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Investment Q&A

Not investment advice or solicitation to buy/sell securities. Do your own due diligence and/or consult an advisor.

Q: Over the last 2 years, I lost quite a lot of money investing in a promotional companies, or, companies with growth profiles too good to be true. On the other hand, I always made money investing in a company that meets all the following criterias: (1) boring (2) sells products I use (3) existed for 5 years (4) pays a dividend under 4%. Jean-Coutu meets passes this test so I'm considering it my father's portfolio. Is there something *not* to like about it? How about the latest news on the government meddling with drug generics pricing. This this take a positive turn? Thank you!
Read Answer Asked by Matt on May 02, 2017
Q: The recent decline in CAD/US exchange rates has me somewhat concerned for my US investments. If you believe,as I do, that the CAD has reached its low point and may move up slowly from here, should you buy US shares in CAD funds? Or is it best to convert now and hold these in US dollars? In general do you believe it is best to have a mix of US shares in an even split of US and CAD currency? What should the factors be to determine how this is handled individually? Or does it even matter?
Read Answer Asked by Barry on May 02, 2017
Q: Peter and His Wonder Team
Recently you gave good analysis as to why FLEX retreated despite a strong QR. You stated it was because they lowered future earning from $0.30 to $0.28-$0.24 for the next quarter. You also stated that you preferred CLS over FLEX. If FLEX is forecasting continued growth for the next 2 years and CLS appears more stagnant...I am wondering why you think CLS has more potential going forward. Or do you just think FLEX will have a misstep. Please clarify. Your analysis is invaluable to us retail investors as we search for facts before we make decisions!
As always...thanks!
Dr.Ernest Rivait
Read Answer Asked by Ernest on May 01, 2017
Q: Is the acquisition a good idea? Or do you think that a grocer should stick to what it knows instead of trying to buy airplanes? According to EIF's new release, it was giving NWC a very competitive price already for they transport services. Does this make NWC still a buy or more a wait and see?

Thanks in advance!
Read Answer Asked by Wayne on May 01, 2017
Q: Dear 5i, I've read some good questions lately on REITs and return of capital, dividends, business income, and the adjusted cost base for these securities.
I just wanted to follow up and ask if my understanding of the different tax treatments is correct.
1. RRSP: all monies paid to the RRSP is basically exempt and no need to keep track of ROC, dividends, etc.
2. TFSA same as RRSP
3. Cash Account, monies paid to the account must be kept track of and the ACB will be reduced each time ROC is paid back to the investor.
Please confirm this means over a very long period of time the ACB could be reduced to zero or even negative? Is the ROC, Box 42 on a T3, the only amount I have to keep track of?
and another question, on BYD.UN, Why is BYD.UN allowed to operate under .UN status and in your opinion will they eventually be required to convert to a Corp.?

Read Answer Asked by Keith on May 01, 2017
Q: The first baby boomers aged 71-72 (~1945-65) will begin cashing out their RRSP's or converting them into RRIF's or purchasing an annuity, this year. As will all the major boomer shifts, it is exciting to look at and predict the impact their money will have on government (tax revenues), financial institutions, personal wealth etc. What sectors will benefit; insurance companies like (SLF), banks (BNS), brokerage/ investment firms (FSZ), other. Where will the bulk of this money flow to: fixed income (bonds, debs, gic's, savings acc's) or (pref's and dividend stocks, common stock) or annuities. I welcome your thoughts and predictions on this interesting matter.
Read Answer Asked by LARRY on May 01, 2017
Q: What is your view on the announcement by EIF regarding the loss of North West as a client? The announcement said the effect on the bottom line is only about $1 million, which is so immaterial.

Also, is this piece of business development what the shorts are basing their recent incessant attack of the EIF SP? If so, can we expect a much appreciated short squeeze on Monday?

You insight is much appreciated as always.
Read Answer Asked by Victor on May 01, 2017
Q: There is a link to an article in today's Globe by Meb Farber that calls into question the generally accepted wisdom that companies that grow their dividends are superior investments. (at least I think it is a generally accepted theory) Is this a theory that you have come across before or do you think that his argument has merit?

http://mebfaber.com/2017/04/26/dividend-growth-myth/

Appreciate your insight.

Paul F.
Read Answer Asked by Paul on April 28, 2017
Q: I note that buyouts are increasing among the small cap stocks. Today alone Lumenpulse and Canam are going private at nice premiums. IRD also gone this month. I am not sure if this is the start of a trend. Are there any companies you would consider as buy-out targets in the next 9 months? I have my eye on Ten Peaks.
Read Answer Asked by Murray on April 28, 2017
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