resulted in the following year-on-year movements in share capital and premium:

 

 

 

 
              2012           2011           2010  
      $      Number of
shares
    $      Number of
shares
    $      Number of
shares
 
 

 

 
 

 

Stock issued as part of equity offering completed on September 15, 2010

    -       -       -       -       773       18,140,000   
 

 

Stock issued on the exercise of options/awards granted in terms of the share incentive scheme

    33       945,641       33       889,593       26       823,411   
 

 

E shares cancelled and stock issued in accordance with the cancellation formula pertaining to the Employee Share Ownership Plan and Izingwe Holdings (1)

    7       132,978       20       99,747       12        
 

 

E Shares of common stock cancelled - Izingwe Holdings

    -       (350,000     -       (70,000     -       (280,000)   
 

 

Stock transferred from the Employee Share Ownership Plan to exiting employees pursuant to the rules of the scheme

    7       172,149       7       156,958       10       230,921   
   

 

 

 
              47       900,768                 60       1,076,298               821       18,914,332   
   

 

 

 

(1)

 

E Shares of common stock cancelled - Employee Share Ownership Plan

      615,210         922,328         708,872   

 

F - 63


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

22.

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

The FASB ASC guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The standard describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

 

Level 1

  -  

Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2

  -  

Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

Level 3

  -  

Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

The Company utilizes the market approach to measure fair value. The market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities.

The following table sets out the Company’s financial assets and (liabilities) measured on a recurring basis at fair value, by level within the hierarchy as at December 31, 2012 (in US Dollars, millions):

 

Items measured at fair value on a recurring basis

 

               

 

Description   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total

 

Cash and cash equivalents

  892        892 

Marketable and non-marketable equity securities

  69        71 

Mandatory convertible bonds

  (588)       (588)

Embedded derivatives

    (1)     (1)

Option component of convertible bonds

    (9)     (9)

 

The Company’s cash equivalents are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices. The cash instruments that are valued based on quoted market prices in active markets are primarily money market securities. Due to the short maturity of cash, carrying amounts approximate fair values.

The Company’s marketable equity securities (see Note 15) are included in Other long-term assets in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. They consist of investments in ordinary shares and collective investment schemes and are valued using quoted market prices in active markets and as such are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the marketable equity securities is calculated as the quoted market price of the marketable equity security multiplied by the quantity of shares held by the Company.

The Company’s non-marketable equity securities (see Note 15) are included in Other long-term assets in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. They consist of investments in ordinary shares and were valued using the issue price obtained in a private equity raising which was completed during December 2012.

The Company’s mandatory convertible bonds (see Note 18) are included in debt at fair value in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. The bonds are valued using quoted market prices in an active market and as such are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the bonds is calculated as the quoted market price of the bond multiplied by the quantity of bonds issued by the Company.

Embedded derivatives and the conversion features of convertible bonds are included as derivatives on the balance sheet. Such instruments are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

F - 64


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

22.

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (continued)

 

The following inputs were used in the valuation of the conversion features of convertible bonds as at December 31:

 

 

 
    2012   

 

 

 

Market quoted bond price (percent)

    103.9   

Fair value of bond excluding conversion feature (percent)

    102.6   

Fair value of conversion feature (percent)

    1.3   

Total issued bond value ($ million)

    732.5   

 

 

The option component of the convertible bonds is calculated as the difference between the price of the bonds including the option component (bond price) and the price excluding the option component (bond floor price).

An independent service provider pricing formation was used in the valuation of the option component of convertible bonds. The Company has internal controls in place to evaluate the observable market information used in calculating the bond floor price by the pricing service. In recalculating the bond floor price the Company evaluated that the pricing information obtained was accurate and complete. No adjustments were made to prices obtained from the independent pricing service.

 

Items measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis  

 

 
   

2012 

$

 

 

 

During 2012, long-lived assets held and used in South Africa, with a carrying amount of $74 million were written down to fair value of $32 million, resulting in a loss, which is included in earnings for the period, of:

    42  

The following estimates and assumptions were used by management to estimate fair value using the income approach:

 

•       the gold price assumption represented management’s best estimate of the future price of gold. In arriving at the estimated long-term gold price, management considered all available market information including current prices, historical averages, and forward pricing curves. The long-term gold price of $1,584 per ounce is based on a range of economic and market conditions expected to exist over the remaining useful life of the asset;

 

•       proven and probable ore reserves as well as value beyond proven and probable reserves estimates. For these purposes proven and probable ore reserves of approximately 0.4 million ounces as at December 31, 2012 were determined;

 

•       the real pre-tax discount rate of 13 percent is commensurate with the risks involved which is consistent with the basis used in 2011. The risk factors considered were country risk which was based on the Company’s internal assessment of country risk relative to the issues experienced in South Africa;

 

•       foreign currency cash flows were translated at estimated forward exchange rates and then discounted using appropriate discount rates for that currency; and

 

•       cash flows used in fair value valuations were based on the life of mine plan.

 

During 2012, the Company fully impaired and wrote-off certain assets mainly in South Africa and Continental Africa. This resulted in a loss, which is included in earnings for the period, of:

    325  

See “Note 5 - Costs and expenses: Impairment of assets” for additional information.

 

In 2012, the Company fully impaired its equity method investments in Margaret Water Company and Société d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or de Yatela S.A. In addition, the Company fully impaired the loan granted to Thani Ashanti Alliance Limited. See Note 15. This resulted in a loss, which is included in equity income in associates, of:

    45  

The above items are summarized as follows:

 

 
Description   Fair value
$
    Level 1
$
    Level 2
$
    Level 3
$
   

 

Total
gain/(loss)
$

 

 

 

Long-lived assets held and used

    32         32         (42)   

Long-lived assets abandoned

    -             (325)   

Associates and equity accounted joint ventures

    -             (45)   
 

 

 

 
    32       -       32       -       (412)   
 

 

 

 

 

F - 65


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

 

23.

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

In the normal course of its operations, the Company is exposed to gold and other commodity price, currency, interest rate, equity price, liquidity and non-performance risk, which includes credit risk. The Company is also exposed to certain by-product commodity price risk. In order to manage these risks, the Company may enter into transactions which make use of derivatives. The Company has developed a risk management process to facilitate, control and monitor these risks. The Audit and Corporate Governance Committee has approved and monitors this risk management process, inclusive of documented treasury policies, counterpart limits, controlling and reporting structures. The Company does not acquire, hold or issue derivatives for speculative purposes. Although all derivative transactions executed by the Company serve to economically manage the Company’s risk to the market factors discussed above, not all such derivatives qualify for hedge accounting treatment, including instances whereby management has elected to not designate such derivatives as part of a qualifying hedge accounting relationship.

The financial risk management activities objectives of the Company are as follows:

 

   

Safeguarding the Company’s core earnings stream through the effective control and management of gold and other commodity price risk, foreign exchange risk and interest rate risk;

   

Effective and efficient usage of credit facilities through the adoption of liquidity planning procedures;

   

Ensuring that investment and hedging transactions are undertaken with creditworthy counterparts; and

   

Ensuring that contracts and agreements related to risk management activities are coordinated, consistent throughout the Company and comply where necessary with relevant regulatory and statutory requirements.

A number of products, including derivatives are used to satisfy these objectives. Contracts that meet the criteria for hedge accounting are designated as the hedging instruments hedging the variability of forecasted cash flows from the sale of production into the spot market and from capital expenditure denominated in a foreign currency and are classified as cash flow hedges under the FASB ASC guidance on derivatives and hedging. Cash flows related to these instruments designated as qualifying hedges are reflected in the consolidated statement of cash flows in the same category as the cash flow from the items being hedged. Accordingly, cash flows relating to the settlement of forward sale commodity derivatives contracts hedging the forecasted sale of production into the spot market as well as the forward sale currency derivative contracts hedging the forecasted capital expenditure, have been reflected upon settlement as a component of operating cash flows. Cash flow hedge losses pertaining to capital expenditure of $3 million as at December 31, 2012 (2011: $3 million; 2010: $3 million) are expected to be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income and recognized as an adjustment to depreciation expense equally until 2019.

A gain on non-hedge derivatives of $93 million was recorded in 2012 (2011: gain of $83 million; 2010: loss of $703 million). See “Note 5 – Cost and expenses: Non-hedge derivative (gain)/loss and movement on bonds” for additional information.

Gold price risk management activities

Gold price risk arises from the risk of an adverse effect of current or future earnings resulting from fluctuations in the price of gold. The Company eliminated its hedge book during 2010 and has since had full exposure to the spot price of gold.

 

F - 66


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

23.

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES (continued)

 

Elimination of hedge book

The Company communicated a strategy in prior years to reduce its outstanding gold derivatives position in order to be more exposed to spot gold prices. During 2010, the Company completed the final phase of this strategy and eliminated its gold hedge book.

The results of operations and cash flows for 2010 were adversely impacted given the early cash settlement of non-hedge derivatives and previously designated NPSE contracts with low contracted sales prices, respectively, committed ounces have been fully eliminated as at December 31, 2012 and 2011.

Foreign exchange price risk protection agreements

The Company, from time to time, may enter into currency forward exchange and currency option contracts to hedge certain anticipated transactions denominated in foreign currencies. The objective of the Company’s foreign currency hedging activities is to protect the Company from the risk that the eventual cash flows resulting from transactions denominated in US dollars will be adversely affected by changes in exchange rates.

As at December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had no open forward exchange or currency option contracts in its currency hedge position.

Interest rate and liquidity risk

Fluctuations in interest rates impacts interest paid and received on the short-term cash investments and financing activities, giving rise to interest rate risk.

In the ordinary course of business, the Company receives cash from the proceeds of its gold sales and is required to fund working capital requirements. This cash is managed to ensure surplus funds are invested in a manner to achieve market related returns while minimizing risks.

The Company is able to actively source financing at competitive rates. The counterparts are financial and banking institutions and their credit ratings are regularly monitored by the Company.

 

F - 67


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

23.

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES (continued)

 

Cash and loans advanced maturity profile

 

            2012        2011    
Maturity date    Currency    Fixed rate
investment
amount
(million)
     Effective
rate %
     Floating rate
investment
amount
(million)
     Effective
rate %
     Fixed rate
investment
amount
(million)
     Effective
rate %
     Floating rate
investment
amount
(million)
     Effective
rate %
 

All less than one year

   $      1        2.50        611        0.30        10        0.48        467        0.20  
   ZAR      780        3.55        215        2.10        3,030        5.50        164        3.55  
   AUD      -        -        29        3.00        81        4.65        23        4.45  
   BRL      -        -        34        7.51        -        -        27        6.61  
   ARS      -        -        73        15.00        -        -        1        10.23  
     NAD      -        -        2        4.30        -        -        119        4.08  

Borrowings maturity profile

 

                                                                                                                                      

 

 
            Between      Between                
     Within one year              one and two years                      two and five years              After five years      Total  
Currency              

 

Borrowings
amount
(million)

    

Effective
rate

%

     Borrowings
amount
(million)
    

Effective
rate

%

     Borrowings
amount
(million)
    

Effective
rate

%

     Borrowings
amount
(million)
    

Effective
rate

%

     Borrowings
amount
(million)
 

 

 

$        

     669        5.7        691        3.5        6        2.9        1,741        5.5        3,107   

ZAR        

     1,521        5.7        8        9.8        59        9.8        186        9.8        1,774   

BRL        

     4        9.3        2        5.8        -        -        2        4.5         

NAD        

     68        8.4        84        8.4        34        8.4        -        -        186   

AUD        

     -        -        -        -        256        5.1        -        -        256   

 

 

Interest rate risk

 

 

 
     Fixed for less than one year     

 

Fixed for between one and three
years

     Fixed for greater than three years      Total  
Currency              

 

Borrowings

amount

(million)

    

Effective

rate

%

    

Borrowings

amount

(million)

    

Effective

rate

%

    

Borrowings

amount

(million)

    

Effective

rate

%

    

Borrowings

amount

(million)

 

 

 

$        

     669        5.7        693        3.5        1,745        5.4        3,107   

ZAR        

     1,521        5.7        25        9.8        228        9.8        1,774   

BRL        

     4        9.3        2        5.8        2        4.5         

NAD        

     68        8.4        118        8.4        -        -        186   

AUD        

     -        -        256        5.1        -        -        256   

 

 

Non-performance risk

Realization of contracts is dependent upon counterparts’ performance. The Company has not obtained collateral or other security to support the financial instruments subject to non-performance risk, but the credit standing of counterparts was monitored on a regular basis throughout the year. The Company spreads its business over a number of financial and banking institutions to minimize the risk of potential non-performance risk. Furthermore, the approval process of counterparts and the limits applied to each counterpart were monitored by the board of directors. Where possible, ISDA netting agreements were put in place.

The combined maximum credit risk exposure at balance sheet date amounts to $183 million (2011: $198 million). Credit risk exposure netted by open derivative positions with counterparts was $nil million (2011: $nil million). No set-off is applied to balance sheet amounts due to the different maturity profiles of assets and liabilities.

 

F - 68


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

23.

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES (continued)

 

Fair value of financial instruments

The estimated fair values of financial instruments are determined at discrete points in time based on relevant market information. The estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments, as measured at December 31, 2012 and 2011, are as follows (assets (liabilities)):

 

      December 31, 2012      December 31, 2011      
      Carrying
amount
$
     Fair value
$
     Carrying
amount
$
     Fair value    
$    
 

Cash and cash equivalents

     892         892         1,112         1,112        

Restricted cash

     64         64         58         58        

Short-term debt

     (271)         (271)         (30)         (30)       

Short-term debt at fair value

     (588)         (588)         (2)         (2)       

Long-term debt

     (2,750)         (2,871)         (1,715)         (1,857)       

Long-term debt at fair value

                   (758)         (758)       

Derivatives

     (10)         (10)         (93)         (93)       

Marketable equity securities - available for sale

     69         69         82         82        

Marketable debt securities - held to maturity

            11                11        

Non-marketable equity securities - available for sale

                          -        

Non-marketable assets - held to maturity

                          2        

Non-marketable debt securities - held to maturity

     86         86         85         85        

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instrument:

Cash restricted for use, cash and cash equivalents and short-term debt

The carrying amounts approximate fair value because of the short-term duration of these instruments.

Long-term debt

The mandatory convertible bonds are carried at fair value. The fair value of the convertible and rated bonds are shown at their quoted market value. Other long-term debt re-prices on a short-term floating rate basis, and accordingly the carrying amount approximates fair value.

Derivatives

The fair value of volatility-based instruments (i.e. options) are estimated based on market prices, volatilities, credit risk and interest rates for the periods under review.

Investments

Marketable equity securities classified as available-for-sale are carried at fair value. Marketable debt securities classified as held to maturity are measured at amortized cost. Non-marketable assets classified as held to maturity are measured at amortized cost. The fair value of marketable debt securities and non-marketable assets has been calculated using market interest rates. Investments in non-marketable debt securities classified as held to maturity are measured at amortized cost. Non-marketable equity securities classified as available for sale are carried at cost or fair value, where fair value can be reliably measured.

 

F - 69


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

23.

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES (continued)

 

The following is the fair value of the derivative (liabilities)/assets split by accounting designation:

 

 

 
     December 31, 2012  
    

Liabilities

 

 
     Balance Sheet location    Non-hedge
accounted
     Total  
          $      $  

 

 

Option component of convertible bonds

   Non-current liabilities - derivatives      (9)         (9)   

Embedded derivatives

   Non-current liabilities - derivatives      (1)         (1)   
  

 

 

Total derivatives

        (10)         (10)   

 

 
        

 

 
     December 31, 2011  
    

Liabilities

 

 
     Balance Sheet location    Non-hedge
accounted
     Total  
          $      $  

 

 

Option component of convertible bonds

   Non-current liabilities - derivatives      (92)         (92)   

Embedded derivatives

   Non-current liabilities - derivatives      (1)         (1)   
  

 

 

Total derivatives

        (93)         (93)   

 

 

Non-hedge derivative (gain)/loss recognized

 

 

 
     Year ended December 31,  
                       2012       2011       2010   
  

 

 

 
     $      $      $  

 

 

Realized (1)

        

Forward sales type agreements - commodity

                   377   

Option contracts - commodity

                   2,573   

Forward sales agreements - currency

                   13   

Option contracts - currency

                   (3)   

Interest rate swaps - Gold

                   15   
  

 

 

 
                   2,975      (2) 

Unrealized (1)

        

Forward sales type agreements - commodity

                   (265)   

Option contracts - commodity

                   (1,999)   

Interest rate swaps - Gold

                   (13)   

Option component of convertible bonds

     (83)         (84)          

Other commodity contracts

     (10)                 

Embedded derivatives

                   (1)   

Warrants on shares

                    
  

 

 

 
     (93)         (83)         (2,272)   
  

 

 

 

Non-hedge derivatives (gain)/loss

     (93)         (83)         703   
  

 

 

 

 

  (1) 

Realized and unrealized gains and losses on non-hedge derivatives are included in “Non-hedge derivative (gain)/loss and movement on bonds” in the income statement.

  (2) 

Included $2,698 million loss related to the final tranche of the accelerated hedge buy-back executed during 2010.

 

F - 70


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

23.

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES (continued)

 

Other comprehensive income

 

 

 
    Accumulated other
comprehensive income
as of January 1, 2012
    Changes in fair
value recognized
in 2012
    Reclassification
adjustments
   

 

Accumulated other
comprehensive income
as of December 31,
2012

 
    $     $     $     $  

 

 

Derivatives designated as

       

Capital expenditure

    (3)                    (3)   
 

 

 

 

Before tax totals

    (3)                    (3)   
 

 

 

 

After tax totals

    (2)                    (2)   
 

 

 

 
       

 

 
    Accumulated other
comprehensive income
as of January 1, 2011
    Changes in fair
value recognized
in 2011
    Reclassification
adjustments
   

 

Accumulated other
comprehensive income
as of December 31,
2011

 
    $     $     $     $  

 

 

Derivatives designated as

       

Capital expenditure

    (3)                    (3)   
 

 

 

 

Before tax totals

    (3)                    (3)   
 

 

 

 

After tax totals

    (2)                    (2)   
 

 

 

 

Maturity profile of derivatives, at carrying value

 

 

 
    

Total

$

         

 

2012

Assets

$

         

Liabilities

$

 

 

 

Amounts to mature within twelve months of balance sheet date

                                   -             

Amounts maturing between one and two years

     (9)                      (9)   

Amounts maturing between two and five years

                          

Amounts to mature thereafter

     (1)                      (1)   
  

 

 

 

Total

                     (10)                                      (10)   
  

 

 

 
              

 

 
    

Total

$

         

 

2011

Assets

$

         

Liabilities

$

 

 

 

Amounts to mature within twelve months of balance sheet date

                          

Amounts maturing between one and two years

                          

Amounts maturing between two and five years

     (92)                      (92)   

Amounts to mature thereafter

     (1)                      (1)   
  

 

 

 

Total

     (93)                      (93)   
  

 

 

 

 

F - 71


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

23.

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES (continued)

 

Sensitivity analysis

Derivatives

The Company monitors the sensitivity of the convertible bonds to changes in its share price.

The following table discloses the approximate sensitivity, in US dollars, of the convertible bonds to the Company’s share price at December 31, 2012 (actual changes in the timing and amount of the following variables may differ from the assumed changes below).

 

 

 
     2012            
  

 

 

 
    

Change in
            underlying

factor

     Non-hedge
accounted
     Total change in
fair value
 
            $      $  

 

 

Convertible bonds

        

AngloGold Ashanti Limited share price ($)

     Spot (+$5)         (14)         (14)   

AngloGold Ashanti Limited share price ($)

     Spot (-$5)                 

 

F - 72


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

23.

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES (continued)

 

Mandatory convertible bonds

The mandatory convertible bond valuation is primarily linked to the AngloGold Ashanti Limited share price traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and fluctuates with reference to the NYSE share price and market interest rates. An increase or decrease of $5 in the AngloGold Ashanti Limited share price will generally impact the value of the mandatory convertible bond liability in a stable interest environment by approximately +$72 million and -$83 million, respectively.

Foreign exchange risk

Foreign exchange risk arises on financial instruments that are denominated in a foreign currency.

The following table discloses the approximate foreign exchange risk sensitivities of debt at December 31, 2012 (actual changes in the timing and amount of the following variables may differ from the assumed changes below).

 

     2012
    

Change in
exchange rate

 

   

Change in
borrowings

total

 

$

Debt

   

ZAR denominated (R/$)

    Spot (+R1)      (22)

BRL denominated (BRL/$)

    Spot (+BRL0.25)     

NAD denominated (NAD/$)

    Spot (+NAD1)      (2)

AUD denominated (AUD/$)

    Spot (+AUD0.05)      (13)
             
    2012
    

Change in
exchange rate

 

   

Change in
borrowings

total

 

$

Debt

   

ZAR denominated (R/$)

    Spot (-R1)      28 

BRL denominated (BRL/$)

    Spot (-BRL0.25)     

NAD denominated (NAD/$)

    Spot (-NAD1)     

AUD denominated (AUD/$)

    Spot (-AUD0.05)      14 
             

 

24.

ADDITIONAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

 

 

 

 
        

2012

$

       2011
$
      

2010

$

 
 

 

 
 

 

Reported in the consolidated statements of cash flows:

            
 

 

Interest paid

     145           144           115   
 

 

Taxation paid

     507           477           188   
 

 

Non-cash investing and financing items not reported in the consolidated statements of cash flows:

            
 

 

Non cash movements included in Property, plant & equipment

     68           389           302   
 

 

Exercise of share options

     45           51           43   
 

 

Non-cash operating items not reported in the consolidated statements of cash flows:

            
 

 

Foreign exchange gain(1)

              11            

 

(1)

 

 

Foreign exchange gain included in Interest, dividends and other amounts to:

                        

 

F - 73


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

25.

PROVISION FOR PENSION AND OTHER POST-RETIREMENT MEDICAL BENEFITS

The provision for pension and post-retirement medical funding represents the provision for health care and pension benefits for employees, retired employees and their dependants.

Defined benefit plans

The retirement schemes as at December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, consist of the following which reflects the following provision values:

 

                                                              

 

 
    

2012 

$

    

2011 

$

    

2010 

$

 

 

 

AngloGold Ashanti Pension Fund liability

     24         23          

Post-retirement medical scheme for AngloGold Ashanti South Africa employees

     183         159         179   

Other defined benefit plans

     14         12         12   
  

 

 

 

Sub total

     221         194         191   

Transferred to other non-current assets. See Note 15.

        

Post-retirement medical scheme for Rand Refinery employees

                    

Ashanti retired staff pension plan

                    

Short-term portion transferred to other current liabilities. See Note 17.

     (12)         (12)         (14)   
  

 

 

 

Total provision classified as a non-current liability

     209         185         180   
  

 

 

 

South Africa defined benefit pension fund

The plan is evaluated by independent actuaries on an annual basis as at December 31. The valuation as at December 31, 2012 was completed at the beginning of 2013. The most recent statutory valuation effective December 31, 2011 was completed in May 2012. The next statutory valuation will have an effective date no later than December 31, 2014.

All South African pension funds are governed by the Pension Funds Act of 1956 as amended.

 

F - 74


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

25.

PROVISION FOR PENSION AND OTHER POST-RETIREMENT MEDICAL BENEFITS (continued)

 

Information with respect to the defined benefit fund, which includes benefits for AngloGold Ashanti employees, for the year ended December 31, is set forth in the table below:

 

                                                                                   
 

 

 
         Pension benefits  
         2012       2011       2010   
         $      $      $  
 

 

 
  Change in benefit obligation         
  Benefit obligation at January 1,      307         334         269   
  Service cost                     
  Interest cost      26         25         25   
  Plan participants’ contributions                     
  Actuarial loss      22         22         21   
  Benefits paid      (18)         (19)         (28)   
  Translation      (17)         (64)         38   
    

 

 

 
  Benefit obligation at December 31,      328         307         334   
    

 

 

 
  Change in plan assets         
  Fair value of plan assets at January 1,      284         334         274   
  Actual return on plan assets      45         24         40   
  Company contributions                     
  Plan participants’ contributions                     
  Benefits paid      (18)         (19)         (28)   
  Translation      (15)         (64)         38   
    

 

 

 
  Fair value of plan assets at December 31,      304         284         334   
    

 

 

 
  Unfunded status at end of year      (24)         (23)          
    

 

 

 
  Net amount recognized      (24)         (23)          
    

 

 

 
  Components of net periodic benefit cost         
  Service cost                     
  Interest cost      26         25         25   
  Actuarial loss             28         10   
  Expected return on assets      (31)         (30)         (29)   
    

 

 

 
  Net periodic benefit cost      10         30         13   
    

 

 

 
  Accumulated benefit obligation at December 31,      274         269         290   
  Assumptions         
  Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31,         
  Discount rate      8.25%         8.75%         8.50%   
  Rate of compensation increase      8.00%         8.00%         7.25%   
  Weighted-average assumptions used to determine the net periodic benefit cost for the years ended December 31,         
  Discount rate      8.25%         8.75%         8.50%   
  Expected long-term return on plan assets      10.53%         11.20%         9.99%   
  Rate of compensation increase(1)      8.00%         8.00%         7.25%   
  Pension increase      5.40%         5.40%         4.73%   
 

 

 

(1)

 

Short-term compensation rate increase

     5.50%         7.50%         7.50%   
 

Long-term compensation rate increase

     8.00%         8.00%         7.25%   

 

F - 75


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

25.

PROVISION FOR PENSION AND OTHER POST-RETIREMENT MEDICAL BENEFITS (continued)

 

The expected long-term return on plan assets is determined using the after tax return of RSA Government long bond yields as a guide.

 

                                                       

 

 
    Pension benefits  
 

 

 

 
   

2012 

%

   

2011 

%

 

 

 

 Plan assets

   

 AngloGold Ashanti’s pension plan asset allocations at December 31, 2012 and 2011, by asset category are as follows:

   

 Asset category

   

 Equity securities

    56%        56%   

 Debt securities

    38%        37%   

 Other

    6%        7%   
 

 

 

 
    100%        100%   
 

 

 

 

Fair value of plan assets

The following table sets out the Company’s plan assets measured at fair value, by level within the hierarchy as at December 31, 2012 (in US Dollars, millions):

 

                                                                                                               

 

 
Description   Level 1     Level 2     Level 3   Total  

 

 

Domestic equity security

    115           115  

Foreign equity securities

    57           57  

Domestic fixed interest bonds

    90           90  

Foreign fixed interest bonds

    15           15  

Real estate investment trust

    3           3  

Cash

    13           13  

Unlisted specialized credit

      11         11  

 

 

The following table sets out the Company’s plan assets measured at fair value, by level within the hierarchy as at December 31, 2011 (in US Dollars, millions):

 

                                                                                                               

 

 
Description   Level 1     Level 2     Level 3   Total  

 

 

Domestic equity security

    106           106  

Foreign equity securities

    54           54  

Domestic fixed interest bonds

    81           81  

Foreign fixed interest bonds

    14           14  

Real estate investment trust

    3           3  

Cash

    16           16  

Unlisted specialized credit

      10         10  

 

 

Fair value of level 1 plan assets is based on quoted market prices.

Fair value of level 2 plan assets is based on market interest rates (for fixed rate investments) accrued interest and credit risk ratings.

 

F - 76


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

25.

PROVISION FOR PENSION AND OTHER POST-RETIREMENT MEDICAL BENEFITS (continued)

 

Investment policy

The Trustees have adopted a long-term horizon in formulating the Fund’s investment strategy, which is consistent with the term of the Fund’s liabilities. The investment strategy aims to provide a reasonable return relative to inflation across a range of market conditions.

The Trustees have adopted different strategic asset allocations for the assets backing pensioner and active member liabilities. The strategic asset allocation defines what proportion of the Fund’s assets should be invested in each major asset class. The Trustees have then selected specialist investment managers to manage the assets in each asset class according to specific performance mandates instituted by the Trustees.

The Trustees have also put in place a detailed Statement of Investment Principles that sets out the Fund’s overall investment philosophy and strategy.

Fund returns are calculated on a monthly basis, and the performance of the managers and Fund as a whole is formally reviewed by the Fund’s Investment Sub-Committee at least every six months.

 

                                                                                                                             

 

 
     2012      2011  
    

No. of

shares

     Percentage of
total assets
    Fair value
$
    

No. of

shares

     Percentage of
total assets
    Fair value
$
 

 

 
Related parties                

Investments held in related parties are summarized as follows:

               
Equity securities                
AngloGold Ashanti Limited      184,432         1.9%               100,079         1.5%         
       

 

 

         

 

 

 

Other investments exceeding 5% of total plan assets

               
Bonds                
IFM Corporate Bond Unit Trust      271,680,384         11.4%        35         287,226,346         12.7%        36   
Allan Gray Orbis Global Equity Fund      224,509         9.5%        29         242,110         9.5%        27   
Contrarius Global Equity Fund      1,151,413         9.2%        28         1,251,535         9.1%        26   
       

 

 

         

 

 

 
          92              89   
       

 

 

         

 

 

 

 

Cash flows

 

 

 
    $  

 

 

Contributions

 

Expected Company contribution to its pension plan in 2013

    5  

Estimated future benefit payments

The following pension benefit payments, which reflect the expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid:

 

2013

    19   

2014

    20   

2015

    20   

2016

    21   

2017

    21   

2018 – 2022

    117   

 

F - 77


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

25.

PROVISION FOR PENSION AND OTHER POST-RETIREMENT MEDICAL BENEFITS (continued)

 

South Africa post-retirement medical benefits

The provision for post-retirement medical funding represents the provision for health care benefits for employees and retired employees and their registered dependants. The post-retirement benefit costs are assessed in accordance with the advice of independent professionally qualified actuaries. The actuarial method used is the projected unit credit funding method. This scheme is unfunded. The last actuarial valuation was performed at December 31, 2012.

Information with respect to the defined benefit liability, which includes post-retirement medical benefits for AngloGold Ashanti South Africa employees, for the year ended December 31, is set forth in the table below:

 

                                                                                   
 

 

 
         Other benefits  
    

 

 

 
        

2012 

$

    

2011 

$

    

2010 

$

 
 

 

 
 

Change in benefit obligation

        
 

Benefit obligation at January 1,

     159         179         149   
 

Service cost

                    
 

Recognition of past service cost

     22                 
 

Interest cost

     13         13         13   
 

Benefits paid

     (15)         (13)         (14)   
 

Actuarial loss

     11         11         10   
 

Translation

     (8)         (32)         20   
    

 

 

 
 

Benefit obligation at December 31,

     183         159         179   
    

 

 

 
 

Unfunded status at end of year

     (183)         (159)         (179)   
    

 

 

 
 

Net amount recognized

     (183)         (159)         (179)   
    

 

 

 
 

Components of net periodic benefit cost

        
 

Service cost

                    
 

Recognition of past service cost (1)

     22                 
 

Interest cost

     13         13         13   
 

Actuarial loss

     11         11         10   
    

 

 

 
       47         25         24   
    

 

 

 

(1)

 

Revision of the Company contributions towards health care benefits to align with medical inflation.

  

 

The assumptions used in calculating the above amounts are:

        
 

Discount rate

     7.75%         8.75%         8.50%   
 

Expected increase in health care costs

     7.00%         7.50%         7.60%   
 

Assumed health care cost trend rates at December 31,

        
 

Health care cost trend assumed for next year

     7.00%         7.50%         7.60%   
 

Rate to which the cost trend is assumed to decline (ultimate trend rate)

     7.00%         7.50%         7.60%   
  Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for health care plans. A one percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effect:         

 

    1-percentage point
increase
    1-percentage point
decrease
 
 

 

 

 

Effect on total service and interest cost

    1       (1)   

Effect on post-retirement benefit obligation

    5       (16)   

 

Cash flows      

 

 
    $  

 

 

Contributions

 

Expected Company contributions to the post-retirement medical plan in 2013

    12   

Estimated future benefit payments

The following medical benefit payments, which reflect the expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid:

 

2013

    12   

2014

    13   

2015

    14   

2016

    15   

2017

    15   

2018 – 2022

    81   

 

F - 78


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

25.

PROVISION FOR PENSION AND OTHER POST-RETIREMENT MEDICAL BENEFITS (continued)

 

Other defined benefit plans

Other defined benefit plans include the Ashanti Retired Staff Pension Plan, the Obuasi Mines Staff Pension Scheme, the Post-retirement medical scheme for Rand Refinery employees (partly disposed of in December 2012), the Retiree Medical Plan for the United States of America employees, the Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan for North America (USA) Inc. employees and the Nuclear Fuels South Africa (“NUFCOR”) – Retiree Medical Plan for Nufcor South African employees.

Information in respect of other defined benefit plans for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 have been aggregated in the tables of change in benefit obligations, change in plan assets and components of net periodic benefit cost as follows:

Aggregated information in respect of the other defined benefit plans, for the year ended December 31, is set forth in the table below:

 

                                                              

 

 
   

2012 

$

   

2011 

$

   

2010 

$

 

 

 

Change in benefit obligations

     

Balance at January 1,

    21        22        18   

Interest cost

                 

Actuarial loss

                 

Disposal of subsidiary

    (2)               

Benefits paid

    (2)        (2)        (2)   

Translation

    (1)               
 

 

 

 

Balance at December 31,

    18        21        22   
 

 

 

 

Change in plan assets

     

Fair value of plan assets at January 1,

          10         

Actual return on plan assets

                 

Disposal of subsidiary

    (4)               

Benefits paid

                (1)   

Translation

    (1)        (2)         
 

 

 

 

Fair value of plan assets at December 31,

                10   
 

 

 

 

Unfunded status at end of year

    (14)        (12)        (12)   
 

 

 

 

Net amount recognized

    (14)        (12)        (12)   
 

 

 

 

Components of net periodic benefit cost

     

Interest cost

                 

Actuarial loss/(gain)

          (1)        (1)   
 

 

 

 
                 
 

 

 

 

Accumulated benefit obligation at December 31,

    14        12        12   

Cash flows

The other retirement defined benefit plans are all closed to new members and current members are either retired or deferred members. The Company does not make a contribution to these plans.

Estimated future benefit payments

The following pension benefit payments, which reflect the expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid:

 

 

 
    $  

 

 

2013

     

2014

     

2015

     

2016

     

2017

     

2018 – 2022

     

 

F - 79


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

25.

PROVISION FOR PENSION AND OTHER POST-RETIREMENT MEDICAL BENEFITS (continued)

 

Defined contribution funds

The following table sets forth the cost of providing retirement benefits.

                                         

 

 
   

2012 

$

   

2011 

$

   

2010 

$

 

 

 

South Africa (1)

    46        48        48   

Continental Africa (2)

     

Ghana

    10               

Guinea

                 

Namibia

                 

Tanzania

                 

Australasia (3)

                 

Americas (4)

     

United States of America

                 

Brazil

                 

Argentina

                 

Colombia

                 
 

 

 

 
    69        64        64   
 

 

 

 

Contributions to the various retirement schemes are fully expensed during the year.

     

 

  (1) 

South Africa

 

   

AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s operations in South Africa (Great Noligwa, Kopanang, Moab Khotsong, Mponeng, Savuka, TauTona, First Uranium SA, Corporate and Other) contribute to various industry-based pension and provident retirement plans which cover substantially all employees and are defined contribution plans. These plans are all funded and the assets of the schemes are held in administrated funds separately from the group’s assets.

 

  (2) 

Continental Africa

 

   

AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s mines in Ghana (Iduapriem and Obuasi) contribute to provident plans for their employees which are defined contribution plans. The funds are administered by Boards of Trustees and invest mainly in Ghana government treasury instruments, fixed term deposits and other investments.

 

   

AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s mine in Guinea (Siguiri) contributes to provident plans for their employees which are defined contribution plans. The funds are administered by Boards of Trustees and invest mainly in Guinea government treasury instruments, fixed term deposits and other investments.

 

   

At AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s mine in Namibia (Navachab) the employees are members of a defined contribution provident fund. The fund is administered by the Old Mutual Life Assurance Company (Namibia) Limited. Both the Company and the employees contribute to this fund.

 

   

AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s mine in Tanzania (Geita) does not have a retirement scheme for employees. Tanzanian nationals contribute to the National Social Security Fund (“NSSF”) or the Parastatal Provident Fund (“PPF”), depending on the employee’s choice, and the Company also makes a contribution on the employee’s behalf to the same fund. On leaving the group, employees may withdraw their contribution from the fund. From July 2005, the Company has set up a supplemental provident fund which is administered by the PPF with membership available to permanent national employees on a voluntary basis. The Company makes no contribution towards any retirement schemes for contracted expatriate employees. The Company contributes to the NSSF on behalf of expatriate employees. On termination of employment the Company may apply for a refund of contributions from the NSSF. The NSSF also administers this fund.

 

  (3) 

Australasia

 

   

AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s mines in Australia (Sunrise Dam and Tropicana) contribute to various approved superannuation funds for the provision of benefits to employees and their dependants on retirement, disability or death. The fund is a multi-industry national fund with defined contribution arrangements. Contribution rates by the operation on behalf of employees varies, with minimum contributions meeting compliance requirements under the Superannuation Guarantee legislation. The contributions by the operations are legally enforceable to the extent required by the Superannuation Guarantee legislation and relevant employment agreements.

 

F - 80


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

25.

PROVISION FOR PENSION AND OTHER POST-RETIREMENT MEDICAL BENEFITS (continued)

 

Defined contribution funds (continued)

 

  (4) 

Americas

 

   

AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s mine in North America (Cripple Creek & Victor) sponsors a 401(k) savings plan whereby employees may contribute up to 60 percent of their salary, of which up to 5 percent is matched at a rate of 150 percent by AngloGold Ashanti Limited USA.

 

   

AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s mines in Brazil (AngloGold Ashanti Córrego do Sitío Mineração and Serra Grande) operate defined contribution arrangements for their employees. These arrangements are funded by the operations (basic plan) and operations/employees (optional supplementary plan). A Plano Gerador de Benefício Livre (“PGBL”) fund, similar to the American 401(k) type of plan was started in December 2001. Administered by Bradesco Previdência e Seguros (which assumes the risk for any eventual actuarial liabilities), this is the only private pension plan sponsored by the group.

 

   

AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s mine in Argentina (Cerro Vanguardia) does not have a retirement scheme for employees. Argentine nationals contribute to the obligatory Régimen Previsional Público fund which is administered by the state through the National Administrators of the Social Security (“ANSES”). Employees in Argentina contribute 11 percent of their salaries towards the Régimen Previsional Público fund and the Company makes a contribution of 17 percent of an employee’s salary to the same fund.

 

   

AngloGold Ashanti Limited’s operations in Colombia offer an optional defined contribution plan to their employees. The employees can contribute up to 10 percent of their salary and the Company contributes 50 percent of this amount. On termination of employment the participant may apply to withdraw from the fund.

 

F - 81


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

26.

SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

The Company produces gold as its primary product and does not have distinct divisional segments in terms of principal business activity, but manages its business on the basis of different geographic segments. This information is consistent with the information used by the Company’s Chief Operating Decision Maker, defined as the Executive Committee, in evaluating operating performance of, and making resource allocation decisions.

 

                                                              

 

 
    Year ended December 31  
 

 

 

 
   

2012 

$

   

2011 

$

   

2010 

$

 

 

 

Revenues

     

Revenues from product sales:

     

South Africa

    2,013        2,561        875   

Continental Africa

    2,609        2,529        1,038   

Australasia

    426        385        206   

Americas

    1,656        1,487        571   
 

 

 

 
    6,704        6,962        2,690   

Less: Equity method investments included above

    (351)        (392)        (331)   

Plus: Loss on realized non-hedge derivatives included above

                2,975   
 

 

 

 

Total revenues from product sales

    6,353        6,570        5,334   
 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

     

South Africa

    318        360        357   

Continental Africa

    233        223        185   

Australasia

    36        42        35   

Americas

    217        173        152   
 

 

 

 
    804        798        729   

Less: Equity method investments included above

    (10)        (9)        (9)   
 

 

 

 

Total depreciation and amortization expense

    794        789        720   
 

 

 

 

 

F - 82


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

26.

SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION (continued)

 

                                                              

 

 
                Year ended December 31               
 

 

 

 
   

2012 

$

   

2011 

$

   

2010 

$

 

 

 

Segment income/(loss)

     

South Africa

    577        1,021        675   

Continental Africa

    526        941        493   

Australasia

    82        38        158   

Americas

    688        751        508   

Other, including Corporate and Non-gold producing subsidiaries

    (253)        (192)        (179)   
 

 

 

 

Total segment income

    1,620        2,559        1,655   
 

 

 

 
The following are included in segment income/(loss):      

Interest revenue

     

South Africa

    21        28        27   

Continental Africa

          14         

Australasia

                 

Americas

    10              10   

Other, including Corporate and Non-gold producing subsidiaries

                 
 

 

 

 

Total interest revenue

    43        52        43   
 

 

 

 

Interest expense

     

South Africa

                 

Continental Africa

                 

Australasia

                 

Americas

                 

Other, including Corporate and Non-gold producing subsidiaries

    197        169        133   
 

 

 

 

Total interest expense

    213        178        151   
 

 

 

 

Equity (loss)/income in associates

     

South Africa

    (2)        (2)        (1)   

Continental Africa

    66        89        69   

Americas

    (12)               

Other, including Corporate and Non-gold producing subsidiaries

    (75)        (28)        (28)   
 

 

 

 

Total equity (loss)/income in associates

    (23)        59        40   
 

 

 

 
Reconciliation of segment income to Net income - attributable to AngloGold Ashanti      

Segment total

    1,620        2,559        1,655   

Exploration costs

    (388)        (279)        (206)   

General and administrative expenses

    (299)        (287)        (228)   

Market development costs

    (10)        (9)        (14)   

Non-hedge derivative gain/(loss) and movement on bonds

    265        196        (786)   

Taxation expense

    (340)        (705)        (255)   

Noncontrolling interests

    (19)        (50)        (54)   
 

 

 

 

Net income - attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

    829        1,425        112   
 

 

 

 

 

F - 83


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

26.

SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION (continued)

 

 

                     Year ended December 31             
    

 

        

2012 

$

  

2011 

$

  

2010 

$

 

 

Segment assets

        
 

South Africa(1)(2)

   3,570     2,974     3,370 
 

Continental Africa

   4,752     4,365     4,093 
 

Australasia

   1,007     714     534 
 

Americas

   2,894     2,527     2,170 
 

Other, including Corporate, and Non-gold producing subsidiaries

   879     605     221 
    

 

 

Total segment assets

   13,102     11,185     10,388 
    

 

(1)

 

Includes the following which have been classified as assets held for sale:

 

 

Rand Refinery Limited

        
 

ISS International Limited

         15 
 

On December 3, 2012, the Company disposed of a 5 percent stake in Rand Refinery Limited reducing its shareholding to 48.03 percent.

 

ISS International Limited was classified as held for sale in 2010. The sale was concluded effective February 28, 2011.

(2)

 

Includes the assets of First Uranium (Pty) Limited acquired on July 20, 2012.

 

Expenditure for additions to long-lived assets

        
 

South Africa

   619     549     430 
 

Continental Africa

   712     418     232 
 

Australasia

   355     102     40 
 

Americas

   382     452     309 
 

Other, including Corporate and Non-gold producing subsidiaries

   86       
    

 

     2,154     1,527     1,015 
 

Less: Equity method investments included above

   (303)    (88)    (42)
    

 

 

Total expenditure for additions to long-lived assets

   1,851     1,439     973 
    

 

 

Geographical area data

        
 

Total revenues

        
 

South Africa

   2,056     2,596     899 
 

Continental Africa

   2,617     2,529     1,043 
 

Australasia

   430     389     208 
 

Americas

   1,658     1,499     573 
 

Other, including Corporate and Non-gold producing subsidiaries

   20     17     37 
    

 

     6,781     7,030     2,760 
 

Less: Equity method investments included above

   (353)    (388)    (333)
 

Plus: Loss on realized non-hedge derivatives included above

         2,975 
    

 

 

Total revenues

   6,428     6,642     5,402 
    

 

 

Long-lived assets by area

        
 

South Africa

   3,164     2,360     2,701 
 

Continental Africa

   3,747     3,544     3,437 
 

Australasia

   786     441     373 
 

Americas

   2,316     2,088     1,808 
 

Other, including Corporate and Non-gold producing subsidiaries

   299     121     72 
    

 

 

Total long-lived assets

   10,312     8,554     8,391 
    

 

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

26.

SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION (continued)

 

 

    Year ended December 31
 

 

   

2012 

$

 

2011 

$

 

2010 

$

 

Entity-wide disclosures

     

Revenues(1)

     

South Africa

  2,013    2,561    2,207 

Ghana

  772    802    566 

Tanzania

  906    753   

Brazil

  851    767    599 

 

  (1) 

  Material revenues are attributed to countries based on location of production.

 

Long-lived assets(2)

     

South Africa

  2,913    2,151    2,458 

Ghana

  1,921    2,034    1,924 

United States of America

  917    810    719 

Brazil

  988    950    768 

 

  (2) 

  Material long-lived assets excluding goodwill and other intangibles, financial instruments and deferred taxation assets.

 

F - 85


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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

27.

ANGLOGOLD LIMITED SHARE INCENTIVE SCHEME AND PLANS

Employee share incentive scheme

At a general meeting held on June 4, 1998, shareholders approved the introduction of the AngloGold Limited Share Incentive Scheme (“Share Incentive Scheme”) for the purpose of providing an incentive to executive directors and senior employees of the Company and its subsidiaries to identify themselves more closely with the fortunes of the Company and also to promote the retention of such employees by giving them an opportunity to acquire shares in the Company. Employees participate in the scheme to the extent that they are granted options and accept them.

At a general meeting held on April 30, 2002, it was approved that the rules of the Share Incentive Scheme be amended to provide for the exercise of options to be based on conditions, related to the performance of the Company, as determined by the directors and which will be objective and specified. An employee would only be able to exercise his options after the date upon which he has received written notification from the directors that the previously specified performance conditions have been fulfilled or waived. The options granted prior to May 1, 2002 remained subject to the conditions under which they were granted. Although there are no automatically convertible unsecured debentures currently in issue under the rules of the Share Incentive Scheme, consequential amendments were approved to the rules of the scheme which effectively made the conversion of debentures subject to the same terms as the exercise of options.

At the annual general meeting held on May 7, 2010, shareholders authorized that 17,000,000 shares may be allocated for the purposes of the scheme. The maximum aggregate number of shares which may be acquired by any one participant in the scheme is 5 percent of the shares attributable to the scheme or 850,000 ordinary shares per employee could be issued in aggregate (2011: 850,000).

Ordinary shares issued in terms of the Share Incentive Scheme shall, subject to the provisions of the Share Incentive Scheme, rank pari passu with issued shares in all respects, including participation in dividends.

Non-executive directors are not eligible for participation in the Share Incentive Scheme.

Total plan employee costs

On December 31, 2012, the Company had four stock based compensation plans which are described below.

Total compensation cost charged against income for these plans were as follows:

 

     

2012 

$

    

2011 

$

   

2010 

$

 

Compensation cost recognized

     66        54  (1)      59   

 

  (1) 

Excluded $7 million relating to the Black economic empowerment transaction restructuring costs for Izingwe during 2011 (see Note 5).

At the year end, the unallocated balance of shares subject to the Share Incentive Scheme amounted to 8,528,097 (2011: 10,075,485).

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

27.

ANGLOGOLD LIMITED SHARE INCENTIVE SCHEME AND PLANS (continued)

 

Options

An option may only be granted to an employee to purchase a certain number of shares, specified by the directors, at the option price payable in accordance with the rules of the Share Incentive Scheme.

The Share Incentive Scheme provides for the granting of options based on two separate criteria:

 

  Ÿ  

Time related options

Time related options may be exercised over a five year period from date of grant, and may be exercised in tranches of 20 percent each in years 2, 3 and 4 and 40 percent in year five.

No further options will be granted under this plan which terminated on February 1, 2012, being the date on which the last options granted under this plan could have been, exercised or expired.

A summary of the salient features of the time related options is presented below:

 

      2012       2011      2010  

Total intrinsic value of options outstanding at period end (R millions)

     -        -       -   (1) 

Intrinsic value of options exercised (R millions)

     -        -   (1)      5  

Weighted average remaining contractual term (years)

     -        -       1  

 

  (1) 

Less than R1 million.

There was no income statement charge for 2012, 2011 and 2010, as the total compensation cost was expensed up to date of vesting in 2007.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

27.

ANGLOGOLD LIMITED SHARE INCENTIVE SCHEME AND PLANS (continued)

 

  Ÿ  

Performance related options

Performance related options granted vest in full, three years after date of grant, provided that the conditions on which the options were granted, namely related to the performance of the Company (growth in adjusted earnings per share) as determined by the directors, are met. If the performance conditions are not met at the end of the first three year period, then performance is re-tested each year over the ten year life of the option on a rolling three year basis. Options are normally exercisable, subject to satisfaction of the performance conditions, between three and ten years from date of grant.

The performance related options’ compensation expense is fixed at grant date and recorded when it is probable that the performance criteria will be met.

No further performance related options will be granted and all options granted hereunder will terminate on November 1, 2014, being the date on which the last options granted under these criteria may be exercised or will expire.

A summary of performance related options showing movement from the beginning of the year to the end of the year, is presented below:

 

 

       Options 
(000) 
        

Weighted- 

average 

exercise 

price 

Outstanding at January 1, 2012

     171           232 

Exercised

     (47)        224 

Forfeited (terminations)

     (31)          295 

Outstanding at December 31, 2012

     93           220 

Exercisable at December 31, 2012

     93         220 

A summary of the salient features of the performance related options is presented below:

 

      2012      2011      2010 

Total intrinsic value of options outstanding at period end (R millions)

     4      19      33 

Intrinsic value of options exercised (R millions)

     3      17      17 

Weighted average remaining contractual term (years)

     2      2     

All options which have not been exercised within ten years from the date on which they were granted automatically expire.

There was no income statement charge for 2012, 2011 and 2010, as the total compensation cost was expensed up to date of vesting in 2007.

During 2012, a total of 47,107 common shares were issued under the share incentive scheme in terms of performance awards.

As at December 31, 2012, there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

27.

ANGLOGOLD LIMITED SHARE INCENTIVE SCHEME AND PLANS (continued)

 

The weighted average of all options outstanding as at December 31, 2012, is as follows:

 

    

Range of exercise

prices

R

   

Quantity of options

within range

(000)

   

Weighted average

exercise price

R

   

Weighted average

contractual life

Years

 
    144 – 211        16       194        1.83  
    212 – 300        77       226        1.83  
              93  (1)      220        1.83  

(1)Represents performance related options outstanding.

No options expired during the year ended December 31, 2012.

Since December 31, 2012 to and including March 31, 2013, 370 options (granted in respect of performance related options) have been exercised.

Bonus Share Plan (“BSP”) and Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”)

At the annual general meeting held on April 29, 2005, shareholders approved the introduction of the BSP and LTIP and the discontinuation of the previous share incentive scheme. Options granted under the previous share incentive scheme will remain subject to the conditions under which they were originally granted.

Bonus Share Plan (“BSP”)

The BSP is intended to provide effective incentives to eligible employees. An eligible employee is one who devotes substantially the whole of his working time to the business of the Company, any subsidiary of the Company or a company under the control of AngloGold Ashanti unless the board of directors (“the board”) excludes such a company. An award in terms of the BSP may be made at any date at the discretion of the board, the only vesting condition being three years’ service for awards granted prior to 2008. For all BSP awards granted from 2008, 40 percent will vest after one year and the remaining 60 percent will vest after two years. An additional 20 percent of the original award will be granted to employees if the full award remains unexercised after three years. The board is required to determine a BSP award value and this will be converted to a share amount based on the closing price of the Company shares on the JSE on the last business day prior to the date of grant.

During 2012 a total of 558,042 common shares were issued in terms of the BSP rules.

For awards made, the following information is presented:

 

Award date (unvested awards and awards vested
during the year)
   2012       2011       2010       2009   
Calculated fair value (R per share)      328.59         340.00         280.90         293.99   
Vesting date (40%)      February 21, 2013         February 21, 2012         February 24, 2011         February 18, 2010   
Vesting date (60%)      February 21, 2014         February 21, 2013         February 24, 2012         February 18, 2011   
Vesting date (conditional 20%)      February 21, 2015         February 21, 2014         February 24, 2013         February 18, 2012   
Expiry date      February 20, 2022         February 20, 2021         February 23, 2020         February 17, 2019   

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

27.

ANGLOGOLD LIMITED SHARE INCENTIVE SCHEME AND PLANS (continued)

 

A summary of time related equity settled compensation scheme showing movement from the beginning of the year to the end of the year, is presented below:

 

    

                Awards

(000)

Outstanding at January 1, 2012

  1,825 

Granted

  993 

Exercised

  (558)

Forfeited (terminations)

  (104)
 

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2012

  2,156 
 

 

Exercisable at December 31, 2012

  881 
 

 

BSP awards are issued with no exercise price.

A summary of the salient features of the BSP is presented below:

 

      2012                   2011                   2010  
Total intrinsic value of awards outstanding at period end (R millions)      566        627        508  

Intrinsic value of awards exercised (R millions)

     163        153        146  

Weighted average remaining contractual term (years)

     6        6        7  

Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”)

The LTIP is an equity settled share-based payment arrangement, intended to provide effective incentives for executives to earn shares in the Company based on the achievement of stretched Company performance conditions. Participation in the LTIP is offered to executive directors, executive officers/management and selected members of senior management. An award in terms of the LTIP may be granted at any date during the year that the board of the Company determine and may even occur more than once a year. The board is required to determine an LTIP award value and this will be converted to a share amount based on the closing price of the Company shares on the JSE on the last business day prior to the date of grant.

The main performance conditions in terms of the LTIP issued in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 are:

  Ÿ  

up to 30 percent of an award will be determined by the performance of total shareholder returns compared with that of a group of comparative gold-producing companies;

  Ÿ  

up to 30 percent of an award will be determined by real growth (above US inflation) in adjusted earnings per share over the performance period;

  Ÿ  

up to 40 percent of an award will be dependent on the achievement of strategic performance measures set by the Remuneration Committee; and

  Ÿ  

three-year’s service is required.

During 2012, a total of 340,492 common shares were issued in terms of the LTIP rules.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

27.

ANGLOGOLD LIMITED SHARE INCENTIVE SCHEME AND PLANS (continued)

 

For awards made, the following information is presented:

 

Award date (unvested awards and awards
vested during the year)
   2012     2011     2010     2009 
Calculated fair value (Rand per share)    328.59     340.00     280.90     293.99 
Vesting date    February 21, 2015    February 21, 2014    February 24, 2013    February 18, 2012
Expiry date    February 20, 2022    February 20, 2021    February 23, 2020    February 17, 2019

A summary of time and performance related equity settled compensation scheme showing movement from the beginning of the year to the end of the year, is presented below:

 

    

Awards

(000)

Outstanding at January 1, 2012   1,982 
Granted   983 
Exercised   (340)
Forfeited (terminations)   (294)
 

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2012   2,331 
 

 

Exercisable at December 31, 2012   251 
 

 

LTIP awards are issued with no exercise price.

 

A summary of the salient features of the LTIP is presented below:

 

     2012   2011   2010 
Total intrinsic value of awards outstanding at period end (R millions)   611   681   522 
Intrinsic value of awards exercised (R millions)   99   66   26 
Weighted average remaining contractual term (years)   6   6  

 

Compensation expense related to BSP and LTIP awards recognized ($ millions)   58   42   45 
As at December 31, the unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested awards of the BSP and LTIP plans amounted to ($ millions)   43   27   23 
Unrecognized compensation cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately (years)   2   2  

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

27.

ANGLOGOLD LIMITED SHARE INCENTIVE SCHEME AND PLANS (continued)

 

Employee Share Ownership Plan (“ESOP”)

On December 12, 2006, AngloGold Ashanti announced the finalization of the Bokamoso Employee Share Ownership Plan (Bokamoso ESOP) for employees of the South African operations. The Bokamoso ESOP creates an opportunity for AngloGold Ashanti and the unions to ensure a closer alignment of the interest between South African based employees and the Company. Participation is restricted to those employees not eligible for participation in any other South African share incentive plan.

In order to facilitate these transactions the Company established a trust to acquire and administer the ESOP shares. AngloGold Ashanti allotted and issued free ordinary shares to the trust and also created, allotted and issued E ordinary shares to the trust for the benefit of employees. The Company also undertook an empowerment transaction with a Black Economic Empowerment investment vehicle, Izingwe Holdings (Proprietary) Limited (“Izingwe”) during 2006 and created, allotted and issued E ordinary shares to Izingwe. The key terms of the E ordinary share are:

 

  Ÿ  

AngloGold Ashanti has the right to cancel the E ordinary shares, or a portion of them, in accordance with the ESOP and Izingwe cancellation formula, respectively;

  Ÿ  

the E ordinary shares will not be listed;

  Ÿ  

the E ordinary shares which are not cancelled will be converted into ordinary shares; and

  Ÿ  

the E ordinary shares will each be entitled to receive a cash dividend equal to one-half of the dividend per ordinary share declared by the Company and a further one-half is included in the calculation of the strike price.

On April 14, 2011, AngloGold Ashanti Limited, NUM, Solidarity, UASA, Izingwe and the Bokamoso ESOP Board of Trustees announced the restructuring of the empowerment transactions concluded between the Company and the unions, and the Company and Izingwe respectively in 2006.

This restructuring was motivated by share price performance that since the onset of the 2008 global financial crisis led to a situation where the first two tranches of E ordinary shares vested and lapsed at no additional value to Bokamoso ESOP beneficiaries and Izingwe.

In order to remedy this in a manner that would ensure an element of value accruing to participants, though at a reasonable incremental cost to AngloGold Ashanti Limited shareholders, the scheme was restructured as follows:

 

  Ÿ  

all lapsed E ordinary shares that vested without value were reinstated;

  Ÿ  

the strike (base) price was fixed at R320.00 per share for the Bokamoso ESOP and R330.00 for Izingwe;

  Ÿ  

the notional interest charge that formed part of the original cancellation formula fell away;

  Ÿ  

as before, 50 percent of any dividends declared was used to reduce the strike price;

  Ÿ  

as before, the remaining 50 percent is paid directly to participants under the empowerment transaction; and

  Ÿ  

the life span of the scheme was extended by an additional year, the last vesting being in 2014, instead of 2013. A minimum payout on vesting of the E ordinary shares has been set at R40.00 each and a maximum payout of R70.00 each per E ordinary share for Izingwe and R90.00 each for members of the Bokamoso ESOP (i.e. employees), including the impact of the 50 percent of dividend flow. While the floor price provides certainty to all beneficiaries of the empowerment transactions, the creation of a ceiling serves to limit the cost to AngloGold Ashanti Limited and its shareholders.

The total incremental fair value of awards granted was R29.14 per share and will be included in earnings up to the vesting date in 2014. The Company recorded a charge of $12 million in 2011 to earnings as a result of the restructuring.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

27.

ANGLOGOLD LIMITED SHARE INCENTIVE SCHEME AND PLANS (continued)

 

The award of free ordinary shares to employees

The fair value of each free ordinary share awarded in 2011 was R306.99 (2008: R188, 2007: R306 and 2006: R320). The fair value is equal to the market value at the date-of-grant. Dividends declared and paid to the trust will accrue and be paid to ESOP members, pro rata to the number of shares allocated to them. An equal number of shares vests from 2009, and each subsequent year up to expiry date of November 1, 2013.

A summary of time related equity settled compensation scheme showing movement from the beginning of the year to the end of the year, is presented below:

 

    

Awards

(000)

Outstanding at January 1, 2012

  327 

Reallocated

  10 

Exercised

  (172)

Forfeited (terminations)

  (10)
 

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2012

  155 
 

 

Exercisable at December 31, 2012

 
 

 

A summary of the salient features of the award of free ordinary shares under ESOP to employees is presented below:

 

     2012     2011   2010 

Total intrinsic value of awards outstanding at period end (R millions)

    41     112   142 

Intrinsic value of awards exercised (R millions)

    50     51   72 

Weighted average remaining contractual term (years)

    1     1  

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

27.

ANGLOGOLD LIMITED SHARE INCENTIVE SCHEME AND PLANS (continued)

 

The award of E ordinary shares to employees:

Before the restructuring of the ESOP scheme during April 2011, the average fair value of the E ordinary shares awarded to employees in 2008 was R13 (2007: R79 and 2006: R105) per share. After the restructuring of the scheme the average fair value per share of the E Ordinary shares was R49.57. Dividends declared in respect of the E ordinary shares will firstly be allocated to cover administration expenses of the trust, whereafter it will accrue and be paid to ESOP members, pro rata to the number of shares allocated to them. At each anniversary over a six year period commencing on the third anniversary of the original 2006 award, the Company will cancel the relevant number of E ordinary shares as stipulated by a cancellation formula. Any E ordinary shares remaining in the tranche will be converted to ordinary shares for the benefit of the employees.

The value of each share granted is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The Black-Scholes option-pricing model requires the input of subjective assumptions, including the expected term of the option award and stock price volatility. These estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of judgment. In addition, the Company is required to estimate the expected forfeiture rate and only recognize expense for those options expected to vest. As a result, if other assumptions had been used, the Company’s recorded compensation expense could have been different from that reported.

The Black-Scholes option-pricing model used the following assumptions, at grant date:

 

     2011   2008   2007   2006

Risk-free interest rate

  6.63%   7.00%   7.00%   7.00%

Dividend yield

  0.99%   1.39%   2.06%   2.30%

Volatility factor of market share price

  33.50%   35.00%   33.00%   36.00%

 

A summary of E ordinary shares, awarded to employees, showing movement from the beginning of the year to the end of the year, is presented below:

 

     Options
(000)
  

Weighted-
average
exercise price

R

Outstanding at January 1, 2012

  1,533    315 

Reallocated

  32    313 

Forfeited (terminations)

  (32)    313 

Converted

  (615)    313 
 

 

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2012

  918    313 
 

 

 

Exercisable at December 31, 2012

  -   
 

 

A summary of the salient features of the award of E ordinary shares to employees is presented below:

 

     2012     2011   2010      

Total intrinsic value of options outstanding at period end (R millions) (1)

    31     43   -  

Intrinsic value of options exercised (R millions)

    21     6   -     (2 ) 

Weighted average remaining contractual term (years)

    1     1   1  

 

  (1) 

The options outstanding at December 31, 2010 had no intrinsic value as the share price at year end was lower than the weighted average exercise price.

  (2) 

Less than R1 million.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

27.

ANGLOGOLD LIMITED SHARE INCENTIVE SCHEME AND PLANS (continued)

 

        2012        2011        2010  

Compensation expense related to the ESOP scheme recognized ($ millions)

       8          12          12  

As at December 31, the unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested awards of the ESOP scheme amounted to ($ millions)

       3          9          8  

Unrecognized compensation cost is expected to be recognized over the remaining scheme term (years)

       1          3          3  

Weighted average exercise price is calculated as the initial grant price of R288 plus interest factor less dividend apportionment up to April 2011. After that date the exercise price is calculated at the restructured price of R320 less dividend apportionment.

Cash Settled Share Incentive Scheme

Ghana Employee Share Ownership Plan (“Ghana ESOP”)

A memorandum of understanding was signed with the Ghanaian employees on April 28, 2009 to introduce the Ghana ESOP under defined rules.

In terms of the rules of the scheme, every eligible employee is entitled to 20 AngloGold Ashanti Limited share appreciation rights (“phantom shares”), which will be paid out in four equal tranches, commencing May 2009 and ending in May 2012.

The value of the rights are equal to the value of AngloGold Ashanti Limited American Depositary receipts (“ADR’s”) as listed on the New York Stock Exchange, converted into Ghanaian Cedis at the prevailing US dollar exchange rate.

The share price on the day of issue as of April 29, 2009 was $32.15, whilst the share price used in the payment of the fourth tranche was $33.55 per share (third tranche in 2011: 49.24 per share, second tranche in 2010: $39.50 per share, first tranche in 2009: $28.46 per share).

The award of share appreciation rights to employees

A summary of share appreciation rights showing movement from the beginning of the year to the end of the year, is presented below:

 

    

Number of

rights

(000)

Outstanding at January 1, 2012

  24 

Exercised

  (24)

Forfeited (terminations)

  (1)

Reallocated

 
 

 

Rights outstanding at December 31, 2012

 
 

 

Rights exercisable at December 31, 2012

 
 

 

 

        2012      2011      2010   
        $     $     $  

Compensation expense related to Ghana ESOP scheme recognized ($ millions)

       -   (1)      -   (1)      2  

The liability recognized in the consolidated balance sheet in respect of unexercised rights was as follows

       -       1       2  

 

  (1) 

Less than $1 million.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

28.

SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION

AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc (“IOMco”), a 100 percent wholly-owned subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti, has issued debt securities which are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by AngloGold Ashanti Limited (being the “Guarantor”). See Note 18 and Note 20. IOMco is an Isle of Man registered company that holds certain of AngloGold Ashanti’s operations and assets located outside South Africa (excluding certain operations and assets in the United States of America and Namibia). The following is condensed consolidating financial information for the Company as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 and for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, with a separate column for each of AngloGold Ashanti Limited as Guarantor, IOMco as Issuer and the other subsidiaries of the Company combined (the “Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries”). For the purposes of the condensed consolidating financial information, the Company carries its investments under the equity method. The following supplemental condensed consolidating financial information should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

28.

SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)

 

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Condensed consolidating statements of income

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,

(In millions)

 

 

 
    2012        2012        2012        2012        2012     
    $       $       $       $       $    
    AngloGold Ashanti       IOMco       Other subsidiaries      

          Consolidation
adjustments

 

     

Total

   

 

 
    (the “Guarantor”)       (the “Issuer”)       (the “Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries”)
                   

Sales and other income

  2,158          4,463      (195)     6,428   

Product sales

  1,972          4,381          6,353   

Interest, dividends and other

  186          82      (195)     75   

Costs and expenses

  2,802      79      3,457      (1,121)     5,217   

Production costs

  1,080          2,102          3,183   

Exploration costs

  19      16      353          388   

Related party transactions

  (14)                 (14)   

General and administrative expenses/(recoveries)

  239      (16)     78      (2)     299   

Royalties paid

  25          139          164   

Market development costs

                  10   

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

  305          489          794   

Impairment of assets

  57          310          367   

Interest expense

      90      118          213   

Accretion expense

  11          22          33   

Employment severance costs

                  10   

Loss/(profit) on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

  1,065      (12)     101      (1,119)     35   

Non-hedge derivative gain and movement on bonds

          (265)         (265)  
                             

(Loss)/income before income tax provision

  (644)     (77)     1,006      926      1,211   

Taxation benefit/(expense)

  40      (5)     (375)         (340)  

Equity (loss)/income in associates

  (27)                 (23)  

Equity income/(loss) in subsidiaries

  1,502      360          (1,862)      

Income/(loss) from continuing operations

  871      282      631      (936)     848   

Preferred stock dividends

  (42)         (42)     84       

Net income/(loss)

  829      282      589      (852)     848   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

          (19)         (19)  

 

Net income/(loss) attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

  829      282      570      (852)     829   

 

Comprehensive income

  733      274      622      (879)     750   

Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests

          (17)         (17)  

Comprehensive income attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

  733      274      605      (879)     733  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

F - 97


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

28.

SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)

 

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Condensed consolidating statements of income

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,

(In millions)

 

 

 
   

2011 

$

AngloGold Ashanti

     

2011 

$

IOMco

     

2011 

$

Other subsidiaries

     

2011 

$

         Consolidation
adjustments

 

     

2011 

$

Total

   

 

 
    (the “Guarantor”)       (the “Issuer”)       (the “Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries”)
                   

Sales and other income

  2,709          4,108      (176)     6,642   

Product sales

  2,561          4,009          6,570   

Interest, dividends and other

  148          99      (176)     72   

Costs and expenses

  2,417      99      1,453      552      4,521   

Production costs

  1,115          1,862          2,977   

Exploration costs

  19      18      242          279   

Related party transactions

  (12)                 (12)  

General and administrative expenses/(recoveries)

  249      27      32      (21)     287   

Royalties paid

  73          120          193   

Market development costs

                   

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

  354          435          789   

Impairment of assets

  14                  17   

Interest expense

      69      104          178   

Accretion expense

  12          16          28   

Employment severance costs

                  15   

Loss/(profit) on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

  574      (15)     (1,175)     573      (43)  

Non-hedge derivative gain and movement on bonds

          (196)         (196)  
                             

Income/(loss) before income tax provision

  292      (98)     2,655      (728)     2,121   

Taxation expense

  (333)     (2)     (370)         (705)  

Equity income/(loss) in associates

  62      (3)             59   

Equity income/(loss) in subsidiaries

  1,465      808          (2,273)      

Income/(loss) from continuing operations

  1,486      705      2,285      (3,001)     1,475   

Preferred stock dividends

  (61)         (61)     122       

Net income/(loss)

  1,425      705      2,224      (2,879)     1,475   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

          (50)         (50)  

 

Net income/(loss) attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

  1,425      705      2,174      (2,879)     1,425   

 

Comprehensive income

  978      704      2,217      (2,877)     1,022   

Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests

          (44)         (44)  

Comprehensive income attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

  978      704      2,173      (2,877)     978   

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

F - 98


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

28.

SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)

 

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Condensed consolidating statements of income

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,

(In millions)

 

    

2010

$

    AngloGold Ashanti

        

2010

$

IOMco

        

2010

$

        Other subsidiaries

        

2010

$
        Consolidation
adjustments

        

2010

$

        Total

 
    (the “Guarantor”)             (the “Issuer”)         (the “Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries”)
                     

Sales and other income

    2,348         (2       3,233         (177       5,402  

Product sales

    2,207         -         3,127         -         5,334  

Interest, dividends and other

    141         (2       106         (177       68  

Costs and expenses

    4,130         1,120         2,818         (3,047       5,021  

Production costs

    1,091         -         1,565         -         2,656  

Exploration costs

    14         12         180         -         206  

Related party transactions

    (15       -         -         -         (15

General and administrative expenses

    164         6         44         14         228  

Royalties paid

    38         -         104         -         142  

Market development costs

    7         -         7         -         14  

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

    352         -         368         -         720  

Impairment of assets

    73         -         18         -         91  

Interest expense

    7         69         75         -         151  

Accretion expense

    10         -         12         -         22  

Employment severance costs

    19         -         4         -         23  

Loss/(profit) on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

    2,041         1,033         (16       (3,061       (3

Non-hedge derivative loss and movement on bonds

    329         -         457         -         786  
                                               

(Loss)/income before income tax provision

    (1,782       (1,122       415         2,870         381  

Taxation expense

    (1       (1       (253       -         (255

Equity income/(loss) in associates

    63         (23       -         -         40  

Equity income/(loss) in subsidiaries

    1,907         373         -         (2,280       -  

Income/(loss) from continuing operations

    187         (773       162         590         166  

Preferred stock dividends

    (75       -         (76       151         -  

Net income/(loss)

    112         (773       86         741         166  

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    -         -         (54       -         (54

 

Net income/(loss) attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

    112         (773       32         741         112  

 

Comprehensive income

    381         (773       290         542         440  

Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    -         -         (59       -         (59

Comprehensive income attributable to AngloGold Ashanti

    381         (773       231         542         381  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

F - 99


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

28

SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)

 

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Condensed consolidating balance sheets

AT DECEMBER 31,

(In millions)

 

    

2012

$

    AngloGold Ashanti

        

2012

$

IOMco

        

2012

$

        Other subsidiaries

        

2012

$

        Consolidation
adjustments

        

2012

$

        Total

 
    (the “Guarantor”)             (the “Issuer”)         (the “Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries”)
                     

ASSETS

                 

Current Assets

    1,178          3,128          3,764          (5,280       2,790   

Cash and cash equivalents

    98          537          257          -          892   

Restricted cash

    1          -          34          -          35   

Receivables, inter-group balances and other current assets

    1,079          2,591          3,473          (5,280       1,863   

Property, plant and equipment, net

    2,046          -          5,189          -          7,235   

Acquired properties, net

    141          -          607          -          748   

Goodwill

    -          -          209          (16       193   

Other intangibles, net

    53          -          59          -          112   

Other long-term inventory

    -          -          180          -          180   

Materials on the leach pad

    -          -          445          -          445   

Other long-term assets and deferred taxation assets

    4,875          4,506          1,098          (9,080       1,399   

Total assets

    8,293          7,634          11,551          (14,376       13,102   

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

                 

Current liabilities including inter-group balances

    1,510          1,614          4,586          (5,751       1,959   

Other non-current liabilities

    53          -          342          (16       379   

Long-term debt

    31          1,739          980          -          2,750   

Derivatives

    -          -          10          -          10   

Deferred taxation liabilities

    520          -          635          2          1,157   

Provision for environmental rehabilitation

    157          -          601          -          758   

Other accrued liabilities

    -          -          32          -          32   

Provision for pension and other post-retirement medical benefits

    196          -          13          -          209   

Commitments and contingencies

    -          -          -          -          -   

Equity

    5,826          4,281          4,352          (8,611       5,848   

Stock issued

    13          5,059          937          (5,996       13   

Additional paid in capital

    8,808          540          231          (771       8,808   

Accumulated deficit

    (2,103       (1,318       (1,164       2,482          (2,103

Accumulated other comprehensive income and reserves

    (892       -          4,327          (4,327       (892

Total AngloGold Ashanti stockholders’ equity

    5,826          4,281          4,331          (8,612       5,826   

Noncontrolling interests

    -          -          21          1          22   
                                               

Total liabilities and equity

    8,293          7,634          11,551          (14,376       13,102   

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

F - 100


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

28.

SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)

 

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Condensed consolidating balance sheets

AT DECEMBER 31,

(In millions)

 

 

 
    

2011 

$

AngloGold Ashanti

         

2011 

$

IOMco

         

2011 

$

Other subsidiaries

         

2011 

$

Consolidation
adjustments

         

2011 

$

Total

 

 

 
     (the “Guarantor”)           (the “Issuer”)           (the “Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries”)
                         

  ASSETS

                          

  Current Assets

     833             2,469             3,486             (4,157)            2,631    

  Cash and cash equivalents

     388             458             266                        1,112    

  Restricted cash

                           34                        35    

  Receivables, inter-group balances and other current assets

     444             2,011             3,186             (4,157)            1,484    

  Property, plant and equipment, net

     1,940                        4,183                        6,123    

  Acquired properties, net

     167                        612                        779    

  Goodwill

                           198             (16)            182    

  Other intangibles, net

                           22                        31    

  Other long-term inventory

                           31                        31    

  Materials on the leach pad

                           393                        393    

  Other long-term assets and deferred taxation assets

     4,362             3,558             815             (7,720)            1,015    

  Total assets

     7,311             6,027             9,740             (11,893)            11,185    

  LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

                          

  Current liabilities including inter-group balances

     889             1,550             2,992             (4,512)            919    

  Other non-current liabilities

     49                        46             (32)            63    

  Long-term debt

     33             994             1,446                        2,473    

  Derivatives

                           93                        93    

  Deferred taxation liabilities

     641                        596                        1,242    

  Provision for environmental rehabilitation

     147                        506                        653    

  Other accrued liabilities

                           35                        35    

  Provision for pension and other post-retirement medical benefits

     170                        15                        185    

  Commitments and contingencies

                                                   

  Equity

     5,382             3,483             4,011             (7,354)            5,522    

  Stock issued

     13             5,269             897             (6,166)            13    

  Additional paid in capital

     8,740             435             219             (654)            8,740    

  Accumulated deficit

     (2,575)            (2,220)            (3,521)            5,741             (2,575)   

  Accumulated other comprehensive income and reserves

     (796)            (1)            6,277             (6,276)            (796)   

  Total AngloGold Ashanti stockholders’ equity

     5,382             3,483             3,872             (7,355)            5,382    

  Noncontrolling interests

                           139                        140    
                                                        

  Total liabilities and equity

     7,311             6,027             9,740             (11,893)            11,185    

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

F - 101


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

28.

SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)

 

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Condensed consolidating statements of cash flows

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,

(In millions)

 

 

 
    

2012 

$

AngloGold Ashanti

    

2012 

$

IOMco

    

2012 

$

Other subsidiaries

    

2012 

$
Consolidation
adjustments

    

2012 

$

Total

 

 

 
     (the “Guarantor”)      (the “Issuer”)      (the “Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries”)
               

 Net cash provided by/(used) in operating activities

     280          (641)         2,145          (84)         1,700    

 Net income/(loss)

     829          282          589          (852)         848    

 Reconciled to net cash provided by/(used) in operations:

                

Loss/(profit) on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

     1,065          (12)         101          (1,119)         35    

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

     305                  489                  794    

Impairment of assets

     57                  310                  367    

Deferred taxation

     (85)                 11                  (74)   

Other non cash items

     (2,033)         (356)         392          1,887          (110)   

Net (decrease)/increase in provision for environmental rehabilitation, pension and other post-retirement medical benefits

     (24)                 59                  35    

 Effect of changes in operating working capital items:

                

Net movement in inter-group receivables and payables

     224          (578)         354                    

Receivables

     (16)                 (101)                 (117)   

Inventories

     (35)                 (289)                 (324)   

Accounts payable and other current liabilities

     (7)         23          230                  246    

 Net cash used in investing activities

     (490)         (289)         (1,872)                 (2,651)   

 Increase in non-current investments

     (2)         (310)         (134)                 (446)   

 Acquisition of subsidiary and loan

     (335)                                 (335)   

 Additions to property, plant and equipment

     (542)                 (1,216)                 (1,758)   

 Interest capitalized and paid

                     (12)                 (12)   

 Expenditure on intangible assets

     (44)                 (35)                 (79)   

 Proceeds on sale of mining assets

                                       

 Proceeds on sale of investments

                     86                  86    

 Proceeds on disposal of associates and equity accounted

 joint ventures

             20                          20    

 Proceeds on disposal of subsidiary

     433                  (427)                   

 Net loans receivable advanced

                     (45)                 (45)   

 Net associates and equity accounted joint ventures

 loans advanced

                     (65)                 (64)   

 Net cash of subsidiary disposed

                     (26)                 (26)   

 Change in restricted cash

                     (3)                 (3)   

 Net cash (used)/generated by financing activities

     (82)         1,009          (275)         84          736    

 Net changes in short-term debt

     175          45          (2)                 218    

 Issuance of stock

             (105)         107                    

 Net changes in long-term debt

             750          247                  997    

 Debt issue costs

             (22)         (8)                 (30)   

 Acquisition of noncontrolling interest

                     (215)                 (215)   

 Dividends (paid)/received

     (257)         341          (404)         84          (236)   

 

 

 Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents

     (292)         79          (2)                 (215)   

 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

                     (7)                 (5)   

 Cash and cash equivalents - January 1,

     388          458          266                  1,112    

 

 

 Cash and cash equivalents - December 31,

     98          537          257                  892    

 

 

 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

F - 102


Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

28.

SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)

 

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Condensed consolidating statements of cash flows

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,

(In millions)

 

    

2011

$

AngloGold Ashanti

   

2011

$

IOMco

   

2011

$

Other subsidiaries

   

2011

$

Consolidation
adjustments

   

2011

$

    Total

 
    (the “Guarantor”)     (the “Issuer”)     (the “Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries”)
             

 

Net cash provided by/(used) in operating activities

    1,158        11        1,503        (122     2,550   

Net income/(loss)

    1,425        705        2,224        (2,879     1,475   

Reconciled to net cash provided by/(used) in operations:

           

Loss/(profit) on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

    577        (15     (1,108     573        27   

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

    354        -        435        -        789   

Impairment of assets

    14        -        3        -        17   

Deferred taxation

    212        -        87        -        299   

Other non cash items

    (1,709     (789     199        2,184        (115

Net increase in provision for environmental rehabilitation, pension and other post-retirement medical benefits

    36        -        153        -        189   

Effect of changes in operating working capital items:

           

Net movement in inter-group receivables and payables

    146        108        (254     -        -   

Receivables

    14        -        (27     -        (13

Inventories

    23        -        (267     -        (244

Accounts payable and other current liabilities

    66        2        58        -        126   

Net cash used in investing activities

    (552     (103     (948     -        (1,603

Increase in non-current investments

    (32     (98     (132     -        (262

Additions to property, plant and equipment

    (529     -        (864     -        (1,393

Expenditure on intangible assets

    (10     -        (6     -        (16

Proceeds on sale of mining assets

    6        -        13        -        19   

Proceeds on sale of investments

    -        -        91        -        91   

Proceeds on disposal of subsidiary

    9        -        -        -        9   

Net loans receivable repaid

    4        -        -        -        4   

Net associates and equity accounted joint ventures loans advanced

    -        (5     (20     -        (25

Cash of subsidiary disposed

    -        -        (11     -        (11

Change in restricted cash

    -        -        (19     -        (19

Net cash (used)/generated by financing activities

    (282     436        (595     122        (319

Net changes in short-term debt

    (99     -        (10     -        (109

Issuance of stock

    10        202        (202     -        10   

Share issue expenses

    (1     -        -        -        (1

Net changes in long-term debt

    -        (50     -        -        (50

Dividends (paid)/received

    (192     284        (383     122        (169
                                         

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

    324        344        (40     -        628   

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

    (88     -        (14     -        (102

Cash and cash equivalents - January 1,

    152        114        320        -        586   

Cash and cash equivalents - December 31,

    388        458        266        -        1,112   

  The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

28.

SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)

 

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

Condensed consolidating statements of cash flows

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,

(In millions)

 

    

2010

$

AngloGold Ashanti

   

2010

$

IOMco

   

2010

$

Other subsidiaries

   

2010

$

Consolidation
adjustments

   

2010

$

        Total

 
    (the “Guarantor”)     (the “Issuer”)     (the “Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries”)
             

 

Net cash provided by/(used) in operating activities

    116        (1,129     2,202        (151     1,038   

Net income/(loss)

    112        (773     86        741        166   

Reconciled to net cash provided by/(used) in by operations:

           

Loss/(profit) on sale of assets, realization of loans, indirect taxes and other

    2,071        1,033        (21     (3,061     22   

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

    352        -        368        -        720   

Impairment of assets

    73        -        18        -        91   

Deferred taxation

    119        -        19        -        138   

Cash utilized for hedge book settlements

    (993     -        (1,618     -        (2,611

Other non cash items

    (1,522     (1,973     4,021        2,169        2,695   

Net increase in provision for environmental rehabilitation, pension and other post-retirement medical benefits

    36        -        95        -        131   

Effect of changes in operating working capital items:

           

Net movement in inter-group receivables and payables

    10        580        (590     -        -   

Receivables

    (27     3        (129     -        (153

Inventories

    (11     -        (204     -        (215

Accounts payable and other current liabilities

    (104     1        157        -        54   

Net cash used in investing activities

    (943     (42     (902     -        (1,887

Increase in non-current investments

    -        (42     (116     -        (158

Additions to property, plant and equipment

    (424     -        (549     -        (973

Proceeds on sale of mining assets

    60        -        9        -        69   

Proceeds on sale of investments

    -        -        142        -        142   

Proceeds on disposal of associate

    1        -        -        -        1   

Cash effects from hedge restructuring

    (577     -        (407     -        (984

Net loans receivable advanced

    -        -        (6     -        (6

Net associates and equity accounted joint ventures loans advanced

    (3     -        -        -        (3

Change in restricted cash

    -        -        25        -        25   

Net cash generated/(used) by financing activities

    729        707        (1,357     151        230   

Net changes in short-term debt

    126        (1,000     (285     -        (1,159

Issuance of stock

    798        310        (310     -        798   

Share issue expenses

    (20     -        -        -        (20

Net changes in long-term debt

    -        1,044        789        -        1,833   

Debt issue costs

    -        (13     (26     -        (39

Cash effects from hedge restructuring

    (49     -        (1,017     -        (1,066

Dividends (paid)/received

    (126     366        (508     151        (117
                                         

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

    (98     (464     (57     -        (619

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

    19        -        86        -        105   

Cash and cash equivalents - January 1,

    231        578        291        -        1,100   

Cash and cash equivalents - December 31,

    152        114        320        -        586   

  The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Table of Contents

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

29.

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Syndicated bridge loan facility agreement

In February 2013, AngloGold Ashanti Limited entered into a syndicated bridge loan facility agreement pursuant to which a syndicate of banks agreed to make available $750 million to AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc. In the event AngloGold Ashanti Limited chooses to draw on the loan, the proceeds are to be applied towards the repayment of the $732.5 million, 3.5 percent Convertible bonds due in May 2014.

Amendments to the rules of BSP and LTIP plans

On March 11, 2013 the shareholders approved the following:

 

  Ÿ  

an amendment to the rules to the BSP Share Scheme. In terms of the new rules granted awards will vest 50 percent after 12 months and 50 percent after 24 months. The additional 20 percent retention award for holding the shares for 36 months has been removed. The amended rules apply to new grants and have no impact on existing grants under the scheme.

  Ÿ  

A new retention bonus scheme (under the LTIP) comprising both cash (40 percent of 2013 total base pay) and shares (60 percent of base pay). The share award will be a performance-based award. This scheme has no impact on existing awards.

  Ÿ  

A new Co-Investment Executive Share Plan which is aimed at assisting executives in meeting their Minimum Shareholding Requirements (“MSR’s”). Executives will be allowed to take up to 50 percent of their after tax cash bonus to participate in the scheme by purchasing shares in AngloGold Ashanti, and the company will grant shares equivalent to 150 percent of their purchased shares with vesting over a two-year period in two equal tranches.

Disposal of additional interest in Rand Refinery Limited

On March 19, 2013, the Company disposed of an additional 4.24 percent interest in Rand Refinery Limited for a cash consideration of $5 million reducing its shareholding to 43.79 percent. The disposal resulted in a loss of less than $1 million.

Agreement with Izingwe Property Managers (Proprietary) Limited

AngloGold Ashanti has entered into an agreement (“Agreement”) with Izingwe Property Managers (Proprietary) Limited (“Izingwe Property”) under which Izingwe Property will assist AngloGold Ashanti in the planning, design, development and construction of 200 units of housing in South Africa for employees of AngloGold Ashanti. Izingwe Property’s roles will be those of development and project manager and main contractor. The terms of the Agreement call for payments from AngloGold Ashanti to Izingwe Property in the amount of $6.7 million in consideration for Izingwe Property’s services. Mr. Sipho Pityana, a non-executive director of the Company, is Chairman and a 44 percent shareholder of Izingwe Holdings (Proprietary) Limited (“Izingwe”), AngloGold Ashanti’s BEE partner. Izingwe Capital (Proprietary) Limited, an associate company of Izingwe is the majority shareholder of Izingwe Property.

 

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Table of Contents

SIGNATURES

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

 

ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LIMITED

 

/S/ Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan

Name

 

:

    

Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan

Title

 

:

    

Chief Financial Officer

Date

 

:

    

April 26, 2013

 

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Table of Contents

Exhibits to Form 20-F

 

Exhibit Number

  

Description

  

Remarks

Exhibit 19.1

  

Memorandum of Incorporation of AngloGold Ashanti Limited as in effect on March 27, 2013

  

Incorporated by reference to AngloGold Ashanti’s report on form 6-K furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 10, 2013

Exhibit 19.2.1

  

Indenture for guaranteed debt securities among AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc, as issuer, AngloGold Ashanti Limited, as guarantor, and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee, dated as of April 28, 2010

  

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to AngloGold Ashanti’s registration statement on Form F-3 (No. 333-182712) filed July 17, 2012

Exhibit 19.2.2

  

Form of 5.375% Notes due 2020 and related Guarantee

  

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99(C) to AngloGold Ashanti Limited and AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc’s Registration Statement on Form 8-A (Nos. 001-14846 and 001-34725) filed on April 28, 2010

Exhibit 19.2.3

  

Form of 6.50% Notes due 2040 and related Guarantee

  

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99(C) to AngloGold Ashanti Limited and AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc’s Registration Statement on Form 8-A (Nos. 001-14846 and 001-34725) filed on April 28, 2010

Exhibit 19.2.4

  

Form of 5.125% Notes due 2022 and related Guarantee

  

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to AngloGold Ashanti’s report on Form 6-K furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 30, 2012

Exhibit 19.2.5

  

Indenture for guaranteed debt securities among AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc, as issuer, AngloGold Ashanti Limited, as guarantor, and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee, dated as of September 22, 2010

  

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99(D) to AngloGold Ashanti Limited and AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc’s Registration Statement on Form 8-A (Nos. 001-14846 and 001-34881) filed on September 22, 2010

Exhibit 19.2.6

  

First Supplemental Indenture for guaranteed debt securities among AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc, as issuer, AngloGold Ashanti Limited, as guarantor, and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee, dated as of September 22, 2010

  

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99(E) to AngloGold Ashanti Limited and AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc’s Registration Statement on Form 8-A (Nos. 001-14846 and 001-34881) filed on September 22, 2010

Exhibit 19.2.7

  

Second Supplemental Indenture for guaranteed debt securities among AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc, as issuer, AngloGold Ashanti Limited, as guarantor, and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee, dated as of October 18, 2010

  

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to AngloGold Ashanti Limited, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc’s Registration Statement on Form F-3 (No. 333-182712) filed July 17, 2012

 

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Table of Contents

Exhibit Number

  

Description

  

Remarks

Exhibit 19.2.8

  

Form of 6.00% Mandatory Convertible Subordinated Notes due 2013 and related Guarantee

  

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99(C) to AngloGold Ashanti Limited and AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc’s Registration Statement on Form 8-A (Nos. 001-14846 and 001-34881) filed on September 22, 2010

Exhibit 19.2.9

  

Trust Deed for guaranteed debt securities among AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Finance plc, as issuer, AngloGold Ashanti Limited, as guarantor, and The Law Debenture Trust Corporation p.l.c., as trustee, dated as of May 22, 2009

  

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to AngloGold Ashanti’s registration statement on Form F-3 (No. 333-182712) filed July 17, 2012

Exhibit 19.4.1.1

  

AngloGold Limited Share Incentive Scheme in effect April 4, 2003

  

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 19.4(c) of AngloGold’s annual report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 28, 2002

Exhibit 19.4.1.2

  

Bonus Share Plan as amended on March 27, 2013

  

Incorporated by reference to AngloGold Ashanti’s report on form 6-K furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 10, 2013

Exhibit 19.4.1.3

  

Long-Term Incentive Plan as amended on March 27, 2013

  

Incorporated by reference to AngloGold Ashanti’s report on form 6-K furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 10, 2013

Exhibit 19.4.4

  

Syndicated Loan Facility Agreement dated July 20, 2012, by and among AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Incorporated, as borrowers, AngloGold Ashanti Limited, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Incorporated, as guarantors, Barclays Bank plc, as facility agent, and the financial institutions party thereto as lenders

  

Filed herewith

Exhibit 19.4.5

  

Syndicated Bridge Loan Facility Agreement dated February 18, 2013, by and among AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc, as borrowers, AngloGold Ashanti Limited, AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc and AngloGold Ashanti USA Incorporated, as guarantors, Citibank International plc, as facility agent, and the financial institutions parties thereto as lenders

  

Filed herewith

Exhibit 19.6

  

Statement regarding how loss/earnings per share information was calculated

  

See note 8 to the consolidated financial statements

Exhibit 19.8

  

List of AngloGold Ashanti Limited subsidiaries

  

 

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Table of Contents

Exhibit Number

  

Description

  

Remarks

Exhibit 19.12.1

  

Certification of Tony O’Neill and Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan as joint Chief Executive Officers of AngloGold Ashanti Limited, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

  

Exhibit 19.12.2

  

Certification of Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan, Chief Financial Officer of AngloGold Ashanti Limited, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

  

Exhibit 19.13

  

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

  

Exhibit 19.15.1

  

Consents of Ernst & Young Inc., independent registered public accounting firm

  

Exhibit 19.15.2

  

Consent of KPMG Inc., independent registered public accounting firm

  

Exhibit 19.15.3

  

Consent of BDO LLP, independent registered public accounting firm

  

Exhibit 19.16

  

Report on MSHA violations in terms of the Dodd-Frank Act

  

 

E-4