Funding solution could drive FID in 2018

Rockhopper (RKH) holds c 50% of the Sea Lion field, one of the largest undeveloped fields globally. With gross contingent 2C reserves of 517mmbbls (and 900mmbbls 3C), the phased development of the fields has been delayed by a number of factors. However, with costs falling to produce an NPV10 break-even of less than $45/bbl and a more solid funding solution becoming apparent over the last six months, a final investment decision (FID) is being targeted in 2018. Together with its Mediterranean production assets and $63m in cash at end H117, it is well placed to realise long-term value. We have reviewed our modelling and applied lower long-term oil price assumptions, which results in a core NAV of 44p/share.