Nice spot Gmeister!
Looking at the depth, it seems that those of us who kept some or all back, will now be playing the waiting game, with the buying drying up (for now).
I get the feeling that the FIRB won't knock the deal back considering the amount of jobs and investment SQM have created / spent in Australia. I doubt the Australian govt would want to sour the relationship at this stage.
So at the moment it looks like the first part of the deal is still in play, or a $3.52 buyout in February, with SQM gaining a majority holding.
I'm intrigued as to why Mark Creasy hasn't said anything as yet. Keeping his cards well and truly close to his chest.
With him, SQM, and Gina involved, it's hard to see where this lands. No takeover triggered yet.
SQM / MC / GR to do a JV and AZS remaining listed? Gina surely doesn't want a bit part to play in the mine development at AZS? Or maybe she is if it secures spodumene for her Indian contracts?
If that happens, and Azure turns into a major producer like PLS, it's hard to see the MC being under $10bn-$15bn. But funds will need to be raised, dilution is likely to occur etc., and it could take 4-5 years to get to production.
I'm happy to hold for that length of time, if my 100K shares are then worth say $12-$15 each.
Enough rambling on! The coming months are going to be as fascinating as a game of chess between Gazza Karpov and Bobby "the builder" Fischer.
