Freeport is a top-tier miner

Readers of this space know that the investment bias is toward large-cap companies with demonstrated business models and a competitive advantage in established markets, preferably with a favorable global trend as a support. And with this in mind, Freeport-McMoran is worth a review.

Globally-oriented miner Freeport-McMoran (NYSE: FCX) is the world's second-largest copper producer and a major miner of gold and molybdenum. Further, FCX's purchase of Phelps Dodge in 2007 means that it has proven and probable reserves of: copper, 75 billion pounds; gold, 128 million ounces; and molybdenum, 1.9 billion pounds, net minority interests.

But perhaps most important, Freeport is one of only eight companies that have the economies of scale to compete in the global mining sector of the early 21st century. Look for continued merger/acquisition talk in the sector, but don't think of Freeport as an acquisition play: FCX has a large portion of the global copper market, geographical diversification, and enduring relationships with key customers, among other strengths, to continue to perform well in the years ahead. The Reuters F2008/F2009 EPS consensus estimates for FCX are $10.07/$11.07.

Further FCX's p/e of 12 is reasonable given its advantageous market position and prospects for growth. Don't expect Freeport's ascent to be perfect and calm, given its dependence on commodity prices, but that does not blot-out the secular trends that point to good things for FCX's in the years ahead.

The risks? Freeport's copper segment would be hurt by a global economic downturn.

The First Call mean rating for FCX is: Buy [19 firms]. Mean 2008 target: $117.00 [high: $135, low: $65.00].

Stock Analysis: Freeport is a moderate-risk stock not suitable for low-risk investors. Investors should expect above-average volatility with FCX. Don't buy FCX if your portfolio already contains a mining/mineral component. Investors with an investment horizon longer than two years should be rewarded from FCX's shares. Sell / Stop Loss if you were to buy shares in this company: $68.

Disclosure: Lazzaro has no positions in stocks. In addition to private real estate holdings, he owns corporate and municipal bonds, and cash certificates of deposit.