Barrick Gold Secures Key Mine Future, Clearing Major Hurdle

Barrick Gold settles Mali mining code dispute, securing a 10-year license for its Loulo-Gounkoto complex and removing a major geopolitical risk for investors.

Investors in Barrick Gold can breathe a sigh of relief. A significant and prolonged geopolitical overhang has been resolved with the government of Mali, removing a major uncertainty that had clouded the gold producer's operational outlook. The dispute centered on the crucial Loulo-Gounkoto mine complex, a cornerstone asset for the company.

Agreement Provides Long-Term Certainty

The conflict, which stemmed from changes to Mali's 2023 mining code, has been settled within the last 48 hours. As part of the resolution, Barrick has secured a ten-year extension to its mining license for the Loulo-Gounkoto operation. In return, the company has withdrawn its arbitration case against the state, which had been filed with the World Bank.

This development guarantees the long-term future of an indispensable part of Barrick's portfolio. In 2024 alone, the complex contributed nearly $900 million to the company's bottom line. The license renewal provides essential planning security and eliminates the regulatory ambiguity that had recently darkened the regional outlook. The market views this step favorably, as it preserves the firm's operational flexibility in a key jurisdiction.

Robust Financials and Strategic Moves Underpin Momentum

This positive resolution follows a period of strong financial performance for Barrick. Just earlier this month, the company reported a record operating cash flow for the fourth quarter of 2025 and announced an increased dividend. The shares had already begun to advance in recent trading sessions as these regulatory risks began to recede.

With the Mali dispute now settled and solid quarterly figures in hand, management is turning its full attention to a strategic repositioning. Plans are currently underway to spin off Barrick's North American gold business. If the intended initial public offering (IPO) for this division proceeds as scheduled by the end of 2026, it could unlock further value for shareholders.