Interview with Tom Hickey, Managing Director, Kenmare Resources

Recording date: 16th July 2025

Kenmare Resources operates one of the world's most significant titanium dioxide mineral sands mines in Mozambique, establishing itself as the third-largest global producer of ilmenite, zircon, and rutile. With nearly 40 years of in-country presence and 20 years in production, the company's Moma mine represents a cornerstone investment in the critical minerals sector, backed by an extraordinary 80-90 year reserve life.

The company is currently executing its largest capital investment program in history, allocating $340 million to relocate primary mining operations to the Nataka orebody, which contains 70% of total reserves. This strategic transition, including two new $66 million dredgers and enhanced processing capacity, is expected to increase production by 20% while eliminating long-standing capacity constraints. Managing Director Tom Hickey, who brings extensive natural resources experience from his tenure at Tullow Oil, describes this as "the final major investment required to secure the mine's long-term future."

Despite challenging market conditions characterized by oversupply from Chinese concentrate producers, Kenmare maintains exceptional operational resilience. The company achieved 40% EBITDA margins in 2024, demonstrating the effectiveness of its cost optimization strategies and premium product positioning. Market consolidation works in Kenmare's favor, with one customer noting their supplier base contracted from eight to two over seven years, highlighting the value of established, reliable producers.

The company's ESG credentials provide additional competitive advantages, with 95% renewable energy usage delivering products with exceptionally low carbon footprints. This positioning becomes increasingly valuable as industrial customers focus on supply chain sustainability.

Post-capex completion in 2-3 years, Kenmare expects to generate substantial free cash flow, supporting dividend payments and potential shareholder returns. With strong government relationships in Mozambique and a conservative balance sheet carrying net debt of $80-85 million, the company offers investors exposure to a multi-generational asset in the essential materials sector during a cyclical market trough.

Learn more: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/kenmare-resources

Sign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com