Anglo American plc is launching an accelerated bookbuild offering of approximately 13 million ordinary shares in its subsidiary, Anglo American Platinum. The offering is part of Anglo American’s broader strategy to unlock value in its portfolio and deliver stronger shareholder returns.
The company plans to demerge its 78.56% stake in Anglo American Platinum, and this offering aims to broaden the free float of Anglo American Platinum’s shares and reduce the number of shares distributed to Anglo American shareholders upon demerger.
Duncan Wanblad, Chief Executive of Anglo American, said, “Through this Placing we are moving pro-actively to distribute some of our Anglo American Platinum shares into the hands of a wider range of investors ahead of the planned demerger. This is expected to increase share trading liquidity in the near term as well as mitigate the impact of flowback following the demerger as a result of fewer Anglo American Platinum shares being distributed to Anglo American’s shareholders.
The proceeds from the offering will be used to reduce Anglo American’s net debt as it continues to transform its portfolio and focus on copper, premium iron ore, and crop nutrients.
The bookbuilding period for the offering has commenced, and the results will be announced as soon as practicable after the closing of the bookbuilding process. Goldman Sachs International, Morgan Stanley & Co. International plc, and Rand Merchant Bank are acting as joint bookrunners.