Payoff?

Why would anyone participate in a bought deal at 80 cents when they can buy on the open market for 70 cents?

Answer

To buy that many shares on the open market, the average price on the ask is/was likely higher than (or very close to) 80 cents. to put that many orders on the ask in a short period of time would cause undue change in market activity (which could be interpreted incorrectly prompting another News release and possibly getting Brian in trouble). or there'd be a huge iceberg order sitting on the bid for weeks.

hence the over allottment and market stabilisation comment. besides it's an extra $1 million in pdg's pocket and not in someone elses.