Being a M&A thread, I'd like to understand who people here think...

Being a M&A thread, I'd like to understand who people here think we should acquire, be merged with, or be acquired by.

For me, there are two that I see that make sense, but one is for selfish reasons (although entirely valid), and another that I don't currently own, but have done a bit of research on.

Nova Minerals
Disclosure, I'm a (quite vocal and critical) holder of Nova Minerals - NVA, but I think their resource at Estelle is an amazing prospect with some excellent grades in a tier 1 jurisdiction (Alaska).

Estimates (expectations?) of 10m ounces across 2 prospects by the end of the year with a 4.3m Oz resource being upgraded and expanded, and another resource with "Bonanza" grades over 400m in depth.

There are a lot of questions around the decisions and actions of the board, as well as the suitability of management, despite their enthusiasm, to build a multi billion dollar company.

A share price / market cap of $277m that is in the doldrums, and a couple of large catalysts in the near term.

I'm not sure what the board would accept, but I think $500m would force people to consider the offer and $750m ($75/Oz @ 10m ounces) would get the deal done.

A lot of upside to come also.

Barrick Gold

One of the majors that have suffered pretty significant (30%) declines in the last 12 months.

No operations in Australia, and criticism for over exposure as an overall percentage for their Nevada mines.

A number of Operations in non tier one locations like Africa, South America and PNG. Our mines and reserves would result in a positive rerate for the company.

They have plenty of cash on hand, and the ability to add turn key ounces would be very appealing to them.

Obviously there are a multitude of opportunities, but I'd like to hear what others think, and why.