INTERVIEW WITH THEODOR VAN STEPHOUDT

Mr. van Stephoudt, you have taken over sole management of Alecto Capital LLC. Why was this decision made?

The decision to consolidate leadership in one hand is the logical continuation of my many years of work on this project. I have continuously advised the company since the beginning – from the bankruptcy proceedings to the admission of the lawsuit to the present day. During this time, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexity and potential of the case. The transition to the role of sole manager now makes it possible to make decisions more quickly and implement the strategy without detours. The aim is to ensure maximum efficiency in the decisive phase of the litigation.

You have a multidisciplinary background as an engineer and economist and have worked in large law firms. How does that help you in this role?

This combination is advantageous in this case. My technical background as a mining engineer enables me to make informed assessments of the operational facts of our oil and gas project. As an economist, I analyze the financial damages and economic arguments. My many years of experience at leading international law firms in complex commercial disputes provide the legal and strategic expertise. This 360-degree view is crucial for anticipating ECP’s strategy and strengthening our own position as much as possible. Since I have been familiar with the case from the outset, there is no training period – we are immediately fully operational.

One of the first successes with your involvement was the transfer of the lawsuit to New York. What is the significance of this step?

The transfer of the proceedings to New York was a strategic milestone. This success is the first tangible result of our realigned, proactive strategy. New York offers us significant procedural advantages, in particular the right to a jury trial, which often works in favor of the plaintiff in cases of proven misconduct.

In addition, our collaboration with our US legal team-which consists of former colleagues of mine – is characterized by a long-standing, trusting working relationship. This close connection is an operational advantage that ensures seamless and highly efficient litigation.

What are your specific plans as manager? What can shareholders expect from you?

My agenda is clear and focused: to achieve the best outcome for shareholders in this legal dispute. To achieve this goal, I am proactively implementing robust governance structures. It is my proactive aim to create an environment characterized by transparency, strict control, and clear accountability. All significant decisions will be made in a transparent manner and exclusively in the best interests of shareholders.

Operationally, this means consistently implementing our litigation strategy in New York and preparing for all eventualities, including settlement negotiations from a position of strength. Shareholders can expect me to communicate regularly, objectively, and transparently.

How do you assess the prospects of success for the lawsuit under these new circumstances?

I am confident in the strength of our case. This confidence is based on three pillars: First, the facts, which clearly demonstrate systematic misconduct on the part of ECP. Second, the strategic advantage of the New York venue, which provides us with procedural tools that we would not have had in Delaware. And third, the seamless cooperation between management and a first-class team of lawyers who know the case and the opponent inside out.

There are no guarantees in litigation. But we have created the best possible conditions: a clear strategy, professional leadership, and the right partners at our side. My focus is on leveraging these advantages in a disciplined and goal-oriented manner.

Your final message to shareholders?

My appointment marks the transition to a new phase characterized by professionalism, structure, and an unconditional focus on results. I am committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you in this litigation. I will ensure that communication is regular, factual, and transparent.

I ask for your trust in this clear, strategic approach. We have come a long way, but the crucial part of the journey lies ahead of us, and we are better positioned than ever to navigate it successfully.

Thank you very much for the interview.