AusRAIL, Market Sectors

Toll ready to move on Tranz Rail offer if rival bid emerges

<p>Toll Holdings could increase its offer for New Zealand rail concern Tranz Rail if another bidder shows interest in the company.</p> <p>Toll’s managing director, Paul Little, said in an interview on Channel 9 that while he believed Toll’s offer of 95 cents a share is fair and reasonable, Toll will consider increasing it to stave off any competition.</p> <p>"We remain in the belief that there isn’t anyone else," Mr Little said. "Should that arise, we would need to revisit our strategy."</p> <p>However, Mr Little said that the margin to move is no more than a cent or two, and that Toll will not get into a bidding war with a rival.</p> <p>A failed bid for Tranz Rail would not spell the end of Toll’s New Zealand interests.</p> <p>Mr Little said the company is keen to expand across the Tasman, with or without the Tranz Rail acquisition.</p> <br />