"I'd like to see "lab results" followed by a signed deal..."

For my part, I hope that does not happen following a blowout lab report.  I say that because I know the consequences of a bidding war. 

One of the smartest things I've seen during a drilling program was after a discovery when ten percent of Diamond Fields Resources was sold to Teck, a mid-tier producer.  That provided more money for drilling, and international interest in the project grew.  Eventually, that led to a bidding war from majors and the best investment return of my life, 43 times my money in about three years. 

So, I say, let the story play out.  You can sell anywhere along the way, but if a bidding war is to come, it's best to hold onto your shares for a while (or at least a good portion of them).

https://www.visualcapitalist.com/the-story-of-voiseys-bay-the-discovery-1-of-3/