something is afoot, page-3

It is interesting, though what's happened also recently ?

The share price is now 'well' in the money for these oppies.

If you wanted flexibility re selling dates you might want to kickoff starting the 12 month holding period before capital gains benefits occur sooner rather than later now that the options are solidly in the money.

Maybe certain events have transpired of late that add confidence to the price staying in the money longer term. Conjecture at this stage but all signs point to this being a time where a number of negotiations are occuring.