The Globe and Mail reports in its Thursday edition that Benj Gallander and Ben Stadelmann look back at their stock purchases -- and avoidances -- in 2023 and conclude that over all, it was a mixed bag in terms of results. The two stock pickers/newsletter writers say that after Agnico Eagle Mines and Pan American Silver took over Yamana, they decided to hold the two suitors. Agnico is up about 10 per cent since then, with Pan American down about 10 per cent. Call it a wash. Both are being held for the possibility of further upside. Major Drilling Group International is down 5 per cent since a May article by the pair, but it has since recorded its best annual results in more than a decade. Currently around $9, the hope is it will pop to the initial sell range of $15.50 to $18 and be sold. RioCan REIT was suggested as a buy, with population growth being key to its future success. Capital appreciation and a beefy dividend were the predicted reward. While the payout has been constant, the stock price has still not moved upward. It remains a buy. As for Berkshire Hathaway, Mr. Gallander took his two boys to the company's annual meeting this year, but did not buy the stock. Berkshire is up about 15 per cent since then.