Topic: How To Invest

Pat: What's your recommendation on Capstone Mining?

Article Excerpt

Capstone Mining, $2.39, symbol CS on Toronto (Shares outstanding: 379.0 million; Market cap: $905.8 million; www.capstonemining.com), owns two copper mines and two advanced-stage development projects. 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 advancing its 100%-owned Kutcho copper property in B.C., and is working toward making a production decision. Kutcho could also produce significant amounts of zinc, silver and gold. Capstone is also undertaking a feasibility study at its large-scale, 70%-owned Santo Domingo copper/iron/gold project in Chile, in partnership with Korea Resources Corporation. In 2011, Capstone’s cash flow per share rose 7.9%, to $0.41 from $0.38. The company holds a high cash balance of $486.3 million, or $1.28 a share, and has no debt. Capstone’s strong balance sheet and the prospect of two new mines coming into production could attract a..