One of the biggest global gold companies. Likes the outlook for gold for now. Mining stocks in general have lagged the commodity and he is expecting a catch-up. Very high assets and situated in safe countries.

This is not a “current earnings” story. Currently trading at around the value of its real estate holdings. Looking for 1 of 3 things. 1.) Will turn around in the next year or two, probably starting later this year. 2.) The Weston family takes it private through George Weston (WN-T). 3.) Sells the company. Downside is limited, but the upside, even though it takes a year or so, will move very fast.

Has been acting better lately. Focusing more on natural gas. Old CEO was over-promising and under-delivering. New CEO is under-promising.

(A Top Pick march 13/07. Down 20%.) Only bank that has said what their asset backed commercial paper is. Took a 25% write down on it.

(A Top Pick march 13/07. Up 55%.) Was acquired. Bought it because of their ethylene and their refining and marketing.

(A Top Pick march 13/07. Down %.) Biggest brokerage firm in Japan. He wanted exposure to Japan. Unfortunately, they got involved with the US subprime market. Sold his holdings quite some time ago.

Pretty much a pure UK bank. Also has a life insurance company. On the very conservative side of banks. Well capitalized. Loan portfolio has been very conservative. Sold off in sympathy with global banks. Just reported excellent earnings and raised their dividend.