Topic: How To Invest

Hi Pat: What are your recommendations for Capstone Mining and Northern Dynasty Minerals? Thank you.

Article Excerpt

Capstone Mining, $4.46, symbol CS on Toronto (Shares outstanding: 203.9 million; Market cap: $909.3 million; www.capstonemining.com), owns two copper mines and one advanced-stage copper/gold development project. The company’s underground Cozamin mine in Zacatecas, Mexico, mainly produces copper, but its by-products include zinc, lead and silver. The open-pit Minto mine in the Yukon produces copper and gold. Capstone has significantly increased production at both mines. The company is also advancing its 100%-owned Kutcho copper property in British Columbia, and is working toward making a production decision. Kutcho could also produce significant amounts of zinc, silver and gold. In 2010, Capstone’s cash flow per share was $0.43, down 28.3% from $0.60 in 2009. However, cash flow per share is forecast to rise to $0.78 in 2011, and $1.12 in 2012. The stock trades at 5.7 times the 2011 estimate, and 4.0 times the 2012 estimate. Capstone holds cash of $186 million, or $0.93 a share, and has low debt. Capstone’s strong balance sheet…