Noront started the chromite ball rolling and FWR sure has put a spin on it with their impressive drill results. Noront likely has the best Geologists both practical and theoretical working on Chromite potential. FWR and NOT have close ties but co-operation only goes so far and a partnership on Chromite is a huge step for both parties.
I'd imagine there are some pretty large costs involved in putting together a 'game plan' for Chromite which FWR can't expect Noront to fund without some kind of deal. FWR won't fund such work as want to, like everyone, conserve $ for exploration.
At this moment nobody seems to have any handle whatsoever as to how to value Chromite deposits and only a general idea of size. However it seems there is just too much and of too high a value not to have economic value, certainly based on projected material pricing.
Maybe we'll see a Major entering the picture but my I'd love to see FWR and NOT ink a deal that's win/win for both to help get things moving full speed ahead.