The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday, Dec. 20, edition that Desjardins Securities analyst Chris Li has reaffirmed his "buy" recommendation and $85 share target for Alimentation Couche-Tard. The Globe's David Leeder writes in the Eye On Equities column that analysts on average target the shares at $86.25. The Globe says Mr. Li thinks the risk-reward proposition for economically and commodity-sensitive stocks "seems favourable" as 2024 approaches. However, he warns that near-term catalysts are limited and patience is required for investors. Couche-Tard is Mr. Li's "top pick." He cites the company's "all-season attributes and reasonable valuation." Mr. Li says in a note: "Couche-Tard remains our preferred idea given: (1) improving macro conditions and easing of cigarette headwinds next year should re-accelerate merchandise SSSG [same-store sales growth], which we believe is a key near-term catalyst; (2) continuing strong fuel margins and cost reductions are more than offsetting c-store sales softness; (3) funds flow to staples with torque to an economic recovery and less exposed to disinflationary/commodity risks; [and] (4) a robust pipeline of growth initiatives supporting attractive organic EBITDA growth."