Critics of both conservative and radical analysts have been quick to dismiss the potential merger of Rio Tinto plc Sponsored ADR (RIO.US) and Can Can as "doom and gloom."

According to foreign media reports, Rio Tinto plc Sponsored ADR (RIO.US) and Glencore top executives have been discussing a potential merger for several months, which could be the largest deal in mining history. The negotiations are currently not active, and it is unclear if they can be revived, but both companies are willing to engage in long-term discussions, which has surprised many in the mining industry. Analysts are almost universally critical of the potential deal, with CreditSights analysts succinctly summarizing, "Is this real?" CreditSights states, "Culturally, Rio Tinto plc Sponsored ADR has traditionally been seen as conservative and focused on stability, while Glencore is known for being progressive and constantly challenging limits in its business." However, if the deal materializes, it may cause ripples in the mining industry and potentially involve BHP Group Ltd Sponsored American Depositary Receipt Repr 2 Shs and Anglo American in the mix. MKP Advisors analysts write that considering the limited overlap in the two companies' fields and different strategies, a merger seems like a strange strategic move. They also add that given the contradiction with all information previously conveyed to investors, Rio Tinto plc Sponsored ADR will have a particularly difficult time selling this deal to shareholders. According to MKP, Glencore's copper assets are the only true target commodity that fits with Rio Tinto plc Sponsored ADR's model, and even then, the acquisition seems to be an expensive and convoluted way to acquire such assets, with Rio Tinto plc Sponsored ADR seemingly uninterested in Glencore's secondary assets. Dan Coatsworth of AJ Bell suggests that these two mining companies may be mutually repulsive, as Rio Tinto plc Sponsored ADR is an environmentally responsible miner, while Glencore's pursuit of profit at all costs has earned it the title of 'bad boy' of the mining industry. Berenberg analysts write that a merger is unlikely, and the negotiations between the two companies may just be part of normal business processes. They also suggest that any deal may be an all-stock transaction, but Rio Tinto plc Sponsored ADR appears unwilling to pay a meaningful premium for Glencore's assets.