Ben ChengFording Canadian Coal Trust (Inc Trust)FDG.UN.TOTOP PICKSep 17, 2003
Believes that the prospect for metallurgical coal going forward is good. Demand for steel is rising, especially in Asia. Coal prices should stay firm. Distributions could be rising in 2004.
Being acquired by Teck Cominco (TCK.B-T). If you are holding this in a taxable account, there are some very negative consequences. In an RRSP or RIF you can avoid the tax consequences. He sold the majority of his holdings into the market prior to the transaction.
Being acquired by Teck Cominco (TCK.B-T). Arbitrage companies were forced to sell. There is a financing gap and Merrill Lynch (MER-N) is part of that, so the market is concerned. The deal could fall apart.
If held in an RRSP, you could continue holding. If it's in a taxable account, consider selling the units before the new deal gets done. Take it as a gain as opposed to the tax treatment that will supposedly come on the consummation of the deal. (Editor’s note. Check with your broker.)