Merrill Analysts More Bullish On Clients

Information released by the securities firm last week confirmed that its 500 analysts issued a higher proportion of buy ratings for client companies than for companies it had no business relationship with in the last year.

Merrill analysts rated 26% of client companies 'strong buys' against 18% for non clients. 40% of clients were rated a 'buy' compared to 36% for non clients.

The firm does not, it appears, favour clients in all sectors however. The firm disclosed that it recommended a sell on 15% of client companies in the telecommunications sector, whilst only 12% of non clients merited the same rating.