23rd May 2025 07:00
23 May 2025
Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company Plc
("Nostra Terra" or "the Company")
2024 Audited Annual Results
Notice of AGM
Nostra Terra (AIM: NTOG), the oil & gas exploration and production company with a portfolio of development and production assets in Texas, USA, is pleased to announce its final results for the year ended 31 December 2024 (the "Results"). A copy of the Results, along with a Notice of AGM, is being posted to Shareholders and is available on the Company's website, www.ntog.co.uk . The AGM will be held at the offices of Druces LLP at Salisbury House, London Wall, London EC2M 5PS at 10.00 a.m. on 20 June 2025. Extracts from the Results are set out below.
This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014, as it forms part of UK Domestic Law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018. Upon the publication of this announcement, this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain
For further information, contact:
Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company plc Paul Welch, CEO
| Tel: | |
SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP (Nominated Adviser and Broker) Stuart Gledhill / Richard Hail / Adam Cowl | Tel: | +44 (0) 20 3470 0470 |
Celicourt Communications (PR/IR) Mark Antelme / Jimmy Lea |
Tel: Email:
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+44 (0) 20 7770 6424
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Chairman's Report
During 2024 crude oil prices including WTI, the benchmark against which Nostra Terra's production is sold, continued on a generally falling trajectory. Russian oil production continues to find its way to market, often at discounted prices; both the volume and price effects of this and continued concerns over the health of the global economy are in part to blame for this price weakness.
Against this backdrop, Nostra Terra has put in place its new strategy and "stuck to the knitting" by divesting non-core assets in West Texas and focusing efforts on its existing core East Texas Pine Mills acreage and holds a 100% Working Interest. Over the year it has successfully reduced costs, identified commercially attractive opportunities to reactivate dormant wells and to upgrade infrastructure in Pine Mills and acted on these. In combination with these initiatives, a major workover programme at Pine Mills where we hold a 100% Working Interest transformed the Company's cash flow position. Phase 1 of that delivered production increases that were funded during the 2nd half of 2024 by two equity placings totalling £950,000 before expenses and resulted in the Company becoming profitable at the operating and corporate levels during the 4th quarter of 2024 for the first time in many years. Further, post 2024 balance sheet year end, Phase 2 of the workover programme at Pine Mills was also successful and further increased production and was funded by a £500,000 placing in March 2025. We are now seeing a significant improvement in production volumes and well reliability as a result of these actions.
If the oil price continues to stay relatively low, or weakens further, the Company expects that a wide range of producing assets in and around the areas where we currently operate will come to market as other companies come under pressure to divest. We will actively consider these acquisition opportunities for commercial attractiveness and strategic fit, on a case by case basis. Given our high netback operations at both Pine Mills and Fouke, these assets are cash flow positive at oil prices above $25/barrel making the company fairly resilient to an extended low oil price environment.
Work has also been carried out on the Company's geological and geophysical datasets to identify (as detailed in the CEO's report below) new well locations, which we believe will offer the same attractive production and revenue profiles as the two existing Fouke wells.
In July 2024, we were pleased to announce the appointment of SP Angel as sole corporate broker and in September as the Company's nominated advisor.
There were a number of board changes during 2024. In May, Matt Lofgran stepped down as CEO to concentrate on other interests. Paul Welch, already a non-executive director of Nostra Terra and a highly-experienced oil & gas professional, stepped into the role of CEO. The following month Jim Newman, one of our largest shareholders, and with a broad and deep knowledge of Texan oil & gas operations, joined the board as a non-executive director.
Post year end we announced that John Stafford, long-serving non-executive director, had stepped down as a director.
On behalf of the board of Nostra Terra I would like to thank all our shareholders for their continuing support throughout 2024 and as we progress through 2025.
Dr Stephen Staley
Non-Executive Chairman
22 May 2025
Chief Executive Officer's Report
In 2024, the Company focused on improving cash flow performance across all its assets. Assets that didn't deliver sufficient cash flow were sold, and assets that did, such as Pine Mills, received additional investments.
Significant change occurred across the Company in 2024. On being appointed CEO, I immediately undertook a performance review of all our assets to determine what should be kept, sold, and invested in. As a result of this review, several West Texas assets were sold, South Texas assets were not invested in further, and our Pine Mills assets, where we hold a 100% Working Interest, were prioritised and invested in heavily.
We also examined the operating costs and reduced them by 25%. During the asset review, we identified 10 idle wellbores in Pine Mills that had the potential to be profitably returned to production. A transformative workover programme was undertaken, and five idle wells in Phase 1 were returned to production before the end of the year. This also included the restart of waterflood operations in the northern section of the field. These workovers, combined with the waterflood restart, increased oil production by circa 40% at Pine Mills and, combined with the Opex cost reductions, improved our profit per barrel by 50%. Following Phase 1, the company became profitable at the operating and corporate levels during the 4th quarter of 2024 for the first time in many years. Further, post 2024 balance sheet year-end, the commencement of Phase 2 of the workover programme at Pine Mills was also successful and further increased production and resulted in the Company's total net oil production from all sources increasing to approximately 140 bopd.
During 2024, we also continued our technical efforts in the Fouke area, where we hold a 32.5% Working Interest. We identified a new development well location north of Fouke #1, which we believe contains another 300 MBO recoverable volume. Post-2024 balance sheet year-end, we presented the technical and economic merits of the location to our partners, who have now approved it. The well is subject to final planning and funding, and it is anticipated to be drilled in the late 3rd quarter of 2025 and, if successful, is expected to deliver initial production at the new maximum allowable field rate of 124 bopd.
After the technical review of the Fouke area concluded, the team focused on the behind-pipe potential in the remainder of the field, looking for by-passed or missed pay sands in existing well bores that had not been produced. This activity is ongoing and is expected to conclude at the end of the 3rd quarter of 2025.
Revenues for the year were $2,038,000, a 28% decrease from $2,816,000 in 2023. This reflects a combination of a 27% decrease in production sales and a deterioration in the commodity price environment (average $72.24 per barrel sold in 2024 compared to $73.38 in 2023). which has continued since the year end. Our production remains unhedged, which allows us to benefit from future recovery in the commodity environment. Gross profit before non-cash items (depreciation, depletion, and amortization) was $825,000, a reduction from $1,408,000 in 2023.
Chief Executive Officer's Report (continued)
United States
All of Nostra Terra's operations in the US target conventional reservoirs (i.e., not shale), typically with lower lifting costs and longer-life reserves than unconventional ones.
Area | 2024 Production (Barrels sold) | Percentage of Portfolio by sales |
East Texas | 24,677 | 87.8% |
West Texas | 3,311 | 11.8% |
South Texas | 124 | 0.4% |
East Texas (33- 100% WI)
Nostra Terra's core asset is the Pine Mills Field (100% WI), which provides a baseline of low decline production of +/- 100 bopd. In 2024, production from the area accounted for 88% of the Company's sales. After the first workover program, production increased by 40% in 2024 from this core producing area.
West Texas (50 - 100% WI)
In 2024, production from the area accounted for 11.8% of the Company's sales (50-75% WI). During 2024, the Coleman and Raschke assets were sold, and only the Grant asset was retained. The Grant asset produced at a flat rate of 18 bopd throughout 2024.
South Texas (100% WI)
The Caballos Creek asset, comprising two leases, did not perform well in 2024. The Company decided not to invest further in the asset and entertained various offers to sell it throughout the year. The asset continues to be produced on an infrequent basis while the search for a buyer continues. It is still an active divestiture candidate.
Senior Lending Facility
The facility is currently close to its maximum level of US$4,250,000. The cost of the facility has decreased over the year in line with the reduction in US Federal Reserve interest rates. Further reductions in interest rates are anticipated in 2025. Post Period, the term of the facility was extended for another three years on similar terms. The lending base is reviewed twice annually, and we anticipate its capacity to increase in line with the increased volumes and reserves that the Company has developed through its workover programme. This increased capacity can then be utilised to further grow the production base.
Chief Executive Officer's Report (continued)
Outlook
The Company intends to continue to focus on reducing costs and generating positive cash flow from the existing asset base while focusing on increasing oil production and delivering growth. We intend to pursue organic growth opportunities from our existing asset base by looking for additional recompletion and workover well opportunities in the remainder of the Pine Mills field and plan to participate in drilling the next development location in the Fouke area. We will continue efforts to identify solutions for the non-core South Texas assets. We will continue our review of the many inorganic acquisition opportunities available to identify candidates that add complementary producing assets that fit with our existing West Texas asset position, our business model, and our growth strategy.
Thank you for your support. We look forward to continuing to identify and deliver additional value from the existing portfolio and growing the Company for the advantage of all our shareholders.
Paul Welch
Chief Executive Officer
22 May 2025
Strategic ReportThe directors present their Strategic Report for Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company plc ("the Company") and its subsidiaries (collectively "the Group") covering the year ended 31 December 2024.
Principal activity
The Group's principal activity is the exploitation of hydrocarbon resources, focusing currently on the USA.
Our strategy
1 Grow Production and Reserves from Pine Mills
2 Increase cashflows
3 Make acquisitions that are accretive to shareholders
4 Use technical advances to extract further value from maturing assets
5 Develop strategic partnerships that allow the Company to leverage our existing assets to generate returns or create value through new opportunities
Our business model
Nostra Terra is focused on achieving profitable and sustainable growth within established hydrocarbon provinces.
We see the scope for sustained profitable growth throughout many well-established hydrocarbon systems. Our business model is to continue upgrading our exploration and production portfolio by identifying, screening, and investing in a diverse portfolio of upstream assets, targeting the most attractive opportunities. We focus on conventional reservoirs where assets have lower lifting costs and long-life reserves.
Review of business, future developments, trading outlook, and future strategy
The results for the year and the financial position of the Company and the Group are shown in the financial statements. They are also noted in the Chairman's Report on page 2 and the Chief Executive Officer's Report on page 3.
Growth opportunities
Nostra Terra is focused on existing, proven basins with conventional reservoirs in Texas, USA. The Company is also pursuing growth opportunities outside the USA.
Key Themes for 2025
· Commodity price weakness due to the economic uncertainties introduced as a result of current US Government policies.
· Continued growth in production from the Pine Mills asset.
· Development drilling in the Fouke area, followed by the review of a waterflood project in the area.
· Selective review of producing asset acquisition opportunities in the areas in which the Company operates.
· Efficient cash flow generation from our existing assets.
Strategic Report (continued)
Key performance indicators
At this stage in the Company's development, the directors regularly monitor key performance indicators primarily: production rates, operating costs, general administrative expenses cash flows and bank balances, which are tightly controlled.
2024 $'000 | 2023 $'000 | |
Cash and cash equivalents | 106 | 26 |
Administrative expenses | 1,077 | 870 |
BOE | BOE | |
Production (net) | 28,112 | 38,373 |
Principal risks and uncertainties
Managing Our Risk
Risk management is at the core of achieving our strategy and delivering long-term value to shareholders. The Board, its committees, and the executive team are actively engaged in setting the risk agenda and managing risks and opportunities of the Company. The Company maintains a Risk Register as a part of the Board's fiduciary and oversight responsibilities.
Definition of Risk
A risk is defined here as a potential future event that may influence the achievement of business objectives. This includes both "upside" (opportunity) and "downside" (threat) risks. Threats and opportunities can come from various sources and can be directly related to the Company's operational and commercial activities and support functions, or they can arise externally: from suppliers, regulators, competitors; from the economic environment or political climate.
Risk Management
The Company is acutely aware of oil and gas activity risks. Such risks range from global commercial risks, such as stock market volatility and commodity pricing, to geopolitical risks in terms of market access, tariffs and contractual relationships through to operational risks. In addressing the latter, ensuring the safety of our personnel and subcontracting staff and protecting the environment in which we work are paramount.
The key risk in development and production is the technical risk of not finding and producing sufficient hydrocarbons to be economic, While the US mid-continent is a proven hydrocarbon region and is seeing resurgence through the application of new drilling and well completion technologies, there are also environmental and economic risks, as there are in any hydrocarbon region. Further information relating to risk can be found on note 20 of these accounts.
Strategic Report (continued)
Companies Act S.172
The Directors acknowledge their duty under s.172 of the Companies Act 2006 and consider that they have, individually and together, acted in the way that, in good faith, would most likely promote the Company's success for the benefit of its members as a whole. In doing so, they have had regard (amongst other matters) to:
· the likely consequences of any decision in the long term. The Group's long-term strategic objectives, including progress made during the year and principal risks to these objectives, are shown in the strategic report and the key performance indicators.
· the interests of the Company's employees. Our employees are fundamental to us achieving our long-term strategic objectives.
· the impact of the Company's operations on the community and the environment. The Group operates honestly and transparently. We consider the impact on the environment on our day-to-day operations and how we can minimise this.
· the desirability of the Company maintaining a reputation for high standards of business conduct. We will behave responsibly, operating within the high standard of business conduct and good corporate governance.
· the need to act fairly as between members of the Company. We will behave responsibly towards our shareholders and treat them fairly and equally so they may benefit from the successful delivery of our strategic objectives.
This Strategic Report was approved by the board of directors on 22 May 2025 and signed on behalf of the board by:
Paul Welch
Chief Executive Officer
Directors' ReportThe directors present their annual report and audited financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.The review of business and future developments has been undertaken in the strategic report for the year ended 31 December 2024.
Listing
The Company's ordinary shares have been quoted on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange since 20 July 2007. SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP is the Company's nominated advisor and broker. The closing mid-market price at 31 December 2024 was 0.078p (2023: 0.17p).
Results and dividends
The loss for the year ended 31 December 2024 was $1,509,000 (2023: $472,000).
No dividends will be distributed for the year ended 31 December 2024 (2023: $nil).
Directors
The following directors have held office for the year ended 31 December 2024:
M B Lofgran (resigned 19 May 2024)
J Stafford (resigned 1 January 2025)
S Staley
P Welch
J F Newman (appointed 27 June 2024)
Directors' remuneration for the years ended 31 December 2024 and 2023 are summarised as follows:
Salary $ | Fees $ | Share-based payments $ | 2024 Total $ | |
M B Lofgran | 111,000 | - | 2,721 | 113,721 |
S Staley | - | 64,000 | - | 64,000 |
J Stafford | - | 39,000 | - | 39,000 |
P Welch | 119,000 | 17,000 | - | 136,000 |
J F Newman | - | - | - | - |
Total | 230,000 | 120,000 | 2,721 | 352,721 |
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31 December 2023:
Salary $ | Fees $ | Share-based payments $ | 2023 Total $ | |
M B Lofgran | 190,000 | - | 2,721 | 192,721 |
S Staley | - | 61,070 | - | 61,070 |
J Stafford | - | 47,771 | - | 47,771 |
P Welch | - | 37,950 | - | 37,950 |
Total | 190,000 | 146,791 | 2,721 | 339,512 |
Directors' Report (continued)
There were no benefit-in-kind payments during the year.
More detail on the share options issued to Directors' during the year are disclosed within the share-based payment note together with the outstanding options and warrants at the year-end, please refer to note 23.
At 31 December 2024, the directors' beneficial interests in the Company's issued share capital were as follows:
Number of ordinary shares of 0.01 p each | 31.12.24 Percentage of issued share capital | Number of ordinary shares of 0.1 p each | 31.12.23 Percentage of issued share capital | |
M B Lofgran | 0 | 0% | 50,705,463 | 4.96% |
J Stafford | 2,500,000 | 0.1% | 2,500,000 | 0.24% |
S Staley | 24,833,334 | 0.52% | 8,166,667 | 0.80% |
P Welch | 51,014,493 | 1.07% | - | - |
J Newman | 323,695,652 | 6.78% | - | - |
Remuneration Committee and Policy
The Remuneration Committee takes into account both group and individual performance, market value, and sector conditions in determining executive directors' remuneration. The Group's policy is to pay competitive but affordable salaries compared with peer companies in the oil and gas sector, until the Group has established a good position with acreage, assets, income and cash at hand. All current salaries are without pension or benefits.
Substantial shareholders
As at 27 April 2025, the Company was aware of the following interests in its issued share capital:
Number of ordinary shares of 0.1 p each | Percentage of issued share capital | |
Premier Miton Group PLC | 1,272,786,881 | 18.32% |
Interactive Investor Services Limited | 677,020,028 | 9.74% |
Peel Hunt LLP | 627,528,481 | 9.03% |
Mr Elie Basil Victor Dangoor | 513,043,478 | 7.38% |
Hargreaves Lansdown Stockbrokers | 499,805,495 | 7.19% |
Mr P J Small | 351,626,017 | 5.06% |
Dos Hermanos International LLC* | 345,434,782 | 4.97% |
Halifax Share Dealing Limited | 333,432,707 | 4.80% |
Barclays Stockbrokers Limited | 233,124,791 | 3.35% |
*James Newman, Company Director, is the Managing Partner of Dos Hermanos
Directors' Report (continued)
Events after the reporting period
Refer to note 26 for details.
Publication of accounts on company website
The Company publishes the financial statements on its website. The directors are responsible for the website's maintenance and integrity, and their responsibility also extends to the financial statements contained therein.
Indemnity of officers
The Group may purchase and maintain, for any director or officer, insurance against any liability. The Group maintains appropriate insurance cover against legal action brought against its directors and officers.
Financial instruments
The Group does not have formal policies on interest rate risk or foreign currency risk. The Group would be exposed to foreign currency risk on sales and purchases that are denominated in a currency other than United States Dollars ($). The Group maintains a natural hedge that minimises its foreign exchange exposure by matching foreign currency income with foreign currency costs. For the time being, the Group does not consider it necessary to enter into foreign exchange contracts to manage its foreign currency risk, given the nature of its business.
Going concern
The directors believe that, based on the forecasts and projections they have prepared, the resources available will be sufficient for the Company and its subsidiaries to continue as a going concern for the foreseeable future when taking into account proceeds generated from production. Going concern is discussed more fully in note 1.
The Directors have concluded that the Group will have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For these reasons, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the annual report and accounts.
Statement of directors' responsibilities
The directors are responsible for preparing the annual report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.
Company law requires the directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law, the directors are required to prepare the Group and Company financial statements in accordance with UK adopted International Accounting Standards.
Under company law, the Directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Group and Company, and of the profit or loss of the Group and Company for that period.
Directors' Report (continued)
Statement of directors' responsibilities (continued)
In preparing these financial statements, the Directors are required to:
· select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
· make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
· state whether the UK adopted International Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and
· prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Group and Company will continue in business.
The Directors are responsible for keeping accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Group's and Company's transactions. These records must disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Group and Company and to enable the Directors to ensure that any financial statements prepared comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company and Group and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud, error, non-compliance with law and regulations and other irregularities.
The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the Company's website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.
The Company is compliant with AIM Rule 26 regarding the Company's website.
Statement as to disclosure of information to auditors
Each of the persons who is a Director at the date of approval of this annual report confirms that:
· so far as the Director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Company's auditor is unaware; and
· the Director has taken all the steps that he ought to have taken as a Director in order to make himself/herself aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the Company's auditor is aware of that information.
Auditors
MAH, Chartered Accountants have expressed their willingness to continue in office as auditor and will be proposed for reappointment at the next Annual General Meeting.
This report was approved by the board of directors on 22 May 2025 and signed on behalf of the board by:
Paul Welch
Chief Executive Officer
Dr Stephen Staley Non-Executive Chairman Dr Stephen Staley (65) has over 40 years of wide-ranging management, technical and commercial experience in the international oil, gas and power sectors. Steve was until October 2019 the CEO, director and co- founder of Upland Resources Limited, a London-listed oil & gas company currently with interests in the UK and Sarawak. Until March 2022, he was also non-executive chairman of Predator Oil & Gas Holdings PLC, an oil & gas company on the Standard List of the London Stock Exchange. He is a non-executive director of 88 Energy Ltd, which is listed on both AIM and the ASX. He has also co-founded and floated two further London-listed oil & gas companies and was both a technical consultant to, and non-executive director of, Cove Energy plc - the highly successful East Africa focused explorer. Prior to this he has worked for companies including Cinergy Corp. and Conoco. He holds a BSc (Hons.) in Geophysics from Edinburgh University, a PhD in Petroleum Geology from Sheffield University and an MBA from Warwick University. He is a Fellow of the Geological Society , the GESGB and The Arctic Club.
Paul Welch Chief Executive Director
Paul (62) is an international energy executive with over 30 years of industry experience having worked for Shell Oil Company and several large independents including Hunt Oil Company, Pioneer Natural Resources and as CEO of AIM listed explorer Chariot Limited (previously Chariot Oil and Gas Limited) (AIM: CHAR) (2009-2012) and CEO of Sea Dragon Energy (2013-2015) which in October of 2015 became SDX Energy plc (AIM: SDX) (2015-2019) following the merger with Madison PetroGas. He was subsequently appointed CEO of Cosimo Holdings Ltd in 2019, a private oil and gas company. He is currently Chairman and Executive Director of ALT Resources, a company formed to make acquisitions in the mining sector. Paul graduated from the Colorado School of Mines with both a Bachelor and Master's degrees in Petroleum Engineering. He also holds an MBA in Finance from the Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas.
John Stafford Non-Executive Technical Director
John Stafford (63) has over 35 years' experience in the oil & gas industry. As Vice President of Operations at Gulf Keystone (LSE: GKP) 2014-2017, he oversaw 40,000 bopd, having joined that Company as Manager, Geology & Geophysics in early 2009. John is a geoscientist, with specialist expertise in oil field development and reserve certification and reporting.
Mr Stafford has worked with well-known companies in the oil and gas industry, such as ECL, Schlumberger and PGS, managing projects in integrated field management and all aspects of reserves certification and reporting. This includes the production of Competent Persons Reports.
John has further experience in fractured reservoir development and risk management.
Post Period- Mr. Stafford stepped down from the Board on January 1, 2025
Jim Newman Non-Executive Technical Director
Jim Newman (61) has over 35 years of industry experience in multiple facets of the oil & gas industry, including well abandonment, well intervention, water management, and completions. He started his career at Triple N Services (22 years), which he sold to Basic Energy Services LP, where he served in various positions for 13 years, ultimately as the Executive Vice President of Operations until he stepped down in 2021. He is the managing partner of Clean Rig Power and Dos Hermanos International and the CEO of Aquafortus.
He graduated from the Colorado School of Mines with a bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering and is a registered Professional Engineer in Texas, USA
Corporate Governance Report
As an AIM-quoted company, the Company is required to apply a recognised corporate governance code, demonstrating how the Group complies with such corporate governance code and where it departs from it.
The directors have formally taken the decision to apply the QCA Corporate Governance Code (the "QCA Code"). The Board recognises the principles of the QCA Code, which focus on the creation of medium to long-term value for shareholders without stifling the entrepreneurial spirit in which small to medium sized companies, such as Nostra Terra, have been created.
QCA Principles
The Board recognises the importance of corporate governance, and we therefore apply the QCA code.
QCA Code Principle | Disclosure | Nostra Terra Reference |
1 | Establish a strategy and business model which promote long-term value for shareholders. | See Strategic Report of this 2024 Annual Report |
2 | Seek to understand and meet shareholder needs and expectations. | See the Chief Executive Officer's Statement of this 2024 Annual Report |
3 | Take into account wider stakeholder and social responsibilities and their implications for long term success. | Detailed within AIM Rule 26, available to view via www.ntog.co.uk |
4 | Embed effective risk management, considering both opportunities and threats throughout the organisation. | See note 20 of this 2024 Annual Report |
5 | Maintain the board as a well-functioning balanced team led by the Chair. | See the Corporate Governance Report of this 2024 Annual Report |
6 | Ensure that between them the directors have the necessary up to date experience, skills and capabilities. | Detailed within AIM Rule 26, available to view via www.ntog.co.uk |
7 | Evaluate the Board performance based on clear and relevant objectives, seeking continuous improvement. | Nostra Terra's board is small and extremely focused on implementing the Company's strategy. Given the size and nature of Nostra Terra, the Board does not consider it appropriate to have a formal performance evaluation procedure in place. As described and recommended in Principle 7 of the QCA Code, the board will closely monitor the situation as it grows. |
8 | Promote a corporate culture that is based on ethical values and behaviours. | Detailed within AIM Rule 26, available to view via www.ntog.co.uk |
9 | Maintain governance structures and processes that are fit for purpose and support good decision making by the Board. | Detailed within AIM Rule 26, available to view via www.ntog.co.uk |
10 | Communicate how the Company is governed and is performing by maintaining a dialogue with shareholders and other relevant stakeholders. | See the Corporate Governance Report of this 2024 Annual Report |
Corporate Governance Report (continued)
Accountability
The Board of Directors
The board comprises one executive director and two non-executive directors. The non-executive directors are considered independent. It meets at least four times a year and as issues arise which require board attention. The board has a formal schedule of matters specially referred to it for decision.
The directors are responsible for:
· Management structure and appointments
· Consideration of strategy and policy
· Approval of major capital investments and transactions
· Significant financing matters
The board has Audit, Remuneration and Nomination Committees, the roles and responsibilities of which are discussed below.
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee comprises James Newman as Chairman, and Steve Staley. Both have considerable and relevant financial experience.
The Audit Committee has terms of reference agreed by the board and meets at least twice a year.
The committee provides an opportunity for reporting by the Company's auditors, and is responsible for:
· Monitoring, in discussion with the auditors, the integrity of the financial statements and announcements of the Company
· Reviewing the Company's internal financial controls and risk management systems
· Reviewing and monitoring the external auditor's independence, and the objectivity and effectiveness of the audit process, taking into consideration relevant UK and other professional and regulatory requirements
Corporate Governance Report (continued)
Audit Committee (continued)
The Audit Committee is also responsible for making recommendations to the board to be put to shareholders for their approval in general meeting in relation to the appointment, reappointment and removal of the external auditors and to approve the external auditors' remuneration and terms of engagement. Other responsibilities include considering annually whether there is a need for an internal audit function and making a recommendation to the board, and reviewing arrangements by which the Group's staff will be able to raise concerns about possible improprieties in matters of financial reporting or other matters related to the Group.
Remuneration and Nomination Committees
The Remuneration and Nomination Committees, which meet at least twice a year, consist of Stephen Staley as Chairman and James Newman. Based on the terms of reference approved by the board, the Remuneration Committee is responsible for:
· Determining and agreeing with the board the framework or broad policy for the remuneration of the Chief Executive Officer and other members it is designated to consider
· Setting the remuneration for all executive directors and the Company Secretary
· Recommending and monitoring the level and structure of remuneration for senior management
· Determining targets for any performance-related pay schemes operated by the Group
· Determining the policy and scope of pension arrangements for each executive director
· Ensuring that contractual terms on termination and any payments made are fair to the individual and the Company.
The Remuneration Committee determines the terms and conditions of service of executive directors. This includes agreeing the policy for authorising claims for expenses from the Chief Executive Officer and, within the terms of the agreed policy, recommending the total individual remuneration package of any executive director including, where appropriate, bonuses, incentive payments and share options.
The Nomination Committee is responsible for ensuring all director appointments are considered by the Committee before their formal recommendation to the board for approval.
Shareholder Relations
Communications with shareholders are very important and are given a priority. The Company maintains a website, www.ntog.co.uk, to improve information flow to shareholders and potential investors. It contains, inter alia, information about the Company's activities and annual and interim reports.
Shareholders are welcome to make enquiries on any matters relating to the business and to their shareholdings. The Company encourages shareholders to attend the Annual General Meeting, at which they will be given the opportunity to put questions to the chairman and other members of the board.
All regulatory information is published via a Regulatory Information Service before anywhere else.
Corporate Governance Report (continued)
Internal Financial Control
The board is responsible for establishing and maintaining the Company's system of internal controls and for reviewing their effectiveness. They are designed to safeguard the Company's assets and to ensure the reliability of the financial information for both internal use and external publication. The controls, that include financial, operational and compliance matters and management, are reviewed on an ongoing basis.
A system of internal control can provide only reasonable, and not absolute, assurance that material financial irregularities will be detected or that risk of failure to achieve business objectives is eliminated. The board has considered the need for an internal audit function but because of the size and nature of its operations does not consider it necessary at this time.
Dr Stephen Staley
Non-Executive Chairman
22 May 2025
Independent Auditor's ReportTo the members of Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company plc
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of Nostra Terra Oil & Gas Company Plc (the 'parent company') and its subsidiaries (the 'group') for the year ended 31 December 2024 which comprise the consolidated income statement, the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, the consolidated and company statements of financial position, the consolidated and company statements of cash flows, the consolidated and company statements of changes in equity and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies.
The financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the financial statements is applicable law and UK adopted International Accounting Standards.
In our opinion the financial statements,
• give a true and fair view of the state of the group's and of the parent company's affairs as at 31 December 2024 and of the group's loss for the year then ended;
• have been properly prepared in accordance with UK adopted International Accounting Standards; and
• have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC's Ethical Standard as applied to listed entities, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Material uncertainty related to going concern
We draw attention to note 1 in the financial statements, which indicate that the incurred group loss of $1,509,000 during the year ended 31 December 2024 and, at that date, the net current liabilities of $386,000 and net liabilities of $1,348,000. As stated in note 1, these events or conditions indicate that a material uncertainty exists that may cast significant doubt on the company's ability to continue as a going concern. Our opinion is not modified in respect of this matter.
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the director's use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate. Our evaluation of the directors' assessment of the entity's ability to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting included a critical assessment on budgets, including challenging models and undertaking stress tests, and a detailed discussion with management on the key cashflow pinch points, including loan repayments and funding available to the Group.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
Independent Auditor's Report (continued)
To the members of Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company plc
An overview of the scope of our audit
As part of designing our audit, we determined materiality and assessed the risks of material misstatement in the financial statements. In particular, we looked at where the directors made subjective judgments, for example in respect of significant accounting estimates that involved making assumptions and considering future events that are inherently uncertain. As in all of our audits we also addressed the risk of management override of internal controls, including evaluating whether there was evidence of bias by the directors that represented a risk of material misstatement due to fraud.
How we tailored the audit scope
We tailored the scope of our audit to ensure that we performed enough work to be able to give an opinion on the financial statements as a whole, taking into account the structure of the Group and the Company, the accounting processes and controls, and the industry in which they operate. The Group financial statements are a consolidation of 3 reporting units, comprising the Group's operating businesses and holding companies.
We performed audits of the complete financial information of Nostra Terra Oil & Gas Company Plc, New Horizons Energy LLC and Buccaneer Operating LLC which were individually financially significant and accounted for 100% of the Group's revenue and 100% of the Group's absolute loss before tax (i.e. the sum of the numerical values without regard to whether they were profits or losses for the relevant reporting units).
Key Audit Matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of the financial statements of the current period and include the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) we identified, including those which had the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing the efforts of the engagement team. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. This is not a complete list of all risks identified by our audit.
Key audit matters | How our audit addressed the key audit matter |
Carrying value of producing oil and gas assets The Group holds multiple leases over producing oil and gas assets (wells) which are recorded as both tangible and intangible assets. Carrying values at the year-end are: · Intangibles: $2,517k (2023: $2,389k) · Tangibles: $1,196k (2023: $1,230k)
| Carrying value of producing oil and gas assets We have understood and assessed the methodology used in the capitalisation of these assets. A review of the producing wells was undertaken with a view of identifying any indication of impairment. This entailed comparing oil reserves and net present values from the independent reserves report produced by APN Consultants LLC to the asset carrying values, and a detailed review of producing wells.
|
Independent Auditor's Report (continued)
To the members of Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company plc
Our application of materiality
The scope of our audit was influenced by our application of materiality. We set certain quantitative thresholds for materiality. These, together with qualitative considerations, helped us to determine the scope of our audit and the nature, timing and extent of our audit procedures on the individual financial statement line items and disclosures and in evaluating the effect of misstatements, both individually and in aggregate on the financial statements as a whole.
Our application of materiality (continued)
Based on our professional judgment, we determined materiality for the financial statements as a whole as follows:
Group financial statements | Company financial statements | |
Overall materiality | $31,000 | $30,000 |
How we determined it | 1.5% of revenue | 2.5% of net liabilities |
Rationale for benchmark applied | The Group has invested heavily in leases and equipment in the past years to drive revenue growth and profits. As such we believe that revenue is the primary measure used by the shareholders in assessing the performance of the Group, and is a generally accepted auditing benchmark. | As the company is a holding company, we believe net assets is the primary measure used by the shareholders in assessing the performance of the Company and is a generally accepted auditing benchmark. |
For each component in the scope of our Group audit, we allocated a materiality that is less than our overall Group materiality. The range of materiality allocated across components was between $30,000 and $31,000.
Independent Auditor's Report (continued)
To the members of Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company plc
Other information
The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The directors are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:
• the information given in the strategic report and the directors' report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and
• the strategic report and the directors' report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
Independent Auditor's Report (continued)
To the members of Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company plc
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and parent company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report or the directors' report.
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:
• adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
• the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
• certain disclosures of directors' remuneration specified by law are not made; or
• we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
Responsibilities of directors
As explained more fully in the directors' responsibilities statement as set out on pages 10-11, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the group's and parent
company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the group or the parent company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below.
Independent Auditor's Report (continued)
To the members of Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company plc
The extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities including fraud
Our approach to identifying and assessing the risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, was as follows:
• the senior statutory auditor ensured the engagement team collectively had the appropriate competence, capabilities and skills to identify or recognise non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations;
• we focused on specific laws and regulations which we considered may have a direct material effect on the financial statements or the operations of the Group, including AIM rules and the Companies Act 2006.
• we assessed the extent of compliance with the laws and regulations identified above through making enquiries of management and inspecting legal correspondence; and
• identified laws and regulations were communicated within the audit team regularly and the team remained alert to instances of non-compliance throughout the audit.
We assessed the susceptibility of the Group's financial statements to material misstatement, including obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by:
• making enquiries of management as to where they considered there was susceptibility to fraud, their knowledge of actual, suspected and alleged fraud;
• considering the internal controls in place to mitigate risks of fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations.
To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we:
• performed analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships;
• tested journal entries to identify unusual transactions;
• assessed whether judgements and assumptions made in determining the accounting estimates set out in Note 2 were indicative of potential bias;
• investigated the rationale behind significant or unusual transactions.
In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures which included, but were not limited to:
• agreeing financial statement disclosures to underlying supporting documentation;
• reading the minutes of meetings of those charged with governance;
• enquiring of management as to actual and potential litigation and claims;
Independent Auditor's Report (continued)
To the members of Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company plc
There are inherent limitations in our audit procedures described above. The more removed those laws and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely it is that we would become aware of non-compliance. Auditing standards also limit the audit procedures required to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations to enquiry of the directors and other management and the inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, if any.
Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those that arise from error as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion.
A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.
Use of this report
This report is made solely to the company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company and the company's members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Mohammed Haque
Senior Statutory Auditor
For and on behalf of MAH, Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditor
2nd Floor, 154 Bishopsgate, London EC2M 4LN
22 May 2025
Consolidated Income Statement
For the year ended 31 December 2024
2024 | 2023 | ||
Notes | $'000 | $'000 | |
Continuing operations | |||
| |||
REVENUE | 2,038 | 2,816 | |
COST OF SALES | |||
Production costs | (1,213) | (1,408) | |
Depletion, depreciation, amortisation | (681) | (617) | |
Total cost of sales |
| (1,894) | (2,025) |
GROSS PROFIT |
| 144 | 791 |
|
|
|
|
Share based payment | (41) | (41) | |
Administrative expenses | (1,177) | (870) | |
Foreign exchange (loss) / gain | (26) | (6) | |
OPERATING LOSS | 7 | (1,100) | (126) |
| |||
Finance costs | 5 | (409) | (368) |
Other income | 6 | - | 22 |
LOSS BEFORE TAX | (1,509) | (472) | |
| |||
Income tax | 8 | - | - |
LOSS FOR THE YEAR |
| (1,509) | (472) |
ATTRIBUTABLE TO: |
|
|
|
Owners of the company | (1,509) | (472) | |
EARNINGS PER SHARE |
|
|
|
Continued operations | |||
Basic & diluted (cents per share) | 10 | (0.08) | (0.06) |
The accompanying accounting policies and notes are an integral part of these financial statements
For the year ended 31 December 2024
2024 | 2023 | |
$'000 | $'000 | |
LOSS FOR THE PERIOD | (1,509) | (472) |
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME: | ||
Currency translation differences | - | - |
Total comprehensive income for the year | (1,509) | (472) |
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE LOSS FOR THE YEAR ATTRIBUTABLE TO: |
|
|
Owners of the company | (1,509) | (472) |
The accompanying accounting policies and notes are an integral part of these financial statements
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
As at 31 December 2024
2024 | 2023 | ||
Notes | $'000 | $'000 | |
| |||
ASSETS |
| ||
NON-CURRENT ASSETS | |||
Intangible assets | 11 | 2,517 | 2,389 |
Property, plant and equipment, Oil and gas assets | 12 | 1,196 | 1,230 |
Total non-current assets | 3,713 | 3,619 | |
CURRENT ASSETS | |||
Trade and other receivables | 15 | 103 | 548 |
Deposits and prepayments | 15 | 376 | 28 |
Cash and cash equivalents | 16 | 106 | 26 |
Total current assets | 585 | 602 | |
LIABILITIES |
|
|
|
CURRENT LIABILITIES | |||
Trade and other payables | 17 | 922 | 924 |
Borrowings | 18 | 49 | 110 |
Total current liabilities |
| 971 | 1,034 |
NET CURRENT LIABILITIES |
| (386) | (432) |
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES | |||
Decommissioning liabilities | 17 | 428 | 382 |
Borrowings | 18 | 4,247 | 4,319 |
Total non-current liabilities | 4,675 | 4,701 | |
NET LIABILITIES |
| (1,348) | (1,514) |
EQUITY |
|
|
|
Share capital | 19 | 8,971 | 8,142 |
Share premium | 22,902 | 22,115 | |
Share based payment reserve | 523 | 464 | |
Translation reserve | (676) | (676) | |
Retained losses | (33,068) | (31,559) | |
Total equity |
| (1,348) | (1,514) |
The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 22 May 2025 and were signed on its behalf by:
Paul Welch
Director
Company registration number: 05338258. The accompanying accounting policies and notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Company Statement of Financial Position
As at 31 December 2024
2024 | 2023 | ||
Notes | $'000 | $'000 | |
| |||
ASSETS |
| ||
NON-CURRENT ASSETS | |||
Fixed asset investments | 14 | - | - |
Intangible assets | 11 | 224 | 263 |
Property, plant and equipment, Oil and gas assets | 12 | 112 | 130 |
Total non-current assets | 336 | 393 | |
CURRENT ASSETS | |||
Trade and other receivables | 15 | 30 | 24 |
Cash and cash equivalents | 16 | 93 | 3 |
Total current assets | 123 | 27 | |
LIABILITIES |
|
|
|
CURRENT LIABILITIES | |||
Trade and other payables | 17 | 3,461 | 3,802 |
Borrowings | 18 | 49 | 110 |
Total current liabilities |
| 3,510 | 3,912 |
NET CURRENT LIABILITIES |
| (3,387) | (3,885) |
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES | |||
Decommissioning liabilities | 17 | 42 | 30 |
Borrowings | 18 | - | 72 |
Total non-current liabilities | 42 | 102 | |
NET LIABILITIES |
| (3,093) | (3,594) |
EQUITY |
|
|
|
Share capital | 19 | 8,971 | 8,142 |
Share premium | 22,902 | 22,115 | |
Share based payment reserve | 523 | 464 | |
Translation reserve | (676) | (676) | |
Retained losses | (34,813) | (33,639) | |
Total equity |
| (3,093) | (3,594) |
The parent company's loss for the financial year was $1,172,000 (2023: $1,035,000).
The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 22 May 2025 and were signed on its behalf by:
Paul Welch
Director
Company registration number: 05338258. The accompanying accounting policies and notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
For the year ended 31 December 2024
Share capital | Deferred shares | Share premium | Share option reserve | Translation reserve | Retained losses | Total | |
$'000 | $'000 | $'000 | $'000 | $'000 | $'000 | $'000 | |
As at 1 January 2023 | 1,593 | 6,549 | 22,115 | 423 | (676) | (31,087) | (1,083) |
Loss for the year | - | - | - | - | - | (472) | (472) |
Total comprehensive loss for the year | - | - | - | - | - | (472) | (472) |
Share based payments | - | - | - | 41 | - | - | 41 |
As at 31 December 2023 | 1,593 | 6,549 | 22,115 | 464 | (676) | (31,559) | (1, 514) |
Loss for the year | - | - | - | - | - | (1,509) | (1,509) |
Total comprehensive loss for the year | - | - | - | - | - | (1,509) | (1,509) |
Division of shares | (1,749) | 1,749 | - | - | - | - | - |
Shares issued | 829 | - | 787 | 1,616 | |||
Share based payments | - | - | - | 59 | - | - | 59 |
As at 31 December 2024 | 673 | 8,298 | 22,902 | 523 | (676) | (33,068) | (1,348) |
The accompanying accounting policies and notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Share capital is the amount subscribed for shares at nominal value.
Share premium represents the excess of the amount subscribed for share capital over the nominal value of those shares net of share issue expenses. Share issue expenses in the year comprise costs incurred in respect of the issue of new shares.
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
Share based payment reserve is a reserve used to recognize the cost and equity associated with the fair value of issues of share options and warrants.
Translation reserves arose due to the adoption of US dollars as the presentational currency at the start of a prior accounting period.
Retained loss represents the cumulative losses of the company attributable to owners of the company.
Company Statement of Changes in Equity
For the year ended 31 December 2024
Share capital | Deferred shares | Share premium | Share option reserve | Translation reserve | Retained losses | Total | |
$'000 | $'000 | $'000 | $'000 | $'000 | $'000 | $'000 | |
As at 1 January 2023 | 1,593 | 6,549 | 22,115 | 423 | (676) | (32,604) | (2,600) |
Loss for the year | - | - | - | - | - | (1,035) | (1,035) |
Total comprehensive loss for the year | - | - | - | - | - | (1,035) | (1,035) |
Shares issued | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Share based payments | - | - | - | 41 | - | - | 41 |
As at 31 December 2023 | 1,593 | 6,549 | 22,115 | 464 | (676) | (33,639) | (3,594) |
Loss for the year | - | - | - | - | - | (1,174) | (1,174) |
Total comprehensive loss for the year | - | - | - | - | - | (1,174) | (1,174) |
Subdivision of shares | (1,749) | 1,749 | - | - | - | - | - |
Shares issued | 829 | - | 787 | - | - | - | 1,616 |
Share based payments | - | - | - | 59 | - | - | 59 |
As at 31 December 2024 | 673 | 8,298 | 22,902 | 523 | (676) | (34,813) | (3,093) |
The accompanying accounting policies and notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Share capital is the amount subscribed for shares at nominal value.
Share premium represents the excess of the amount subscribed for share capital over the nominal value of those shares net of share issue expenses. Share issue expenses in the year comprise costs incurred in respect of the issue of new shares.
Company Statement of Changes in Equity (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
Share based payment reserve is a reserve used to recognize the cost and equity associated with the fair value of issues of share options and warrants.
Translation reserves arose due to the adoption of US dollars as the presentational currency at the start of a prior accounting period.
Retained loss represents the cumulative losses of the company attributable to owners of the company.
Consolidated and Company Statement of Cash Flows
For the year ended 31 December 2024
GROUP |
| COMPANY | |||
2024 | 2023 |
| 2024 | 2023 | |
$'000 | $'000 |
| $'000 | $'000 | |
LOSS FOR THE YEAR | (1,509) | (473) |
| (1,173) | (1,035) |
ADJUSTMENTS FOR: | |||||
Depreciation | 383 | 324 | 18 | 18 | |
Amortisation | 253 | 251 | 40 | 42 | |
Depletion | 46 | 42 | 12 | 9 | |
Loss/(Profit) on disposal of Fixed Assets | 11 | - | - | - | |
Loss/(Profit) on disposal of Intangibles | 72 | - | - | - | |
Foreign exchange | 26 | 6 | 3 | 4 | |
Share based payments | 41 | 41 | 41 | 41 | |
Other income | - | (22) | - | - | |
Operating cash flows | (678) | 169 | (1,059) | (921) | |
Decrease/(increase) in receivables | 122 | 19 | (6) | (3) | |
(Decrease)/increase in payables | (424) | (89) | (342) | 947 | |
(Increase)/decrease in deposits & prepayments | (24) | 38 | - | - | |
Interest paid | 409 | 369 | 7 | 17 | |
Net cash from operating activities | (595) | 506 |
| (1,400) | 40 |
Cash flows from investing activities: | |||||
Purchase of plant and equipment | (348) | (248) | - | (4) | |
Purchase of intangibles | (106) | (416) | - | - | |
Disposals | 40 | 2 | - | - | |
Increase in decommissioning liabilities | - | 42 | - | 9 | |
Net cash from/(used) in investing activities | (414) | (620) |
|
- |
5 |
Cash flows from financing activities |
|
|
|
|
|
Shares issued | 1,630 | - | 1,630 | - | |
Costs of shares issued | - | - | - | - | |
Net borrowing | (133) | 377 | (133) | (42) | |
Finance costs | (409) | (369) | (7) | (17) | |
Net cash from/ (used) in financing activities | 1,088 | 8 |
| 1,490 | (59) |
Consolidated and Company Statement of Cash Flows (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents | 80 | (106) |
| 90 | (14) |
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year | 26 | 132 | 3 | 17 | |
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year | 106 | 26 |
| 93 | 3 |
The accompanying accounting policies and notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
For the year ended 31 December 2024
General Information
Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company plc (Nostra Terra) is a company incorporated in England and Wales and quoted on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange. The address of the registered office is disclosed on the company information page of this annual report. The principal activity of the Group is described in the directors' report.
1. Summary of significant accounting policies
The financial statements are presented in United States Dollars, rounded to the nearest $'000, as that is the currency of the primary environment in which the Group operates.
The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.
Basis of preparation
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with UK adopted International Financial Reporting Standards and IFRIC interpretations issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) (IFRS) and with those parts of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies reporting under IFRS.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the financial statements, are disclosed in note 2.
Going concern
The financial statements have been prepared on the assumption that the Group is a going concern. When assessing the foreseeable future, the directors have looked at a period of 12 months from the date of approval of this report.
The Group's business activities, together with the factors likely to affect its future development, performance and position are set out in the Chief Executive Officer's report and Directors' report. In addition, note 20 to the financial statements includes the Group's objectives, policies and processes for managing its capital, its financial risk management objectives and its exposures to credit risk and liquidity risk.
The Group's forecasts and projections, taking account of reasonable possible changes in trading performance, show that the Group should be able to operate within the level of its current cash resources, however a material uncertainty exists in relation to the Group's ability to repay its liabilities as they become due. We note that as at the balance sheet date, the Group has net current liabilities of $386,000 and net liabilities of $1,348,000.
The directors prepare annual budgets and cash flow projections that extend beyond 12 months from the date of this report. These projections include the proceeds of future fundraising necessary within the next 12 months to meet the Company's and Group's overheads and planned discretionary project expenditures and to maintain the Company and Group as going concerns.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Although the Company has been successful in raising finance in the past, there is no assurance that it will obtain adequate finance in the future. This represents a material uncertainty related to events or conditions which may cast significant doubt on the Group's and Company's ability to continue as going concerns and, therefore, that they may be unable to realise their assets and discharge their liabilities in the normal course of business. However, the directors have a reasonable expectation that they will secure additional funding when required to continue meeting corporate overheads and exploration costs for the foreseeable future and therefore the directors believe that the going concern basis is appropriate for the preparation of the financial statements.
After making enquiries, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the Company and Group have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. They continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the annual report and financial statements, however as noted above a material uncertainty exists which may cast significant doubt on the Group's ability to continue operating as a going concern.
New standards, amendments and interpretations adopted by the Group and Company
The following amendments are effective for the period beginning 1 January 2024:
· Supplier Finance Arrangements (Amendments to IAS 7 and IFRS 17).
· Lease Liability in Sales and Leaseback (Amendments to IFRS 16)
· Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non- Current (Amendments to IAS 1); and
· Non-current Liabilities with Covenants (Amendments to IAS 1)
These amendments had no effect on the consolidated financial statements of the Group In the current year the group has applied a number of new and amended IFRS Accounting Standards issued by the International accounting Standards Board ("IASB") and adopted by the UK, that are effective for the first time for the financial year beginning 1 January 2024 Their adoption has not had any material impact on the disclosure or on the amounts reported in these financial statements.
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
New standards, amendments and interpretations not yet adopted
New standards, interpretations and amendments effective from 1 January 2025 onwards
There are a number of standards, amendments to standards, and interpretations which have been issued by the IASB that are effective in future accounting periods that the Group has decided not to adopt early.
Effect annual periods beginning before or after | ||
IAS 21 | The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange RatesLack of Exchangeability (Amendment to IAS 21 The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates) | 1st January 2025 |
IFRS 7 | Financial Instruments: Disclosure Amendments regarding the classification and measurement of financial instruments | 1st January 2026 |
IFRS 7 | Financial Instruments: Disclosure Amendments resulting from Annual Improvements to IFRS Accounting Standards | 1st January 2026 |
IFRS 7 | Financial InstrumentsContracts Referencing Nature-dependent Electricity | 1st January 2026 |
IFRS 9 | Financial Instruments Amendments regarding the classification and measurement of financial instruments | 1st January 2026 |
IFRS 9 | Financial Instruments Amendments resulting from Annual Improvements to IFRS Accounting Standards | 1st January 2026 |
IFRS 9 | Financial InstrumentsContracts Referencing Nature-dependent Electricity | 1st January 2026 |
IFRS 18 | Presentation and Disclosure of Financial Statements Original issue | 1st January 2027 |
IFRS 19 | Subsidiaries without Public Accountability: Disclosures Original issue | 1st January 2027 |
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Basis of consolidation
Where the Company has the power, either directly or indirectly, to govern the financial and operating policies of another entity or business so as to obtain benefits from its activities, it is classified as a subsidiary. The consolidated financial statements present the results of the Company and its subsidiaries ("the Group") as if they formed a single entity. Intercompany transactions and balances between Group companies are therefore eliminated in full.
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the results of business combinations using the purchase method. In the statement of financial position, the acquiree's identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities are initially recognised at their fair values at the acquisition date. The results of acquired operations are included in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income from the date on which control is obtained. They are deconsolidated from the date control ceases.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Subsidiaries
The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries by the Group. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the fair value of the assets given, equity instruments issued, and liabilities incurred or assumed at the date of exchange, plus costs directly attributable to the acquisition. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date, irrespective of the extent of any minority interest. The excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of the Group's share of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. If the cost of acquisition is less than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognised directly in the income statement.
Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between Group companies are eliminated. Unrealised losses are also eliminated but considered an impairment indicator of the asset transferred. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group's share of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary or associate at the date of acquisition. Goodwill on acquisitions of subsidiaries is included in 'intangible assets'. Separately recognised goodwill is tested annually for impairment and carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Impairment losses on goodwill are not reversed. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold.
Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment testing. The allocation is made to those cash-generating units or groups of cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from the business combination in which the goodwill arose. The Group allocates goodwill to each business segment in each country in which it operates.
Impairment of non-financial assets
Assets that have an indefinite useful life, for example goodwill, are not subject to amortisation and are tested annually for impairment. Assets that are subject to amortisation are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset's carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset's fair value less costs to sell and value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (cash-generating units). Non-financial assets other than goodwill that suffered impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment at each reporting date.
Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (cash-generating unit) is increased to the revised estimated of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset (cash-generating unit) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised as income immediately, unless the relevant asset is carried art a revalued amount in which case the reversal of impairment loss is treated a revaluation increase.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Property, plant and equipment
Tangible non-current assets are stated at historical cost less depreciation. Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items.
Subsequent costs are included in the asset's carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of the replaced part is derecognised. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the income statement during the financial year in which they are incurred. Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life:
Plant and machinery - over 7 years
The assets' residual values and useful economic lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each statement of financial position date. An asset's carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset's carrying amount is greater than its estimated recoverable value. Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount and are recognised within other (losses) or gains in the income statement. When revalued assets are sold, the amounts included in other reserves are transferred to retained earnings.
Investments
Investments are stated at cost less provision for any impairment value.
Cash and cash equivalents
Included in the statement of financial position comprise cash at bank and in hand and other short-term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.
For the purposes of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and cash equivalents as defined above, net of outstanding bank overdrafts.
Trade receivables
Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less provision for impairment. A provision for impairment is established when there is objective evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables. Significant financial difficulties of the debtor, probability that the debtor will enter bankruptcy or financial reorganisation, and default or delinquency in payments are considered indicators that the trade receivable is impaired.
Trade payables
Trade payables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Borrowings
Borrowings are recognised initially at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently stated at amortised cost; any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption value is recognised in the income statement over the year of the borrowings using the effective interest method.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Borrowings (continued)
Borrowings are classified as current liabilities unless the Group has an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after the balance sheet date.
Functional currency translation
(i) Functional and presentation currency
Items included in the financial statements of the Group are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates (the functional currency), which is mainly United States Dollars (US$). The financial statements are presented in United States Dollars (US$), which is the Group's presentation currency.
(ii) Transactions and balances
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the presentational currency using exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the income statement.
(iii) Group Companies
All consolidated entities are presented in US$ and so no translation is required on consolidation.
Share capital
Ordinary shares are classified as equity.
Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.
Taxation
The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax. The tax currently payable is based on the taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differed from net profit as reported in the income statement because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The entity's liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the statement of financial position date.
Deferred tax
Deferred tax is recognised on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit, and is accounted for using the statement of financial position liability method. Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all taxable temporary differences and deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilised. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary arises from goodwill or from the initial recognition) other than in a business
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Deferred tax (continued)
combination) of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit.
The carrying amount of deferred tax is reviewed at each statement of financial position date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.
Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset realised. Deferred tax is charged or credited directly to equity; in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in equity.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the Company intends to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis.
Financial instruments
Financial assets and financial liabilities are initially classified as measured at amortised cost, fair value through other comprehensive income, or fair value through profit and loss when the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets are derecognised when the contractual rights to the cash flows expire, or the Group no longer retains the significant risks or rewards of ownership of the financial asset. Financial liabilities are derecognised when the obligation is discharged, cancelled or expires.
Financial assets are classified dependent on the Group's business model for managing the financial and the cash flow characteristics of the asset. Financial liabilities are classified and measured at amortised cost except for trading liabilities, or where designated at original recognition to achieve more relevant presentation. The Group classifies its financial assets and liabilities into the following categories:
Financial assets at amortised cost
The Group's financial assets at amortised cost comprise trade and other receivables. These represent debt instruments with fixed or determinable payments that represent principal or interest and where the intention is to hold to collect these contractual cash flows. They are initially recognised at fair value, included in current and non-current assets, depending on the nature of the transaction, and are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method less any provision for impairment.
Financial liabilities at amortised cost
Financial liabilities at amortised cost comprise finance lease obligations and trade and other payables. They are classified as current and non-current liabilities depending on the nature of the transaction, are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Financial instruments (continued)
Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss
The Group holds a derivative against the price of oil held for operation purposes. These are recognised and measured at fair value using the most recent available market price with gains and losses recognised immediately in the profit and loss.
The fair value measurement of the Group's financial and non- financial assets and liabilities utilises market observable inputs and data as far as possible. Inputs used in determining fair value measurements are categorised into different levels based on how observable the inputs used in the valuation technique utilised are (the 'fair value hierarchy').
Level 1 Quoted prices in active markets
Level 2 Observable direct or indirect inputs other than Level 1 inputs
Level 3 Inputs that are not based on observable market data
The Group measures financial instruments relating to platform holdings at fair value using Level 1.
The Company provides financial guarantees to licensed banks for credit facilities extended to a subsidiary company. The fair value of such financial guarantees is not expected to be significantly different as the probability of the subsidiary company defaulting on the credit lines is remote.
Impairment of trade and other receivables
In accordance with IFRS 9 an expected loss provisioning model is used to calculate an impairment provision. We have implemented the IFRS 9 simplified approach to measuring expected credit losses arising from trade and other receivables, being a lifetime expected credit loss. This is calculated based on an evaluation of our historic experience plus an adjustment based on our judgement of whether this historic experience is likely reflective of our view of the future at the balance sheet date. In the previous year the incurred loss model is used to calculate the impairment provision.
Oil and gas assets
The Group applies the successful efforts method of accounting for oil and gas assets and has adopted IFRS 6 Exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources.
Exploration and evaluation ("E&E") assets
Under the successful efforts method of accounting, all licence acquisition, exploration and appraisal costs are initially capitalised in well, field or specific exploration cost centres as appropriate, pending determination. Expenditure incurred during the various exploration and appraisal phases is then written off unless commercial reserves have been established or the determination process has not been completed.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Pre-licence costs
Costs incurred prior to having obtained the legal rights to explore an area are expensed directly to the income statement as they are incurred.
Exploration and evaluation ("E&E") costs
Costs of E&E are initially capitalised as E&E assets. Payments to acquire the legal right to explore, together with the directly related costs of technical services and studies, seismic acquisition, exploratory drilling and testing are capitalised as intangible E&E assets.
Tangible assets used in E&E activities (such as the Group's drilling rigs, seismic equipment and other property, plant and equipment used by the company's exploration function) are classified as property, plant and equipment. However, to the extent that such a tangible asset is consumed in developing an intangible E&E asset, the amount reflecting that consumption is recorded as part of the cost of the intangible asset. Such intangible costs include directly attributable overheads, including the depreciation of property, plant and equipment utilised in E&E activities, together with the cost of other materials consumed during the exploration and evaluation phases.
E&E costs are not amortised prior to the conclusion of appraisal activities.
Treatment of E&E assets at conclusion of appraisal activities
Intangible E&E assets relating to each exploration licence/prospect are carried forward until the existence (or otherwise) of commercial reserves has been determined, subject to certain limitations including review for indications of impairment. If commercial reserves are discovered the carrying value, after any impairment loss of the relevant E&E assets, is then reclassified as development and production assets. If, however, commercial reserves are not found, the capitalised costs are charged to expense after conclusion of appraisal activities.
Development and production assets
Development and production assets are accumulated generally on a field-by-field basis and represent the cost of developing the commercial reserves discovered and bringing them into production, together with the E&E expenditures incurred in finding commercial reserves transferred from intangible E&E assets as outlined above.
The cost of development and production assets also includes the cost of acquisitions and purchases of such assets, directly attributable overheads and the cost of recognising provisions for future restoration and decommissioning.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Decommissioning liability
Where a material liability for the removal of production facilities and site restoration at the end of the productive life of the assets exist, a provision for decommissioning liability is recognised. The amount recognised is the present value of estimated future expenditure determined in accordance with local conditions and requirements. An intangible asset of an amount equivalent to the provision is recognised and depreciated on a unit production basis. Changes in estimates are recognised prospectively, with corresponding adjustments to the provision and the associated intangible asset. Period changes in the present value arising from discounting are included in depletion, depreciation and amortisation cost in cost of sales.
Commercial reserves
Commercial reserves are proven and probable oil and gas reserves, which are defined as the estimated quantities of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids which geological, geophysical and engineering data demonstrate with a specified degree of certainty to be recoverable in future years from known reservoirs and which are considered commercially producible.
Depletion, amortisation and impairment of oil and gas assets
All expenditure carried within each field is amortised from the commencement of production on a unit of production basis, which is the ratio of oil and gas production in the period to the estimated quantities of commercial reserves at the end of the period plus the production in the period, on a field-by-field basis. Costs used in the unit of production calculation comprise the net book value of capitalised costs plus the estimated future field development costs to access the related commercial reserves. Changes in the estimates of commercial reserves or future field development costs are dealt with prospectively.
Where there has been a change in economic conditions that indicates a possible impairment in an oil and gas asset, the recoverability of the net book value relating to that field is assessed by comparison with the estimated discounted future cash flows based on management's expectations of future oil and gas prices and future costs. Any impairment identified is charged to the income statement as additional depletion and amortisation. Where conditions giving rise to impairment subsequently reverse, the effect of the impairment charge is also reversed as a credit to the income statement, net of any depreciation that would have been charged since the impairment.
Share-based compensation
The fair value of the employee and suppliers' services received in exchange for the grant of the options is recognised as an expense. The total amount to be expensed over the vesting year is determined by reference to the fair value of the options granted, excluding the impact of any non-market vesting conditions (for example, profitability and sales growth targets).
Non-market vesting conditions are included in assumptions about the number of options that are expected to vest. At each statement of financial position date, the entity revises its estimates of the number of options that are expected to vest. It recognises the impact of the revision to original estimates, if any, in the income statement, with a corresponding adjustment to equity. The proceeds received net of any directly attributable transaction costs are credited to share capital (nominal value) and share premium when the options are exercised.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Share-based compensation (continued)
The fair value of share-based payments recognised in the statement of comprehensive income is measured by use of the Black Scholes model, which takes into account conditions attached to the vesting and exercise of the equity instruments. The expected life used in the model is adjusted; based on management's best estimate, for the effects of non-transferability, exercise restrictions and behavioural considerations. The share price volatility percentage factor used in the calculation is based on management's best estimate of future share price behaviour and is selected based on past experience, future expectations and benchmarks against peer companies in the industry.
The Group does not operate any cash-settled share-based payments and as such are not affected by the amendments to IFRS 2 - Share-based payments.
Revenue recognition
Revenue comprises the fair value of the consideration received or receivable in relation to the proceeds by the prospects which the company has a working interest in. Revenue is shown net of value-added tax, returns, rebates and discounts and after eliminating sales within the Group. Revenue is recognised when the oil and gas produced is despatched and received by the customers. The directors consider this the point when the Company's performance obligation is satisfied.
The directors consider that revenue generation is exclusively for oil production in the US and so no further segmentation is required.
Leased assets
The Group as a lessee
A lease is defined as 'a contract, or part of a contract, that conveys the right to use an asset (the underlying asset) for a period of time in exchange for consideration'.
To apply this definition the Group assesses whether the contract meets three key evaluations which are whether:
· the contract contains an identified asset, which is either explicitly identified in the contract or implicitly specified by being identified at the time the asset is made available to the Group
· the Group has the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from use of the identified asset throughout the period of use, considering its rights within the defined scope of the contract
· the Group has the right to direct the use of the identified asset throughout the period of use. The Group assess whether it has the right to direct 'how and for what purpose' the asset is used throughout the period of use.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Measurement and recognition of leases as a lessee
At lease commencement date, the Group recognises a right-of-use asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet. The right-of-use asset is measured at cost, which is made up of the initial measurement of the lease liability, any initial direct costs incurred by the Group, an estimate of any costs to dismantle and remove the asset at the end of the lease, and any lease payments made in advance of the lease commencement date (net of any incentives received).
The Group depreciates the right-of-use assets on a straight-line basis from the lease commencement date to the earlier of the end of the useful life of the right-of-use asset or the end of the lease term. The Group also assesses the right-of-use asset for impairment when such indicators exist.
At lease commencement date, the Group recognises a right-of-use asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet. The right-of-use asset is measured at cost, which is made up of the initial measurement of the lease liability, any initial direct costs incurred by the Group, an estimate of any costs to dismantle and remove the asset at the end of the lease, and any lease payments made in advance of the lease commencement date (net of any incentives received).
The Group depreciates the right-of-use assets on a straight-line basis from the lease commencement date to the earlier of the end of the useful life of the right-of-use asset or the end of the lease term. The Group also assesses the right-of-use asset for impairment when such indicators exist.
At the commencement date, the Group measures the lease liability at the present value of the lease payments unpaid at that date, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease if that rate is readily available or the Group's incremental borrowing rate.
Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability are made up of fixed payments (including in substance fixed), variable payments based on an index or rate, amounts expected to be payable under a residual value guarantee and payments arising from options reasonably certain to be exercised.
Subsequent to initial measurement, the liability will be reduced for payments made and increased for interest. It is remeasured to reflect any reassessment or modification, or if there are changes in in-substance fixed payments.
When the lease liability is remeasured, the corresponding adjustment is reflected in the right-of-use asset, or profit and loss if the right-of-use asset is already reduced to zero.
The Group has elected to account for short-term leases and leases of low-value assets using the practical expedients. Instead of recognising a right-of-use asset and lease liability, the payments in relation to these are recognised as an expense in profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
On the statement of financial position, right-of-use assets have been included in property, plant and equipment and lease liabilities have been included in trade and other payables.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
2. Critical accounting estimates and judgements
The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires the Group to make estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts. Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and assumptions which have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities are discussed below:
Impairment of property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are reviewed for impairment if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. When a review for impairment is conducted, the recoverable amount is determined based on value in use calculations prepared on the basis of management's assumptions and estimates.
Recoverability of exploration and evaluation costs
E&E assets are assessed for impairment when circumstances suggest that the carrying amount may exceed its recoverable value including decommissioning costs. This assessment involves judgment as to (i) the likely future commerciality of the asset and when such commerciality should be determined, and (ii) future revenues and costs pertaining to the asset in question, and the discount rate to be applied to such revenues and costs for the purpose of deriving a recoverable value.
Share-based payments
Note 1 sets out the Group's accounting policy on share-based payments, specifically in relation to the share options and warrants that the Company has granted. The key assumptions underlying the fair value of such share-based payments are discussed in note 23. The fair value amounts used by the Group have been derived by external consultants using standard recognised valuation techniques.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
3. Segmental analysis
In the opinion of the directors, the Group has one class of business, being the exploitation of hydrocarbon resources.
The Group's primary reporting format is determined by geographical segment according to the location of the hydrocarbon assets. The Group's reportable segments under IFRS 8 in the year are as follows:
United Kingdom - being the location of the head office.
US Mid-Continent properties at year end included the following:
· East Texas: 100% working interest in the Pine Mills oilfield
· East Texas: 32.5% working interest in the Cypress farmout area of Pine Mills
· West Texas: 50-100% working interest leases located in the Permian Basin
· South Texas: 100% working interest in the Caballos Creek oilfield
The chief operating decision maker's internal report for the year ended 31 December 2024 is based on the location of the oil properties as disclosed in the below table:
SEGMENTAL RESULTS | US mid-continent 2024 $'000 | Head office 2024 $'000 | Total 2024 $'000 |
Revenue | 2,038 | - | 2,038 |
Operating profit (loss) before depreciation, well impairment, share-based payment charges, restructuring costs and gain (loss) on sale of assets and foreign exchange: | 700 | (1,098) | (398) |
Depreciation of tangibles | (383) | - | (383) |
Amortisation of intangibles | (253) | - | (253) |
Share based payments | - | (41) | (41) |
Foreign exchange gain | - | (26) | (26) |
Operating profit/(loss) | 64 | (1,164) | (1,100) |
Finance expense | (402) | (7) | (409) |
Other income | - | - | - |
Profit/(loss) before taxation | (338) | (1,171) | (1,509) |
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
3. Segmental analysis (continued)
SEGMENTAL ASSETS | US mid-continent 2024 $'000 | Head office 2024 $'000 | Total 2024 $'000 |
Property, plant and equipment | 1,196 | - | 1,196 |
Intangible assets | 2,517 | - | 2,517 |
Cash and cash equivalents | 13 | 93 | 106 |
Trade and other receivables | 448 | 30 | 478 |
| 4,174 | 123 | 4,297 |
The chief operating decision maker's internal report for the year ended 31 December 2023 is based on the location of the oil properties as disclosed in the below table:
SEGMENTAL RESULTS | US mid-continent 2023 $'000 | Head office 2023 $'000 | Total 2023 $'000 |
Revenue | 2,816 | - | 2,816 |
Operating profit (loss) before depreciation, well impairment, share-based payment charges, restructuring costs and gain (loss) on sale of assets and foreign exchange: | 1,470 | (974) | 496 |
Depreciation of tangibles | (324) | - | (324) |
Amortisation of intangibles | (251) | - | (251) |
Share based payments | - | (41) | (41) |
Foreign exchange gain (loss) | (2) | (4) | (6) |
Operating profit/(loss) | 893 | (1,019) | (126) |
Finance expense | (351) | (17) | (368) |
Other income | 22 | - | 22 |
Profit/(loss) before taxation | 563 | (1,035) | (472) |
SEGMENTAL ASSETS | |||
Property, plant and equipment | 1,230 | - | 1,230 |
Intangible assets | 2,389 | - | 2,389 |
Cash and cash equivalents | 23 | 3 | 26 |
Trade and other receivables | 552 | 24 | 576 |
| 4,194 | 27 | 4,221 |
For the year ended 31 December 2024
4. Employees and Directors
2024 | 2023 | |
$'000 | $'000 | |
|
| |
Directors' fees | 120 | 147 |
Directors' remuneration | 230 | 190 |
Social security costs | 9 | 13 |
359 | 350 |
2024 | 2023 | |
Number | Number | |
The average monthly number of employees (including directors) | ||
during the year was as follows: | ||
Directors | 4 | 4 |
Directors' remuneration
Other than the directors, the Group had no other employees. Total remuneration paid to directors during the year was as listed above.
The director's emoluments and other benefits for the year ended 31 December 2024 is as follows:
2024 | 2023 | |
$'000 | $'000 | |
|
| |
P Welch | 136 | - |
J Newman | - | - |
S Staley | 64 | - |
J Stafford | 39 | - |
M B Lofgran | 111 | 190 |
5. Finance expense
2024 | 2023 | |
$'000 | $'000 | |
|
| |
Finance expense | 409 | 368 |
Finance expense relates to interest charged on borrowings. Further details for which can be found in note 18.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
6. Other income
2024 | 2023 | |
$'000 | $'000 | |
|
| |
Other income | - | 22 |
- | 22 |
Other income relates to sundry income received from operating oil wells in addition to the oil sales.
7. Operating loss
2024 | 2023 | |
$'000 | $'000 | |
The operating loss the year ended 31 December is stated after | ||
charging/ (crediting) | ||
Depreciation of property, plant, and equipment | 383 | 324 |
Amortisation of intangibles | 253 | 251 |
Well impairment | - | - |
The analysis of administrative expenses in the consolidated income statement by nature of expense: | ||
Directors' remuneration | 230 | 190 |
Depreciation on ROU asset | - | - |
Social security costs | 9 | 13 |
Directors' fees | 120 | 147 |
Travelling and entertainment | 23 | 9 |
Accountancy fees | 61 | 82 |
Legal and professional fees | - | 252 |
Auditors' remuneration | 22 | 22 |
Bad debt costs | - | - |
Other expenses | 77 | 155 |
1,177 | 870 |
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
8. Income tax
The income tax charge for the year was as follows: | 2024 | 2023 |
$'000 | $'000 | |
|
| |
Current tax | - | - |
Corporation tax | - | - |
Overseas corporation tax | - | - |
TOTAL | - | - |
|
|
|
Loss before tax | (1,509) | (472) |
| ||
Loss on ordinary activities before taxation multiplied by the | ||
standard rate of UK corporation tax of 25% (2023:25%) | (377) | (118) |
| ||
Effects of: | ||
Non-deductible expenses | 10 | 10 |
Other tax adjustments | 367 | 108 |
CURRENT TAX CHARGE | - | - |
At 31 December 2024, the Group had an estimated tax losses to carry forward of $7,844,000 (2023: $6,375,110). The deferred tax asset at 25% (2023: 25%) on these tax losses of $1,961,000 (2023: $1,593,778) has not been recognised due to the uncertainty of recovery. The current US corporate tax rate is 21%.
9. Loss of Parent Company
As permitted by Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, the income statement of the parent company is not presented as part of these financial statements. The parent company's loss for the financial year was $1,172,000 (2023: $1,035,000).
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
10. Earnings per share
The calculation of earnings per ordinary share is based on earnings after tax and the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year. For diluted earnings per share, the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue is adjusted to assume conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares. The Group had two classes of dilutive potential ordinary shares, being those share options granted to employees and suppliers where the exercise price is less than the average market price of the Group's ordinary shares during the year, and warrants granted to directors and one former adviser.
Details of the adjusted earnings per share are set out below:
2024 | 2023 | |
GROUP | ||
|
| |
Loss attributable to ordinary shareholders ($'000) | (1,509) | (472) |
| ||
Weighted average number of shares | 1,925,182,923 | 746,520,534 |
| ||
CONTINUED OPERATIONS: BASIC AND DILUTED EPS - LOSS (cents) | (0.08) | (0.06) |
The diluted loss per share is the same as the basic loss per share as the loss for the year has an antidilutive effect.
2024 | 2023 | |
| $'000 | $'000 |
Gross profit before depreciation, depletion, amortisation and impairment | 824 | 1,408 |
EPS on gross profit before depreciation, depletion, amortisation and impairment (cents) | 0.04 | 0.19 |
RECONCILIATION FROM GROSS PROFIT TO GROSS PROFIT BEFORE DEPLETION, DEPRECIATION, AMORTISATION AND IMPAIRMENT | ||
| ||
Gross profit | 143 | 791 |
ADD BACK: | ||
Exploration | - | - |
Well impairment | - | - |
Depletion, depreciation and amortisation | 681 | 617 |
Gross profit before depletion, depreciation, amortisation and impairment | 824 | 1,408 |
For the year ended 31 December 2024
11. Intangible assets
GROUP | Licences $'000 | Exploration & evaluation assets $'000 | Development & production assets $'000 | Total $'000 |
COST |
|
|
| |
At 1 January 2023 | 524 | 1,939 | 4,292 | 6,755 |
Additions | - | - | 416 | 416 |
Disposals | - | - | - | - |
At 31 December 2023 | 524 | 1,939 | 4,708 | 7,171 |
Additions | - | 106 | 349 | 454 |
Disposals | - | - | (98) | (98) |
At 31 December 2024 | 524 | 2,045 | 4,959 | 7,529 |
PROVISION |
|
|
|
|
At 1 January 2023 | 524 | 1,939 | 2,068 | 4,531 |
Charge for the year | - | - | 251 | 245 |
Impairment | - | - | - | - |
Disposals | - | - | - | - |
At 31 December 2023 | 524 | 1,939 | 2,319 | 4,782 |
Charge for the year | - | - | 253 | 253 |
Impairment | - | - | - | - |
Disposals | - | - | (24) | (24) |
At 31 December 2024 | 524 | 1,939 | 2,548 | 5,011 |
CARRYING VALUE At 31 December 2024 | - | 106 | 2,411 | 2,517 |
At 31 December 2023 | - | - | 2,389 | 2,389 |
The Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that the intangible assets may be impaired, by considering the net present value of discounted cash flows forecasts. If an indication exists an impairment review is carried out by reference to available engineering information.
Amortisation, impairment charges and any profit or loss on disposal of the capitalised intangible costs is included within cost of sales in the consolidated income statement.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
11. Intangible assets (continued)
COMPANY |
|
| Development & production assets $'000 | Total $'000 |
COST |
|
|
| |
At 1 January 2023 |
|
| 398 | 398 |
Additions | - | - | ||
Disposals | - | - | ||
At 31 December 2023 | 398 | 398 | ||
Additions | - | - | ||
Disposals | - | - | ||
At 31 December 2024 |
|
| 398 | 398 |
PROVISION |
|
|
|
|
At 1 January 2023 |
|
| 93 | 93 |
Charge for the year | 42 | 42 | ||
Impairment | - | - | ||
Disposals | - | - | ||
At 31 December 2023 |
|
| 135 | 135 |
Charge for the year | 39 | 39 | ||
Impairment | - | - | ||
Disposals | - | - | ||
|
| |||
At 31 December 2024 |
|
| 174 | 174 |
CARRYING VALUE At 31 December 2024 |
|
| 224 | 224 |
At 31 December 2023 | 263 | 263 |
The Company assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that the intangible assets may be impaired, by considering the net present value of discounted cash flows forecasts. If an indication exists an impairment review is carried out by reference to available engineering information.
Amortisation, impairment charges and any profit or loss on disposal of the capitalised intangible costs is included within cost of sales in the consolidated income statement.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
12. Property, plant and equipment
GROUP | Office space - right of use $'000 | Plant & equipment - oil and gas assets $'000 | Total $'000 |
COST | |||
At 1 January 2023 | 48 | 2,257 | 2,305 |
Additions | - | 248 | 248 |
Disposals | - | (2) | (2) |
At 31 December 2023 | 48 | 2,503 | 2,551 |
Additions | - | 530 | 530 |
Disposals | - | (250) | (250) |
At 31 December 2024 | 48 | 2,783 | 2,831 |
DEPRECIATION |
|
|
|
At 1 January 2023 | 48 | 949 | 997 |
Charge for the year | - | 324 | 324 |
Disposals | - | - | - |
At 31 December 2023 | 48 | 1,273 | 1,321 |
Charge for the year | - | 382 | 382 |
Disposals | - | (68) | (68) |
At 31 December 2024 | 48 | 1,587 | 1,635 |
CARRYING VALUEAt 31 December 2024 | - | 1,196 | 1,196 |
At 31 December 2023 | - | 1,230 | 1,230 |
Depreciation charges are included within cost of sales in the Consolidated Income Statement.
In addition, the directors are of the opinion that no impairment should be provided.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
12. Property, plant and equipment (continued)
COMPANY |
| Plant & equipment - oil and gas assets $'000 | Total $'000 |
COST | |||
At 1 January 2023 |
| 178 | 178 |
Additions | 4 | 4 | |
Disposals | - | - | |
At 31 December 2023 |
| 182 | 182 |
Additions | - | - | |
Disposals | - | - | |
|
| ||
At 31 December 2024 |
| 182 | 182 |
DEPRECIATION |
|
|
|
At 1 January 2023 |
| 34 | 34 |
Charge for the year | 18 | 18 | |
Disposals | - | - | |
At 31 December 2023 |
| 52 | 52 |
Charge for the year | 18 | 18 | |
Disposals | - | - | |
At 31 December 2024 |
| 70 | 70 |
CARRYING VALUEAt 31 December 2024 |
| 112 | 112 |
At 31 December 2023 | 130 | 130 |
Depreciation charges are included within cost of sales in the Consolidated Income Statement.
In addition, the directors are of the opinion that no impairment should be provided.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)For the year ended 31 December 2024
13. Leases
The Group has a lease for the office space in Dallas, Texas, USA. The Company has entered into short-term lease effective from 1 February 2023 and is annually renewed. The Group does not hold any other office leases. No lease liabilities are presented in the Statement of Financial Position.
14. Fixed Asset Investments
COMPANY | Investment in subsidiaries $'000 | Loans to subsidiaries $'000 | Total $'000 |
COST |
|
| |
At 1 January 2023 | 1 | 15,434 | 15,435 |
Additions | - | - | - |
Reductions | - | - | - |
At 31 December 2023 | 1 | 15,434 | 15,435 |
Additions | - | - | - |
Disposals | - | - | - |
At 31 December 2024 | 1 | 15,434 | 15,435 |
PROVISON |
|
|
|
At 1 January 2023 | 1 | (15,434) | (15,435) |
Charge for the year | - | - | - |
Reductions | - | - | - |
At 31 December 2023 | 1 | (15,434) | (15,435) |
Charge for the year | |||
At 31 December 2024 | 1 | (15,434) | (15,435) |
CARRYING VALUE |
|
|
|
At 31 December 2024 | - | - | - |
At 31 December 2023 | - | - | - |
For the year ended 31 December 2024
14. Fixed Asset Investments (continued)
In the opinion of the directors, the aggregate value of the Company's investment in subsidiary undertakings is not less than the amount included in the statement of financial position.
Historically, loans to participating interests are reported as an increase in the Company's investment in the joint venture but have been provided for. As the Group acquired 100% shareholding in the joint venture in 2017 this balance had been transferred to loan to subsidiaries.
The details of the subsidiaries held at 31 December 2024 are as set out below:
| Shareholding | Country of incorporation | Nature of business |
New Horizon Energy 1 LLC (NHE) | 100% | USA | Oil & gas exploration |
Buccaneer Operating, LLC (Buccaneer) | 100% | USA | Oil & gas exploration |
15. Trade and other receivables
GROUP |
| COMPANY | |||
2024 | 2023 |
| 2024 | 2023 | |
$'000 | $'000 |
| $'000 | $'000 | |
CURRENT | |||||
Trade and other receivables | 103 | 143 | - | - | |
Other taxes and receivables | 376 | 405 | 30 | 24 | |
479 | 548 |
| 30 | 24 |
The directors consider the carrying value of the receivables to approximate their fair value.
16. Cash and cash equivalents
GROUP |
| COMPANY | |||
2024 | 2023 |
| 2024 | 2023 | |
$'000 | $'000 |
| $'000 | $'000 | |
| |||||
Bank current accounts | 106 | 26 | 93 | 3 | |
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
17. Trade and other payables
GROUP |
| COMPANY | |||
2024 | 2023 |
| 2024 | 2023 | |
$'000 | $'000 |
| $'000 | $'000 | |
CURRENT | |||||
Trade payables | 729 | 779 | 554 | 594 | |
Amounts owed to group undertakings | - | - | 2,748 | 3,108 | |
Accruals and deferred income | 71 | 86 | 37 | 52 | |
Other taxes payables | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | |
Other payables | 119 | 56 | 119 | 45 | |
922 | 924 |
| 3,461 | 3,802 | |
|
|
|
|
| |
Decommissioning liability | 428 | 382 |
| 42 | 30 |
Trade payables and accruals principally comprise amounts outstanding for trade purchases and on-going expenses. The directors consider that the carrying amount of trade and other payables approximates their fair value.
Trade payables and accruals principally comprise amounts outstanding for trade purchases and on-going expenses. The directors consider that the carrying amount of trade and other payables approximates their fair value.
Included in trade payables is the decommissioning liability, this has been calculated at a discount rate of 10% and an inflation factor of 3%. This is comparable to the Group's options at the time of the well in-service dates.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
18. Financial liabilities - borrowing
GROUP |
| COMPANY | |||
Maturity of the borrowings is as follows: | 2024 | 2023 |
| 2024 | 2023 |
$'000 | $'000 |
| $'000 | $'000 | |
Repayable within one year | |||||
Bank loan | - | - | - | - | |
Other loans | 49 | 110 | 49 | 110 | |
Repayable after one year | |||||
Bank loan | 4,247 | 4,247 | - | - | |
Other loans | - | 72 | - | 72 | |
| 4,296 | 4,429 |
| 49 | 182 |
Borrowings include a facility where the loans are secured against the Group's interest in its assets. At the year end the outstanding balance was $4,247,000 (2023: $4,247,000). Interest is currently charged for any day per annum at 8.75%. In January 2025 the nominal facility of $10 million was extended by three years to 29 January 2028. The Borrowing Base was determined to be US $10,452,850 based on improved production and cashflow during 2024. The size of the Facility and Borrowing Base will be reassessed at least twice yearly. The Board anticipates the Facility and Borrowing Base will increase as the Company's production and reserves increase.
The Group also has other loans with a total outstanding balance as at the year-end of $49,000 (2023: $182,000), with interest charged at 8% per year.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
19. Share capital
Number | Class | Nominal value | 2024 $'000 | 2023 $'000 |
|
|
|
| |
746 Million | Ordinary | £0.00100 | - | 1,593 |
4,775 million | Ordinary | £0.00010 | 673 | - |
4,110 million (2023: 4,110 million) | Deferred | £0.00098 | 6,549 | 6,549 |
1,022 million | New Deferred | £0.00090 | 1,749 | - |
On 17 July 2024 the existing 1,022 million shares of nominal value £0.001 were subdivided into one Ordinary Share of £0.0001 and Deferred Share of £0.0009 each.
During the year there were a number of shares Issues:
· 11 January 2024 - 275,000,000 new ordinary shares issued at £0.0012. 100,000,000 were subscription shares, 150,000,000 were fundraise shares & 25,000,000 were note conversion shares.
· 29 July 2024 - 1,539,999,998 new ordinary shares issued at £0.0003 in respect of fund raise.
· 20 September 2024 - 40,000,000 new ordinary shares issued at £0.0005 in respect of fund raise.
· 21 November 2024 - 2,173,913,042 new ordinary shares issued at £0.00023 in respect of fund raise.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
20. Risk and sensitivity analysis
The Group's activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: interest rate risk, liquidity risk, foreign currency risk, capital risk and credit risk. The Group's activities also expose it to non-financial risks: market, legal and environment risk. The Group's overall risk management programme focuses on unpredictability and seeks to minimise the potential adverse effects on the Group's financial performance. The board, on a regular basis, reviews key risks and, where appropriate, actions are taken to mitigate the key risks identified.
Capital risk
The Group's objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the ability to continue as a going concern in order to provide returns for shareholders and benefits to other stakeholders and to maintain an optimal capital structure to reduce the cost of capital.
Market risk
The Group also faces risks in conducting operations in US mid-continent, which include but are not limited to:
· Fluctuations in the global economy could disrupt the Group's ability to operate its business in the US Mid-Continent and could discourage foreign and local investment and spending, which could adversely affect its production.
Environmental risk
The Group faces environmental risks in conducting operations in the US Mid-Continent which include but are not limited to:
· If the Group is found not to be in compliance with applicable laws or regulations, it could be exposed to additional costs, which might hinder the Group's ability to operate its business.
Credit risk
The Group's principal financial assets are bank balances and cash, trade and other receivables. The Group's credit risk is primarily attributable to its trade receivables. The amounts presented in the balance sheet are net of allowances for doubtful receivables. An allowance for impairment is made where there is an identified loss which, based on previous experience, is evidence of a reduction in the recoverability of the cash flows.
For the year ended 31 December 2024
20. Risk and sensitivity analysis (continued)
Volatility of crude oil prices
A material part of the Group's revenue will be derived from the sale of oil that it expects to produce. A substantial or extended decline in prices for crude oil and refined products could adversely affect the Group's revenues, cash flows, profitability and ability to finance its planned capital expenditure. West Texas Intermediate ("WTI") oil prices ranged from $66.37 to $85.35 in 2024 and $70.25 to $89.43 in 2023. The Group had no hedging activity during 2024.
Interest rate risk
The Group does not hedge this risk. At 31 December 2024, the Group had borrowings of $4,296,000 (2023: $4,429,000), with total interest for the year of $409,000 (2023: $369,000). A 100-basis point change in the rates will increase finance costs by $43,140.
Liquidity risk
The Group expects to fund its exploration and development programme, as well as its administrative and operating expenses throughout 2024, principally using existing working capital and expected proceeds from the sale of future crude oil production. The Group had a bank balance of approximately $106,000 at 31 December 2024 (2023: $26,000).
Cash flow risk
The Group expects to have sufficient working capital to continue operations and to remain cash flow positive through 2024. This will be continuously monitored and reviewed by the directors through the inclusion of regular cash flow forecasts in management reports.
21. Financial commitments
Capital commitments
The Group had no material capital commitments at the year-end.
22. Related party transactions
Group
No related party transactions other than those highlighted below.
Company
At the year end, the Company owed its subsidiaries $2,747,000 (2023: $3,108,000) in respect of intercompany loans that are unsecured and interest-free.
For the year ended 31 December 2024
23. Share-based payments
The Group has a share-ownership compensation scheme for senior executives of the Group whereby senior executives may be granted options to purchase ordinary shares in the Company. The Group has previously issued warrants to senior executives as a welcome incentive and to third parties as consideration for their services. A share-based payment charge of $40,647 (2023: $40,481) for share options was expensed during the year.
Date of grant | At 31.12.23 | Granted | Exercised | Expired | At 31.12.24 | Exercise price | Exercise/vesting date | |
pence | From | To | ||||||
Warrants | ||||||||
11/01/24 | - | 17,000,000 | - | - | 17,000,000 | 0.012* | 11/01/24 | 10/01/27 |
29/07/24 | - | 41,000,000 | - | - | 41,000,000 | 0.03 | 29/07/24 | 28/07/26 |
Options | ||||||||
29/10/14 | 300,000 | - | - | 300,000 | - | 0.04* | 29/10/14 | 28/10/24 |
04/06/18 | 9,500,000 | - | - | - | 9,500,000 | 0.5* | 04/06/18 | 03/06/25 |
29/09/20 | 5,000,000 | - | - | - | 5,000,000 | 0.05* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
29/09/20 | 5,000,000 | - | - | - | 5,000,000 | 0.075* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
29/09/20 | 5,000,000 | - | - | - | 5,000,000 | 0.1* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
29/09/20 | 733,333 | - | - | - | 733,333 | 0.05* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
29/09/20 | 733,333 | - | - | - | 733,333 | 0.075* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
29/09/20 | 733,334 | - | - | - | 733,334 | 0.1* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
29/09/20 | 1,666,666 | - | - | - | 1,666,666 | 0.05* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
29/09/20 | 1,666,667 | - | - | - | 1,666,667 | 0.075* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
29/09/20 | 1,666,667 | - | - | - | 1,666,667 | 0.1* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
29/09/20 | 1,333,333 | - | - | - | 1,333,333 | 0.05* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
29/09/20 | 1,333,333 | - | - | - | 1,333,333 | 0.075* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
29/09/20 | 1,333,334 | - | - | - | 1,333,334 | 0.1* | 29/09/20 | 29/09/27 |
* Prices have been divided by 10 to reflect the subdivision of Ordinary Shares from 0.1p to 0.01p on 19 July 2024.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
23. Share-based payments (continued)
The total number of options and warrants outstanding at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023 are as follows:
Total at 31 December 2024: 93,700,000
Total at 31 December 2023: 36,000,000
The number of options and warrants outstanding to the directors at the year-end were as follows:
Director | Warrants | Options | Total Warrants & Options | |||
2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | |
M Lofgran | - | - | 21,000,000 | 21,300,000 | 21,000,000 | 21,300,000 |
S Staley | - | - | 5,000,000 | 5,000,000 | 5,000,000 | 5,000,000 |
J Stafford | - | - | 5,500,000 | 5,500,000 | 5,500,000 | 5,500,000 |
Total | - | - | 31,500,000 | 31,800,000 | 31,500,000 | 31,800,000 |
The estimated fair value of the warrants issued in previous years was calculated by applying the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Volatility is based on historic share prices of the Company. The assumptions used in the calculation were as follows:
Warrants | 11 Jan 2024 | 29 Jul 2024 |
|
|
Share price at grant date | 0.12p | 0.03p | ||
Exercise price | 0.012p* | 0.03p | ||
Option life in years | 3 years | 2 years | ||
Risk free rate | 3.79% | 3.60% | ||
Expected volatility | 57% | 125% | ||
Expected dividend yield | 0% | 0% | ||
Fair value of option/warrant | 0.043p | 0.018p | ||
Weighted average remaining life (years) | 2.03 | 1.58 |
* Prices have been divided by 10 to reflect the subdivision of Ordinary Shares from 0.1p to 0.01p on 17 July 2024.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)For the year ended 31 December 2024
23. Share-based payments (continued)
Options | 28 Oct 2014 | 4 June 2018 - Directors | 29 Sep 2020 | 29 Sep 2020 |
Share price at grant date | 2.65p | 2.50p | 0.38p | 0.38p |
Exercise price | 0.04p* | 0.5p* | 0.05p* | 0.075p* |
Option life in years | 10 years | 7 years | 7 years | 7 years |
Risk free rate | 1% | 1% | 1% | 1% |
Expected volatility | 50% | 50% | 50% | 50% |
Expected dividend yield | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% |
Fair value of option/warrant | 0.13p | 1.85p | 0.16p | 0.50p |
Weighted average remaining life (years) | - | 0.43 | 2.75 | 2.75 |
Options | 29 Sep 2020 |
Share price at grant date | 0.38p |
Exercise price | 0.1p* |
Option life in years | 7 years |
Risk free rate | 1% |
Expected volatility | 50% |
Expected dividend yield | 0% |
Fair value of option/warrant | 0.26p |
Weighted average remaining life (years) | 2.75 |
* Prices have been divided by 10 to reflect the subdivision of Ordinary Shares from 0.1p to 0.01p on 19 July 2024.
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)For the year ended 31 December 2024
24. Contingent liabilities and guarantees
The Group has no contingent liabilities in respect of legal claims arising from the ordinary course of business and it is not anticipated that any material liabilities will arise from contingent liabilities other than those provided for.
25. Ultimate controlling party
The Company is quoted on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange. At the date of the annual report there was no one controlling party.
26. Events after the reporting period
On 4 March 2025 the Company raised £500,000 (before expenses) through a subscription and placing of 2,173,913,043 new ordinary shares at a price of 0.023p per share.
Related Shares:
Nostra Terra