Now the country's research analysts have a platform from which to flog penny mining stocks and moose pastures.

FORBES: Split screen

"The merger will increase the diversification of both companies, with Glencore achieving stronger control over the high-quality mining resources of its currently 34% associate Xstrata, and the latter gaining full access to the trading and logistic platform of Glencore, " it said.

BBC: Glencore and Xstrata announce $90bn merger deal