BHP Billiton
(ASX:BHP) has reportedly dismissed a newspaper report that Canada's federal government was leaning toward blocking its US$39 billion hostile takeover bid for Potash Corp.
Shares of Potash Corp fell by about 2% in pre-market trading after the report in Canada's Globe and Mail.
The fall was even despite the world's largest fertiliser maker reporting stronger-than-expected results and issuing a strong outlook. Potash reported third quarter earnings of US$403 million, which was about 14% above market expectations.
Canadian Industry Minister Tony Clement is scheduled to decide by November 3 whether to allow BHP's $US130-a-share bid to proceed.
BHP Billiton reported a $15.26 billion net profit after tax for the 12 months to June 30.
