There's electricity in the air this morning as a handful of ASX lithium shares bask in the excitement of recent acquisition developments.
At the time of writing, the broad S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is enjoying a green start to the week — rising 0.99% to 7,179.7 points. The sector feeling the most love so far today is materials, catching a 0.66% boost with the Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) share price being the odd one out.
However, four ASX lithium shares are making some of the biggest waves today. Let's explore the exact details behind the moves.
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IGO makes a $136 million offer for growth
An ASX lithium giant, IGO Limited (ASX: IGO), has made it clear this morning it is looking for additional lithium resources.
As previously reported, the $10.8 billion Australian miner — in conjunction with its joint venture partner Tianqi Lithium — has offered 50 cents per share to acquire Essential Metals Ltd (ASX: ESS).
Following the announcement, shares in Essential Metals have sprung to life, jumping nearly 38% to 47.5 cents apiece. Meanwhile, IGO shares are being pushed 1.9% to the upside today, now trading hands at $14.28.
The $136 million deal would value the Pioneer Dome Project owner at a 45% premium to its Friday closing price.
Mineral Resources doubles down on gas
A release by Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) on Friday afternoon confirmed it had taken a 16.35% stake in Warrego Energy Ltd (ASX: WGO). The Mineral Resources share price is catching a 3.1% rally today, lifting to $86.14.
Notably, MinRes's financial interest in Warrego comes amid a bidding battle for the gas exploration company. Gina Rinehart's Hancock Group has been duking it out with Strike Energy to try and secure a winning bid on Warrego.
While Mineral Resources is mostly known for its mining services, iron ore, and lithium businesses, it also dabbles in energy. In fact, the investment in Warrego follows a $403 million off-market takeover bid of Norwest Energy NL (ASX: NWE) made in December.
ASX lithium share buying up projects
Barely a month into its listed life and Patriot Lithium Ltd (ASX: PAT) is already looking to spread its wings. Shares in the lithium explorer are up 5.3% today after announcing the acquisition of three prospective land packages in Ontario.
According to the release, the land totals 909sq km in the greenstone belts of the Archean Superior Craton of Ontario. These include the Gorman Project, the Forester Project, and the Birkett Project.
