A Comment -- General Comments From an Expert (A Commentary)

Thinks the overall demand for metals will continue strong.

The stock got badly beaten up about five months ago when they had to cut their dividend. That was a great buying opportunity. Dividend. Nickel prices are expected to rise based on demand from China.

Likes as a defense holding at this point.

Prefer to invest in purer plays. Will under perform because it has a holding company discount.

There won't be much value left for current shareholders.

When things are settled, the present shareholders will get limited payment, if any.

A turnaround situation. Likes the company. New management. Some frustration on the street that production hasn't started to grow and there haven't been more discoveries. A good trading stock. Buy under $2.50 and sell above.

Has had a nice run-up. May be a takeover candidate. Actively developing coal bed methane. Good value.

Existing shares will be worthless. Wait for the restructuring to be completed.

Complete crapshoot. No one knows what the restructuring is going to look like.

Restructuring which will leave present shares virtually worthless.

If the price of copper goes back to $1/1¼, you'll see cash flow and earnings go through the roof. Dividend is safe.

Hasn't really invested in new areas for development and growth. Prefer others e.g. Teck Cominco, Inco, Aur for pure metal plays.

(A top pick May 5/03. Up 18%.) Thinks it will still go higher. Good management team. Pretty cheap.