MOL remains favored over Mimović's higher bid for Serbia's NIS, experts say

Holoda Attila, former manager at Hungary's MOL and now head of Aurora Energy, said that businessman Ranko Mimović's €2 billion offer for the Russian share in Serbia's Naftna industrija Srbije (NIS) does not constitute a serious alternative to MOL's proposal. He explained that the core negotiations are not about Mimović's bid but about the terms between MOL, the Russian shareholders represented by Gaz‑prom Neft, and the Serbian state.

Holoda noted that Gaz‑prom Neft has recently announced it will not negotiate with other companies, while Serbian officials have expressed dissatisfaction with MOL's suggestions. He emphasized that beyond price, factors such as transparent financing, compliance with OFAC sanctions, operational experience, supply‑security guarantees, and political acceptability are crucial. An unfamiliar investment structure like Mimović's carries higher risk compared with an established regional player such as MOL, which can offer a financially and legally sound arrangement.

The discussion reflects the broader politicised context of selling a strategic energy asset that is under sanctions, with the Serbian government seeking to retain influence over its sole oil refinery and fuel‑supply system.