Ann: SPX Denies Claims Made by VMC, page-20

That does seem most likely considering Venus waited to take action post discovery of drill results, an argument can be made that were it a duster they would not have pursued this path.

however, we don’t know all the details (and likely never will)- if SPX through DJ’s had direct insight into the offer Venus were making (which it is likely they did) and Venus were pipped to second place as a result, and it can be demonstrated that SPX made contact regarding the asset post discovery thanks to Venus, ie it can be demonstrated that Venus would have been successful in its bid on the asset had SPX not bidded with insider knowledge and a fiduciary and contractual breach-
then it is conceivable that the asset may be transferred to Venus.
hence the spike in Venus SP today