What Would Synlait Be Worth to Fonterra or a2 Milk?
Speculation of a possible joint move by Fonterra and a2 Milk to buy Synlait raises a much bigger strategic question, says agribusiness expert Dr Nic Lees.
Continuing high international commodity prices have seen Synlait Milk increase its forecast milk price for the FY2014 season from $7kgMS to $8 kgMS.
The company also lifted its advance rates for the season effective from August paid September from $4.50kgMS to $5kgMS.
Synlait Milk announced last week that it will process more milk than forecast this season following a decision to take a significant allocation of DIRA milk that will increase total production volumes of its ingredients products.
Synlait Milk managing director John Penno says the company remains confident in achieving its forecast financial result for FY2014.
"Higher than forecast revenue from high commodity prices and additional processing volumes mean we remain confident of achieving our FY2014 earnings targets at these increased milk prices."
Most dairy regions around the country have had a pretty good season so far says Tracy Brown.
Rural leader Mark Hooper has been appointed as an independent director to the NZPork board, bringing extensive farming, governance and advocacy experience to the role.
Opportunity says its land value tax (LVT) is unlikely to force farmers into a position where asset sales or increased debt are required.
Milk powder prices are keeping farmgate prices up, helping processors offset the dip in milk fat prices.
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