there goes that rumour, page-11

BHP Billiton a takeover target: Lynch
May 9, 2007 - 2:34PM


BHP Billiton could be at risk from a private equity predator, according to chief executive candidate and group president of Carbon Steel Materials, Chris Lynch.

Mr Lynch was on Wednesday responding to questions about the rise of private equity buyouts in the Australian market following a talk in Melbourne.

Mr Lynch also revealed for the first time his ambition to take the top job at the resources giant, when chief executive Chip Goodyear retires at the end of this year.

"One of the cheapest resources to access today is money," he said after the Australian Shareholders Association and Australian Securities Exchange sponsored investor talk.

"There's a lot of money looking for a home.

"It would be dangerous to assume that it couldn't happen to you.

"I think you've go to be alert.

"There may be people working on it right now, I don't know," Mr Lynch said.

© 2007 AAP