Stocks
BHP Billiton’s failed bid for Potash Corp. helped draw investor attention to the fertilizer industry and agricultural commodities, such as wheat and corn. Prices for these agricultural products remain highly volatile, but their long-term outlook is bright. That’s because rising incomes in rapidly developing countries, like India and China, are spurring demand for more and better food.
We feel that Agrium …read more »
The U.S. consumer sector is highly competitive. Independent stores and smaller chains continue to face rising competition from large discount retailers, like Wal-Mart and Costco. As well, retailers are more exposed to swings in the overall economy than companies in some other sectors, such as utilities.
However, aggressive investing in consumer stocks also holds the potential for spectacular gains. To …read more »
We are now including company web sites for each investment we cover.
Company web sites can give you further information on stocks we recommend, including press releases, newspaper articles, financial reports and shareholder information, plus dividend reinvestment plan details.
Of course, our in-house investment experts thoroughly research each company we recommend.
However, maintaining an attitude of persistent curiosity is a …read more »
The recession forced airlines to cut spending on new planes, flight simulators and pilot training. However, airlines will have to start replacing their aging fleets in the next few years. That should spur a surge in orders for Bombardier and CAE.
BOMBARDIER INC. (Toronto symbols BBD.A $4.97 and BBD.B $4.98; Aggressive Growth Portfolio, Manufacturing & Industry sector; Shares outstanding: 1.7 …read more »
Recently, we heard from an investor who inquired about our Successful Investor Wealth Management service. She said she likes our approach to investing, but she admits to some concern about what she called our “all-equities philosophy.” Her broker says that all investors need to hold some bonds to reduce the volatility in their portfolios.
Our view on stocks and bonds is …read more »
A key part of our three-part investment approach is to stick with well-established, dividend-paying companies. (The other two parts are to spread your money out across the five main economic sectors, and downplay stocks in the broker/public-relations limelight.)
Most well-established companies have built up strong reputations that can help them overcome the inevitable downturns. Their trusted brands also make it easier …read more »
Another one of our buys — Baffinland Iron Mines — has attracted a takeover bid.
Investors often ask how we have managed to recommend so many stocks over the years that get taken over. One key is that we aim to recommend stocks with hidden assets — assets that attract less investor attention than they deserve. That gives buyers a bargain. …read more »
BCE INC. $34 (Toronto symbol BCE; Conservative Growth Portfolio, Utilities sector; Shares outstanding: 758.8 million; Market cap: $25.8 billion; Price-to-sales ratio: 1.4; Dividend yield: 5.4%; SI Rating: Above Average) is buying the 85% of CTVglobemedia that it does not already own. This private company owns the 27-station CTV Television Network. CTVglobemedia also owns 30 speciality channels, 34 radio stations and …read more »
We continue to recommend that you cut your investment risk by spreading your money out across the five main economic sectors (Manufacturing & Industry; Resources; Consumer; Finance; and Utilities). Most investors should have investments in most, if not all, of these five sectors. The proper proportions depend on your circumstances and temperament.
If you’re an income-seeking or conservative investor, you …read more »
ZHONGPIN INC. $14.94 (Nasdaq symbol HOGS; SI Rating: Extra Risk) (086-10-8286-1788; www.zpfood.com; Shares outstanding: 34.7 million; Market cap: $518.8 million; No dividends paid) is a China-based company that processes meat and other foods. Zhongpin specializes in pork and pork products, as well as fruit and vegetables. It sells 358 meat products, including chilled pork, frozen pork and prepared meats, as …read more »
