Topic: How To Invest

Hi Pat: Can I have a quick opinion on the following stocks: HSBC, Goldcorp and Berkshire Hathaway? Thanks.

Article Excerpt

A: HSBC Holdings plc (ADR), $51.57, symbol HSBC on New York (ADRs outstanding: 3.8 billion; Market cap: $190.7 billion; www.hsbc.com), like many global banks, faces tighter regulations and capital requirements. In response, it continues to sell off non-core assets, streamline its business and cut its costs. The bank has already reduced its global workforce to 254,000 from 300,000 by not replacing departing employees and selling or closing 63 businesses since 2011. It is expected to make further job cuts. HSBC needs stronger growth in its key China market to significantly increase its revenue and profits. However, the ADRs are okay to hold if you want to own an international bank. A: Goldcorp, $27.19, symbol G on Toronto (Shares outstanding: 812.0 million; Market cap: $22.0 billion; www.goldcorp.com), is a Canadian senior gold producer with 10 operating mines and several development projects. It mainly focuses on countries with low political risk, like Canada and Mexico. Goldcorp expects to produce 3.0 million to 3.15 million ounces of…