Hi Westcott. That is a very interesting one as both Severstal and Glencore (giants in the industry) have invested into Core Mining. (AVIMA) Avima is very close to Mbalam - a little further to the coast than us but only a little. Their tonneage is less than us and production due 2015.
I ask myself the question that if Severstal and Glencore (listing next week touted around 61 billion cap)are willing to invest here - and remember that there is no rail/port for them to use, then there is a very logical connection with SDL here.
It just may be that the Chinese risk getting on to the backfoot if SDL and Glencore/Severstal teamed up in some way. There is plenty of money in these two camps and they might even sgare the infrastructure. Food for thought. There may be a competitor looking at us!
SDL Price at posting:
37.0¢ Sentiment: ST Buy Disclosure: Held