GeoPark Enters Venezuela’s Orinoco Belt in Gilinski-Backed Deal

The Bare Block holds an estimated 15.7 billion barrels of oil in place, currently yielding 11,000 barrels daily. GeoPark aims to scale this output significantly, targeting a peak production potential of 95,000 barrels per day. The redevelopment plan projects net production of 400 million barrels for the company, a move CEO Felipe Bayon describes as a primary industrial opportunity within Latin America.

Funding for the acquisition relies on an equity issuance priced at $12.22 per share, preserving GeoPark’s $700 million liquidity position. Once finalized, the deal grants billionaire Jaime Gilinski’s conglomerate a 56.3% stake in the NYSE-listed energy firm. This transaction follows a broader industry trend this week, with companies including Chevron, ENI, and GE Vernova signing similar agreements in Caracas to revitalize Venezuela's long-dormant petroleum infrastructure.