Three major Xstrata shareholders plan to oppose the merger, with the prospect of other shareholders turning against the merger.

Opposition to the deal includes Threadneedle Investments which owns 0.29 percent of Xstrata and Knight Vinke, owners 0.5 percent.

Despite the opposition to the move, the deal is expected to be confirmed by a majority stake. The Independent reported that shareholders, despite opposing the move, were resigned to the fact that the deal would go ahead, after Qatar as main stakeholders backed the move.