I agree with Tuftman's sentiment that it wasn't a convincing...

I agree with Tuftman's sentiment that it wasn't a convincing ann. The bit about other parties did seem like a threat and inconsistent with negotiations that were close to being finalised. Even if Xinwen's management did want to proceed - do we know how much control the 'regulators' have on the decision? I imagine their influence is significantly greater than our FIRB? If China Inc thinks its bad thing to be making offshore investments in the current climate (when theyre trying to export more coal themselves) then the deal may not go ahead - even if Linc are saying it is extraordinary value. Personally I dont mind if an existing local miner came in and bought the asset. The big prize is UCG-GTL - the coal (and oil) stuff is just there to finance the really exciting stuff.