"A Canadian Trust, US Master Limited Partnership and an Exploration and Production Corporation are all being considered."
The new Chairman seems to be smart. What if he has determined that a stand-alone Equal would be too small as a Canadian Trust or a USMLP, and that it would be more economical if it were to be taken over by an existing such entity. Then they would now be considering bids from such entities that are already set-up, with their existing infrastructure that need not be duplicated. Without a duplicated management structure would release more value for all concerned.
Remaining as an E&P company would then be a last resort if no such bidder materializes..
Question for N. If such a scenario is in fact what is being considered. Who are the potential acquirers, and would the take-over price be then more than $6-$7?