In the past five years, we have watched Apple Inc. (AAPL) soar while another household name, Citigroup Inc. (C), has collapsed. Citigroup was our largest bank. Apple is our largest technology company, and the second largest U.S. company by capitalization. What of the future? Which is the better investment going forward? Where will each stock be next year, or in two?

I have read stories that project Apple to be $325, $350 even $400 per share in 12 months time. Apple closed Tuesday at $251.97. Many firmly believe it is severely undervalued right now. I think there are a lot of straight-line extrapolations going on. It's true that one could make a case for any of these targets to become reality. However, that will not necessarily make it true.

My editor, Amey Stone, twisted my arm this morning to comment on the David Peltier story on TheStreet.com about Valero Energy (NYSE: VLO). Peltier makes a good case for another 20% upside in the stock this year. He asks readers to let him know if he should track the stock. No need Mr. Peltier, you are late to the party ... but, maybe not too late.

BloggingStocks and numerous others are already doing that. Perhaps you might want to buy some Valero though, if you have any conviction. Peltier makes some fine points about the low P/E ratio, the stock price being 21% below its 52-week high, the company's 50% increase in dividend to a modest 0.9% yield, 5000 gas stations and HUGE cash flow, stock buy-backs and more! All said here six weeks ago: Valero Energy: Unbelievable value for 2007.

Since VLO appreciated almost 10% in January, it is no surprise the stock is getting increased attention. Although late to the party, the party is far from over so come on in, pick up a cool one, rest your soul and make a few bucks too while you're at it. Tracking it is fine, owning it might be better.

If you want to refer to the original article from December 28, 2006 see:You don't have to be 007 to find the best picks for 2007!.

Check out my other posts for BloggingStocks here.

Sheldon Liber is the CEO of a small private investment company and the vice president for design and research at an architecture & planning firm.