Xstrata have flagged the N QLD operations are in question with the RSPT. In the short term I can't see how they will finalise a deal with Exco if they don't have the confidence in the underground project.
Medium to long term probably still a decent option for a deal still to be done.
Lets hope Rudd's negotiation wraps up ultra quick and we can all move on knowing where we stand.
Interesting times indeed the next few months