The Globe and Mail reports in its Tuesday, Dec. 4, edition that Desjardins Securities analyst Josh Wolfson says the "new Barrick" that will emerge from Barrick Gold's ($17.20) merger with Randgold Resources "provides an enhanced strategy and valuation, and improved capital allocation." The Globe's David Leeder writes in the Eye On Equities column that Mr. Wolfson continues to rate Barrick "hold." Mr. Wolfson, however, boosted his share target by a loonie to $18, which is 62 cents below the consensus. Mr. Wolfson says in a note: "Since the announcement, ABX has increased by 28 per cent (index up 6 per cent). We calculate New Barrick shares now trade at a P/NAV at spot gold of 2.24 times (peers 1.99 times, ABX two-year average 2.28 times). While elevated, we believe this is balanced by New Barrick's more attractive short-term FCF operating metrics. GOLD's historical capital allocation is a key differentiator that we acknowledge could improve our New Barrick forecasts and projected returns." The Globe reported on Oct. 25 that RBC analyst Stephen Walker continued to rate Barrick "sector perform." The shares could then be had for $16.43.