Vestmoldtransgaz (VMTG) has not received any requests from gas companies in the Republic of Moldova to extend trading sessions into the weekend. In response to IPN inquiries, representatives of the gas network operator emphasized that while there are market suggestions regarding the need for additional sessions, no official requests have been made, IPN reports.
“So far, we have not received any requests from gas companies in the Republic of Moldova to extend trading hours to the weekend. The current spot market schedule is set between 10:00 and 17:00, Monday through Friday. However, we are open to considering adjustments to the schedule depending on market developments and available resources,” said a Vestmoldtransgaz representative.
On March 28, 2024, Vestmoldtransgaz signed an agreement with the Romanian Commodities Exchange (EST S.R.L.) regarding the digital transmission/receipt of the nomination schedule. Under this agreement, the trading hours for spot markets are Monday to Friday, from 10:00 to 15:00, five days a week.
Following a request from Moldovagaz on October 21, 2024, to extend trading hours until 17:00, VMTG and the trading platform operator agreed to adjust the spot market schedule for Within-Day (WDY) and Day-Ahead (DAH) products. Consequently, the trading schedule was extended to 10:00–17:00, Monday through Friday.
Amid growing demand for gas and increasing transaction volumes on spot markets, Vestmoldtransgaz stated that any further changes to the trading schedule would depend on an assessment of their impact on the operator's activities and the potential need for additional staff. It will also take into account tariff developments from 2023 and 2024, which could significantly increase the operator’s revenues.
Suggesting a potential opportunity to extend trading sessions, analysts from ICIS London, an international energy market intelligence agency, estimated that weekend transactions could prove profitable due to higher gas demand during that period. According to experts, greater flexibility in trading schedules could help manage supply efficiently and reduce price volatility driven by demand fluctuations.
“Weekend transactions could become more profitable for Moldovan companies given the high gas demand during these days. Extending trading sessions could help stabilize the market and meet gas supply needs,” an ICIS expert told IPN.
ICIS (Independent Commodity Intelligence Services) is a global financial intelligence and market analysis agency specializing in commodities. It provides detailed data and analyses for energy markets, including gas, oil, and electricity. ICIS helps companies worldwide make informed strategic decisions, mitigate risks, and optimize resources. With a vast network of over 30,000 experts and real-time information access, ICIS plays a crucial role in shaping global markets, serving as a trusted provider of data and tools necessary for navigating the energy and commodity industries.
