Thungela Resources, a famous thermal coal exporter run by South African CEO July Ndlovu, reported a 73% drop in profits, marking a huge setback for the company at the end of its fiscal year 2023.
Thungela’s financial figures for 2023 show a decrease to R4.97 billion ($263.18 million) from R18.21 billion ($958.63 million) the year before. The reduction is linked to low coal prices and chronic rail bottlenecks in South Africa.
Thungela CEO July Ndlovu commented on the financial performance, highlighting the company’s commitment to safety while acknowledging the terrible death of a colleague in February 2023. Despite the financial loss, Ndlovu remains optimistic about the company’s strategic ambitions, such as regional diversification through acquisitions in Australia and the expansion of significant mining operations in South Africa.
Despite the profit reduction, Thungela maintained a strong financial position, generating an adjusted EBITDA of R8.5 billion ($447.47 million) and closing the year with a net cash position of R10.2 billion ($536.96 million). Ndlovu emphasized the company’s agility in navigating market headwinds and reaffirmed its commitment to maximizing shareholder returns through careful capital management.
Thungela has grown significantly since its separation from Anglo-American in 2021 under Ndlovu’s leadership. His strategic ideas altered the company, guiding it away from previous losses and toward significant cash flow growth.
Despite a drop in profit, Thungela maintained good cash generation and a solid net cash position, exhibiting resilience. The company’s commitment to shareholders remains unshakable, as indicated by the announcement of a final ordinary cash dividend of R10 ($0.5264) per share. This takes the total dividend distribution for 2023 to R20 per share ($1.0525), or R2.8 billion ($147.38 million).
Thungela’s 2023 results reflect the thermal coal industry’s obstacles, which include market swings and operational issues. Ndlovu’s leadership has kept the organization on track for long-term growth. His emphasis on safety, strategic acquisitions, and operational efficiencies will be critical in navigating this complex climate.
