low volume today, page-20

I know nothing of these particular farm in deals and this is my first MEO post (new holder).

I have had some experience in negotiating other types of (multi-billion) deals in the corporate world and I would think that there would be no reason why the parties could not sign the contract before FIRB approval is achieved. If they choose to hold off until FIRB is given then that (I expect) would be because they have mutually agreed to do so.

Significant contracts always have termination provisions for various things and the contract could easily include provisions to terminate it in the event that FIRB approval is not achieved.

Obviously, once the contract is signed (subject to FIRB) then an announcement must be made to the market.

My two cents worth.