This document provides an annual review and financial results for Anglo American for 2008. Key points include:
- Anglo American achieved record operating profits from core operations despite a significant reduction in commodity prices in the second half of 2008.
- Safety performance showed continued improvement over 2007.
- Actions were taken to position the company for the downturn, including a over 50% reduction in capital expenditures for 2009 and cost reduction programs.
- Underlying earnings were $5.8 billion for 2008, down 9% from 2007, with an effective tax rate of 31.8% and return on capital employed of 36.8%.