The Financial Post reports in its Wednesday edition that Barrick has bought itself three more weeks to consider making a formal offer to buy out the minority shareholders of its African unit Acacia Mining PLC. A Bloomberg dispatch to the Post says that Barrick received an extension until July 9 from the U.K. takeover panel. The previous deadline was set to expire Tuesday. Acacia also said it is open to an offer, "subject to the price offered being fair and commanding the necessary support from shareholders." Barrick confirmed the new deadline, saying, "This extension will allow for the continuation of discussions with the independent directors and further engagement with Acacia's shareholders concerning the proposal made to Acacia." Acacia has been in a public battle with Tanzania's government since July, 2017, when the state handed the company a $190-billion tax bill (all figures U.S.). Since then, the miner's relationship has deteriorated further with the government and Barrick. Last month, Barrick said it made an informal proposal to Acacia's board and management to buy out the minorities, with shares at a ratio that valued all of Acacia at $787-million. The company has a current market value of about $900-million.
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