Latest Top Picks

Stock Opinions by Ted Macklin

WEAK BUY
Bank of Montreal
A little cautious on banks overall. Any merger is probably on the back burner of the present government. A more defensive bank. A good holding.
banks
DON'T BUY
IPSCO Inc
Generally, is not fond of the steel industry. Has had a tough time passing on price increases because of a higher cost of scrap steel. Highly sensitive to the state of the economy.
steel
BUY
The bulk of capital spending is behind them. Future expansion will be covered from free cash flow. Stock dropped because production levels were below expectations, but this is not a problem. A tremendous opportunity. Buy on pullbacks.
integrated mines
TRADE
Have not delivered on the cost cutting as expected. Rail stocks have come under pressure especially in a higher interest rate environment. Have had a lot of weather problems in western Canada.
Transportation
DON'T BUY
Operationally, they are having trouble with freight rates because of the weakness of the US dollar exports from the US have been weaker. Feels the stock will stall here for a little bit.
Transportation
BUY
CI Financial Corp
A good company. Very wall run. They are acquisition oriented and have commented that if they can't get acquisitions, we'll consider changing into an income trust.
investment companies / funds
DON'T BUY
Sierra Wireless
A good company and good product. Concerned about tech stock valuations right now.
electrical / electronic
BUY
Loblaw Companies Ltd
Has done tremendously well in the food retail space. Strong management and good balance sheet.
food stores
DON'T BUY
Sold their holdings because of lack of comfort with the clarity of their accounting and lacked confidence in their management. Under investigation.
Healthcare
TOP PICK
Alcan Aluminum
(A top pick December 16/03. Up 8%.) Believe in the resources area. Aluminum has lagged the rally and China will be creating a big demand. The merger with Pecheny will be very accretive to their earnings.
integrated mines
PAST TOP PICK
Manulife Financial
(A top pick December 16/03. Up 11.5%.) They consolidate very well. Good earnings.
insurance
TOP PICK
Encana Corp
(A top pick December 16/03. Up 11.5%.) Announced a 12% increase in their reserves. Good management.
oil / gas
DON'T BUY
Nordion Inc
This stock has stalled and is frustrating. Can't see them getting 15% growth as they predicted.
other services
BUY ON WEAKNESS
A good company. A little bit expensive, but would buy on any pullback.
specialty stores
BUY ON WEAKNESS
Good company. Tremendous franchise and properties. The downturn in business travel has hurt them but these are short-term considerations.
lodging
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