Application of Real Options on the Decision-Making of Mining Investment Projects Using the System Dynamics Method

Estimating the valuation of mining projects has great significance for investment decision-making. Since the existing valuation methods are not appropriate for mining projects affected by various uncertainties over the long term, this paper presents a hybrid investment evaluation model that is based on real options and system dynamics for mining projects. To address uncertainties and managerial flexibilities that are contained in mining projects, the model integrates the static net present value calculated by traditional discount cash flows and the real options value generated by the Black-Scholes model into the total value of mining projects. Subsequently, the model applies system dynamics modeling to analyze the dynamics of the complicated mining operation system, quantify its variables and interactions, and estimate its volatility, which enables a more accurate real options valuation. A realistic case of the Hongwei uranium deposit in China is the basis for the presented numerical illustration of the model. The findings indicate that investors are prone to losing an opportunity to invest if they only rely on traditional discount cash flows' methods, because the value of the project calculated by discount cash flows is -175.59 million yuan that under zero. However, the results obtained from the method proposed in this paper suggest that the project has a value of 327.65 million yuan.