Woodside completes merger with BHP’s oil and gas portfolio

Woodside Energy Group Ltd and BHP Group Limited have completed the merger of Woodside with BHP’s oil and gas portfolio to create a global energy company. 

Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill said completion of the merger was one of the most significant events in  Woodside’s 67-year history and marked the start of a new chapter for the company, which is headquartered in Perth, Australia.

As a result of the merger, Woodside is a top 10 global independent energy company by hydrocarbon  production and the largest energy company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange  (ASX). The larger, more diversified portfolio is expected to deliver significant cash flow to help fund committed projects, Woodside’s participation in  the energy transition and shareholder returns. 

“Today, Woodside begins its journey as a global company, becoming a bigger supplier of the energy  that the world needs right now and will continue to demand in the future.  

“The merger delivers a diverse portfolio of quality operating assets, plus a suite of growth opportunities across oil, gas and new energy that promises ongoing value for our shareholders. 

“We believe the completion of the merger will enable Woodside to play a more significant role in the  energy transition that is imperative as we respond to climate change while ensuring reliable and affordable supplies of energy to a growing and aspirational global population. 

“The merger combines the best of our two organisations, providing the leadership and technical  expertise necessary to help Woodside thrive in a dynamic and competitive industry. 

“It is exciting to welcome the BHP Petroleum team to Woodside Energy and start delivering on our  shared vision for the future,” she said. 

Woodside acquired the entire share capital of BHP Petroleum International Pty Ltd (BHPP) and  issued 914,768,948 new Woodside shares to BHP, which BHP will distribute to its eligible shareholders. 

Woodside will receive net cash of approximately USD1 billion, which includes the cash remaining in the  BHPP bank accounts immediately prior to completion. This reflects USD1.8 billion of net cash flows  generated by BHPP between the effective date of July 1, 2021 and completion, less USD0.8 billion  representing BHP’s entitlement to cash dividends paid by Woodside over the same period.  

All completion payment entitlements are subject to a customary post-completion review which may  result in an adjustment. 

The new Woodside shares are expected to commence trading on the Australian Securities Exchange  on June 2, 2022. Trading of Woodside American Depositary Shares on the New York Stock  Exchange is expected to commence on June 2, 2022. Trading of Woodside shares on the Main Market  for listed securities of the London Stock Exchange is expected to commence on June 6, 2022. 

Woodside has commenced activities to integrate the two organisations, including standardisation of  reporting across all jurisdictions. The updated production guidance, reserves position and other related  information will be released in due course.