Updating POTASH CORP. OF SASKATCHEWAN, LINAMAR CORP., SHAWCOR LTD. and HOME CAPITAL GROUP INC.

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POTASH CORP. OF SASKATCHEWAN $122 should benefit from the improving outlook for potash and other fertilizers. Prices fell sharply in 2009, because farmers used less fertilizer in light of lower crop prices. As well, good weather and large amounts of residual fertilizer in the soil led to better-than-expected harvests. However, use should return to normal levels in 2010. As well, China is likely to import more potash this year. That should push up fertilizer demand. Buy. LINAMAR CORP. $16 aims to cut its dependence on the cyclical auto-parts business by applying its expertise to new products. For example, it will start making turbine equipment for wind farms in 2011. Demand for this equipment is growing strongly as governments require utilities get more of their power from renewable sources. Buy. SHAWCOR LTD. $31 has formed a joint venture that will build a new plant in northwestern Russia. The plant will apply protective coatings on oil and natural-gas pipelines. The company will own 25%…