Avance Gas: Sealing the Deal with BW LPG's Fifth VLGC Delivery

In a major milestone for Avance Gas Holding Ltd (AGAS), the company has successfully delivered the fifth Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) to BW LPG Ltd, marking another step towards its complete exit from the shipping market. This delivery, the 2015-built scrubber-fitted vessel Avance Levant, has significant implications for AGAS's financial position, dividend policy, and future strategic moves.

Upon the delivery of Avance Levant, AGAS received 1.35 million shares in BW LPG, increasing its ownership to 7.5 million shares (5.1%). This strategic investment provides AGAS with exposure to the LPG market and offers diversification beyond its initial VLGC fleet. BW LPG, as the world's largest owner and operator of VLGCs, presents an attractive opportunity for AGAS to participate in the growth of the LPG market without the operational risks associated with owning the vessels directly. This balanced approach aligns with my personal investment values, favoring steady, predictable growth and stability.

The fifth VLGC delivery also yielded net cash proceeds of $21 million for AGAS, further boosting the company's liquidity. With seven remaining VLGCs scheduled for delivery by year-end, AGAS stands to gain an additional 10.85 million BW LPG shares and approximately $142 million in cash. Given BW LPG's market value of $2.6 billion, AGAS's stake is now worth around $132 million, contributing to its overall fleet value.

As a significant shareholder in BW LPG, AGAS has the potential to influence operational improvements and strategic decisions within the company. With its expertise in the VLGC market, AGAS could provide valuable insights for BW LPG's future growth strategies, driving better fleet management, cost-cutting initiatives, or strategic acquisitions. This alignment of interests could create synergies between the two companies and unlock additional value for AGAS shareholders.



Looking ahead, Avance Gas is expected to complete its exit from the shipping market by year-end. With twelve VLGCs and four MGCs sold, the company aims to distribute its remaining capital and BW LPG shares to shareholders. This strategic move aligns with AGAS's focus on returning capital to shareholders, marking the end of its shipping operations.

As an investor, I am optimistic about the potential of AGAS's stake in BW LPG to drive future growth and value creation. By maintaining a balanced portfolio, combining growth and value stocks, AGAS can effectively navigate market uncertainties and capitalize on opportunities in the energy sector. I am confident that Avance Gas's strategic moves and long-term focus on shareholder returns will continue to deliver strong performance for its investors.