Global's Options25 Aug 2020 11:00
I'm not really into this debate on which block is better - 29 or 94. Personally, I don't think anybody knows at this stage. In contrast, I sincerely believe that GBP needs both blocks to survive and prosper.
In Italy, GBP's license applications have been stymied by arguments over Environmental Decrees, which have now been referred to the European Court. Resolving this issue will take time, unfortunately, as do all things in which the EU is involved.
So in reality, GBP is a Namibia-focused oil company. Which is fine.
However, all oil companies try to maintain a portfolio of multiple assets so that they can mathematically spread risk (geological, commercial, political, etc) over a collection of unrelated, uncorrelated properties. If GBP loses PEL 29 (heaven forbid) then they become a "one block - one well" company, which is exceedingly risky. Their entire future would depend on drilling and succeeding in PEL 94 alone.
That's why I wrote below about the "circular" challenges that Peter is likely facing when attempting to raise funds. Most institutional investors like to know that their placement funds will be used to pursue a range of feasible options, any of which could generate the returns that they seek. Asking investors to fund a company with only one block is like asking them to walk into a casino and risk all their money on just one number and one spin in roulette. It is possible that there are some funds willing to take such a risk, but I think it's pretty obvious that holding more assets will generate more institutional interest.
That's why I want the company to keep both blocks in Namibia.