The Globe and Mail reports in its Tuesday, Feb. 3, edition that Desjardins Securities analyst Frederic Tremblay has reaffirmed his "buy" recommendation for 5N Plus. The Globe's David Leeder writes in the Eye On Equities column that Mr. Tremblay gave his share target a $5.50 boost to $30. Analysts on average target the shares at $27. Mr. Tremblay says in a note: "An $18.1-million (U.S.) grant from the U.S. government to 5N Plus will support a large increase in domestic germanium refining capacity over the next four years. In our view, it further validates 5N Plus's status as a crucial participant in the strengthening of supply chains for critical materials outside of China. We like 5N Plus' proven track record in strategic end markets (eg solar energy, space, healthcare) and this latest endorsement from the defence sector. The defence and U.S. government funding themes support a valuation bump." The Globe reported on Aug. 1 and Oct. 29 that Mr. Tremblay had reiterated his "buy" recommendation for 5N Plus. The shares were then worth $12.47 and $19.98.