Allegiance says Sempra sells its 4.65 pct stake

SYDNEY, Nov 15 (Reuters) - Australian nickel firm Allegiance Mining NL AGM.AX said commodities trader Sempra Metals (SRE.N: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) had sold its 4.65 percent stake in the company.

Analysts have speculated that a recent rise in Allegiance's share price was linked to a potential takeover offer as Allegiance prepares to start nickel mining operations in the first quarter of 2008.