"As to D's assertion that Teck's SP dictates whether they move forward with the Schaft Creek production decision, I disagree. Not only because a helping partner is the most likely solution anyway which would happen regardless of Teck's SP, but also because Don keeps harping that they have $6 Billion in liquidity and have no need or intentions to raise money through equity offerings. "

That was Mike's opinion. He felt that Teck can't make a production decision just yet as the share price is still rebounding. A production decision would see a long term commitment off 3billion plus in development costs and that might put a large hit in the share price.

But you make a good point a buyout would actually be safer than a production decision because at least that way they have the option of shelfing the project if need be and a buyout will be much cheaper than the development costs and they can go at their own pace.