Seems like Counterparty has the advantage already: http://www.wired.com/2014/07/overstock-and-cryptocurrency/
Nah, that was just how that particular article was framed. From what I've heard Overstock had been in talks with NXT before that, and I believe BitShares has had talks with them as well (not sure how in depth, though).
Personally, I feel the timing
may be right, what with Bitshares holding the #4 spot firm and the ridiculous advantages Bitshares has in this space (esp. the name alone, which I will forever believe is Bitshares' #1 marketing tool and leg-up over the competition). Also, the coincidence that both Dan and Patrick are 2 of the 4 keynote speakers at this event...sounds like a match made in heaven to me!