Key Highlights

  • Finder Energy shares were trading at $0.23 during the 13 November 2026 session, up 9.52%.
  • The national petroleum authority approved the field development plan and environmental impact statement for the KTJ project.
  • A contract for the Hakuryu-5 drilling rig has been executed, and the farm-in agreement with TIMOR GAP was extended to 30 November 2026.

During the Trading session on 13 November 2026, Finder Energy Holdings Ltd (ASX:FDR) shares were trading at $0.23, up 9.52%, while the S&P/ASX 200 was down 0.73% at 9,079.70 at 12:39 pm AEDT. Finder is an oil and gas company focused on the Kuda Tasi and Jahal (KTJ) Project. Its latest update was its Quarterly Report for the period ended 30 September 2026, released on 29 October 2026.

Regulatory approvals for the KTJ project

During the quarter, the national petroleum authority approved the field development plan and environmental impact statement for the KTJ Project. Finder said these approvals establish the key regulatory foundations for development. Independent reserves and resource work confirmed maiden gross 2P reserves of 22.2 million stock tank barrels for the initial three-well development, along with 2.2 million stock tank barrels of gross 2C contingent resources linked to a potential infill well.

Drilling rig and contracting progress

International EPCI tendering was completed, and the company said selected contractors are aligned on a competitive and executable development solution as contract negotiations advance. Subsequent to quarter end, Finder executed a contract with ENEOS Drilling for the Hakuryu-5 rig, covering the initial three-well program, with Options for two additional wells subject to remaining approvals. Debt Financing is progressing, supported by greater clarity on project costs.

Farm-in agreement and cash position

The farm-in agreement with TIMOR GAP has been extended to 30 November 2026, giving additional time to complete remaining contracting, financing and joint venture approvals needed for a final Investment decision. Cash at quarter end was A$25.4 million.

Sector context

Development of offshore oil fields typically involves a long sequence of regulatory approvals, contractor selection and financing before a final investment decision is made. Contractor availability for drilling rigs and offshore construction can influence timing and cost. Oil price movements also shape the Economics of projects at this stage, and the sector remains sensitive to global Supply conditions.

Risks investors are watching

The project has not yet reached a final investment decision, and the farm-in deadline of 30 November leaves a limited window to complete the remaining contracting, financing and joint venture steps. Project costs and debt terms are still being finalised, and development could be delayed if financing is not secured. Oil price changes and execution risk on the three-well program are also relevant for the company.

What to watch ahead

Investors will look for the outcome of the farm-in extension, the completion of debt financing, the final contract terms for the EPCI work and any decision on the final investment timeline. The next quarterly report will also show progress on the rig program and cash position.

Final Word

Finder's latest quarterly report shows the KTJ Project moving through approvals, rig contracting and financing steps. Whether these milestones lead to a final investment decision will be the next key measure for the company.