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Germany eyes 2025 sale of approximately 30% in Uniper, sources state

Germany is preparing to evaluate investor interest in a stake of up to 30% in Uniper as the government looks for to recoup a few of the billions it invested bailing out the utility at the height of the energy crisis, 3 people knowledgeable about the matter stated.

Berlin rescued Uniper in 2022 after primary supplier Russia stopped delivering gas in retaliation for Western sanctions over Moscow's war in Ukraine. The move has actually cost the federal government 13.5 billion euros ($ 14.5 billion) to date and left it with a 99.12% stake in the company.

Amidst calmer energy markets, Germany now wishes to start unwinding that procedure, not least to maximize cash for the federal budget.

Berlin's move to cut its stake to 70% -80% via a stock exchange share sale next year might include asking tactical investors to buy some of the shares, the people said, adding the process was at an early phase and may still be or change delayed.

The government's stake is currently worth 23.2 billion euros based on Uniper's market value, with sources previously stating any sale would likely take place at a discount.

Uniper and the finance ministry declined to comment, both indicating European Union requirements for Berlin to cut its stake to an optimum of 25% plus one share by 2028.

Harald Seegatz, who heads Uniper's works council and is deputy chairman of the group's supervisory board, contacted Berlin to remain a long-term anchor investor of the group as a way to remain in control of strategic energy possessions.

The state would succeed not to leave the security of supply totally in the hands of others, Seegatz told , pointing out Finland and France, where the government is a crucial shareholder in the biggest utilities.

He also stated Berlin remaining a shareholder would secure Uniper from a prospective takeover or separation, and protected jobs.

The sources likewise stated a long-lasting commitment by Berlin was needed for Uniper to keep its financial investment grade credit score that it depends upon to money its daily operations.

Brussels likewise informed Uniper to offer numerous possessions, consisting of the group's modern Datteln coal-fired power plants, in exchange for giving approval of the bail-out, requirements that Seegatz stated were unpleasant.

We are losing big parts of our portfolio as a result.

(source: Reuters)