The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday, Sept. 25, edition that Desjardins Securities analyst Robert Mann believes stronger commodity prices and balance sheet flexibility offer Canadian energy companies a clearer path for accelerated development and production growth. The Globe's David Leeder writes in the Eye On Equities column that Mr. Mann has reaffirmed his "buy" recommendation for Whitecap Resources. He boosted his share target by a loonie to $23. Analysts on average target the shares at $21.56. Mr. Mann says in a note: "We are anticipating another quarter of strong operating performance from Whitecap following several quarters of beat-and-raise execution. Our CFPS estimate moves modestly lower, driven primarily by higher royalties and cash taxes, and now sits slightly below Street expectations. However, we suspect investor focus will remain on the company's operating momentum, accelerated net debt reduction and progress toward completion of the Lator project." The Globe reported on July 9 that National Bank rated Whitecap "outperform." The shares could then be had for $15.28. The Globe reported on July 17 that Mr. Mann rated Whitecap "buy average risk" in new coverage. The shares could then be had for $15.66.