In an interview with Bloomberg, Patrick Pouyanné, CEO of TotalEnergies, emphasized that consideration of a primary listing in New York was “a legitimate question” in view of the growing predominance of North American institutional shareholders. They now represent almost half of the shareholder base, with an increase from 33% to 48% since 2012, including 47% from the United States.
Shareholder background and investment strategy
The CEO explained that while European shareholders are selling or maintaining their stakes, those in the United States are in an active acquisition phase. Despite this change in shareholder base, TotalEnergies’ head office will remain in Paris. The group plans to invest between 17 and 18 billion euros by 2024, of which 5 billion will be allocated to the “integrated electricity” division, covering renewable energy sources and gas.
European perception and the energy transition
Pouyanné also addressed European reluctance to TotalEnergies’ strategy of continuing to invest in fossil fuels while financing the transition to low-carbon energies. He criticized the lack of support in Europe for companies engaged in this transition, despite the associated challenges.
U.S. expansion and energy diversification
TotalEnergies consolidated its presence in the United States, the leading exporter of American liquefied gas and active in battery storage and renewable electricity projects. This expansion reflects an adaptation to the global dynamics of the energy market, where demand continues to grow.
The potential relocation of TotalEnergies’ main listing to New York marks a major strategic step for the company, illustrating its adaptation to global investment trends and the need to meet the expectations of its majority shareholders.
