Alamos Reports Fourth Quarter and Year-End 2015 Results

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Mar 24, 2016) -

All amounts are in United States dollars, unless otherwise stated.

Alamos Gold Inc. (TSX:AGI)(NYSE:AGI) ("Alamos" or the "Company") today reported financial results for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2015 and reviewed its operating, exploration and development activities.

"We produced 380,000 ounces of gold at all-in sustaining costs of $1,091 per ounce in 2015 meeting both our production and cost guidance and capping off a transformational year for Alamos," said John A. McCluskey, President and Chief Executive Officer. "With the ongoing ramp up of production at Young-Davidson and cost improvements at Mulatos, we expect all-in sustaining costs to decrease more than 10% in 2016. We expect this trend to continue as we execute on our core strategy of growing production and lowering costs at both Young-Davidson and Mulatos, driving significant free cash flow growth in the years ahead," Mr. McCluskey added.

Fourth Quarter 2015 Highlights

• Reported record quarterly production of 104,734 ounces of gold in the fourth quarter of 2015, including 44,694 ounces from Young-Davidson, 41,830 ounces from Mulatos and 18,210 ounces from El Chanate
• Total cash costs in the fourth quarter were $780 per ounce of gold sold and all-in sustaining costs ("AISC") were $1,073 per ounce of gold sold
• Sold 104,419 ounces of gold in the fourth quarter of 2015 at an average realized price of $1,109 per ounce, $3 per ounce above the average London PM Fix price, for revenues of $115.7 million
• Recorded cash flow from operating activities before changes in working capital of $17.0 million, or $0.07 per share
• Realized a quarterly net loss of $60.5 million, or $0.24 per share. This included several non-cash charges, including a $25.4 million write-down of El Chanate's heap leach inventory ($17.8 million after-tax), a $17.6 million write-down of the Company's 50% investment in the Orion exploration project, and a $5.1 million foreign exchange loss
• Reported cash and cash equivalents and available-for-sale securities of $289.6 million as at December 31, 2015
• Increased underground mining rates to average a new record of 5,900 tonnes per day ("TPD") at Young-Davidson, and over 6,000 tpd in December, consistent with the year-end target
• Achieved a new record low in terms of unit mining costs at Young-Davidson of $27 (CAD$35) per tonne benefiting from a nine month hydro rebate of $2 per tonne (CAD$3) recorded in the fourth quarter
• Issued 1.18 million common shares on a flow-through basis ("Flow-Through Shares") for gross proceeds of $3.6 million (CAD$5.0 million)

Full Year 2015 Highlights:

• Completed the merger between Former Alamos and AuRico on July 2, 2015
• Achieved production and cost guidance with production of 380,000 ounces of gold in 2015 (including Mulatos for the full year) at total cash costs of $766 per ounce and AISC of $1,091 per ounce of gold sold
• Sold 309,468 ounces of gold (excluding Mulatos for the first 6 months of 2015) at an average realized price of $1,148 per ounce for revenues of $355.1 million
• Realized a 2015 net loss of $508.9 million, or $2.62 per share. This included non-cash impairment charges of $429.4 million ($379.3 million after-tax) on Young Davidson, El Chanate, Kemess, and the Orion joint venture project. Additionally, $37.2 million ($26.0 million after-tax) of inventory net realizable value ("NRV") adjustments at El Chanate and Young Davidson were recorded. Merger and transaction costs of $20.0 million, and a $19.0 million foreign exchange loss are also included in net loss during the year
• Discovered new zones of mineralization at Cerro Pelon and La Yaqui

Subsequent to year-end:

• Released 2016 production guidance of 370,000 to 400,000 ounces of gold, with production growth from both Young-Davidson and Mulatos, at consolidated all-in sustaining costs of $975 per ounce, an 11% reduction from 2015
• Closed the acquisition of Carlisle Goldfields Ltd. ("Carlisle"), consolidating ownership of the Lynn Lake project for approximately $20.3 million
• Collected approximately $13.3 million of income tax receivables from the Mexican government
• Issued 1.28 million Flow-Through Shares for gross proceeds of $5.0 million (CAD$7.0 million)
• Entered into a $150 million credit facility with a syndicate of banks maturing February 29, 2020, amending the Company's previous credit facility

Highlight Summary

Outlook and Strategy

The Company's core focus in 2016 is on continuing the underground ramp up at Young-Davidson and development of the Cerro Pelon and La Yaqui deposits at Mulatos. The Company expects to produce between 370,000 and 400,000 ounces of gold in 2016 at substantially lower costs and capital spending levels than in 2015. All-in sustaining costs are expected to decrease 11% to $975 per ounce, driven by a 16%, or $160 per ounce decrease at Young-Davidson. Total capital spending for the Company's operating assets is also expected to decrease to between $111 and $131 million, down 20% from 2015. Given the decrease in costs and capital spending, the Company expects each operation to self-finance its sustaining and growth capital and exploration spending at a gold price of $1,100 per ounce.

Underground mining rates at Young-Davidson averaged 5,900 TPD in the fourth quarter of 2015 and the mine remains on track to achieve the 2016 year-end target rate of 7,000 TPD, with the second half of 2016 expected to see more significant improvements in mining rates. Underground unit mining costs are expected to continue to trend lower, reflecting ongoing productivity improvements, economies of scale and a weaker Canadian dollar. These are expected to drive total cash costs lower to $600 per ounce of gold sold. Further, with a focus on margin expansion, the Company has accelerated the transition to 100% owner underground development, which is expected to have an immediate impact, reducing per metre development costs. All-in sustaining costs are expected to decrease to $825 per ounce, a 16% or $160 per ounce decline from 2015.

Capital spending at Young-Davidson is expected to be between $85 and $95 million in 2016, including $40 to $45 million of sustaining capital. This represents a substantial decrease from 2015 levels despite the fact the Company is spending additional capital to accelerate the transition to underground owner development. Capital spending will be focused on development of the upper and lower mine, commissioning the MCM shaft and completing the lower leg of the Northgate shaft. Approximately 65% of the full year capital budget will be spent over the first six months given the timing of equipment purchases to transition to owner development. The Company expects a similar rate of capital spending until the ramp up of the underground mining rates to 8,000 tpd has been achieved in mid-2017, after which the combination of higher production, lower costs and lower capital spending is expected to drive significant free cash flow growth.

At Mulatos, the open pit heap leach operation is expected to supply approximately 80% of production in 2016. In addition, ongoing operational improvements and a renegotiated mining contract are contributing to reduced operating costs, with 2016 AISC expected to be over $100 per ounce lower than 2015 levels. A key focus at Mulatos is on expanding and developing the higher grade La Yaqui and Cerro Pelon projects, which are substantially lower cost operations. La Yaqui is expected to start contributing production and will drive costs lower in mid-2017. Both projects continue to advance with the environmental impact assessment ("EIA") for La Yaqui expected to be submitted by the end of first quarter of 2016. The EIA submission for Cerro Pelon is expected to follow by the end of the third quarter of 2016.

The La Yaqui and Cerro Pelon deposits are among the highest priority exploration targets for Alamos with results from the 2015 drilling activities increasing mineral reserves and resources at both deposits. Given their low cost profile, any expansion of these deposits is expected to have a significant positive impact on profitability at Mulatos. Approximately $8 million has been budgeted for exploration on these deposits in 2016.

El Chanate is a mature operation that was successful in generating positive free cash flow in 2015. The focus in 2016 and beyond will be on continuing to generate positive free cash flow. Given the long leach cycle at El Chanate, approximately 100,000 recoverable ounces have built up in leach pad inventory. These ounces are expected to be recovered at low costs once mining ceases at the operation, providing significant free cash flow.

Capital spending on the Company's development projects has been scaled back significantly in 2016 and will be focused on the highest priority targets. This includes completing the permitting process at Kirazli and advancing Lynn Lake towards a feasibility study. The Company does not anticipate spending significant capital on these projects until the ramp up at Young-Davidson and development of La Yaqui and Cerro Pelon has been completed and both operations are generating substantial free cash flow. Development spending and activities at the Esperanza and Quartz Mountain projects have been significantly reduced.

The Company's cash position and balance sheet remain strong, with approximately $290 million in cash and cash equivalents and available-for-sale securities. In 2016, Young-Davidson and Mulatos are expected to self-finance their growth at an $1,100 gold price, with significant site free cash flow growth expected in 2017 through the combination of lower costs and capital spending.

Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2015 Results

Young-Davidson Operational and Financial Review

Young-Davidson mined a record 543,825 tonnes of ore, or 5,911 TPD, from underground operations during the fourth quarter of 2015, at a grade of 2.58 grams per tonne of gold ("g/t Au"). For year ended December 31, 2015, ore mined from underground operations totaled 1,851,492 tonnes, or 5,073 TPD, at a grade of 2.67 g/t Au. Young-Davidson increased mining rates significantly in 2015 compared to 2014 levels due to planned productivity improvements and continued underground development. Mining rates in the fourth quarter of 2015 were 16% higher than the third quarter of 2015, and December averaged above 6,000 TPD. The Company expects to reach rates of 7,000 TPD by the end of 2016 and 8,000 TPD by the middle of 2017. Underground mined grades in 2015 were in line with the mine plan and showed a slightly positive reconciliation to the block model. Compared to 2014, mined grades were lower due to mine sequencing.

At the end of December 2015, the Company had approximately 1.4 million tonnes of low grade open pit ore stockpiled ahead of the mill at an average grade of 0.82 g/t Au. Mill feed from the underground mine continues to be supplemented by the stockpiled open pit ore while underground mining levels ramp up to mill capacity. As underground mining rates continue to increase, this will supply an increasing portion of the mill feed driving the milled grade and gold production higher.

During the fourth quarter of 2015, Young-Davidson processed 701,983 tonnes, or 7,630 TPD with grades averaging 2.17 g/t Au. Mill throughput was slightly lower than in the same period of 2014 due to scheduled maintenance in October, and grades were 10% higher as underground ore supplied a higher portion of the mill feed. For the year ended December 31, 2015, 2,753,893 tonnes or 7,545 TPD were processed at an average grade of 2.02 g/t Au. Tonnes processed were slightly lower than the same period of 2014 due to nine days of scheduled downtime for mill maintenance in the first quarter of 2015.

Young-Davidson produced 44,694 ounces of gold during the fourth quarter of 2015, 9% higher than production in the same period of 2014 reflecting a higher portion of underground ore to the mill. For the year ended December 31, 2015, Young-Davidson produced 160,358 ounces of gold, consistent with 2014, and meeting the low-end of 2015 production guidance. Higher underground mill feed and recoveries were offset by lower underground grades in 2015 compared to 2014 due to mine sequencing.

For the three months ended December 31, 2015, total cash costs per ounce of gold sold were $617, representing a 14% decrease from the same period of 2014. Year-to-date, total cash costs per ounce of gold sold were $683, representing a 17% decrease from the same period of 2014. The lower costs per ounce for the fourth quarter of 2015 and on a year-to-date basis were due to an increase in the underground contribution to overall production, lower unit underground mining costs, and the impact of a weakening Canadian dollar. Underground unit mining costs were $27 per tonne (CAD$35 per tonne) in the fourth quarter of 2015 which benefited from a nine month hydro rebate of $2 per tonne (CAD$3 per tonne) recorded in the fourth quarter. On a normalized basis, underground unit mining costs were $29 per tonne (CAD$38 per tonne) in the fourth quarter. Lower underground unit mining costs in the fourth quarter continue to reflect ongoing productivity improvements and the weaker Canadian dollar. Total cash costs at Young-Davidson are expected to decrease in the future as underground throughput continues to ramp up.

In the fourth quarter of 2015, capital expenditures totaled $26.4 million and included spending on lateral development, the MCM shaft development, and underground equipment. Of the total expenditure, $14.7 million related to sustaining capital and $11.7 million related to growth capital. For the year ended December 31, 2015, capital expenditures totaled $108.1 million, of which $47.0 million was spent on sustaining capital and $61.1 million on growth capital. Capital expenditures in 2015 exceeded guidance given higher spending on major spare parts and the water treatment plant, as well as an increased usage of contractors for underground development which have a higher per metre cost. The Company expects to phase out the contractor in the second quarter of 2016.

Mulatos Operational and Financial Review

In the fourth quarter of 2015, Mulatos produced 41,830 ounces of gold, 52% higher than in the third quarter of 2015 reflecting higher tonnes and grades stacked in the quarter, the recovery of deferred ounces from the seasonally weak third quarter, and improved high grade production.

Total crusher throughput averaged 17,700 TPD in the fourth quarter, slightly below plan. The grade of crushed ore stacked on the leach pad in the fourth quarter of 2015 was 0.94 g/t Au, higher than plan as the mine continued to benefit from positive grade reconciliation in the Mulatos pit. During the year ended December 31, 2015, the grade stacked averaged 0.87 g/t Au, above guidance of 0.80 g/t Au.

The ratio of ounces produced to contained ounces stacked and milled (or recovery ratio) in the fourth quarter was 57% compared to 74% in the fourth quarter of 2014, and below the annualized budget of 74%. The lower recovery reflected both higher grades stacked in the quarter and deferred processing of solution inventory following the rainy season.

Mill production increased in the fourth quarter reflecting higher grades processed and higher throughput. The mill processed approximately 450 TPD at average grades of 19.41 g/t Au in the fourth quarter of 2015, with grades processed higher than reserve grade as stockpiled high-grade ore from the underground was processed. At the end of December, the Company had stockpiles of approximately 50,000 tonnes of high grade ore from the San Carlos deposit that will be processed in 2016.

Total cash costs of $843 per ounce of gold sold in the fourth quarter of 2015 were higher than $748 per ounce reported in the fourth quarter of 2014 as a result of higher mining costs resulting from an increased strip ratio and longer haul distances. On a year-to-date basis, total cash costs were $869 per ounce of gold sold (including the first six months of production from prior ownership), in line with the annual guidance of $865 but higher than $703 achieved in 2014. The increase relative to the prior year is attributable to lower grades stacked, a higher waste-to-ore ratio and a higher cost per tonne of ore mined due to longer haul distances. AISC in the quarter were $958 per ounce of gold sold, which is 3% higher than the fourth quarter of 2014. AISC in the fourth quarter of 2015 benefited from stronger production and a further depreciation of the Mexican Peso. On a year-to-date basis, AISC of $1,047 per ounce of gold sold (including the first six months of production from prior ownership) were in line with guidance for the year.

El Chanate Operational and Financial Review

During the fourth quarter of 2015, El Chanate mined 1,979,931 tonnes of ore or 21,500 TPD, at an average grade of 0.50 g/t Au. The average daily mining rate improved by about 12% over the same period of 2014 as shorter haul distances and an increase equipment availability improved productivity. For the year ended December 31, 2015, 31,672,788 tonnes were mined, including 7,459,301 tonnes of ore at an average grade of 0.58 g/t Au. Compared to full year 2014, grades were 16% higher in 2015 and tonnes were 7% lower, both due to mine sequencing. Starting in the third quarter of 2015, the Company expensed all stripping costs at El Chanate, as incurred, given the Company has determined these costs are not recoverable. This increased the total cash costs per ounce but has no impact on all-in sustaining costs per ounce.

El Chanate crushed and stacked 1,618,684 tonnes of open pit ore on the heap leach pad during the fourth quarter of 2015, at an average rate of 17,600 TPD compared to an average rate of 16,700 TPD in the same period of the prior year. El Chanate also stacked 363,514 tonnes of low grade run-of-mine ore on the heap leach pad. During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company crushed and stacked 6,124,837 tonnes of ore at an average rate of 16,800 TPD, compared to the 18,600 TPD in the prior year as a result of mine sequencing.

The grade of ore crushed and stacked averaged 0.57 g/t Au during the fourth quarter compared to an average grade of 0.64 g/t Au in the same period of the prior year. Ore crushed and stacked in 2015 averaged 0.67 g/t Au compared to an average grade of 0.60 g/t Au in 2014.

During the fourth quarter, El Chanate produced 18,210 ounces of gold, bringing 2015 production to 79,312 ounces of gold. This compares to production of 15,638 ounces and 67,279 ounces of gold in the same periods of 2014. Higher production in 2015 is attributed to higher grades and improved recoveries from the leach pad, partially offset by lower mining rates.

Total cash costs per ounce of gold sold were $994 in the fourth quarter of 2015 (exclusive of NRV adjustments), an increase from previous quarters reflecting the fact that the Company now expenses stripping costs as incurred. The Company has determined these stripping costs are not recoverable, whereas prior to the third quarter of 2015 these costs were capitalized. For the year ended December 31, 2015, total cash costs per ounce of gold sold were $808 (exclusive of NRV adjustments).

The Company recorded a $20.9 million NRV adjustment, net of depreciation, in the fourth quarter of 2015. This was in addition to a $5.6 million NRV adjustment in the second quarter of 2015, net of depreciation. The NRV adjustment taken in the fourth quarter resulted from a third party specialist review of the recoverable ounces on the leach pad conducted during the fourth quarter. Based on this review, the Company updated the recovery assumption applied to material stacked on the leach pad, lowering the estimate of recoverable ounces on the leach pad from approximately 140,000 ounces to 100,000 ounces as at December 31, 2015. AISC (exclusive of NRV adjustments) of $1,009 per ounce of gold sold in the fourth quarter of 2015 decreased from $1,347 per ounce in the fourth quarter of 2014. AISC (exclusive of NRV adjustments) were $978 per ounce for the year ended December 31, 2015, in line with annual guidance of $950 - $1,050 per ounce.

Capital expenditures in the fourth quarter of 2015 were $0.2 million, and for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $13.7 million, which mainly related to the capitalization of waste stripping costs during the first half of the year.

Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2015 Development and Exploration Activities

La Yaqui

A total of 3,497 metres ("m") was drilled at La Yaqui during the fourth quarter of 2015 bringing the full year total to 17,518 m of which 13,872 m was exploration drilling. The 2015 exploration program yielded excellent results with step out drilling identifying a new zone of mineralization 500 m to the northeast of the current in-pit reserve mineralization and further mineralized intercepts encountered over an additional 750 m of strike length.

Drilling throughout 2015 has indicated the existence of a large hydrothermal system in the Yaqui area with continuous alteration over a large area of approximately 1.5 kilometres ("km") by 1 km and ore-grade intercepts at distances of up to a 1.25 km from known in-pit mineralization. Preliminary metallurgical test work indicates mineralization is amenable to heap leaching. Drill results of the 2015 program at La Yaqui have been incorporated into the 2015 year end mineral reserve and resource statement.

A system of this size will require systematic testing and infill drilling. Therefore, the 2016 program will be conducted in two phases. The first will be focused on ongoing exploration along the northwest-trending silica ridge. This will be followed by systematic delineation and definition drilling over portions of this approximately 1,000 m strike length with the aim of increasing mineral resources and reserves at La Yaqui. Approximately $5 million has been budgeted at La Yaqui for 2016.

Cerro Pelon

A total of 670 m of drilling was completed at Cerro Pelon during the fourth quarter of 2015 and 18,767 m for the full year. The aim of the 2015 program was to test continuation of mineralization to the north of the current pit. The program was successful in delineating a new zone of mineralization approximately 100 m to the north of the reserve mineralization and outside previously designed pit limits. Excellent drill results were obtained with several intercepts averaging well above the current mineral reserve grade.

In addition to drilling, significant mapping and sampling has been conducted over a large area around the reserve mineralization. Combined results from all programs indicate that gold mineralization at Cerro Pelon is associated with quartz-alunite alteration, brecciation and structures. Recent mapping and drilling is helping to further refine the Company's understanding of the controls on mineralization at Cerro Pelon. Results to date have indicated that favorable geology for hosting mineralization exists to the north beneath a massive silica cap. Preliminary metallurgical test work indicates mineralization is amenable to heap leaching.

The focus of the 2016 exploration program is to drill test an additional 500-800 m to the north with an expected budget of $3.0 million.

Mulatos District

In addition to drilling, mapping and sampling was continued over the larger Mulatos district and a ground magnetics survey was commenced over the Cerro Pelon and La Yaqui areas.

Turkey

The Company is in receipt of approved Environmental Impact Assessments ("EIA") granted by the Turkish Ministry of the Environment and Urbanization's (the "Ministry") for both the Agi Dagi and Kirazli gold projects. The Company is currently applying for the forestry and operating permits which are required prior to construction, and remains confident that these permits will be granted. For the year ended December 31, 2015, through the period of ownership, total development expenditures in Turkey were $0.5 million.

Lynn Lake

On January 7, 2016, the Company closed the acquisition of Carlisle, the joint-venture partner on the Lynn Lake Project. The acquisition allowed the Company to consolidate 100% ownership of the Lynn Lake Project, thereby giving the Company full control of the project timeline and spending.

For the three months and year ended December 31, 2015, the Company spent $1.5 million and $8.6 million, respectively. In 2016, the Company plans on spending $8 million at Lynn Lake, with the majority of work focused on advancing a feasibility study on the project.

Esperanza

The Company capitalized $1.0 million at Esperanza in the fourth quarter of 2015. These development costs were primarily related to the collection of baseline study data to support resubmission of an EIA.

Quartz Mountain

In the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company invested $0.8 million at Quartz Mountain, which was expensed. During the quarter detailed mapping and sampling was carried on out other prospects in the claim group. First pass soil sampling and mapping was also conducted on the Coal Canyon project in Nevada with encouraging results. Exploration spending is expected to continue with follow-up work on all these prospects in the first quarter of 2016.

Review of Fourth Quarter Financial Results

During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company sold 104,419 ounces of gold for proceeds of $115.7 million, a 64% increase compared to the fourth quarter of 2014. The majority of the increase is due the inclusion of sales from Mulatos effective July 2, 2015. The increase in gold ounces sold was offset by a decrease in the average realized gold price for the quarter. The decrease in realized gold price negatively impacted revenue by $5.5 million as the price per ounce decreased from $1,202 to $1,109.

Mining and processing costs increased to $98.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2015 from $56.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2014 largely reflecting the inclusion of operating costs from Mulatos and the NRV adjustment recorded at El Chanate, net of amortization, of $20.9 million. The NRV adjustment taken in the fourth quarter resulted from a third party specialist review of the recoverable ounces on the leach pad conducted during the fourth quarter. As a result of this review, the Company updated the recovery assumption applied to material stacked on the leach pad, lowering the estimate of recoverable ounces on the leach pad from approximately 140,000 ounces to 100,000 ounces as at December 31, 2015.

Consolidated total cash costs for the quarter were $780 per ounce of gold sold (excluding NRV adjustments), compared to $746 per ounce in the prior year period, and in line with guidance. The increase from the prior year is due to the fact that the Company now expenses stripping costs at El Chanate as incurred, given the Company has determined these costs are not recoverable, as well as the inclusion of operating costs from Mulatos in 2015 which were higher in the fourth quarter. This was offset by the cost benefit of the continued depreciation of both the Canadian dollar and Mexican Peso compared to the US dollar.

In the fourth quarter of 2015, AISC per ounce of gold sold decreased by $52 to $1,073, as compared to $1,125 in the fourth quarter of 2014. This decrease was primarily due to lower capital expenditures at Young-Davidson, and the continued weakening of operating currencies at each of the mines.

Royalty expense for the quarter was $3.6 million, an increase from the fourth quarter of 2014, due to third party royalties at Mulatos and the new 1.5% royalty at Young-Davidson, which were not included in the prior year results.

Amortization increased from $30.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2014 to $37.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2015, reflecting the inclusion of Mulatos and the El Chanate NRV amortization adjustment of $4.6 million. Amortization per ounce sold was $299 per ounce (net of the NRV adjustment) compared to $343 per ounce in 2014, due to lower amortization per ounce attributable to Mulatos, and impairment charges at El Chanate and Young-Davidson in the second quarter of 2015 which had the impact of lowering amortization expense in subsequent periods.

Corporate and administration expenses increased in the quarter by $2.7 million to $6.5 million as a result of growth of the Company following the merger in July 2015. Corporate and administration expenditures are anticipated to trend lower as merger synergies are realized, with 2016 corporate and administrative costs budgeted to be $16 million, a significant reduction from 2015 levels.

The Company recognized a loss from operations of $55.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2015, compared to a loss from operations of $112.9 million in the same period of 2014. The loss from operations in the current quarter includes an impairment charge of $17.6 million relating to the Company's joint venture interest in the Orion project in Mexico. During the quarter, the Company determined that it did not intend to proceed with further exploration at the Orion project, and as a result, has written off the historical carrying value of the project of $17.6 million which was originally allocated in 2012 following the sale of the Ocampo asset and 50% of the Orion project to Minera Frisco.

The higher loss from operations in the prior year was driven by an impairment charge recorded to El Chanate's mineral property, plant and equipment in the fourth quarter of 2014.

The Company reported a net loss of $60.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2015, compared to a net loss of $108.2 million in Q4 2014. The net loss in the current quarter was due to the reasons previously stated, as well as foreign exchange losses.

Review of 2015 Year End Financial Results

During 2015, the Company sold 309,468 ounces of gold compared to sales of 227,966 ounces in 2014 (excluding ounces sold from Mulatos prior to July 2, 2015). The increase in ounces sold is primarily due to the inclusion of post-merger gold sales at Mulatos of 73,731 ounces in the second half of the year. This increase was offset by a lower average realized price for gold, as the average price per ounce decreased from $1,265 to $1,148.

During 2015, total cash costs were $766 per ounce of gold sold (exclusive of NRV adjustments), consistent with the prior year at $779 per ounce of gold sold (exclusive of NRV adjustments) and in line with the Company's guidance.

Mining and processing costs increased to $259.2 million from $195.6 million due to the inclusion of Mulatos in the second half of the year, which added $61.8 million to operating costs for the period of ownership. In addition, the Company recorded $29.4 million of NRV adjustments related to Young-Davidson and El Chanate.

During 2015, consolidated AISC per ounce of gold sold were $1,091 (exclusive of NRV adjustments), representing a 9% improvement over all-in sustaining costs per gold ounce of $1,195 (exclusive of NRV adjustments) in 2014. The decrease was due to lower capital expenditures at Young-Davidson and a decline in corporate and administrative expenses on a per ounce basis.

Royalty expense for the period was $7.3 million, an increase from 2014, due to a third party royalty at Mulatos and the new 1.5% royalty at Young-Davidson which were not included in 2014.

Amortization decreased from $121.5 million to $117.5 million in 2015. Amortization per ounce decreased significantly due to lower amortization per ounce attributable to Mulatos and impairment charges at El Chanate in 2014, as well as impairment charges at El Chanate and Young-Davidson in the second quarter of 2015, which had the impact of lowering amortization expense throughout the remainder of 2015. Offsetting the decrease, was an inventory NRV adjustment of $7.8 million relating to amortization that was charged to El Chanate and Young-Davidson.

The Company recognized a loss from operations of $492.6 million in 2015, compared to a loss from operations of $148.7 million in 2014. This was primarily a result of impairment charges of $389.3 million at Young-Davidson, El Chanate, and the Orion joint venture project, the loss on revaluation of assets distributed to AuRico Metals Inc. of $40.1 million, and inventory NRV adjustments of $37.2 in 2015. In addition, the Company incurred approximately $20.0 million in costs incurred related to the merger.

For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recorded a net loss of $508.9 million compared to a net loss of $169.6 million in 2014. The higher net loss in 2015 was primarily attributable to the impairment and NRV adjustments referenced previously.

2016 El Chanate Gold Sales

In 2016, gold prices have increased sharply to $1,253 per ounce as at March 22, 2016. With the rising gold price environment, the Company has executed on a price protection strategy for production from its El Chanate mine, which represents less than 20% of consolidated production. Given the higher cost structure at El Chanate, the Company's objective was to lock in positive free cash flow for the mine as gold prices rose above $1,100 through a combination of forward sales and option contracts (collars). To date in 2016, the Company sold 17,000 ounces at an average realized price of $1,118 per ounce. In addition, the Company has collar contracts totaling 50,750 ounces which are scheduled to settle throughout the remainder of the year. The collar contracts ensure a minimum average realized gold price of $1,140 per ounce, and a maximum gold price of $1,274 per ounce, regardless of the movement in gold prices during the remainder of 2016. The Company does not have any other material contracts outstanding relating to Mulatos or Young-Davidson. As a result of the outstanding collar contracts at El Chanate, the Company may realize a lower average price than the average London fix price.

Amended Credit Facility

During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company had access to a $150.0 million revolving credit facility that carries an interest rate of LIBOR plus 2.25% to 3.50%, depending on the leverage ratio of the Company. No amounts were drawn on the facility during the year ended December 31, 2015.

On March 22, 2016, the Company amended and restated its existing $150.0 million credit facility, extending the maturity from April 26, 2016 to February 29, 2020. The amended facility consists of a committed $150.0 million revolving credit facility (the "Facility"), with an option to draw an additional $70.0 million, subject to commitments from existing and/or new lenders. The terms of the Facility resulted in a reduction in pricing and removal of certain covenants compared to the previous facility. The Facility bears interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 2.125% to 3.125% on drawn amounts and 0.48% to 0.70% on undrawn amounts, based on the Company's net leverage ratio, as defined in the agreement.

The Facility is secured by a first-ranking lien on all material present and future assets, property and undertakings of the Company. The Facility contains various covenants customary for a loan facility of this nature, including limits on indebtedness, asset sales, and liens. It contains financial covenant tests that include (a) a minimum interest coverage ratio of 3.00:1.00 and (b) a maximum net leverage ratio of 3.5:1.0.

As at March 22, 2016, the Company has not drawn any funds under the Facility.

Associated Documents

This press release should be read in conjunction with the Company's consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 and associated Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A"), which are available from the Company's website, www.alamosgold.com, in the "Investors" section under "Reports and Financials", and on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) and EDGAR (www.sec.gov).

Reminder of Fourth Quarter and Year-End 2015 Results Conference Call

The Company's senior management will host a conference call on Thursday, March 24, 2016 at 12:00 pm ET to discuss the fourth quarter and year-end 2015 financial results and provide an update on operating, exploration, and development activities.

Participants may join the conference call by dialling (416) 340-2216 or (866) 223-7781 for calls within Canada and the United States, or via webcast at www.alamosgold.com.

A playback will be available until April 7, 2016 by dialling (905) 694-9451 or (800) 408-3053 within Canada and the United States. The pass code is 4023811. The webcast will be archived at www.alamosgold.com.

Qualified Persons

Chris Bostwick, FAusIMM, Alamos Gold's Vice President, Technical Services, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Chris Bostwick is a Qualified Person within the meaning of Canadian Securities Administrator's National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101"). Information pertaining to the Mulatos District exploration program has been reviewed and approved by Alamos' Vice President, Exploration, Aoife McGrath, M.Sc., M.AIG, a Qualified Persons within the meaning of NI 43-101.

About Alamos

Alamos is a Canadian-based intermediate gold producer with diversified production from three operating mines in North America. This includes the Young-Davidson mine in northern Ontario, Canada and the Mulatos and El Chanate mines in Sonora State, Mexico. Additionally, the Company has a significant portfolio of development stage projects in Mexico, Turkey, Canada and the United States. Alamos employs more than 1,300 people and is committed to the highest standards of sustainable development. The Company's shares are traded on the TSX and NYSE under the symbol "AGI".

The TSX and NYSE have not reviewed and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information as defined under Canadian and U.S. securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Words such as "expect", "believe", "anticipate", "will", "intend", "estimate", "forecast", "budget" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements include information as to strategy, plans or future financial or operating performance, such as the Company's expansion plans, project timelines, production plans and expected sustainable productivity increases, expected increases in mining activities and corresponding cost efficiencies, expected results of the merger integration of the Company and Alamos, expected drilling targets, expected sustaining costs, expected improvements in cash flows and margins, expectations of changes in capital expenditures, forecasted cash shortfalls and the Company's ability to fund them, cost estimates, projected exploration results, reserve and resource estimates, expected production rates and use of the stockpile inventory, expected recoveries, sufficiency of working capital for future commitments and other statements that express management's expectations or estimates of future performance.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management at the time of making such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, political and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

Such factors and assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements in this document include, but are not limited to: changes to current estimates of mineral reserves and resources; changes to production estimates (which assume accuracy of projected ore grade, mining rates, recovery timing and recovery rate estimates and may be impacted by unscheduled maintenance, labour and contractor availability and other operating or technical difficulties); fluctuations in the price of gold; changes in foreign exchange rates (particularly the Canadian dollar, Mexican peso, Turkish Lira and U.S. dollar); the impact of inflation; changes in our credit rating; any decision to declare a dividend; employee relations; litigation; disruptions affecting operations; availability of and increased costs associated with mining inputs and labour; development delays at the Young-Davidson mine; inherent risks associated with mining and mineral processing; the risk that the Young-Davidson, Mulatos and El Chanate mines may not perform as planned; uncertainty with the Company's ability to secure additional capital to execute its business plans; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses and permits, including the necessary licenses, permits, authorizations and/or approvals from the appropriate regulatory authorities for the Company's development stage assets, including specifically its Turkish mineral properties; contests over title to properties; changes in national and local government legislation (including tax legislation) in Canada, Mexico, Turkey, the United States and other jurisdictions in which the Company does or may carry on business in the future; risk of loss due to sabotage and civil disturbances; the impact of global liquidity and credit availability and the values of assets and liabilities based on projected future cash flows; risks arising from holding derivative instruments; and business opportunities that may be pursued by the Company.

Additional risk factors and details with respect to risk factors affecting the Company are set out in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form, dated March 22, 2016; and, (ii) the joint management information circular of AuRico and Former Alamos dated May 22, 2015, under the heading "Risk Factors", which is available on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. The foregoing should be reviewed in conjunction with the information found in this news release. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors Concerning Measured, Indicated and Inferred Resources

The Company is required to prepare its resource estimates in accordance with standards of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum referred to in Canadian National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101). These standards are materially different from the standards generally permitted in reports filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. When describing resources we use the terms "measured", "indicated" or "inferred" resources which are not recognized by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. The estimation of measured resources and indicated resources involve greater uncertainty as to their existence and economic feasibility than the estimation of proven and probable reserves. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that any part of measured or indicated resources will ever be converted into economically or legally mineable proven or probable reserves. The estimation of inferred resources may not form the basis of a feasibility or other economic studies and involves far greater uncertainty as to their existence and economic viability than the estimation of other categories of resources.

Cautionary non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP Measures

Note that for purposes of this section, GAAP refers to IFRS. The Company believes that investors use certain non-GAAP and additional GAAP measures as indicators to assess gold mining companies. They are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared with GAAP. Non-GAAP and additional GAAP measures do not have a standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies.

Additional GAAP measures that are presented on the face of the Company's consolidated statements of comprehensive income include "Mine operating costs", "Earnings from mine operations" and "Earnings from operations". These measures are intended to provide an indication of the Company's mine and operating performance. "Cash flow from operating activities before changes in non-cash working capital" is a non-GAAP performance measure that could provide an indication of the Company's ability to generate cash flows from operations, and is calculated by adding back the change in non-cash working capital to "Cash provided by (used in) operating activities" as presented on the Company's consolidated statements of cash flows. "Free cash flow" is a non-GAAP performance measure that is calculated as cash flows from operations net of cash flows invested in mineral property, plant and equipment and exploration and evaluation assets as presented on the Company's consolidated statements of cash flows and that would provide an indication of the Company's ability to generate cash flows from its mineral projects. Return on Equity is defined as Earnings from Continuing Operations divided by the average Total Equity for the current and previous year. "Mining cost per tonne of ore" and "Cost per tonne of ore" are non-GAAP performance measures that could provide an indication of the mining and processing efficiency and effectiveness of the mine. These measures are calculated by dividing the relevant mining and processing costs and total costs by the tonnes of ore processed in the period. "Cost per tonne of ore" is usually affected by operating efficiencies and waste-to-ore ratios in the period. "Cash operating costs per ounce", "total cash costs per ounce" and "all-in sustaining costs per ounce" as used in this analysis are non-GAAP terms typically used by gold mining companies to assess the level of gross margin available to the Company by subtracting these costs from the unit price realized during the period. These non-GAAP terms are also used to assess the ability of a mining company to generate cash flow from operations. There may be some variation in the method of computation of these metrics as determined by the Company compared with other mining companies. In this context, "cash operating costs per ounce" reflects the cash operating costs allocated from in-process and dore inventory associated with ounces of gold sold in the period. "Cash operating costs per ounce" may vary from one period to another due to operating efficiencies, waste-to-ore ratios, grade of ore processed and gold recovery rates in the period.
"Total cash costs per ounce" includes "cash operating costs per ounce" plus applicable royalties. Cash operating costs per ounce and total cash costs per ounce are exclusive of exploration costs. "All-in sustaining costs per ounce" include total cash costs, exploration, corporate and administrative, share based compensation and sustaining capital costs. "All-in cost per ounce" reflects total all-in sustaining cash costs, plus capital, operating, and exploration costs associated with the Company's development projects.

For a reconciliation of non-GAAP and GAAP measures, please refer to Alamos' Management Discussion and Analysis dated March 22, 2016, for the year ended December 31, 2015, as filed on SEDAR.com and the Company's website.

Contact

Alamos Gold Inc.
Scott K. Parsons
Vice-President, Investor Relations
(416) 368-9932 x 5439
www.alamosgold.com