The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday, Jan. 22, edition that it is that time of year again -- everyone wants top stock picks for 2025 as they prepare for the year ahead. The Globe's guest columnist Philip MacKellar writes that Neo Performance Materials is his top Canadian pick for 2025. Neo trades on the TSX, is headquartered in Toronto and has a market cap of about $330-million. Mr. MacKellar says his average purchase price is $7.41, and he initiated his position in January, 2024. Neo processes rare earth metals, magnets and magnetic powders. These products are used throughout the economy in everything from lighting and petroleum refining to medical imaging and wireless technologies. Additionally, its products are important for electric vehicles, energy storage and represent the backbone of the renewable energy shift. This makes Neo a play on economic growth and the energy transition. Neo is making the most of the energy transition by rationalizing its operations in China. In recent months, it divested older facilities within China and opened a modern plant in September. The construction and commissioning occurred on time, on budget and positions Neo well to benefit from future growth.