nick garling buying shares - $2.5 million, page-113

No worries Loki, I agree that sometimes the MCO forum may be a bit over optimistic such as estimations that the stockpile was 30-50g/t!
Going back in history a bit, the MCOOA options failed due to a large, grudge bearing, holder relentlessly dumping in the lead up to expiry. That same entity regained control of over 5mil shares in a court case and perhaps there were concerns of the same thing occurring in the lead up to the MCOOB expiry. The whole shebang was nearly lost the 1st time.
BTW I don't agree with you that the Chinese money wasn't needed. It was vital for reasons I have previously posted but as an example without them the Rose wouldn't have been touched for at least a decade. Now we know it's likely a goer and I honestly hope the Chinese build a plant at the Dempsey site and run the show on their 51% ground. This leaves MCO to focus on their 100% owned ground and get 49% of any profits from the Chinese operation.
Loki, I like your slightly contrarian viewpoint but doubt your understanding of exactly what exists on MCO ground, a myriad of old mines, all minimally worked, most never had a drill bit anywhere near them. Too big for a minnow like MCO to take the lot but letting a strategic partner on board makes it more possible. I know the team of Chinese over last year were from Shandong Gold, Chinas largest gold miner, and I expect that eventually even you will be able to see tangible benefits from the JV.

Cheers Mal