Great Presentation, page-13

They don't pluck remuneration schemes out of the air for $1b companies!

It is typically a considered and independently verified process bench marked against industry peers. If you can establish that the options awarded are out of line with others' performance, I'm all ears, but in my view they seem about right.

By the same token, it seeks to reward hard working employees for their achievements and provide motivation for the coming year.

Do you think that any employee has under performed at SOLG over the last year?

With respect to whether or not they exercise them, it's not really my concern/business. I would expect that the options awarded are commensurate with their salary whether they live in Ecuador, Mongolia or on the Moon.

No doubt if you are 100% correct, some smart financier will come along and offer to finance them in the event of a T/O for a couple of points margin, but again, not my business. They have negotiated and agreed to the options, I'm not a unionist and I believe that SOLG operate ethically.

My main point of contention is that they are upside, at almost 100% premium to the current SP. It just seems bordering on arrogant that you are yelling at the future dream scenario for all us holders. If this t/o was anywhere near certain, it would be reflected in the SP.

I won't comment on your individual situation, I've been along for the ride for a while too, and I totally get the criticism. Not sure if I've just accepted it, and my position has been consistent for quite some time now.

I will say that NM did convert options that were out of the money in recent memory.

I'll also say (and believe NM himself would admit) that back in those dark days there were some decisions I didn't like, and there was some bad luck timing wise too.

Maybe our views differ slightly because I luckily/stupidly doubled down on the raise when they hit rock bottom. I also have never invested in a DGR IPO or sub for that matter (but have seen many around me pay that price).

Don't get me wrong, there were times I was hurting big time, but whether I love or hate NM and the crew, I think they are sharp as tacks and great geologists.

I hope to hear you screaming blue murder when BHP drops the hammer, but until then I'll hope that Trump doesn't send the world into recession, and the SOLG crew keep earning those oppies!

On another note, AJQ can't be far away? I'm still hoping one of the other children can deliver a nice little xmas pressie!