/EINPresswire.com/ -- JERSEY, CHANNEL ISLANDS--(Marketwired - May 4, 2017) - Randgold Resources' (LSE: RRS) (NASDAQ: GOLD) operations delivered a robust all-round performance in the first quarter of 2017 to set the group on track to achieve its guidance for year.

Compared to the corresponding quarter in 2016, gold production was up 10% at 322 470 ounces, profit increased by 33% to $84.9 million and total cash costs decreased by 4% to $619/oz. The group did not match the previous quarter's record results however, with gold production down 15%, profit down 10% and total cash costs up 13% on this comparison.

Cash continued to increase, rising by 16% to $600 million, with no debt, and earlier this week shareholders approved a 52% hike to $1.00 per share in the annual dividend.

Chief executive Mark Bristow said the first quarter of the year was always a particularly busy one for Randgold and the past one had been no exception. Despite work stoppages that impacted operations at both the Loulo-Gounkoto complex in Mali and Tongon in Côte d'Ivoire, and the continuing ramp-up to full production at Kibali, the group's overall performance was its best for several years.

"Loulo-Gounkoto produced another solid operating quarter, marked by high recoveries, and Tongon delivered a steady performance, with good cost control. Kibali is tracking its guidance as it works towards the full commissioning of its underground operation later this year. Morila continued to optimise its tailings retreatment operation and is finalising approvals for the mining of its Domba satellite, provisionally scheduled to start in September this year," he said.

Bristow noted that Randgold had succeeded in effectively replacing its reserves at a higher grade last year despite depletion by record production. Brownfields exploration is continuing to expand its existing asset base while its greenfields exploration teams are delivering exciting new prospects in line with Randgold's aim of developing three new projects over the next five years. Strong cash flows from its existing operations would support the company's objective of sustainable profitability, reinforced by its ongoing exploration commitment, a 10 year business plan at $1 000/oz, and a robust balance sheet capable of funding new developments.

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RANDGOLD RESOURCES LIMITED
Incorporated in Jersey, Channel Islands
Reg. No. 62686
LSE Trading Symbol: RRS
NASDAQ Trading Symbol: GOLD