Sappi begins trading on OTCQX to expand North American investor access

NORTH AMERICA – Global renewable resource company Sappi has announced that it has begun trading on the OTCQX Best Market, the top tier of over-the-counter markets in the U.S., in a strategic move aimed at strengthening its presence among North American investors.

The Johannesburg-listed company, known for its leadership in pulp, paper, and sustainable biomaterials, has made no secret of its intention to diversify its shareholder base beyond South Africa.

“It is our stated intention to diversify our shareholder base outside of South Africa,” said Steve Binnie, CEO of Sappi Limited.

“This move will provide more visibility and assurance to North America-based investors interested in a renewable resource and bio-based company, with strong domestic US manufacturing and customers alongside broad global coverage.”

Currently, approximately 70% of Sappi’s shareholders are based in South Africa, with the remaining 30% being international investors.

The OTCQX listing offers a direct opportunity to increase that global footprint, particularly in the U.S. market, where investor interest in ESG-aligned and renewable-focused businesses continues to rise.

What OTCQX means for Sappi

The OTCQX Best Market is designed for established, investor-focused international companies. For firms like Sappi that are already listed on qualified international exchanges (such as the Johannesburg Stock Exchange), the transition is relatively seamless.

These companies are able to utilize their home market reporting and disclosures, while meeting the stringent financial, governance, and compliance standards required by OTC Markets Group.

This reduces duplicative regulatory burdens while enhancing accessibility for U.S. investors who may not be familiar with South African exchanges.

Importantly, companies on OTCQX are not considered penny stocks and are often viewed as more credible and investable by institutional investors.

Sappi’s entrance into the OTCQX aligns with broader trends in capital markets, where international companies are seeking to engage with U.S. retail and institutional investors without undertaking a full SEC-registered listing.

For Sappi, which already has strong U.S. operations and customers, this move offers a logical bridge between its business presence and its capital access.

It also serves to reinforce the company’s long-term strategic identity as a global leader in renewable, circular economy-driven solutions.

By joining OTCQX, Sappi not only opens a new door for U.S.-based investors but also positions itself as a forward-looking, globally accessible company in the fast-evolving world of sustainable industry.

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