Neuquén Seeks London Investors for Vaca Muerta Energy Projects

Neuquén Governor Rolando Figueroa is in London actively seeking private investment for the Vaca Muerta region, a key area for energy development in Argentina. During meetings with private investment funds, Figueroa presented the province's current economic landscape, its growth prospects through 2030, and the investment opportunities available.

The province emphasized its "solid financial position," bolstered by prudent resource management. The credit rating agency FIX SCR S.A. recently upgraded Neuquén's long-term debt rating to 'A(-)' and short-term to 'A2'. This upgrade reflects the sustained reduction of historical debt and responsible financial management, including the complete cancellation of treasury bills from previous administrations.

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We expect the right moment to further improve the rating we have with various international organizations and be able to issue bonds with the best available rates, focused on infrastructure investment.

Figueroa, accompanied by the Minister of Economy, Production, and Industry, Guillermo Koenig, and Secretary of Finance and Treasury, Carola Pogliano, met with representatives from funds including BlueBay, Sona, and M&G. These representatives expressed significant interest in Neuquén's growth trajectory, exploring avenues for both private sector investments and potential international bond issuances to finance infrastructure.

Neuquén has legislative authorization to access financing of up to $500 million since April 2024. Figueroa noted that while global economies might see growth rates around 6% annually, Neuquén has achieved a remarkable 12% growth, increasing its Gross Geographic Product by nearly 32% in two and a half years. He stated the province aims to capitalize on favorable international market conditions for future bond issuances, focusing on infrastructure development to meet the growing demand for public goods and services driven by this expansion.

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All this growth that is happening today in Neuquén generates a permanent demand for public goods and services that obliges us to accompany the development that this growth demands of us.