Do I think that there is a deal, or are deals ready to be inked as soon as the SRK report is delivered, that a partner or partners are sitting around waiting?

No, there is too much to be lost (by potential partners) by showing too much enthusiasm too early, and I think it complicates LBSRs ability to work with newly interested parties who may also want a seat at the table. In other words, politics is at play too. A lost partner at Hay Mountain may be a potential partner on another project.

Note too that one or more companies from China may be involved. Their culture demands slow and methodical negotiations where new alignments are coming into being. Then, they can be among the most loyal of partners extending through generations of business dealings.

Nothing deliberate happens quickly in this sector, though surprises do happen.

VP