Q. Why haven't my shares of Monsanto Co. done better?—P.M., via the Internet

A. The world's biggest maker of seed for corn, soybeans, cotton, fruits, vegetables and other crops is a fierce competitor battling strong rivals such as DuPont.

It faces issues besides weather and commodity prices.

The Justice Department is investigating whether Monsanto violated antitrust rules in trying to expand its dominance of the market for genetically engineered crops. Competitors contend it uses licensing agreements to squeeze competitors and control smaller seed companies. The company denies it. There is the question of public perception of genetic food, since a negative image in the eyes of consumers can discourage farmers from planting. In addition, regulation of the agricultural industry is on the rise, which increases the possibility of future legal actions against various seed producers.

Yet the company boasts powerful research and development, as well as excellent production and distribution facilities.

Shares of Monsanto (MON) are up 20 percent this year following a 36 percent decline last year. The company has a healthy balance sheet and plenty of cash.

It is opening its first research centre in China, with the goal of boosting ties with Chinese research institutions in plant biotechnology and genomics. It has also received import approval for its high-yield soybean seeds with weed control in China.

It plans to launch its new all-in-one corn protection system in 2010, with rapid adoption likely to boost market share in the corn business.

Analyst consensus recommendation on Monsanto stock is between "buy" and "hold," according to Thomson Reuters, consisting of three "strong buys," four "buys" and eight "holds."

The fourth-quarter loss widened to $233 in the fourth quarter on lower revenue, compared to a loss of $172 million a year earlier. There was a drop in sales of its Roundup herbicide, which is facing considerable generic competition, and it also divested its sunflower operation.

It posted a $114 million charge in the quarter for its restructuring plan that started last summer with a target of 900 job cuts. That target has since been increased to 1,800 jobs. However, CEO Hugh Grant said it is still on target to meet its 2007 goal of doubling that year's profits by the year 2012.