Q: Some time ago i asked a question regarding the merits of holding a handful of us stocks along with my US etf’s, in order to get a little extra boost. You were ok with the strategy but cautioned against the kind of stocks I held i.e. Google, nvidia, msft, Costco, abbivie. While they were good stocks you said that the problem is that they are well represented in the various etf’s and that if i wanted a “kicker” to provide boost that I should go smaller in size. I wonder if you could provide a handful of stocks that would fit that criterion and would be ones that one would want to own long term. If they were also good candidates for selling options on that would be an added bonus. Thanks for your expertise and advice.

Q: What are your thoughts on Iron Mountain REIT? Stock has held up relatively well but I wonder if the dividend is covered - are there alternatives you would suggest? Thanks

Q: I am moving toward retirement and looking for stocks with a Dividend of 4% plus. Could you suggest some Canadian and US companies that you feel are good value in todays market or ones to watch for this fall if things go down- separate lists please. All categories except financials as I'm overweight there. I'm interested in companies that can ride a recession with higher interest rates. Thank you!