Next Bridge Hydrocarbons Clarifies Trading 212 Share Ownership Situation

In a recent announcement, Next Bridge Hydrocarbons, Inc., a Texas-based oil and natural gas exploration company, addressed concerns relating to shareholder rights amidst communication from the UK brokerage firm Trading 212. The company underscores its commitment to ensure transparency and protect the ownership interests of its shareholders as they navigate this complex situation.

In May 2026, Trading 212 notified its clients holding shares of Next Bridge that they were required to take action regarding their ownership. They were given two options: Option 1 involved re-registering shares directly with the company's transfer agent, Equiniti Trust Co., along with a processing fee; while Option 2 referenced converting their ownership for a nominal fee of just $0.01 per account. The brokerage further indicated that without any customer input, clients would automatically be deemed to accept Option 2.

Next Bridge strongly opposes Option 2, which would lead to numerous shareholders inadvertently forfeiting their shares for just a trivial compensation. Understanding that Trading 212 may have procedural issues motivating this action, Next Bridge believes alternative solutions exist to honor shareholder rights without compromising their ownership interests.

As a commitment to transparency, Next Bridge has actively engaged with Trading 212 and its U.S. partner, Interactive Brokers, to safeguard shareholders’ rights. They cautioned that no shareholder should lose their interest in the company without their direct and informed consent. As part of this process, Next Bridge has communicated a formal preservation notice to Trading 212, requesting that all relevant documents and communications be maintained for audit purposes.

Concerns have been raised about Trading 212’s plan to implement Option 2 without the explicit consent of shareholders, raising alarms about compliance with financial regulations. Next Bridge's management has made it clear through communication that this stance is inconsistent with what is expected of brokerages under the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) guidelines that prioritize clients’ best interests.

The company's CEO, Greg McCabe, acknowledged the ongoing turmoil since the 2022 FINRA U-3 halt, which left many shareholders dangling in uncertainty but praising their resilience and patience throughout this trying period. McCabe reiterated the organization's unwavering commitment to advocate for their shareholders, pursue transparency, and explore every legal avenue to protect their ownership rights.

Next Bridge has recommended its shareholders stay vigilant, monitor their accounts closely, and maintain communication with their respective brokerage firms to clarify any uncertainties regarding their shares. The initiative is not just a legal battle; it embodies a larger philosophy concerning respect for shareholder interests, ownership rights, and ethical practices in the investment sector.

To stay updated on the situation, Next Bridge encourages shareholders to visit their website for current updates on operational matters or financial news regarding the company. Through direct engagement on social platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn, the company aims to keep lines of communication open and foster an informed shareholder community.

As it stands, the dialogue surrounding share ownership and communication from financial institutions is becoming increasingly pivotal in the evolving landscape of shareholder rights and corporate governance. The resolution of the matter with Trading 212 will likely act as a benchmark not only for Next Bridge but for many small companies navigating similar predicaments in maintaining shareholder trust and rights in fluctuating market conditions.