"Patience is a Super Power" - "The Money is in the waiting"
Showing posts with label Investing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Investing. Show all posts

Thursday, December 19, 2024

Advancing the use of Logical qubits as investor interest in quantum computing companies heats up!

 Investment Report: Advancing Logical Qubits - Google Quantum AI, IBM, and Quantinuum

1. Google Quantum AI

Overview

Google Quantum AI is a division of Alphabet Inc., the publicly traded parent company listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker GOOGL. Google leads in quantum computing breakthroughs, including error-corrected logical qubits.

Financials

  • Market Cap: ~$1.8 trillion (as of December 2024).

  • Annual Revenue: ~$300 billion.

  • Quantum Division Revenue: Not separately disclosed but part of Alphabet’s “Other Bets.”

  • Stock Price: Approximately $135/share (fluctuates based on market conditions).

Technology Advancements

  • Google’s Willow Quantum Chip demonstrated exponential error reduction using logical qubits.

  • Achieved quantum supremacy with computations far beyond classical capabilities.

Clients and Investors

  • Clients: Governments, academic institutions, and corporations engaged in quantum research.

  • Investors: Public shareholders of Alphabet Inc.

Collaborations and Partnerships

  • Collaborations with NASA and academic institutions.

  • Partnerships with private quantum startups for integration into Google’s cloud services.

How to Invest

Investors can buy Alphabet shares on the NASDAQ.


2. IBM Quantum

Overview

IBM Quantum is a division of IBM Corporation, a publicly traded company listed on the NYSE under the ticker IBM. The company is a pioneer in quantum computing, with a roadmap targeting fault-tolerant logical qubits.

Financials

  • Market Cap: ~$120 billion (as of December 2024)

  • Annual Revenue: ~$60 billion

  • Quantum Division Revenue: Estimated in the hundreds of millions but growing rapidly.

  • Stock Price: Approximately $150/share (fluctuates based on market conditions).

Technology Advancements

  • IBM’s Quantum System Two focuses on scalability and fault-tolerant logical qubits.

  • Advanced surface codes enable robust error correction.

  • Aims to scale to thousands of logical qubits by the 2030s.

Clients and Investors

  • Clients: ExxonMobil, Daimler, JP Morgan Chase, and various academic institutions.

  • Investors: Public shareholders of IBM.

Collaborations and Partnerships

  • Partnerships with major universities for quantum research.

  • Collaborations with enterprises like Samsung and Boehringer Ingelheim for specific quantum applications.

How to Invest

Investors can buy IBM shares through major stock exchanges like the NYSE.


3. Quantinuum

Overview

Quantinuum is a privately held company formed by the merger of Honeywell Quantum Solutions and Cambridge Quantum. It focuses on trapped-ion technology for error correction and logical qubits.

Financials

  • Ownership: Jointly owned by Honeywell International (majority stake) and private investors.

  • Revenue: Estimated in the tens of millions, primarily from enterprise and research clients.

  • Investment Opportunities: Not publicly traded; potential investments could come through Honeywell or future private funding rounds.

Technology Advancements

  • Trapped-ion systems provide high fidelity and stability for logical qubits.

  • Integrates quantum software solutions with hardware for seamless application.

Clients and Investors

  • Clients: Pharmaceutical companies, national defense agencies, and academic research institutions.

  • Investors: Honeywell International and venture capital firms.

Collaborations and Partnerships

  • Strategic partnerships with Microsoft Azure and other cloud providers.

  • Collaborations with academic institutions and private sector research organizations.

How to Invest

Indirect investment opportunities exist by purchasing shares of Honeywell International (ticker HON) or by participating in future funding rounds if Quantinuum goes public.


Institutional investors 

hold significant positions in companies advancing logical qubit technology, such as Alphabet Inc. (Google's parent company), IBM, and Honeywell International. Below is an overview of the major institutional stakeholders in these companies:

1. Alphabet Inc. (Ticker: GOOGL)

  • Vanguard Group Inc.: Approximately 7.5% ownership, making it one of the largest shareholders.

  • BlackRock Inc.: Holds about 6.4% of Alphabet's shares.

  • FMR LLC (Fidelity Management & Research): Owns around 4.5% of the company.

  • State Street Corporation: Maintains a stake of approximately 3.5%.

  • Geode Capital Management LLC: Holds about 1.8% of Alphabet's shares.

These institutional investors collectively own a substantial portion of Alphabet, reflecting strong confidence in the company's technological advancements and market position.

2. IBM (Ticker: IBM)

  • Vanguard Group Inc.: The largest shareholder, owning approximately 9.77% of IBM's shares.

  • BlackRock Inc.: Holds about 8% of the company's shares.

  • State Street Corporation: Owns roughly 5.9% of IBM.

  • Geode Capital Management LLC: Maintains a stake of approximately 1.6%.

  • Northern Trust Corporation: Holds about 1.3% of IBM's shares.

These institutional holdings indicate a strong institutional interest in IBM's ongoing developments in quantum computing and other technologies.

3. Honeywell International Inc. (Ticker: HON)

  • Vanguard Group Inc.: The largest shareholder, with approximately 9.44% ownership.

  • BlackRock Inc.: Holds about 7.2% of Honeywell's shares.

  • State Street Corporation: Owns roughly 4.8% of the company.

  • Wellington Management Group LLP: Maintains a stake of approximately 2.7%.

  • Geode Capital Management LLC: Holds about 2.2% of Honeywell's shares.

These institutional investors play a significant role in Honeywell's ownership structure, especially as the company explores strategic alternatives to enhance shareholder value.

It's noteworthy that Vanguard Group Inc. and BlackRock Inc. are prominent institutional investors across all three companies, reflecting their broad investment strategies in leading technology and industrial firms.

Please note that ownership percentages are approximate and based on the latest available data as of December 2024. Institutional holdings are subject to change due to ongoing trading activities and portfolio adjustments.

Conclusion

These three companies are leading the charge in advancing logical qubit technology, each with unique strengths and approaches:

  • Google Quantum AI is setting performance benchmarks with its cutting-edge quantum chips.

  • IBM focuses on scalability and enterprise-grade quantum systems.

  • Quantinuum leverages the advantages of trapped-ion technology for stable and high-fidelity qubits.

Investors can directly invest in Alphabet or IBM through public markets, while exposure to Quantinuum is currently limited to indirect methods via Honeywell or potential private equity opportunities.

Related Articles:

IBM is becoming a powerhouse of Quantum Ai Technology!


Saturday, July 27, 2024

Technology is advancing so fast now it is hard to keep up. Here are the most promising tech areas we are considering now!

 




Here are some of the most promising areas of technology from an investment perspective over the next three years:

1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

  • NLP and LLMs: Continued advancements in natural language processing and large language models (like OpenAI's GPT-4) are expected to drive significant value across industries.
  • AI in Healthcare: AI-driven diagnostics, personalized medicine, and drug discovery are burgeoning fields with high growth potential.

2. Quantum Computing

  • Development and Deployment: Companies like IONQ, D-Wave, and Quantinuum are making strides in developing and commercializing quantum technologies. Their partnerships and applications in various industries could yield substantial returns.

3. Biotechnology

  • Gene Editing and Synthetic Biology: Technologies like CRISPR and companies like Ginkgo Bioworks are at the forefront of gene editing and synthNLP,LLMs,healthcare,biotech,biotechnology,synbio,etic biology, offering transformative potential in healthcare and agriculture.
  • Cancer Immunotherapy: Innovations from companies like Agenus are pushing forward the boundaries of cancer treatment.

4. Healthcare Technology

  • Telehealth and Remote Monitoring: Companies like Teladoc and Philips Healthcare are leading in telehealth, which has seen accelerated adoption due to the pandemic.
  • Wearables and Personalized Medicine: Continued development in health monitoring wearables and personalized treatment plans.

5. Clean Energy and Sustainability

  • Renewable Energy: Solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources are gaining traction, driven by both regulatory support and advancements in technology.
  • Energy Storage and Batteries: Innovations in battery technology and energy storage solutions are critical for the adoption of renewable energy.

6. Cybersecurity

  • Advanced Threat Detection: Companies like SentinelOne are developing sophisticated cybersecurity solutions to combat evolving cyber threats, an area of growing importance.

7. 5G and Connectivity

  • Network Expansion: The rollout of 5G networks and the development of associated technologies will enable faster and more reliable connectivity, opening new opportunities in IoT and smart cities.

8. Autonomous Vehicles and Advanced Transportation

  • Self-Driving Technology: Continued progress in autonomous vehicle technology, supported by advancements from companies like Tesla and Waymo.
  • Electric Vehicles (EVs): Increasing adoption of EVs and advancements in related technologies, including battery improvements and charging infrastructure.

9. Fintech and Digital Payments

  • Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies: Growing acceptance and integration of blockchain technologies and cryptocurrencies in financial systems.
  • Digital Banking: Expansion of digital banking services and fintech solutions that streamline financial operations.

10. Robotics and Automation

  • Industrial Automation: Increased automation in manufacturing and logistics driven by companies like UiPath.
  • Service Robots: Growth in the use of robots for service applications, including healthcare, retail, and hospitality.

Investing in these areas carries varying degrees of risk and reward, so it's essential to conduct thorough research and consider diversification to mitigate potential risks.

Currently, the most promising area of technology from an investment perspective is Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Several factors contribute to its top position:

1. Rapid Advancements and Adoption

  • Innovation Pace: AI technologies, particularly in natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning, are advancing rapidly. Developments in large language models (LLMs) like GPT-4 are driving new applications and capabilities.
  • Broad Applications: AI is being integrated across various industries, including healthcare, finance, retail, and more. This widespread adoption signifies vast market potential.

2. Transformative Impact

  • Healthcare: AI is revolutionizing diagnostics, personalized medicine, drug discovery, and telehealth, significantly impacting patient outcomes and operational efficiencies.
  • Business Operations: AI-powered automation and analytics are improving decision-making, optimizing supply chains, and enhancing customer experiences.

3. Investment and Funding

  • Venture Capital: AI startups and companies are attracting significant venture capital investments, highlighting confidence in their growth potential.
  • Corporate Investment: Major technology companies (e.g., Google, Microsoft, Amazon) are heavily investing in AI research and development, further driving innovation and market expansion.

4. Regulatory and Ethical Focus

  • Supportive Policies: Governments and regulatory bodies are increasingly recognizing the importance of AI and are developing frameworks to support its growth while addressing ethical and societal concerns.

5. Talent and Research

  • Growing Expertise: The AI field is attracting top talent and fostering cutting-edge research, leading to continuous innovation and new discoveries.

6. Market Projections

  • Growth Estimates: Market research projects significant growth in the AI sector, with substantial increases in revenue and adoption rates over the next few years.

Specific Promising Areas within AI:

  • NLP and LLMs: Technologies like GPT-4 are setting new benchmarks in human-computer interaction and automation.
  • AI in Healthcare: From diagnostics to treatment planning, AI's impact on healthcare is profound and rapidly expanding.
  • AI-driven Automation: Tools from companies like UiPath are transforming business processes, driving efficiency, and reducing costs.

While AI stands out as the most promising, it is crucial for investors to stay informed about emerging trends and developments across other high-potential areas, such as quantum computing and biotechnology, to make well-rounded investment decisions.

Quantum computing is near the top of the list of promising technology areas for investment. 

Here’s why it holds a prominent position:

1. Potential for Disruption

  • Computational Power: Quantum computers have the potential to solve problems that are currently intractable for classical computers. This could revolutionize fields such as cryptography, material science, and complex system simulations.
  • Optimization: Quantum computing offers significant advantages in optimization problems, which can impact industries like logistics, finance, and manufacturing.

2. Growing Ecosystem and Partnerships

  • Corporate Involvement: Major tech companies like IBM, Google, and Microsoft are investing heavily in quantum research and development. Startups like IONQ, D-Wave, and Quantinuum are also making significant progress.
  • Collaborations: There are increasing collaborations between academia, industry, and government, fostering a robust quantum ecosystem.

3. Significant Investments

  • Venture Capital: Quantum computing startups are attracting substantial venture capital investments, indicating confidence in the sector’s potential.
  • Government Funding: Governments around the world are recognizing the strategic importance of quantum technology and are investing in national quantum initiatives.

4. Technological Milestones

  • Advancements: Continuous breakthroughs are being achieved, such as improvements in qubit coherence times, error correction, and quantum algorithms.
  • Commercialization: Companies are starting to offer quantum computing services through cloud platforms, making the technology more accessible to researchers and businesses.

5. Market Projections

  • Growth Potential: The market for quantum computing is projected to grow significantly over the next decade, with substantial increases in both hardware and software sales.

Key Areas of Impact:

  • Cryptography: Quantum computers could break current encryption methods, leading to new approaches to secure data.
  • Drug Discovery: Quantum simulations can significantly accelerate the discovery of new drugs and materials.
  • Financial Services: Quantum computing can optimize trading strategies, risk management, and portfolio optimization.

Challenges to Consider:

  • Technical Hurdles: Quantum computing is still in its early stages, and there are significant technical challenges to overcome, including error rates and qubit stability.
  • Uncertain Timeline: While progress is being made, the timeline for achieving widespread practical quantum computing remains uncertain.

Despite these challenges, the potential impact of quantum computing is so profound that it remains a highly promising area for investment

Its position near the top of the list is justified by the transformative possibilities and the rapid advancements being made in the field.

Quantum computing technology will advance Ai tech exponentially in the coming years, and in fact, "exponentially" may be too small a word!

The business partnerships that IONQ has in advancing trapped ion, quantum computing, are a who's who of business and Government and so is their list of investors


Wednesday, July 17, 2024

From promising cancer treatments to new and improved imaging, ultrasould and diagnosis, Ai is enhancing these microcaps!

 Promising Microcap stocks in Healthcare, Quantum computing, Ai, Lidar, Nanotech, imaging & more!



Thursday, July 11, 2024

How can small, retail investors, enter the burgeoning robotics industry that is mostly controlled at present by private companies that are out of their reach?

 

Enovix ($ENVX on Nasdaq) has developed a unique new Li battery that will enhance safety, longevity and higher energy levels


Here are some of the top companies that produce commodities essential for the robotics industry, along with an indication of which might be suitable for small investors to consider:

1. Copper

  • Top Companies: Freeport-McMoRan, BHP Group, Southern Copper Corporation
  • Small Investor Consideration: Freeport-McMoRan (FCX) - Known for its large-scale mining operations, it's a prominent name with considerable market presence.

2. Steel

  • Top Companies: ArcelorMittal, Nippon Steel, China Baowu Steel Group
  • Small Investor Consideration: ArcelorMittal (MT) - A global leader in steel production with diversified operations.

3. Lithium

  • Top Companies: Albemarle Corporation, SQM, Livent Corporation
  • Small Investor Consideration: Albemarle Corporation (ALB) - One of the largest producers of lithium, benefiting from the growing demand for electric vehicles and batteries.

4. GPUs (Graphics Processing Units)

  • Top Companies: NVIDIA, AMD, Intel
  • Small Investor Consideration: NVIDIA (NVDA) - Leading in high-performance GPUs with strong growth in AI and data centers.

5. Aluminum

  • Top Companies: Alcoa Corporation, Rio Tinto, Norsk Hydro
  • Small Investor Consideration: Alcoa Corporation (AA) - A key player in the aluminum industry with a strong market position.

6. Rare Earths

  • Top Companies: Lynas Rare Earths, MP Materials, China Northern Rare Earth Group High-Tech Co.
  • Small Investor Consideration: MP Materials (MP) - A significant rare earth producer in the U.S., benefiting from strategic importance in high-tech industries.

7. Silicon

  • Top Companies: Wacker Chemie AG, Hemlock Semiconductor, Dow Corning
  • Small Investor Consideration: Wacker Chemie AG - A leading global producer of polysilicon, essential for semiconductors and solar panels.

8. Carbon Fiber

  • Top Companies: Toray Industries, Hexcel Corporation, Teijin Limited
  • Small Investor Consideration: Hexcel Corporation (HXL) - A leading advanced composites company with a focus on carbon fiber.

9. Kevlar

  • Top Companies: DuPont, Teijin Aramid, Kolon Industries
  • Small Investor Consideration: DuPont (DD) - Known for its innovation and production of high-strength materials like Kevlar.

10. LiDAR

  • Top Companies: Velodyne Lidar, Luminar Technologies, Aeva Technologies
  • Small Investor Consideration: Luminar Technologies (LAZR) - An emerging leader in LiDAR technology with significant partnerships in the automotive sector.

11. Advanced Plastics

  • Top Companies: BASF, SABIC, Dow Inc.
  • Small Investor Consideration: Dow Inc. (DOW) - A major player in the chemicals and advanced plastics sector with a diverse product portfolio.


Several publicly traded companies are involved in the production of robots, robotics, or robot parts.

Notable examples include:

  1. Fanuc (FANUY): Specializes in industrial robots for manufacturing, including electrical injection molding machines and automated lasers.
  2. UiPath (PATH): Develops robotic process automation (RPA) software to enhance robot efficiency and learning.
  3. AeroVironment (AVAV): Produces unmanned aircraft systems used by the military and for research.
  4. Amazon (AMZN): Implements autonomous robots in its fulfillment centers.

These companies represent a range of applications from industrial automation to military and commercial use​ (Built In)​.

For small investors, considering companies with established market presence, strong financials, and clear growth potential in the robotics and related sectors is crucial. Companies like NVIDIA, Albemarle, and MP Materials offer a balance of growth potential and relative stability, making them attractive options for investment.

AVs, RoboTaxis and robotics all need good Lidar technology. Here we rank five prominent Lidar makers!

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Often called the "Google" of Blockchain technology, "The Graph (GRT) has a unique place and usefulness in the Crypto universe!

 


If interested in blockchain technology and considering buying a useful cryptocurrency, one might consider purchasing GRT (The Graph) for several compelling reasons:

  1. Fundamental Use Case:

    • Data Indexing and Querying: The Graph provides a crucial service by indexing and querying blockchain data efficiently using GraphQL. This is essential for many decentralized applications (dApps) that require real-time data from blockchains like Ethereum.
  2. Wide Adoption:

    • Support from Major Projects: The Graph is used by numerous high-profile dApps and DeFi platforms, such as Uniswap, Aave, and Synthetix. This widespread adoption demonstrates its utility and reliability within the blockchain ecosystem​ (CoinTelegraph)​​ (Finbold)​.
  3. Decentralization and Governance:

    • Community-Driven: The Graph operates with a decentralized model involving indexers, curators, and delegators, all incentivized through the GRT token. This model ensures the network's robustness and reliability, fostering a trust-based environment​ (CoinTelegraph)​.
  4. Ecosystem Expansion:

    • Multi-Chain Support: While initially focused on Ethereum, The Graph has been expanding to support other blockchains, enhancing its interoperability and potential use cases across different blockchain ecosystems​ (Finbold)​.
  5. Active Development and Community:

    • Continuous Improvement: The Graph has an active development team and community contributing to its ongoing improvement and expansion. This active engagement is crucial for the long-term viability and innovation of the platform​ (CoinTelegraph)​.
  6. Investment Potential:

    • Growth Prospects: Given its fundamental role in the blockchain ecosystem and growing adoption, GRT has significant growth potential. The expansion into new blockchains and continuous feature enhancements could drive its demand and value over time.
  7. Strategic Partnerships:

    • Collaborations: The Graph's partnerships with various blockchain projects and integration into many decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols indicate strong industry support and potential for future growth.
  8. Market Position:

    • Established Player: As an established player in the blockchain data indexing space, The Graph holds a unique position that can be pivotal as the blockchain ecosystem continues to grow and evolve.

Considering these points, GRT represents a valuable addition to a blockchain-focused investment portfolio. It provides a utility that is integral to the operation and efficiency of many blockchain applications, making it a fundamentally strong choice for someone interested in blockchain technology.

However, as with any investment, it is essential to conduct thorough research and consider market conditions, project updates, and broader economic factors before making a decision.

Discl: Picked up some $GRT under .25c per

As of July 2024, the top ten most valuable cryptocurrencies by market capitalization are:

  1. Bitcoin (BTC): The original and most valuable cryptocurrency, known for its role as a store of value and its decentralized nature. Market cap: $1.25 trillion.

  2. Ethereum (ETH): Known for its smart contract functionality, Ethereum is a leading platform for decentralized applications (dApps). Market cap: $369.7 billion.

  3. Tether (USDT): A stablecoin pegged to the US dollar, widely used for trading and transactions due to its stable value. Market cap: $110.9 billion.

  4. BNB (Binance Coin): Utilized within the Binance ecosystem for various applications, including transaction fee discounts on the Binance exchange. Market cap: $86.79 billion.

  5. XRP (Ripple): Facilitates cross-border payments and currency exchanges efficiently, used by financial institutions worldwide. Market cap: $28 billion.

  6. Solana (SOL): A high-performance blockchain supporting decentralized apps and finance, known for its speed and low transaction costs. Market cap: $72 billion.

  7. USD Coin (USDC): Another stablecoin pegged to the US dollar, USDC is popular for its reliability in global transactions. Market cap: $33.3 billion.

  8. Cardano (ADA): A blockchain platform for smart contracts and decentralized applications, focusing on sustainability and scalability. Market cap: $16.2 billion.

  9. Dogecoin (DOGE): Initially started as a meme coin, Dogecoin has gained substantial popularity and usage, particularly for tipping and charity donations. Market cap: $14 billion.

  10. Polkadot (DOT): Enables interoperability between different blockchains, aiming to create a decentralized internet of blockchains. Market cap: $13 billion.

These cryptocurrencies are noted for their significant market caps and the unique functionalities they bring to the blockchain ecosystem​ (BeInCrypto)​​ (Nasdaq)​.


Saturday, July 6, 2024

A recent Hyperion study indicated that businesses anticipate significant benefits from quantum computing, such as increasing revenue, enhancing research capabilities, and driving innovation

 

The recent Hyperion study on quantum computing in business enterprises highlights significant trends and insights. Key findings include:

  1. Widespread Adoption: Nearly 70% of surveyed companies have an in-house quantum computing program.
  2. Revenue Growth: 21% of businesses view increasing revenue as the primary benefit, followed by enhancing research capabilities and driving innovation.
  3. Optimization Focus: Quantum computing is mainly applied to optimization problems in logistics, supply chains, and scheduling.
  4. Implementation Challenges: Time-to-solution and computational complexity are major obstacles.

These trends indicate a growing reliance on quantum computing to enhance business processes and competitiveness​ (D-Wave Systems)​.

The study was commissioned by D-wave Quantum to ascertain business enterprise move toward quantum computing.


​.


D-Wave Systems Inc. is currently a leading supplier of quantum computing technology. They develop both annealing and gate-model quantum computers and offer a comprehensive platform for various practical applications, including optimization problems in logistics, supply chains, and scheduling​ 

The study highlights that nearly 70% of surveyed companies have in-house quantum computing programs and that businesses are leveraging this technology to enhance revenue, research capabilities, and innovation. 

The actual ROI figures or percentages were not detailed in the findings reported​ (D-Wave Systems)​.


The Hyperion study provides valuable insights into the current and potential future impact of quantum computing on business enterprises. While the study highlights the growing adoption and expected benefits, such as revenue growth and optimization efficiencies, it is essential to consider that it does not provide specific ROI figures or detailed financial projections. Therefore, while the study can be a useful resource for understanding industry trends and the potential of quantum computing, it should be complemented with other financial analyses and market research for investment purposes.







Sunday, May 26, 2024

Conservative investors often seek out Dividends to support their Retire Fund investments. American and Canadian retirees like REIT's and especially Dividend payers!

Dividends are a great way to boost your RetireFund investments 

and REIT's often are in the mix of Dividend allstars.


Here are five American REITs that have strong dividend histories and are dividend all-stars:


  1. Federal Realty Investment Trust (FRT):

    With at least 25 years of dividend hikes, FRT is a well-established REIT. It focuses on retail and mixed-use properties.

  2. Universal Health Realty Income Trust (UHT): UHT also boasts over 25 years of consistent dividend increases. It primarily invests in healthcare and medical office buildings.

  3. National Retail Properties (NNN): NNN has a long history of dividend growth. It specializes in single-tenant retail properties across the United States.

  4. Realty Income (O): Known as the “Monthly Dividend Company,” Realty Income has consistently paid dividends for more than 50 years. It invests in retail and commercial properties.

  5. Essex Property Trust (ESS): ESS focuses on multifamily residential properties and has maintained a strong dividend track record for over two decades1.

Always consult with a financial advisor if you’re unsure about specific investments

 

Here are five Canadian REITs that also pay solid dividends


  1. Allied Properties REIT (AP-UN.TO): With a high dividend yield of 10.14%, Allied Properties focuses on urban office properties and has a market cap of approximately $2.17 billion.
  2. CT REIT (CRT-UN.TO): This REIT is associated with Canadian Tire and offers a dividend yield of 7.7%It has a market cap of around $503.30 million.
  3. Dream Industrial Real Estate Investment Trust (DIR-UN.TO): Dream Industrial REIT primarily invests in industrial properties. Its dividend yield is 9.45%.
  4. Choice Properties Real Estate Investment Trust (CHP-UN.TO): Choice Properties focuses on retail properties and has a dividend yield of 9.45%1.
  5. Granite Real Estate Investment Trust (GRT-UN.TO): Granite REIT specializes in industrial and logistics properties. Its dividend yield stands at 7.7%.


Remember that investing involves risks, and it’s essential to conduct thorough research and consider your own financial goals before making any investment decisions.

 If you’re interested in a broader exposure to REITs, you can also explore REIT exchange-traded funds (ETFs) such as iShares S&P/TSX Capped REIT Index ETF (XRE.TO), BMO Equal Weight REITs Index ETF (ZRE.TO), and Vanguard FTSE Canadian Capped REIT Index ETF (VRE.TO)

Happy investing!

Monday, March 4, 2019

Avoiding Index Funds this year may be a good strategy for your Retire Funds

Individual Stocks VS Index Funds in 2019


2019 does not bode well for Stock Indexes and therefore, Index funds.  Buying Index funds has been the go-to investment of individual investors (and some institutional investors) for years now.  Since 2009, many have done very well with this simple strategy which has outdone many money managers over that time.

2019 may be different for a number of reasons! This bull market we have enjoyed since 2009, is getting very long in the tooth and 2019 is beginning to look like the end is in sight.

The macro picture is a mishmash of poor decisions and poor leadership from Central Banks and world leaders alike. The news is dominated by trade war talks, Walls, Brexit, German (read Euro) downturn, and Debt, beyond anything we have witnessed in the past. Real war cannot be dismissed either as the USA and North Korea are at a stalemate, and (nuclear armed) India and Pakistan are shooting down each others fighter jets, to the cheers of their domestic audiences.

With Britain on the verge of a "no deal" Brexit, Italy may be becoming a financial basket case, German output is inching into negative territory, and in France, the Macron government has done nothing to right that ship.

Some believe that, Deutsche Bank may well be the "Lehman Brothers" of the Euro zone this year as creditors close in and a bailout partner is not in sight. The two largest economies on the planet, USA and China are at serious odds over trade AND both are in serious DEBT!

As the USA begins to withdraw from the world under this administration, it owes $22 Trillion dollars and that debt is now growing at 1.5 Trillion per year under Trump.

There are two ways to handle such a debt burden, 1: Default
2: reduce the dollar to a nickel.  There is no other way to pay down such a massive debt! (my bet is that, if it were entirely up to Mr. Trump, he would pick door number 1)

There are now more refugees on the move across the world than WW2 and most countries are putting up barriers to entry. Euro zone countries from Spain to Greece are doing whatever they can to keep out refugees, instead of welcoming them. Climate change, inept governments and wars are the reasons for such a migration.

Witness the debacle in the USA on the southern border as this president continues to threaten to shut down government if he does not get his wall. This argument is a hideous sidelight to what is truly going on in the world. This same administration seems to admire despots while scorning democracy, whether it is in it's own constitution or that of valuable allies.

The USA has now walked away from trade agreements, peace treaties and most recently, a nuclear arms agreement with Russia. None of these things bode well for markets, or indeed, humanity, going forward, but the pied Pipers of Wall Street keep on playing!

On a lesser, and personal financial note, while most index funds have very low fees, they are paid annually, and therefore, add up over time, eating into profits.  As the value of your investments go up, so do your fees. This is a built in strategy that will eventually eat away at your gains. If these investments go down, the fund still gets paid, every year!

Conversely, Buying individual stocks is now usually done online for less than $10 per trade! (One time). When an index tumbles, not all stocks are included. Some stocks actually go up at such times.

 The drawback:

Now you have to do homework!  Stocks are not index funds! They require you to do some investigating of your own, unless, of course, you want to keep all your money in cash, gold and silver, and buried in your back yard!

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

MIT performance report supports Beryllium Nuclear Fuel and SiC fuel technology


Published Tuesday, July 9, 2013 6:05 am
VANCOUVER, BC – July 9th, 2013 – IBC Advanced Alloys Corp. (TSX-V: IB; OTCQX: IAALF) (“IBC” or the “Company”) reports that the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (“MIT”) has completed its initial review and delivered a fuel performance report validating the feasibility of IBC’s patented beryllium oxide (“BeO”) nuclear fuel technology combined with Ceramic Tubular Products, LLC (“CTP”) silicon carbide cladding. As reported in June 2012, IBC entered into a sponsored research agreement with MIT to analyze the performance of the BeO enhanced fuel and how it would perform with the addition of silicon carbide ("SiC) cladding.
IBC’s partnerships with CTP and MIT regarding a SiC based ceramic composite cladding complement IBC’s ongoing nuclear fuel R&D being conducted at Purdue and Texas A&M universities. The fuel performance report validates the characteristics of the fuel technology and further demonstrates how IBC’s BeO enhanced fuel, combined with CTP’s SiC cladding, could result in reduced fuel operating temperature and improve fuel operating characteristics leading to a safer and more accident tolerant fuel.
As a result of recent events in the nuclear industry, especially the well known issues at Fukushima in 2011, industry officials and governments are developing alternative strategies and increasingly reviewing the safety benefits of accident tolerant fuels. Because of this increasing industry awareness, the Company is in discussions with a number of potential nuclear industry partners, including Japanese fuel cycle suppliers, to explore and discuss the next phase of R&D including irradiation requirements and testing of the fuel in test reactors.
“We are very encouraged with the conclusions of the MIT fuel performance report about the beneficial characteristics and capability of the enhanced BeO fuel in combination with the SiC cladding technology”, said Jim Malone, IBC’s Vice President of Nuclear Fuel. “IBC is working diligently with Purdue, Texas A&M, CTP and and other industry participants to take the next step of a full irradiation trial in a test reactor to further understand and evaluate the advantages of BeO enhanced fuel as a next generation accident tolerant fuel.”
The IBC sponsored research at MIT is led by Dr. Mujid Kazimi, the MIT Tokyo Electric Power Company (“TEPCO”) Professor in Nuclear Engineering. Dr. Kazimi is also an MIT Professor of Mechanical Engineering and the Director of the Center for Advanced Nuclear Energy Systems (“CANES”). Dr. Kazimi is an expert on fuel performance, safety and power density with a substantial body of peer-reviewed publications as well as numerous academic awards and nuclear industry honors. In addition to his MIT responsibilities, Dr. Kazimi is also a member of the Nuclear Energy Advisory Committee at the US Department of Energy.
As previously reported, IBC has extended its research agreements with Purdue and Texas A&M, to advance its BeO nuclear fuels R&D until December 2013. IBC’s nuclear fuel program is focused on developing an accident tolerant high thermal conductivity BeO nuclear fuel for both current and future nuclear power reactors that is more efficient and safer than existing nuclear fuels. The project’s objective is to commercialize the intellectual property and to position IBC as an essential part of the nuclear industry’s supply chain.
About IBC Advanced Alloys Corp.
IBC is an integrated manufacturer and distributor of rare metals (beryllium) based alloys and related products serving a variety of sectors including aerospace, automotive, telecommunications and a range of industrial applications. IBC has 86 employees and production facilities in Indiana, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Missouri. IBC is creating a dynamic global advanced alloys company. IBC’s common shares are traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol “IB” and the OTCQX under the symbol “IAALF”.
IBC Advanced Alloys Corp.
Ian Tootill, Director of Corporate Communications
(604) 685-6263 ext 110
Email: itootill@ibcadvancedalloys.com