IoM Limited Partnership First Ever To List On London Stock Exchange
by Amanda Banks, for LawAndTax-News.com, London
11 April 2008
Zhaikmunai L.P., the holding entity of an independent oil and gas enterprise
operating in North-Western Kazakhstan, has become the latest Isle of Man registered
entity, and the first ever limited partnership, to have its Global Depository
Receipts (GDRs) admitted for unconditional trading on the London
Stock Exchange.
The transaction was structured through an Isle of Man partnership which raised
USD100mn through the admission of GDRs, representing around 9.1% of its
enlarged capital and valuing the business at USD1.1bn.
Although GDRs have proved to be a popular instrument used by emerging market
companies to raise funds on London's capital markets, this is the first time
ever that a Limited Partnership has used GDRs to list on the London Stock Exchange.
The flotation was enabled as a result of joint efforts and close collaboration
between the Isle of Man government, Zhaikmunai L.P. and numerous advisors, including
law firms White & Case and Mann and Partners (advising Zhaikmunai L.P.),
Skadden, Cains and Dentons (representing ING Bank - the sole bookrunner and
the lead manager) and SMP Partners Ltd (CSP administrators).
Commenting on the listing, Isle of Man Treasury Minister, Hon. Allan Bell, announced that:
"We are delighted to see yet another example of the Isle of Man’s
lead role in bringing overseas companies to the London market. In the face of
current market volatility, the Island continues to attract quality companies
by being a responsive, flexible and efficient jurisdiction and by staying true
to its commitment to give businesses the freedom to flourish."
Steve McGowan, Chairman of SMP Partners and non-executive director of Zhaikmunai
L.P., added:
“The Isle of Man deserves special praise for its crucial role in this
pioneering flotation. The Island’s commitment to innovation and business-friendly
approach is facilitated by a unique and close relationship between industry
and government”.
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