The contract price was the same for the whole year. It has not...

The contract price was the same for the whole year. It has not dropped. Saying a drop is nonsense.
The processed ore was the same as previous Q3. The higher grade will be processed this Q1. The cost is due to a reduction in production by 10% due to installing the YOP.
It make alot of sense to optimize a higher grade than a lower one. Optimization on a a higher grade will give a better output. Optimizing a lower grade means more work for less output.
The company has decided for the quarter to setup the YOP instead of processing a lower grade ore. Leaving the best recovery for the higher grade, for a better margin. Anyone who has worked in production would know.
The cash margin is $288 per tonne net. The cost of operating is already included. The profit for the quarter is 288×40kt. Around $11mil.
The draw down in cash held must be on developing SDV and JB. If so the the $470 mil will no longer be required since its being spent on now.
Shorters do what they do. Distort the truth for a profit. People who don't understand will follow like sheep.