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Kezza, Oxy has a history of growth through acquisition though more often than not its through buying assets rather than companies.

Assuming success at Paloma, Neons Paloma acreage would sit very nicely with Oxy. It would allow Oxy to merge the 1st and 2nd largest Paloma acreages.

Neon s response to such an approach will depend on what new assets they have in mind. ie say Oxy pay Neon $200m for Paloma can we convert that to another producing asset quickly in such a way the $200M has the ability to grow significantly.

Neon may also simply refuse to sell, backing themselves to add value much greater than any buy bid received.

Personally I hope Neon hold on and add greater value. The potential cash flow from Paloma would allow a much higher level of activity for Neon and may be sufficient for Neon to commence acquisitions in its own right.

Other parties could also be attracted to Neon and make approaches. There is no shortage of companies in our area, many of which have the size to easily accomodate Neon.

Action from such parties, while possibly not welcome would do wonders for the sp.