Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-11-03 11:40Core 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 giant [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 acquisition is seen as a way for Rio Tinto to diversify away from iron ore dependency and potentially unlock at least $800 million in cost synergies [1]. Group 2: Dual Listing Structure - Palliser argues that the dual listing structure of Rio Tinto hinders its ability to make a stock-based offer for Teck Resources, suggesting that a single holding company based in Australia is necessary for any credible strategic acquisition [3]. - The fund has been advocating for the integration of Rio Tinto's listing structure for over a year, emphasizing that it is a prerequisite for any merger strategy [3]. Group 3: Business Split Proposal - The proposal includes splitting Rio Tinto into two entities: one based in Canada focusing on copper, aluminum, and zinc, and another in Australia focusing on iron ore [3]. - This split is expected to release "trapped value" and attract new investors interested in pure copper business stocks [3]. Group 4: Shareholder Response - Rio Tinto has previously faced a shareholder vote where the majority rejected Palliser's proposal to review the dual listing structure, supporting the board's stance instead [4]. - The board cited tax considerations and the high costs associated with a single listing structure as reasons for maintaining the current setup [4].