news release

1413 [Dow Jones] STOCK CALL: Macquarie Research Equities expects further bids for API (API.AU), with Symbion (SYB.AU) a likely contender. Also says ACCC likely to be less concerned this time around after blocking a Sigma (SIP.AU)/API merger in 2002. "The key question then becomes how much one would pay," it says. "In view of potential merger synergies and the sale of the retail pharmacy business, it is feasible that it could be a lot higher than SIP's current A$2.20/share bid," it says. ACCC spokeswoman earlier said it will review takeover proposal, but is yet to set a timeline. API last trade A$2.60, up 10%. (SVM)