GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo. & CALGARY, Alberta - Vitesse Energy, Inc. (NYSE: VTS) and Lucero Energy Corp. (TSXV: LOU, OTCQB: PSHIF) announced an all-stock acquisition agreement that values Lucero at $222 million. Under the agreement, Lucero shareholders will receive 0.01239 of a Vitesse common share for each Lucero share they hold. The transaction is expected to immediately benefit Vitesse's earnings, cash flow, and net asset value.
The acquisition, which is subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals, is anticipated to close by the second quarter of 2025. Post-acquisition, Vitesse plans to raise its annual cash dividend from $2.10 to $2.25 per share. Vitesse's net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio is projected to be approximately 0.3x shortly after closing. InvestingPro analysis shows Lucero has demonstrated solid revenue growth of 16.45% over the last twelve months, with total revenue reaching $393 million. InvestingPro subscribers can access 7 additional key insights about Lucero's financial position and market performance.
Lucero's operations, which include more than 65 producing wells, will add an operational component to Vitesse's strategy, offering flexibility in capital expenditure with additional drilling locations in the Bakken region. Vitesse has also hedged a significant portion of the acquired oil production through the end of 2026, aiming to secure stable cash flows and support its dividend strategy.
Upon closing, Vitesse stockholders will own about 80% of the combined company, with Lucero shareholders holding the remaining 20%. The leadership of Vitesse will continue to guide the company, while Gary Reaves and M. Bruce Chernoff, significant shareholders of Lucero, will join the Vitesse Board.
The companies have unanimously approved the transaction, with Lucero's board recommending shareholders vote in favor. Key Lucero shareholders, representing approximately 63% of outstanding shares, have agreed to support the deal.
Vitesse's Chairman and CEO, Bob Gerrity, noted the acquisition will complement their existing business and enhance their ability to pay dividends. Lucero's President & CEO, Brett Herman, expressed pride in the company's growth and the value this transaction will deliver to shareholders. Based on InvestingPro Fair Value analysis, Lucero appears to be trading below its intrinsic value, suggesting potential upside for investors in the combined entity. The company's strong balance sheet position, with liquid assets exceeding short-term obligations, provides a solid foundation for the merger.
Both companies expect to achieve annual general and administrative synergies of approximately $3 million. The financial advisors for Vitesse are Jefferies LLC and Evercore, while RBC (TSX:RY) Capital Markets and Peters & Co. are advising Lucero.
The information presented is based on a press release statement.
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