In a significant shift within Colombia’s environmental sector, Rodrigo Negrete has stepped down as director of the National Environmental Licensing Agency (ANLA) after more than two years in the role.
With a staggering market capitalization of US$1.6T, a net profit of US$106B, and a free cash flow of US$85B, Aramco’s potential entry into Colombia’s liquid fuel market has generated significant anticipation regarding its impact on the industry.
The Bicentenario and Coveñas-Caño Limón pipelines have once again fallen victim to explosive attacks carried out by the National Liberation Army (ELN) in Arauca, forcing the suspension of crude oil transportation, Cenit, Ecopetrol’s (NYSE: EC) hydrocarbon transport subsidiary.
Ecopetrol published its 2024 results on March 14th – almost the Ides of March – showing yet another decline in earnings (nearly 8%). The Colombian press was full of “sturm und drang” about the sorry state of the National Treasure and anticipating a rocky time at the upcoming shareholders’ general assembly over the lowered dividend. Much as we criticize the NOC strategically, we do not find this financial handwringing entirely fair.
Energy issues are becoming increasingly relevant, extending beyond discussions on economics, public policy, or tourism. Oil, gas, and minerals are now central topics not only at a national level but also internationally. A recent study by Global Petrol Prices highlights the countries with the highest gasoline prices in 2025, revealing striking disparities.
Fitch Ratings has downgraded Ecopetrol’s outlook from stable to negative, aligning it with Colombia’s sovereign rating review.
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