Highly unlikely, IMO, that RIO or BHP are looking at KDR, they will probably concentrate their efforts on copper, which is required in far greater quantities for EV's than lithium.
Do not forget that they both have an appalling track records in acquisitions and they have recently made large special dividends to shareholders that will have depleted some of their cash reserves. Their large institutional shareholder bases would not look favourably on such an aquisition given that they do not like being partners in JV if they can help. Thus SQM can be a hinderance in this instances but a great ally on the otherside of the equation.
JMT
Regards Rayda
KDR Price at posting:
$1.40 Sentiment: Buy Disclosure: Held