It has been stated that the decision to sell X was a political one, rather than financial one. Both Y & Z, who were involved in the transaction were cordial to neutral towards each other.
Y wanted to get rid of X as it was difficult for them to protect it, due to its proximity to Britain’s empire. While Z thought of it as a bargain, getting it at an equivalent of $129 million in 2023.
Give me X, Y & Z.