I think the most important aspect of this article is that it...

I think the most important aspect of this article is that it highlights Ecuador is firmly on the radar of many major players now. They recognise the highly prospective geology that can deliver the unicorns they are all after - big Tier 1 assets.

STM certainly has assets that are shaping up, certainly as Tier 2 and prospectively as Tier 1. Hancock is punting US$120m (AU$185m) on a prospecting program over dirt that is yet to be worked over (so punting on "nearology") for a 49% interest. Meanwhile, STM has assets that are proving up very well, but it sits at an AU$38m market cap.

Align this article to the commentary from STM that they are having discussions with major players re buy-ins, etc, and the storylines seem to be merging. I think it is only a matter of time before we hear they are fielding term sheets from a major player or two on one or more of their assets.