Former competitors expect to complete the combination June 30, 2020.

The company will also reduce net unit cash costs of copper by 25% to approximately $1.30 per pound.

The relatively easy credit underscores the challenge of ridding the world of the dirtiest energy source.

Bullion still gained nearly 7% this week, fulfilling its role as insurance at a time when the outbreak is shaking investor confidence.

In February, gold-backed ETF holdings reached 3,033 tonnes.

Price rose slightly as coal mine operations in China were affected by the coronavirus.