Sandfire Resources (ASX:SFR) will need a strong fourth quarter to meet its full-year production guidance range, although it is expected to be achievable, said Jefferies in a Thursday note.

The company on Thursday reported fiscal third-quarter copper-equivalent production of 34,500 tonnes, down from 36,100 tonnes a year earlier.

Jefferies expects that increasing commitments to the Kalkaroo project are within the company's capital management framework.

Dividend payments are becoming "increasingly likely" at fiscal year 2026 results, the note added.

Jefferies kept a buy rating on Sandfire Resources with a price target of AU$20.