RE....assuming that is what is happening (and I believe that is a very plausible explanation)...the big concern for us longs is: "Will we get what this stock is worth on buyout?". I really don't know how these things work...but intuitively I have to believe that the board of directors, Fung, etc. who are loaded up with options are going to demand top dollar. So what if a cabal of hedge funds artificially depress the share price? When we get the permit and a lowball buyout offer is thrown at us....we laugh heartily and say "'F' you very much but with an offer like that we'll develop the mine ourselves". Does that make sense to you? Anyone? Bueller?