Australia's Alumina: Can't Explain Share Price Rise

SYDNEY--Australia's Alumina Ltd. said Wednesday it is not aware of any information about a possible takeover of U.S.-based partner Alcoa Inc. (AA).

"In particular, we are not aware of any information with respect to the recent press speculation concerning a possible takeover of Alcoa by either Rio Tinto (RTP) or BHP Billiton (BHP) and the possible implications for the company resulting from that takeover," Alumina said in response to a share price query from the Australian Stock Exchange.

It also said it is not aware of any information that it may be the subject of a private equity bid, other than what has been reported in the press.

Alumina shares were up 0.6% in midday trade after adding 5.9% Tuesday following a report in the U.K. Times that said BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto separately had plans to buy U.S.-based Alcoa.