Equinox Gold (EQX) appears an attractive pick, as it has been recently upgraded to a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). An upward trend in earnings estimates -- one of the most powerful forces impacting stock prices -- has triggered this rating change

Why buy Equinox Gold pre- merger with Orla Mining?  “Because it creates better resilience and diversification against risk, better valuation multiples, better liquidity, a stronger financial condition and, most importantly, greater leverage to gold.”

TOP PICK: ALAMOS GOLD.

According to 13 analysts polled by S&P Global, Alamos Gold stock has a consensus rating of "Strong Buy" and an average price target of $56.25 USD. The closing price last Friday was $35.50.

Alamos paying a dividend and buying back stock.

Island Gold operation photo in Ontario, Canada.

Will the merger of Orla with Equinox Gold go through? I suppose it will because both parties must have been aware of these issues in Mexico as they are not newly developed. 

The main issue with Orla Gold in Mexico is related to labor rights violations at the Camino Rojo mine. A USMCA Rapid Response Labor Mechanism panel found a severe denial of labor rights, including interference in union activities, coercion, and intimidation. The panel proposed nine remedial measures, including reinstatements, compensation, and a public apology. Orla Mining has been working to implement these measures and has engaged with government authorities to address the Panel's recommendations. However, the situation has also led to a temporary suspension of operations at the mine due to a worker blockade, which has raised concerns about the company's ability to maintain production targets and safeguard shareholder value.

Meanwhile, I am a small shareholder of the combined company and am fairly confident that these issues can be quickly resolved.