Matt, I too agree with your rationale and hope that this outcome will eventuate in the near future. Geographically speaking AQA makes a lot of sense as a likely partner. RD's view of a complete buyout by FMG is also logical.
IMHO Stokes is a wise business man with a view of making a sizable profit provided the timing and proposal are favourable. His exposure (or his private investment vehicle - ACE) to the mining sector is through WesTrac and National Hire, soon to be under the Seven Group, so not sure why he would even contemplate the idea of commerlisation the current DSO under IOH. The previous reporting have all made reference to ongoing discussions with external JV parties for all major 3 sites.
Hopefully we could all have a great Xmas present this year if a possible deal which value the stock around the $4-5 mark can be negotiated by AV and his team over the remaining moths of this year.
IOH Price at posting:
$1.20 Sentiment: Buy Disclosure: Held