Paper anyone? Torstar (TSE:TS.B)

[doctrine]

I think it's simplier than this. They are in newsprint primarily. Revenue is down, profit is down, debt is up. Stock down 70-80% over 10 years. Dividend has been cut and is lower than it was 10 years ago. Run, do not walk, away.

[liquidfinance]

This may sound a little dumb, but how can you, as an individual "newbie" make worthy conclusions of earnings releases in general?

Thanks!

I don't claim I can. I'm just saying the information will soon be available.

But in general growing sales revenues and profits. Doesn't matter what experience you have to be able to see that in a report.

[Four Pillars]

I just don't understand why people think about getting into poor companies in declining industries. True, if you look at the charts of some of the long term decliners there have been opportunities to make a lot of cash. But, the vast majority end up losing.

I agree with you, but I guess (in theory) a case could be made for an industry that might be in decline but isn't likely to completely disappear anytime soon. Will print newspapers ever completely disappear? I don't know.

On the other hand, the majority of people who go into quality stocks end up winning long term. Good to keep odds in one's favour. Separating the two classes does take some research but it is worth it.

Not sure if this is always true. See "nifty fifty" for an example.

[Square Root]

Interesting, but the demand for paper shouldn't depend on their structure should it? I like to see how internal structure really drives you in your decision.

Poor structure leads to poor management which usually leads to underperformamce.

[thompsg4416]

Not that I'll be buying anytime soon but I believe they are about to start a pay wall(?) on thier site sometime very soon. Other newspapers have had success with this such as the NY Times. Could this be a white knight in shining armour?? doubtful but it could help turn things around. I hope so because I really enjoy thier sports coverage

[Echo]

From what I understand, they're re-designing TheStar.com and folding satellite sites (like Moneyville) back in to the main site by early 2013. I'm sure the paywall will go up shortly after that.

http://www.canadianbusiness.com/arti...ting-next-year

[Spudd]

I bought this stock recently, but I don't like the paywall news. I am not sure how many people would be willing to pay to read the Star online.

[underemployedactor]

Looks like Torstar is blaming 50 Shades of Grey for hollowing out profits in their Harlequin division. I guess any excuse will do when you miss earnings.