0247 GMT [Dow Jones] A potential Newcrest (NCM.AU) acquisition...

0247 GMT [Dow Jones] A potential Newcrest (NCM.AU) acquisition would have merit for
Rio Tinto (RIO.AU), says JPMorgan, noting Rio CEO Tom Albanese's 2010 AGM comments
that "prudent balance sheet management will allow us to take advantage of value
creating opportunities". JPM estimates Rio will have net cash balance of US$18.5
billion by end-2011. Argues that valuation would depend on how much valuation is
attributed to NCM's block-caving skills and optionality, adding that NCM's
copper/gold focus has further diversification potential into other metals through
O'Callaghan tungsten/zinc/lead/copper deposit. Broker believes that a Newcrest/Lihir
(LGL.AU) tie up would make NCM too gold heavy for Rio. RIO last up 0.5% at A$78.34, NCM
down 0.8% at A$33.74.