Under the circumstances I see that looking into alternative options based on going it alone is a wise move.
The likes of Xstrata and Anglo will certainly play hardball and the only way NKP can negotiate with them is if they have a viable smaller scale alternative option that they can start withought a JV.
Mine development and actual mining activities could be subcontracted out (eg JIC) so that it is in the hands of experts and then a JV partnet is not needed.
The key issue is again for NKP to keep its rights over Garatau and Tubatse. If this is preserved then there will be no lack of finance partners.
BR Max
NKP Price at posting:
45.0¢ Sentiment: None Disclosure: Held
