Paul Harris, CFAAlcan AluminumAL.TOBUYApr 22, 2005
It's not only a smelting company, but also a packaging company. On the smelting side, they're in a very good position because most of their electricity has been hedged. The issue is their packaging side and whether they can make that a higher margin business. Have a large amount of good will on the books, so expect they will have to take a write-down. At a good level now, but be prepared to hold.
There is a takeover bid in play. (caller asked how) To sell your shares, you can tender your shares, (call your broker), or sell on the market. Recommends tendering.
Has been a long term favorite of hers. Has just had a big pop, and they sold some.Expects the company to go higher.They've maintained a conservative balance sheet.
Early on in the process of a bidding war. If you own, continue to hold. Main risk is a Pac Man defence where Alcan tries to buy Alcoa (AA-N). You might lock in a bit of profit at this point.
Stock had a good top because of the offer from Alcoa (AA-N). Whatever happens to the price of aluminum in the near term will not be based on fundamentals. A lot of variables are going on, so there is no assurance the stock will go higher. If you own, take some partial profits.
In the case ALcan and BCE there are various parties who are interested, and there isn't much downside. Could go a fair bit higher, if other players come in.
Getting closer to the end of the cycle in commodities. Would be a little cautious on aluminum. Some speculation on consolidations, but doesn't expect there will be a lot more money made on this stock.