Article16 Mar 2025 21:38
Https://www.barlamane.com/fr/les-britanniques-sound-energy-et-predator-oil-gas-envisagent-une-cotation-a-la-bourse-de-casablanca/
Sound Energy and Predator Oil & Gas, two British companies specializing in natural gas exploration and production in Morocco, are considering a listing on the Casablanca Stock Exchange. Already present on the London Stock Exchange, they are seeking a market more suited to their development prospects as the Moroccan stock market experiences renewed attractiveness. A decision could be made by the end of the year, in line with the start of liquefied natural gas production by Sound Energy and the drilling of new wells by Predator.
British companies Sound Energy and Predator Oil & Gas, both engaged in natural gas exploration and production in Morocco, are exploring the possibility of a listing on the Casablanca Stock Exchange, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Already listed on the London Stock Exchange, these two companies see the Moroccan market as a more suitable alternative for their ambitions, while mid-cap and small-cap companies struggle to achieve satisfactory valuations on the London Stock Exchange. Limited liquidity and weak protection for mid-cap companies are among the reasons driving this consideration. However, it remains uncertain whether they will opt for a dual listing or a definitive withdrawal from the UK market.
The Casablanca Stock Exchange is experiencing a resurgence in activity, supported by growing investor interest. The MASI index recently reached record levels, driven by sustained demand for the 77 listed stocks. The Moroccan financial authorities' ambition is to accelerate IPOs, hoping to reach 300 listed companies by 2035 with strategic support from privatizations.
The envisaged timeline for Sound Energy could coincide with the launch of its liquefied natural gas production at the Tendrara field in eastern Morocco, scheduled for the end of this year and the beginning of next. For its part, Predator Oil & Gas is preparing to drill several wells in the Guercif region, hoping for a throughput of 400 million cubic feet per day. The company is seeking financing and commercial partners to support its development.
With domestic gas production limited to 100 million cubic meters per year and declining reserves, Morocco is focusing on diversifying its supply. In addition to boosting local production, the country plans to invest $6 billion in import and regasification infrastructure to secure its energy supply as it transitions to more sustainable sources.