Newmont Mining's stock experienced a sharp pre-market plunge of 5.46% on Friday, following the release of its fourth-quarter financial results.

The gold miner reported adjusted earnings per share of $2.52, surpassing analyst estimates of approximately $2.05, according to FactSet. Revenue also climbed 21% year-over-year to $6.82 billion, exceeding forecasts. However, the company's reported net profit declined to $1.30 billion from $1.40 billion a year earlier, weighed down by higher royalties, taxes, and certain one-time charges.

Market reaction suggests investors may be focusing on the drop in reported profit and potential future pressures, including guidance for lower free cash flow in the upcoming quarter, rather than the headline earnings beat. Additionally, the stock had rallied 26% year-to-date through the previous session, which may have prompted profit-taking after the earnings announcement.