Perseus' operating cashflow of $245.9 million was an increase of 137% on the prior year, with the increased metrics primarily a function of the company's now flagship Yaoure operation in Cote d'Ivoire kicking into full speed action in 2021.

Perseus managing director Jeff Quartermaine was unsurprisingly bullish on the outlook, telling a conference call he was "looking forward to what is coming down the turnpike".

That would appear not to include to be an imminent deal with Orca Gold - in which it holds a 15% stake after buying the equity from Resolute last month - with Quartermaine denying any dialogue with the company in response to an analyst question.

Meanwhile the company will have to produce about 260,000 ounces in the current half to reach the 500,000oz mark for fiscal 2022, after the 241,164oz delivered in the first six months.

If achieved, all-in site costs of below US$1000/oz would be expected.

As at 31 December 2021, Perseus had on-hand cash of A$268.2 million, and 9342oz of gold bullion valued at $23.4 million.

During the period Perseus repaid in advance US$50 million of the revolving corporate cash advance facility, leaving a balance of $50 million.

On a negative day for the gold sector, shares in Perseus were down 4% to A$1.56 in morning trade, capitalising the company at $1.9 billion.