Maersk Oil will become part of a leading global oil and gas operator with a long-term investment interest in the sector. Total will take over Maersk Oil’s entire organisation, portfolio, obligations and rights with minimal pre-conditions. Planned development schedules and investments in strategic and sanctioned projects will be upheld.
With the agreement A.P. Moller – Maersk is taking a material step forward in its strategy to separate out its oil and oil related activities to create an integrated transport & logistics company, and this transaction will contribute significantly to upholding its strong capital structure.
“In determining the best future ownership structure for Maersk Oil, it has been imperative for us that the capabilities and assets created in Maersk Oil continue to be developed, and that long-term investments are upheld, especially in the Danish part of the North Sea,” says Søren Skou, CEO of A.P. Moller – Maersk and continues: “The valuation of Maersk Oil and Total’s commitment is a testament to the quality and standing of Maersk Oil. In addition, the agreement will strengthen the financial flexibility of A.P. Moller – Maersk and free up resources to focus our future growth on container shipping, ports and logistics.”
Denmark will become the regional hub for all Total’s operations in Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands, based on Maersk Oil’s capabilities and strong position in the North Sea region.
The transaction is subject to regulatory approval from relevant authorities including the Danish Minister of Energy, Utilities and Climate and competition authorities as well as required consultation and notification processes with Total S.A.’s employee representatives. Closing is expected to take place during Q1 2018. Calculated as of 30 June 2017, the transaction gain after tax for APMM amounts to USD 2.8bn. The accounting gain will be recorded partly from earnings until closing and the residual at closing.
