Ramelius Resources has increased its stake in Spartan Resources (ASX:SPR) to nearly 18%, acquiring over 8% last week.
The shares were traded at 92 cents each, close to the previous day's closing price of 93.5 cents.
The move follows a trend of heightened activity in the gold sector, including Westgold Resources' (ASX:WGX) June acquisition of an 18.7% stake in Ora Gold (ASX:OAU).
Ramelius Resources has reportedly approached Westgold Resources with a merger proposal potentially valued at around $1 billion, marking a consolidation in the sector.