US Apache Plans $1.4 Bln Investments in Egypt in 2024

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly meets a delegation from the American company, Apache. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly meets a delegation from the American company, Apache. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
TT

US Apache Plans $1.4 Bln Investments in Egypt in 2024

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly meets a delegation from the American company, Apache. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly meets a delegation from the American company, Apache. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

The US-based energy company Apache Corporation plans to invest around $1.4 billion in Egypt in 2024, stated John Christmann, CEO and President of Apache's parent company APA Corporation, during a meeting with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.

Christmann said Apache upgraded its work mechanisms in Egypt which contributed to increasing oil production by 10 percent to over 150,000 barrels per day.

Expressing a deep commitment to supporting the Egyptian government’s goals, Christman affirmed Apache’s dedication to sustaining its extended partnership with Egypt, according to a press release issued by the Egyptian cabinet on Sunday.

For 30 years, Apache has been the largest investor from the US in Egypt.

The PM expressed optimism about Apache’s potential to expand its investments in oil and gas exploration, even amid the global economic challenges that the world is grappling with.

Moreover, the discussions extended to Egypt’s ambitions to boost oil production further, leveraging modernization efforts and advanced exploration techniques to unlock new discoveries.

Minister of Petroleum, Engineer Tarek El Molla, reiterated the strategic significance of Apache’s partnership with Egypt.

El Molla emphasized the alignment of vision and objectives between the Egyptian oil sector and the energy giant. The collaboration between the two entities is aimed at increasing oil and gas production.



Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
TT

Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)

As Saudi companies start reporting their Q2 financial results, experts are optimistic about the transport and logistics sector. They expect a 10% annual growth, with total net profits reaching around SAR 900 million ($240 million), driven by tourism and an economic corridor project.

In Q1, the seven listed transport and logistics companies in Saudi Arabia showed positive results, with combined profits increasing by 5.8% to SAR 818.7 million ($218 million) compared to the previous year.

Four companies reported profit growth, while three saw declines, including two with losses, according to Arbah Capital.

Al Rajhi Capital projects significant gains for Q2 compared to last year: Lumi Rental’s profits are expected to rise by 31% to SAR 65 million, SAL’s by 76% to SAR 192 million, and Theeb’s by 23% to SAR 37 million.

On the other hand, Aljazira Capital predicts a 13% decrease in Lumi Rental’s net profit to SAR 43 million, despite a 44% rise in revenue. This is due to higher operational costs post-IPO.

SAL’s annual profit is expected to grow by 76% to SAR 191.6 million, driven by a 29% increase in revenue and higher profit margins.

Aljazira Capital also expects a 2.8% drop in the sector’s net profit from Q1 due to lower profits for SAL and Seera, caused by reduced revenue and profit margins.

Mohammad Al Farraj, Head of Asset Management at Arbah Capital, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the sector’s continued profit growth is supported by seasonal factors like summer travel and higher demand for transport services.

He predicts Q2 profits will reach around SAR 900 million ($240 million), up 10% from Q1.

Al Farraj highlighted that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), linking India with the GCC and Europe, is expected to boost sector growth by improving trade and transport connections.

However, he warned that companies may still face challenges, including rising costs and workforce shortages.