Barrick Gold Secures Critical African Operations, Shares Hit New Peak

A significant operational and political risk has been removed for Barrick Gold. The mining giant has successfully regained full operational control of its crucial Loulo-Gounkoto mining complex in Mali, following a protracted dispute with the country's military government. This resolution eliminates a major overhang that had been creating substantial uncertainty for investors regarding the company's West African prospects.

The most critical outcome for shareholders is the resumption of Barrick's unfettered management at the site. The mine, which accounts for approximately 15% of the company's attributable gold production, had been under a government-imposed provisional administration. Its return to Barrick's full command secures vital production capacity at a time of historically elevated gold prices.

The settlement came at a considerable financial cost. Barrick has agreed to pay the Malian state roughly $436 million (about 244 billion CFA francs). This agreement followed the detention of four company employees and the seizure of gold inventories. In exchange, all charges against local managers were dropped and the detained personnel were released.

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Bullish Momentum Confirmed

This positive development arrives amidst already powerful bullish sentiment for Barrick's stock. Shares closed Friday at €38.22, marking a precise new 52-week high. Over a twelve-month horizon, the equity has recorded a staggering gain exceeding 160%. Market observers interpret the Mali settlement as a validation of the optimistic outlooks recently published by firms including BNP Paribas and Jefferies.

Beyond stabilizing its African position, Barrick's management is advancing a broader strategic agenda. In early December, the company announced it was exploring an initial public offering (IPO) for its North American gold assets. The objective is to separate politically secure operations in Nevada and the Dominican Republic from its riskier portfolios, aiming to unlock hidden value for shareholders.

Eyes on 2026 Forecasts

With the conflict now resolved, operational focus returns to the forefront. Investors anticipate that production from the Loulo-Gounkoto complex will be firmly reintegrated into the formal guidance for the 2026 fiscal year, after being temporarily excluded due to the instability. Specific figures on this reintegration, along with the precise accounting treatment for the multi-million dollar settlement payment, are expected to be disclosed by the time annual results are published in mid-February 2026.