BY Fraser Tennant
In a deal set to create Australia’s third-largest gold producer, miners Genesis Minerals and Vault Minerals are to merge via a scheme of arrangement that values Vault at approximately A$5.6bn.
Under the terms of the scheme, Vault shareholders will receive 0.7629 for each new Genesis share, plus 0.475 in cash for each Vault share – representing a 15.7 percent premium over Vault’s closing price on 3 July 2026.
The merged group is forecast to produce around 600,000 to 700,000 ounces of gold annually, consolidating operations exclusively in Western Australia.
The transaction was finalised after a rival bidder, Regis Resources, declined to match Genesis’ superior offer and officially withdrew from the bidding. As a result of the termination, a break fee of approximately A$50.7m is payable to Regis by Vault.
Upon completion, Genesis shareholders will own 59.8 percent of the enlarged Genesis, while Vault shareholders will own the remaining 40.2 percent, each on a fully diluted basis.
“Genesis’ proposal reflects the quality of Vault’s portfolio and the strategic value of our Leonora assets,” said Luke Tonkin, managing director of Vault. “The combination of complementary operations and infrastructure in the Leonora district is expected to enhance scale and unlock value that would be more difficult to realise on a standalone basis.”
The reconstituted board will consist of four Genesis directors and three Vault nominees.
“This transaction represents a truly logical combination of assets to create the third largest Australian gold producer, and represents a genuine win-win for all shareholders and stakeholders, unlocking significant unique synergies through the optimisation of complementary assets,” said Raleigh Finlayson, executive chair of Genesis. “We are creating a strong platform for continued growth and shareholder returns.”
The transaction – which is expected to close by November 2026 – has been approved by both companies, and is subject to customary regulatory, court and shareholder approvals (shareholders are expected to vote at a scheme meeting in September or October).
Mr Tonkin added: “The Vault board believes the transaction delivers a compelling outcome for shareholders, offering an attractive premium and exposure to the value creation potential of the combined group.”
News: Vault and Genesis agree to merge and create $8.71 billion Australian gold producer