Barrick gains on IPO plan for North American gold assets

Shares of gold miner Barrick Mining B.N ABX.TO up 4.5% at $43.24 premarket

Says exploring an initial public offering of its North American gold assets

If an IPO is pursued, NewCo would be anchored by Barrick's joint venture interests in Nevada Gold Mines and Pueblo Viejo, as well as its wholly owned Fourmile gold discovery in Nevada

New company will be listed through an IPO of a small minority interest and Barrick plans to retain a significant controlling majority interest

As of last close, U.S.-listed shares up 166.71% YTD