Fortsetter handlerunden

CEO of Aker BP, Karl Johnny Hersvik states in a comment: “Aker BP has a clear ambition to be the leading independent offshore E&P company. This transaction is an important step in that direction. Acquiring this portfolio gives Aker BP a deeper exposure to one of our core areas. Taking full ownership and control allows Aker BP to pursue upsides more aggressively. As the operator of the Valhall/Hod field, Aker BP knows the area very well.”
The cash consideration of the transaction is USD 2.0 billion. The transaction includes Hess Norge’s interests in the Valhall (64.05 per cent) and Hod (62.5 per cent) fields. Aker BP will also assume Hess Norge’s tax positions, which include a tax loss carry forward with a net nominal after–tax value of USD 1.5 billion, as booked in Hess Norge’s 2016 annual accounts.
This acquisition will strengthen Aker BP’s position on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. Both production and reserves will increase significantly. Aker BP’s Chairman, Øyvind Eriksen comments: “The acquisition of Hess Norge is another move as a part of our ambition to grow the company. This investment allows Aker BP to raise the dividend level to USD 350 million per year with first uplift planned for fourth quarter of 2017. Through the equity issue, we are enabling Aker BP to grow further on the Norwegian Continental Shelf.”
Following the transaction, Aker BP will own 100 per cent of the Valhall and Hod fields. Aker BP will subsequently seek to sell or swap a minority interest in the fields to partners who want to work together with Aker BP to proactively target the upside potential in the area.
Pressemelding fra Aker BP