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Gold producer hedge book back to 1996 level

The global gold producer hedge book contracted by 310 tonnes in 2003, according to the latest figures from Gold Fields Mineral Service (GFMS). The reduction leaves it standing, on a delta-adjusted basis, at 2,166 tonnes.

According to GFMS's annual report, the decline was driven by a reduction in forward sales, which fell by 13%, or 237 tonnes.

The report states that 83% of de-hedging reductions in the hedge book took place in the first six months of the year, making it the most significant factor in rising gold prices in the first half. In the second half, the focus shifted to gold investment demand as de-hedging slowed, said GFMS.

“Prices in the second quarter last year were being hit hard by investors bailing out as the Iraq war premium imploded, yet that’s precisely when we saw some of the heaviest de-hedging,” said Philip Klapwijk, chairman of the independent precious metals research consultancy. The rate of de-hedging was down one third from last year, but was still the second highest rate ever, he added.

GFMS said de-hedging should continue in 2004 to between 340 and 400 tonnes.

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