Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2025-11-03 11:32Core Viewpoint - Activist fund Palliser Capital is pressuring Rio Tinto to make a counteroffer for Teck Resources and to restructure its dual listing, aiming to create a copper-focused entity [1][3]. Group 1: Acquisition Pressure - Palliser Capital urges Rio Tinto to challenge the merger agreement between Teck Resources and Anglo American, seeking control over a set of prime copper assets with an expected annual output of 1.3 million tons [1]. - The fund holds approximately $400 million in Rio Tinto shares, representing less than 1% of the company [1]. Group 2: Dual Listing Structure - Palliser argues that Rio Tinto's dual listing structure must be integrated into a single Australian-based holding company to facilitate the acquisition of Teck Resources [3]. - The fund claims that the current structure limits Rio Tinto's ability to make a stock-based offer for Teck, forcing it to consider more expensive or dilutive alternatives [3]. Group 3: Business Split Proposal - The letter suggests splitting Rio Tinto into two entities: one focused on copper, aluminum, and zinc based in Canada, and another focused on iron ore based in Australia, to unlock "trapped value" and attract new investors [4]. - Palliser believes that a more attractive offer could be made to Teck's shareholders, allowing them to participate in a potential revaluation post-split [4]. Group 4: Shareholder Response - Rio Tinto has previously rejected Palliser's proposal to review its dual listing structure, citing tax considerations and the high costs associated with a single listing [2][4]. - The company maintains its focus on maximizing shareholder value and plans to update its strategic progress at the upcoming "Capital Markets Day" [1].