Deal Makers Swap Stakes in LNG, Rare Earths as Supply Chain Hopes Rise

Global dealmakers are making strategic moves to secure supply and expand their operations. Osaka Gas is buying into Australia's Browse LNG project, acquiring a 5% stake from BP. This move adds liquefied natural gas (LNG) exposure for the company at a time when dependable long-term shipments matter as much as price.

Critical minerals are also being targeted by companies seeking to secure supply. China Rare Earth Group is in talks to acquire Shenghe Resources, a deal that would tighten Beijing's grip on the rare-earth supply chain and give the buyer a stake in a project tied to Washington's push for alternative supply.

In other deals, UK IT services provider Softcat agreed to buy US-based GDT for an enterprise value of $1.05 billion to deepen its North America presence. India's Shapoorji Pallonji Group proposed selling part of its Tata Sons holding worth 250 billion rupees ($2.61 billion).