The global value of mergers and acquisitions in mining and metals rose 43% in 2011 and is expected to continue rising this year, driven by robust demand fundamentals, strong balance sheets and appetite for growth, Ernst & Young said in its annual mining-transactions report Monday.

Global M&A in the mining sector rose to $162.4 billion in 2011 from $113.7 billion in 2010, with megadeals of $1 billion or more accounting for two-thirds of total deal value, primarily driven by strategic domestic consolidation where synergies could be identified……………………………………….Full Article: Source