The Presidency has come out swinging in hopes of dispelling speculation that BHP Billiton’s proposed takeover of Anglo American, excluding South African assets, shows reluctance to invest in the country due to the ANC government’s economic policies.
“The Presidency rejects the notion that a commercial approach by BHP Billiton equals a hostile environment for investors,” he added. The bid required the former to complete two separate demergers of its shareholding in Anglo American Platinum Limited and Kumba Iron Ore Limited to Anglo American shareholders.that BHP’s bid to spin off Anglo America’s South African assets as part of a takeover proposal is an indictment that “Magwenya refuted claims that excluding South African assets in the merger deal was an indictment on policies which have spooked investors.
“While much still needs to be achieved to turn the tide around completely, the significant steps taken to rebuild credible institutions have begun to bear fruit and set the stage for further progress,” said Magwenya.