Notes to group financial statements (PDF - 295 KB)

Group financial statements

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Notes to the group financial statements

for the year ended 31 December 2004

• Income statement
• Balance sheet
• Cash flow statement
• Statement of recognised income and expense
• Notes to the financial statements
  • Notes 1 to 14
  • Notes 15 to 28
  • Notes 29 to 42

 Notes to group financial statements (XLS - 839KB)

1. Accounting policies

Statement of compliance

The consolidated financial statements are prepared in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and Interpretations of those standards, as adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and applicable legislation.

During the current financial year, the following new and revised accounting standards were adopted by AngloGold Ashanti:

In addition, the following new and revised accounting standards were early adopted by AngloGold Ashanti during the current financial year:

The following interpretation, which is not yet mandatory for AngloGold Ashanti, was adopted in the previous year:

Except for the matters referred to in 1.2 below, the adoption of the above identified accounting statements had no financial impact on the annual financial statements.

The following accounting standards, which are not yet mandatory for AngloGold Ashanti, have not been adopted in the current year:

We have assessed the significance of these new standards which will be applicable from 1 January 2006 and 1 January 2007 and concluded that they will have no material financial impact.

1.1 Basis of preparation

The financial statements are prepared according to the historical cost accounting convention, as modified by the revaluation of certain financial instruments to fair value. The group's accounting policies as set out below are consistent in all material respects with those applied in the previous year, except for the change in accounting policy for the foreign currency convertible bond and for the adoption of the above mentioned new and revised standards where the effects are disclosed in note 1.2.

AngloGold Ashanti presents its consolidated financial statements in South African rands and US dollars for the benefit of local and international investors. 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.

Basis of consolidation

The group financial statements incorporate the financial statements of the company, its subsidiaries and its proportionate interest in joint ventures.

The financial statements of subsidiaries, the Environmental Rehabilitation Trust Fund and joint ventures, are prepared for the same reporting period as the holding company, using the same accounting policies, except for Rand Refinery Limited which reports on a three-month time lag. Adjustments are made to the subsidiary financial results for material transactions and events in the intervening period.

Subsidiaries are all entities (including special purpose entities) over which the group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one half of the voting rights. The existence and effect of potential voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible are considered when assessing whether the group controls another entity. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the group. They are de-consolidated from the date on which control ceases.

Intra-group transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between group companies are eliminated. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred.

Subsidiaries are accounted for at cost and are adjusted for impairments where appropriate in the company financial statements.

1.2 Changes in accounting policies

The changes in accounting policies result from adoption of the following new/revised standards, except for foreign currency convertible bonds:

Foreign currency convertible bonds

The principal effect of these changes in policies are discussed below.

IFRS 2 "Share-based payments"

The revised accounting policy for share-based payment transactions is described in the "Significant accounting policies". The main impact of IFRS 2 on the group, is the recognition of an expense and a corresponding entry to equity for employees' share options and awards. The group has applied IFRS 2 retrospectively and has taken advantage of the transitional provisions of IFRS 2 in respect of equity settled awards. As a result, the group has applied IFRS 2 only to equity settled awards granted after 7 November 2002 that had not vested on 1 January 2005.

The effect of the revised policy has decreased consolidated current year profits by $2m, R15m (net of tax $2m, R15m) (2004: nil) due to an increase in the employee benefits expense with a corresponding increase in other comprehensive income of $2m, R15m (2004: nil).

The revised policy due to the adoption of IFRS 2 had no effect on basic and diluted earnings per share.

IFRS 3 "Business combinations", IAS 36 (revised) "Impairment of assets" and IAS 38 (revised) "Intangible assets"

IFRS 3 has been applied to business combinations for which the agreement date is on or after 31 March 2004. IFRS 3 was not applied to the AngloGold Ashanti business combination.

The adoption of IFRS 3, IAS 36 (revised) and IAS 38 (revised) has resulted in the group ceasing annual goodwill amortisation and commencing testing for impairment at the cash-generating unit level annually (unless an event occurs during the year which requires the goodwill to be tested more frequently) from 1 January 2005. The transitional provisions of IFRS 3 have required the group to eliminate at 1 January 2005 the carrying amount of the accumulated amortisation by $194m, R1,096m with a corresponding entry to goodwill. Amortisation in 2004 amounted to $31m, R200m.

Moreover, the useful lives of intangible assets are now assessed at the individual asset level as having either a finite or indefinite life. Until the end of last year, intangible assets were considered to have a finite useful life with a rebuttable presumption that the life would be the lesser of the life of mine or twenty years from the date when the asset was available for use.

IFRS 5 "Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations"

The group has applied IFRS 5 prospectively in accordance with the transitional provisions, which has resulted in a change in accounting policy on the recognition of a discontinued operation and non-current assets held for sale.

IFRS 5 requires a component of an entity to be classified as a discontinued operation when the criteria to be classified as held for sale have been met, or it has been disposed of. An item is classified as held for sale if its carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. Such a component represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations, is part of a single co-ordinated plan to dispose of a major line of business or geographical area of operations, or is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resell.

IAS 19 Amendment - "Actuarial gains and losses, group plans and disclosures"

As of 1 January 2005, the group adopted IAS 19 (revised). As a result, additional disclosures are made providing information about trends in the assets and liabilities in the defined benefit plans and the assumptions underlying the components of the defined benefit cost. This change in accounting policy has resulted in additional disclosures being included for the years ended 31 December 2005 and 2004.

Further, as of 1 January 2005, the group has early adopted the amendment to IAS 19 permitting the accounting for actuarial gains and losses through equity reserves. The result of this change in accounting policy is that the previously unrecognised actuarial losses of $27m, R173m (2004: $3m, R15m) are recognised in the Statement of Recognised Income and Expense.

IAS 21 (revised) "The effects of changes in foreign exchange rates" and IAS 21 Amendment - "Net investment in foreign operation"

As of 1 January 2005, the group adopted IAS 21(revised). As a result, any goodwill arising on the acquisition of a foreign operation and any fair value adjustments to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities arising on the acquisition are now treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign operation and translated at closing rate. In accordance with the transitional provisions of IAS 21 this change is applied prospectively. This change in accounting policy had no impact as at 31 December 2005.

Further as of 1 January 2005, the group has early adopted the December 2005 amendment to IAS 21, in addition to the amended requirements of IAS 21 (revised), which require exchange differences arising on a monetary item denominated in any currency and that forms part of a reporting entity's net investment in a foreign operation to be recognised initially in the entity's income statement and as a separate component of equity in the consolidated financial statements. The effect of this change in accounting policy on the company financial statements on 1 January 2004 was that R733m was transferred to retained earnings, and for 2004, R78m was recognised in the income statement instead of equity. On the adoption of IAS 21, the group converted retained earnings at the historical average exchange rate which resulted in $220m being recognised directly in equity.

Foreign currency convertible bonds

This change in accounting policy was made in response to additional guidance becoming available from the IASB on the interpretation of International Financial Reporting Standards. This change is applied retrospectively and comparative figures have been restated. Previously, foreign currency convertible bonds were accounted for as compound financial instruments, part equity and part liability. The equity component was not remeasured for changes in fair value.

Foreign currency convertible bonds will now be accounted for entirely as a liability, with the option component disclosed as a derivative liability, carried at fair value. Changes in such fair value are recorded in the income statement.

The impact on December 2004 is an increase in profit attributable to shareholders of $27m, R160m. The option component previously disclosed as equity ($82m, R463m) is removed from shareholders equity and replaced by a derivative liability of $56m, R317m. The effect of the revised policy on earnings per share at 2004 was an increase in earnings per share of US10.74c, SA63.66c.

1.3 Significant accounting judgements and estimates

Use of estimates: The preparation of the financial statements requires the group'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 judgement based on various assumptions and other factors such as historical experience, current and expected economic conditions, and in some cases actuarial techniques. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

The more significant areas requiring the use of management estimates and assumptions relate to mineral reserves that are the basis of future cash flow estimates and unit-of-production depreciation, depletion and amortisation calculations; environmental, reclamation and closure obligations; estimates of recoverable gold and other materials in heap leach pads; asset impairments (including impairments of goodwill), write-downs of inventory to net realisable value; post-employment, post-retirement and other employee benefit liabilities, the fair value and accounting treatment of financial instruments and deferred taxation.

Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below.

Carrying value of goodwill and tangible assets

All mining assets are amortised using the units of production (UOP) method where the mine operating plan calls for production from well-defined mineral reserves.

For mobile and other equipment, the straight-line method is applied over the estimated useful life of the asset which does not exceed the estimated mine life based on proved and probable mineral reserves as the useful lives of these assets are considered to be limited to the life of the relevant mine.

The calculation of the UOP rate of amortisation could be impacted to the extent that actual production in the future is different from current forecast production based on proved and probable mineral reserves. This would generally result to the extent that there are significant changes in any of the factors or assumptions used in estimating mineral reserves. These factors could include:

• changes in proved and probable mineral reserves;
• the grade of mineral reserves May vary significantly from time to time;
• differences between actual commodity prices and commodity price assumptions;
• unforeseen operational issues at mine sites;
• changes in capital, operating, mining, processing and reclamation costs, discount rates and foreign exchange rates; and
• changes in mineral reserves could similarly impact the useful lives of assets depreciated on a straight-line basis, where those lives are limited to the life of the mine.

The recoverable amounts of cash-generating units and individual assets have been determined based on the higher of value-in-use calculations and fair values. These calculations require the use of estimates and assumptions. It is reasonably possible that the gold price assumption May change which May then impact our estimated life of mine determinant and May then require a material adjustment to the carrying value of goodwill and tangible assets.

The group reviews and tests the carrying value of assets when events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount May not be recoverable. In addition, goodwill is tested on an annual basis for impairment. Assets are grouped at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of cash flows of other assets and liabilities. If there are indications that impairment May have occurred, estimates are prepared of expected future cash flows for each group of assets. Expected future cash flows used to determine the value in use of goodwill and tangible assets are inherently uncertain and could materially change over time. They are significantly affected by a number of factors including reserves and production estimates, together with economic factors such as spot and future gold prices, discount rates, foreign currency exchange rates, estimates of costs to produce reserves and future capital expenditure.

The carrying amount of goodwill at 31 December 2005 was $373m, R2,366m (2004: $387m, R2,188m). The carrying amount of tangible assets at 31 December 2005 was $5,905m, R37,464m (2004: $5,888m, R33,239m).

Income taxes

The group is subject to income taxes in numerous jurisdictions. Significant judgement is required in determining the worldwide provision for income taxes due to the complexity of legislation. There are many transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain during the ordinary course of business. The group recognises liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues based on estimates of whether additional taxes will be due. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will impact the income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which such determination is made.

The group recognises the net future tax benefit related to deferred income tax assets to the extent that it is probable that the deductible temporary differences will reverse in the foreseeable future. Assessing the recoverability of deferred income tax assets requires the group to make significant estimates related to expectations of future taxable income. Estimates of future taxable income are based on forecast cash flows from operations and the application of existing tax laws in each jurisdiction. To the extent that future cash flows and taxable income differ significantly from estimates, the ability of the group to realise the net deferred tax assets recorded at the balance sheet date could be impacted.

Additionally, future changes in tax laws in the jurisdictions in which the group operates could limit the ability of the group to obtain tax deductions in future periods.

Carrying values at 31 December 2005:

• deferred tax asset: $44m, R279m (2004; nil)
• deferred tax liability: $1,159m, R7,353m (2004: $1,356m, R7,653m)
• taxation liability: $112m, R710m (2004: $65m, R368m)

Provision for environmental rehabilitation

The group's mining and exploration activities are subject to various laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment. The group recognises 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. Such changes in Mineral Reserves could similarly impact the useful lives of assets depreciated on a straight-line-basis, where those lives are limited to the life of mine.

The carrying amounts of the rehabilitation obligations at 31 December 2005 was $337m, R2,143m (2004: $217m, R1,224m).

Stockpiles, gold in process and product inventories

Costs that are incurred in or benefit the productive process are accumulated as stockpiles, gold in process, ore on leach pads and product inventories. Net realisable value tests are performed at least annually and represent the estimated future sales price of the product based on prevailing and long-term metals prices, less estimated costs to complete production and bring the product to sale.

Stockpiles are measured by estimating the number of tonnes added and removed from the stockpile, the number of contained gold ounces based on assay data, and the estimated recovery percentage based on the expected processing method. Stockpile tonnages are verified by periodic surveys.

Although the quantities of recoverable metal are reconciled by comparing the grades of ore to the quantities of gold actually recovered (metallurgical balancing), the nature of the 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.

The carrying amount of inventories at 31 December 2005 was $570m, R3,618m (2004: $441m, R2,487m).

Recoverable tax, rebates, levies and duties

In a number of countries, particularly in Africa, AngloGold Ashanti is due refunds of input tax which remain outstanding for periods longer than those provided for in the respective statutes.

In addition, AngloGold Ashanti has unresolved tax disputes in a number of countries, particularly in Tanzania and Mali. If the outstanding input taxes are not received and the tax disputes are not resolved in a manner favourable to AngloGold Ashanti, it could have an adverse effect upon the carrying value of these assets.

The carrying value at 31 December 2005 was $99m, R627m (2004: $84m, R468m).

Contingencies

By their nature, contingencies will only be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. The assessment of such contingencies inherently involves the exercise of significant judgement and estimates of the outcome of future events.

1.4 Summary of significant accounting policies

Joint ventures

A joint venture is an entity in which the group holds a long-term interest and which is jointly controlled by the group and one or more other venturers under a contractual arrangement. The group's interests in jointly controlled entities are accounted for by proportionate consolidation.

The group does not recognise its share of profits or losses that result from the group's purchase of assets from the joint venture until it resells the assets to an independent party. A loss on the transaction is recognised immediately if it provides evidence of a reduction in the net realisable value of current assets, or an impairment loss.

Joint ventures are accounted for at cost and are adjusted for impairments where appropriate in the company financial statements.

Associates

The equity method of accounting is used for an investment over which the group exercises significant influence and normally owns between 20% and 50% of the voting equity. Associates are equity accounted from the effective dates of acquisition to the effective dates of disposal.

As the group only has significant influence, it is unable to obtain reliable information at year end on a timely basis. The results of associates are equity accounted from their most recent audited annual financial statements or unaudited interim financial statements, all within three months of the year end of the group. Adjustments are made to the associates' financial results for material transactions and events in the intervening period. Any losses of associates are brought to account in the consolidated financial statements until the investment in such associates is written down to zero. Thereafter, losses are accounted for only insofar as the group is committed to providing financial support to such associates.

The carrying values of the investments in associates represent the cost of each investment, including goodwill, any impairment losses recognised, the share of post-acquisition retained earnings and losses, and any other movements in reserves. The carrying value of associates is reviewed on a regular basis and if any impairment in value has occurred, it is recognised in the period in which these circumstances are identified.

Associates are accounted for at cost and are adjusted for impairments where appropriate in the company financial statements.

Foreign currency translation

Functional currency
Items included in the financial statements of each of the group's entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates (the 'functional currency').

Transactions and balances
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the approximate exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of foreign currency transactions and from the translation at the year-end exchange rate of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the income statement, except where hedge accounting is applied.

Translation differences on non-monetary items, such as equities held at fair value through profit or loss, are reported as part of their fair value gain or loss. Translation differences on non-monetary items, such as equities classified as available-for-sale financial assets, are included in other comprehensive income in equity.

Group companies
The results and financial position of all group entities (none of which has the currency of a hyperinflationary economy) that have a functional currency different from the presentation currency are translated into the presentation currency as follows:

• equity items other than retained earnings are translated at the closing rate on each balance sheet date;
• retained earnings are converted at historical average exchange rates;
• assets and liabilities for each balance sheet presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that balance sheet;
• income and expenses for each income statement presented are translated at monthly 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 recognised as a separate component of equity (foreign currency translation).

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 shareholders' equity on consolidation. For the company, the exchange differences on such monetary items are reported in the company income statement.

When a foreign operation is sold, such exchange differences are recognised 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.

Segment reporting

A business 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 business segments. Management have determined that the group operates primarily in one segment, gold. A geographical segment provides products or services within a particular economic environment that is subject to risks and returns that are different from those of segments operating in other economic environments.

Tangible assets

Tangible assets are recorded at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairments. Cost includes pre-production expenditure incurred during the development of a mine and the present value of future decommissioning costs. Cost also includes finance charges capitalised during the construction period where such expenditure is financed by borrowings.

If there is an indication that the recoverable amount of any of the tangible assets is less than the carrying value, the recoverable amount is estimated and an allowance is made for the impairment in value.

Subsequent costs are included in the asset's carrying amount only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the group, and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the income statement during the financial period in which they are incurred.

Amortisation of assets is calculated to allocate the cost of each asset to its residual value over its estimated useful life for those assets not amortised on the units-of-production method as follows:

• buildings up to life of mine;
• plant and machinery up to life of mine;
• equipment and motor vehicles up to five years; and
• computer equipment up to three years.

Major renovations are depreciated over the remaining useful life of the related asset or to the date of the next major renovation, whichever is sooner.

The assets' residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each balance sheet date.

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with carrying amount. These are included in the income statement.

Mine development costs
Capitalised mine development costs include expenditure incurred to develop new orebodies, to define further mineralisation in existing orebodies, to expand the capacity of a mine and to maintain production. Where funds have been borrowed specifically to finance a project, the amount of interest capitalised represents the actual borrowing costs incurred. Mine development costs include acquired proved and probable Mineral Resources at cost at acquisition date.

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation of mine development costs are computed by the units-of-production method based on estimated proved and probable mineral reserves. Proved and probable mineral reserves reflect estimated quantities of economically recoverable reserves which can be recovered in the future from known mineral deposits. These reserves are amortised from the date on which commercial production begins.

Stripping costs incurred in open-pit operations during the production phase to remove additional waste are charged to operating costs on the basis of the average life of mine stripping ratio and the average life of mine costs per tonne. The average stripping ratio is calculated as the number of tonnes of waste material expected to be removed during the life of mine per tonne of ore mined. The average life of mine cost per tonne is calculated as the total expected costs to be incurred to mine the orebody, divided by the number of tonnes expected to be mined. The average life of mine stripping ratio and the average life of mine cost per tonne are recalculated annually in the light of additional knowledge and changes in estimates.

The cost of the "excess stripping" is capitalised as mine development costs when the actual mining costs exceed the sum of the adjusted tonnes mined, being the actual ore tonnes plus the product of the actual ore tonnes multiplied by the average life of mine stripping ratio multiplied by the life of mine cost per tonne. When the actual mining costs are below the sum of the adjusted tonnes mined, being the actual ore tonnes plus the product of the actual ore tonne multiplied by the average life of mine stripping ratio, multiplied by the life of mine cost per tonnes, previously capitalised costs are expensed to increase the cost up to the average.

The cost of stripping in any period will be reflective of the average stripping rates for the orebody as a whole. Changes in the life of mine stripping ratio are accounted for prospectively as a change in estimate.

Mine infrastructure
Mine plant facilities including decommissioning assets are amortised using the lesser of their useful life or units-of-production method based on estimated proved and probable mineral reserves. Other fixed assets comprising vehicles and computer equipment, are depreciated by the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives.

Land
Land is not depreciated and is measured at historical cost less impairments.

Mineral rights, dumps and exploration properties
Mineral rights are amortised using the units-of-production method based on estimated proved and probable mineral reserves. Dumps are amortised over the period of treatment.

Exploration properties include acquired properties that are believed to contain value beyond proved and probable mineral reserves and are recognised at cost. Exploration properties when proved and probable are transferred to mine development costs at carrying value, and are amortised from the date on which commercial production begins.

Intangible assets

Acquisition and goodwill arising thereon
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, exploration properties and net assets is recognised as goodwill. Goodwill in respect of subsidiaries and proportionately consolidated joint ventures is disclosed as goodwill. Goodwill relating to associates is included within the carrying value of the investment in associates and tested for impairment when indicators exist.

Goodwill relating to subsidiaries and joint ventures is tested annually for impairment and carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold. Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment testing.

Royalty rate concession
Royalty rate concession with the government of Ghana was capitalised at fair value at agreement date. Fair value represents a present value of future royalty rate concessions over 15 years. The royalty rate concession has been assessed to have a finite life and is amortised under a straight-line method over a period of 15 years, the period over which the concession runs. The related amortisation expense is charged through the income statement. This intangible asset is also tested for impairment when there is an indicator of impairment.

Impairment of assets

Intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life and separately recognised goodwill are not subject to amortisation and are tested annually for impairment and whenever events or changes in circumstance indicate that the carrying amount May not be recoverable. Assets that are subject to amortisation are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstance indicate that the carrying amount May not be recoverable.

An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset's carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset's fair value, less costs to sell and value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (cash-generating units).

Impairment calculation assumptions include life of mine plans based on prospective reserves and resources, management's estimate of the future gold price, based on current market price trends, foreign exchange rates, and a pre-tax discount rate adjusted for country and project risk. It is therefore reasonably possible that changes could occur which May affect the recoverability of tangible and intangible assets.

Borrowing costs

Interest on borrowings relating to the financing of major capital projects under construction is capitalised during the construction phase as part of the cost of the project. Such borrowing costs are capitalised over the period during which the asset is being acquired or constructed and borrowings have been incurred. Capitalisation ceases when construction is interrupted for an extended period or when the asset is substantially complete. Other borrowing costs are expensed as incurred.

Leased assets

Assets subject to finance leases are capitalised at the lower of fair value or present value of minimum lease payments with the related lease obligation recognised at the same amount. Capitalised leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of their estimated useful lives and the lease term. Finance lease payments are allocated using the rate implicit in the lease, 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.

Exploration and research expenditure

When it has been determined that a mineral property can be economically developed, all directly attributable pre-production expenditure incurred to develop such property is capitalised as a tangible asset. In all other circumstances, exploration and research expenditure is expensed in the year in which it is incurred. These expenses include: geological and geographical costs, labour, mineral resources and exploratory drilling. Capitalisation of pre-production expenditure ceases when the mining property is capable of commercial production.

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after appropriate allowances for redundant and slow moving items. Cost is determined on the following bases:

• gold in process is valued at the average total production cost at the relevant stage of production;
• gold on hand is valued on an average total production cost method;
• ore stockpiles are valued at the average moving cost of mining and stockpiling the ore. Stockpiles are allocated as a non-current asset where the stockpile exceeds current processing capacity;
• by-products, which include uranium oxide and sulphuric acid are valued on an average total production cost method. By-products are allocated as a non-current asset where the by-products on hand exceed current processing capacity;
• consumable stores are valued at average cost; and
• heap leach pad materials are measured on an average total production cost basis. The cost of materials on the leach pad from which gold is expected to be recovered in a period greater than 12 months is classified as a non-current asset.

A portion of the related depreciation, depletion and amortisation charge is included in the cost of inventory.

Provisions

Provisions are recognised when the group 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.

AngloGold Ashanti does not recognise a contingent liability on its balance sheet except in a business combination. A contingent liability is disclosed when the possibility of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits is not remote.

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 periodic actuarial calculations. The group has both defined benefit and defined contribution plans. A defined benefit plan is a pension plan that defines an amount of pension benefit that an employee will receive on retirement, usually dependent on one or more factors such as age, years of service and compensation.

A defined contribution plan is a pension plan under which the group pays fixed contributions into a separate entity. The group has no legal or constructive obligations to pay further contributions if the fund does not hold sufficient assets to pay all employees the benefits relating to employee service in the current and prior periods. The contributions are recognised as employee benefit expense when they are due. Prepaid contributions are recognised as an asset to the extent that a cash refund or a reduction in the future payments is available.

The asset/liability recognised 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, together with adjustments for past service costs. The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method.

Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions are recorded in the statement of recognised income and expenditure immediately.

Other post-employment benefit obligations
Some group companies provide post-retirement healthcare benefits to their retirees. The entitlement to these benefits is usually conditional on the employee remaining in service up to retirement age and the completion of a minimum service period. 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. Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions are recorded in the statement of recognised income and expenditure immediately. These obligations are valued annually by independent qualified actuaries.

Termination benefits
Termination benefits are payable when employment is terminated before the normal retirement date, or when an employee accepts voluntary redundancy in exchange for these benefits. The group recognises termination benefits when it is demonstrably committed to either: terminating the employment of current employees according to a detailed formal plan without possibility of withdrawal; 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 12 months after balance sheet date are discounted to present value.

Profit-sharing and bonus plans
The group recognises a liability and an expense for bonuses and profit-sharing, based on a formula that takes into consideration the profit attributable to the group's shareholders after certain adjustments. The group recognises a provision where contractually obliged or where there is a past practice that has created a constructive obligation.

Share-based payments
The group's management awards certain employees bonuses in the form of equity settled share-based payments on a discretionary basis.

The fair value of the equity instruments granted is calculated at measurement date, for transactions with employees being grant date. For transactions with employees fair value is based on market prices of the equity instruments granted, if available, taking into account the terms and conditions upon which those equity instruments were granted. If market prices of the equity instruments granted are not available, the fair value of the equity instruments granted is estimated using an appropriate valuation model. For transactions with non-employees fair value is determined by reference to the goods or services received. Vesting conditions, other than market conditions, are not taken into account when estimating the fair value of shares or share options at the measurement date.

Over the vesting period fair value is recognised as an employee benefit expense with a corresponding increase in other comprehensive income based on the group's estimate of the number of instruments that will eventually vest. The income statement charge or credit for a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognised as at the beginning and end of that period. Vesting assumptions for non-market conditions are reviewed at each reporting date to ensure they reflect current expectations.

When the options are exercised or share awards vest the proceeds received, net of any directly attributable transaction costs, are credited to share capital (nominal value) and share premium.

Where the terms of an equity settled award are modified, as a minimum, an expense is recognised as if the terms had not been modified. In addition, an expense is recognised for any modification, which increases the total fair value of the share-based payment arrangement, or is otherwise beneficial to the employee as measured at the date of the modification.

In the company financial statements share-based payment arrangements with employees of other group entities are recognised by charging the entity their share of the expense and a corresponding increase in other comprehensive income.

Environmental expenditure

Long-term environmental obligations comprising decommissioning and restoration are based on the group's environmental management plans, in compliance with the current environmental and regulatory requirements.

Annual contributions for the South African operations are made to Environmental Rehabilitation Trusts, created in accordance with local statutory requirements where applicable, to fund the estimated cost of rehabilitation during and at the end of the life of a mine.

AngloGold Ashanti is the sole contributor to the funds and exercises full control through the respective boards of trustees, hence the funds are consolidated.

The environmental rehabilitation obligations in respect of the non-South African operations are not funded through an established trust fund. Bank guarantees and reclamation bonds are provided for some of these liabilities.

Decommissioning costs
The provision for decommissioning represents the cost that will arise from rectifying damage caused before production commenced. Accordingly an asset is recognised and included within mine infrastructure.

Decommissioning costs are provided for at the present value of the expenditures expected to settle the obligation, using estimated cash flows based on current prices. The unwinding of the decommissioning obligation is included in the income statement. The estimated future costs of decommissioning obligations are regularly reviewed and adjusted as appropriate for new circumstances or changes in law or technology. Changes in estimates are capitalised or reversed against the relevant asset. The estimates are discounted at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money.

Gains from the expected disposal of assets are not taken into account when determining the provision.

Restoration costs
The provision for restoration represents the cost of restoring site damage after the commencement of production. Increases in the provision are charged to the income statement as a cost of production.

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

Revenue recognition

Revenue is recognised at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the group and the revenue can be reliably measured. The following criteria must also be present:

• the sale of mining products is recognised when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the products are transferred to the buyer;
• dividends are recognised when the right to receive payment is established;
• interest is recognised on a time proportion basis, taking account of the principal outstanding and the effective rate over the period to maturity, when it is determined that such income will accrue to the group; and
• where a by-product is not regarded as significant, revenue is credited against cost of sales, when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the products are transferred to the buyer.

Taxation

Deferred taxation is provided on all qualifying temporary differences at the balance sheet date between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes.

Deferred tax assets are only recognised to the extent that it is probable that the deductible temporary differences will reverse in the foreseeable future and future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary difference can be utilised.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient future taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilised.

A deferred tax liability is recognised for all taxable temporary differences if it is probable that the temporary difference will reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at future anticipated tax rates, which have been enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.

Current and deferred tax is recognised 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 recognised, in the same or a different period directly in equity; or a business combination that is an acquisition.

Current taxation is measured on taxable income at the applicable statutory rate.

Special items

Items of income and expense that are material and require separate disclosure, in accordance with IAS 1.86, are classified as "special items" on the face of the income statement. Special items that relate to the underlying performance of the business are classified as "operating special items" and include impairment charges and reversals. Special items that do not relate to underlying business performance are classified as "non-operating special items" and are presented below "Operating (loss) profit" on the income statement.

Dividend distribution

Dividend distribution to the group's shareholders is recognised as a liability in the group's financial statements in the period in which the dividends are declared by the board of directors of AngloGold Ashanti.

Financial instruments

Financial instruments recognised on the balance sheet include other investments, convertible bonds, trade and other receivables, cash and cash equivalents, borrowings, derivatives and trade and other payables.

Financial instruments are initially measured at fair value when the group becomes a party to their contractual arrangements. Transaction costs are included in the initial measurement of financial instruments, except financial instruments classified as at fair value through profit and loss.

The subsequent measurement of financial instruments is dealt with below.

A financial asset is derecognised when the right to receive cash flows from the asset has expired or the group has transferred its rights to receive cash and either (a) has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, or (b) has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the assets.

A financial liability is derecognised when the obligation under the liability is discharged or cancelled or expires.

On derecognition of a financial asset, the difference between the proceeds received or receivable and the carrying amount of the asset is included in income.

On derecognition of a financial liability, the difference between the carrying amount of the liability extinguished or transferred to another party and the amount paid for is included in income.

Regular way purchases and sales of all financial assets and liabilities are accounted for at trade date.

Derivatives
The group enters into derivatives to ensure a degree of price certainty and to guarantee a minimum revenue on a portion of the future planned gold production of its mines. In addition, the group enters into derivatives to manage interest rate risk.

IAS 39 requires that derivatives be treated as follows:

• commodity based (normal purchase or normal sale) contracts that meet the requirements of IAS39 are recognised in earnings when they are settled by physical delivery;
• where the conditions in IAS39 for hedge accounting are met, the derivative is recognised on the balance sheet as either a derivative asset or derivative liability and recorded at fair value. For cash flow hedges, the effective portion of fair value gains or losses are recognised in equity (other comprehensive income) until the underlying transaction occurs, then the gains or losses are recognised in earnings or included in the initial measurement of covered assets or liabilities. The ineffective portion of fair value gains and losses is reported in earnings in the period to which they relate. For fair value hedges, the gain or loss from changes in fair value of the hedged item is reported in earnings, together with the offsetting gains and losses from changes in fair value of the hedging instrument; and
• all other derivatives are subsequently measured at their estimated fair value, with the changes in estimated fair value at each reporting date being reported in earnings in the period to which it relates. Fair value gains and losses on these derivatives are included in gross profit in the income statement.

The estimated fair values of derivatives are determined at discrete points in time based on the relevant market information. These estimates are calculated with reference to the market rates using industry standard valuation techniques.

Unearned premiums
Premiums received are recorded as trade and other payables until the option matures at which time the premium is recorded in revenue. This only applies to normal sale exempt designated deliverable call options.

Investments
Listed investments, other than investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures, and associates, are classified as available-for-sale financial assets and are subsequently measured at fair value, and are calculated by reference to the quoted selling price at the close of business on the balance sheet date. Changes in fair value are recognised in equity (other comprehensive income) in the period in which they arise. These amounts are removed from equity and reported in income when the asset is derecognised or when there is evidence that the asset is impaired.

Unlisted investments are classified as held-to-maturity and are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method. If there is evidence that held-to-maturity financial assets are impaired, the carrying amount of the assets is reduced and the loss recognised in the income statement.

Investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are carried at cost less any accumulated impairments in the company's separate financial statements.

Other non-current assets

• Loans and receivables are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method. If there is evidence that loans and receivables are impaired, the carrying amount of the assets is reduced and the loss recognised in the income statement.
• Post retirement assets are measured according to the employee benefits policy.

Trade receivables
Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less accumulated impairment. Impairment of trade and other receivables is established when there is objective evidence as a result of a loss event that the group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables. The amount of the impairment is the difference between the asset's carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate. The impairment is recognised in the income statement.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents are defined as cash on hand, demand deposits and short-term, highly liquid investments readily convertible to known amounts of cash and subject to insignificant risk of changes in value and are subsequently measured at cost as they have a short-term maturity.

Cash which is subject to legal or contractual restrictions on use is classified separately.

Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities, other than derivatives, are subsequently measured at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

Foreign currency convertible bonds

Foreign currency convertible bonds issued are accounted for entirely as liabilities. The option component is treated as a derivative liability and carried at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in the income statement. The bond component is carried at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

2. Segmental information

Based on risks and returns the directors consider that the primary reporting format is by business segment. The directors consider that there is only one business segment being mining, extraction and production of gold. Therefore the disclosures for the primary segment have already been given in these financial statements.

The secondary reporting format is by geographical analysis by origin and destination.

Group analysis by origin is as follows: