I really think the number of shares is a godsend. Why so?...

I really think the number of shares is a godsend. Why so? Because this is one very liquid stock. It is one of the few stocks that are the real deal, ie. fml is deadly serious about being a class gold mining company - who cares how big it gets as long as it is quality. You don't have to be bhp to make a lot of money.

The large number of shares draws in short term traders who are a double edged sword - when the price goes up, they sell for a quick profit, hence driving the price down etc. - you all know the story.

But I argue that for investors, those who are really dinkum at staying with the company - this gives a great opportunity.

Keep a solid base of shares that you just won't part with but have a smaller but sizable holding that you trade along with the shorties.

Fml is so liquid and fairly predictable that this is one of the easier stocks to do this with - and if you ever get the timing wrong - all you have to do is wait a while - and you are waiting in a stock that you are fully confident in holding - pretty good thing in a market time such as this.

Also in a big picture economy/market/world wise - is there anyone who is 100% sure we are ok or that we are going down the gurgler - I doubt it ------- these are historic times - and what better time to hold a young and growing producer.

Even if the pog tanked - fml management skills and agressive drilling and no debt etc etc - will most likely see us through almost anything foreseeable. Management have this company positioned beautifully at present.

If there is a bad black swan (extreme out lier)out there - then other than a load of physical in the backyard - I feel very comfortable with fml and a couple of others. I think they are backup extraordinaire.

As to the number of shares - it mightn't look so silly in 5 years or so - in fact it might look just right. Particularly if you have been a holder and accumulator for a few years.

Have a good day Pinto