Company Interview / Finder Energy lands a deal with Timor Leste

Finder Energy (ASX:FDR) has made headlines with a significant funding boost after securing a deal with Timor Gap, the national oil company of Timor-Leste. CEO & MD, Damon Neaves states that Timor Gap is increasing its stake in Finder Energy’s flagship offshore oil project from 24% to 34% and will fund 50% of the field’s development capital expenditure. Neaves asserts this agreement is a transformative step, addressing a key funding hurdle for the small-cap company and positioning Finder Energy strongly to secure remaining financing.

Neaves outlines that the project targets approximately 22 million barrels of crude oil, with first production anticipated by late 2027 or early 2028. Half the reserves – around 10 million barrels – are expected to be produced in the initial 18 months, which Neaves says could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue based on current prices. Finder Energy (ASX:FDR) is pursuing additional funding from debt markets, particularly the European Nordic bond market, and pre-funding via offtake sales, ensuring flexibility in financing strategy.

A recent partnership with SLB (Schlumberger) under a collaborative contracting model has enabled Finder Energy to accelerate project studies while mitigating costs. Neaves views the project as strategically significant for Timor-Leste, offering both economic and political benefits as the country seeks to secure its long-term prosperity through resource development.