A quick one, though:
Ferry is indeed a verb. Oxford Dictionary provides a bit of colour, though, stating "a boat or ship for conveying passengers and goods, especially over a relatively short distance and as a regular service." We have a global shipping industry, not a global ferrying industry.
I'm not saying you're wrong in its use, but I am saying you're selectively styling your narrative in a convenient direction. I suggest you've done the same with "bureaucratic" -- while correct, is this word more commonly associated neutrally or negatively?
I've downloaded a few articles to read on the road, but for some of your queries regarding the case for holding off are reasonably described in the 2021 Economist article (https://www.economist.com/europe/2021/11/27/riches-lie-below...). Admittedly volcanic vents are sexier than boring abyssal plains, but the central theme remains: low understanding, decades to assess, experts are concerned.
Thanks for taking the effort to respond. While my own thumbing through notes hasn't helped my employer at all it's at least been an interesting refresher on the topic.
One last question, although I fully understand if you'd prefer not to answer. Do you own shares of TMC (or related ventures), and if not, why not? I've bought mining stocks on far less positive vibes than what you've described your own interest to be.
Best wishes.