247247: Whilst your scenario might come to pass, I still think that a counter-bid by VPE is very likely!! I do believe that
a) VPE's NEW Management wants to show "what they are made of"
b) VPE wants FULL control of those oily fields
c) VPE can easily put forward an improved offer (scrip and cash combined or very strong scrip like 3 for 1...)
wasa