#None #Vaca Muerta #YPF #Bladex

Bladex Secures Major Financing for YPF

In a significant financial move, Bladex (NYSE: BLX), a prominent foreign trade finance bank in Latin America, has successfully closed a $700 million syndicated loan aimed at supporting YPF's export initiatives. This deal not only underscores the financial institution's commitment to the region but also showcases confidence in Argentina's burgeoning energy sector.

The syndicated loan, structured as a three-year Pre-Export Facility, is intended to finance YPF's pre-export operations and provide necessary working capital. The transaction saw overwhelming interest, being oversubscribed, and involved collaboration with several international financial partners including American and Asian banks. This marks a positive indication of market trust in YPF and its strategic significance in the energy arena.

Carlos de Alvear, Bladex's Head for South America and Mexico, emphasized the importance of this loan, stating, "This syndicated loan reflects Bladex's confidence in Argentina's potential and in the strategic relevance of the Vaca Muerta project led by YPF. With this transaction, we reaffirm our commitment to financing initiatives that foster the economic development of countries in the region."

The Vaca Muerta Project

Located within the Neuquén Basin of Argentina, Vaca Muerta is recognized as the world’s second-largest reserve of shale gas and the fourth-largest reserve of shale oil. Its development represents a key opportunity for Argentina to attain energy self-sufficiency and enhance its export capacity. The successful execution of this project could potentially lead to annual export revenue in the billions of dollars and create over 50,000 jobs—both direct and indirect—by 2030, thereby significantly bolstering the Argentine economy.

Strengthening Economic Ties

Bladex has established itself as a leading financial partner for major energy companies in the region, aligning with its strategy to promote economic growth through key investments in energy security. By facilitating such transactions, the bank aims to contribute positively to the region's export capabilities and long-term employment opportunities.

As the global energy market evolves, Argentina is positioning itself as a significant player thanks to its vast natural resources. Through partnerships like this one, Bladex is not only reaffirming its role in fostering regional economic development but also advocating for initiatives that align with long-term sustainability and growth prospects in Latin America.

This deal is a testament to the growing importance of Latin American economies in the global energy landscape and illustrates how financial institutions like Bladex can play a pivotal role in catalyzing growth. By strategically backing energy projects, Bladex is helping to pave the way for a more robust and self-reliant economic future for Argentina and the broader region.

About Bladex

Founded in 1979 by the central banks of Latin America and the Caribbean, Bladex's primary goal is to enhance trade financing and economic integration in the region. Headquartered in Panama, the bank operates representative offices across several Latin American countries and has been publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange since 1992. With a diverse shareholder base that includes central banks, government entities, and private investors from 23 countries, Bladex is well-positioned to continue making impactful investments in the region’s development.