bp sells 65% of Castrol to Stonepeak for $10 billion

Key highlights
  • bp sells 65% of Castrol to Stonepeak at a $10 billion enterprise value.
  • Net proceeds of approximately $6 billion will reduce bp's net debt.
  • The transaction is expected to complete by end of 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
  • A new joint venture will be formed with 65% Stonepeak and 35% bp ownership.

Transaction Overview

bp has agreed to sell a 65% shareholding in Castrol to Stonepeak, valuing the enterprise at $10 billion. This move is part of bp's strategy to simplify its portfolio and focus on its core downstream businesses.

Financial Impact

The transaction is expected to generate approximately $6 billion in net proceeds for bp, which will be used to reduce net debt. The deal includes a pre-payment of future dividend income on bp's retained 35% stake.

Joint Venture Formation

Upon completion, a new joint venture will be established, with Stonepeak holding 65% and bp retaining 35%. This structure allows bp to benefit from Castrol's growth while maintaining the option to sell its remaining stake after a two-year lock-up period.

Timeline and Regulatory Approvals

The transaction is anticipated to close by the end of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. This sale is part of bp's broader $20 billion divestment program, with proceeds aimed at strengthening the company's balance sheet.

Source: bp

chemXplore Weekly

The week’s project milestones and project news from the chemical industry, free every Wednesday.

Free. One email a week. Unsubscribe any time.

Related articles

19 March 2026
bp to sell Gelsenkirchen refinery to Klesch Group

Sale of Gelsenkirchen refinery raises structural cost-cut target by ~$1bn to $6.5-7.5bn by 2027, strengthens balance sheet, is free-cash-flow accretive; 12Mtpa, ~1,800 staff; close H2 2026.

10 February 2026
bp 2025 Q4 and Full Year Results

Strong 2025 performance: $7.5bn profit, $24.5bn cash flow. Strategic divestments over $11bn. Share buyback suspended to strengthen balance sheet and invest in oil & gas opportunities.