The Political Factor27 Jan 2022 00:53
This is a friendly message from myself to all fellow shareholders in Zoltav.
When the Tender offer was made, I tried to weigh all possibilities, all pros and cons of accepting the offer, as well as those of retaining my shares.
Initially, I decided to Tender half my shares and keep the other half.
However, due to the reasons below, I have now decided to Tender all my shares.
1- In a statement by the Foreign Secretary today (26 Jan 2022) she stated that if Russia was to aggress against the Ukraine, severe economic sanctions will be imposed. This we have been hearing for the last few days, but it is what she added that made me re-think my strategy. She said that these sanctions will not only fall on Russia, but on a number of Russian companies, and high profile Russian individuals.
We know that Zoltav is largely owned by Russia's Arkady Abramovich.
We do not know the exact nature of the contemplated sanctions, but it is very possible that it would include freezing of assets.
2- If this happens, not only would be holding shares in a company that is not on any market, but a company that may be frozen out of the International markets.
Had the political climate been different, I would have taken the risk of holding on to half my shares in ZOL. But the current developments made it a no brainer for me.
---------------------------------
I am posting this message in case it may of use to all fellow shareholders. At the end of the day, you should do what you think is best for you and your interests.
Last day of the Tender offer is the 31st Jan 2022
I wish you all the best.
Robson