For Immediate Release

Chicago, IL - March 31, 2009 - Zacks.com announces the list of stocks featured in the Analyst Blog. Every day the Zacks Equity Research analysts discuss the latest news and events impacting stocks and the financial markets. Stocks recently featured in the blog include: Ness Technologies (NSTC), American Capital Agency Corp (AGNC), Biogen Idec (BIIB), Sohu.com Inc (SOHU) and Cornerstone Therapeutics Inc (CRTX).

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Here are highlights from Monday's Analyst Blog:

Ness Tech with More Downside

Ness Technologies (NSTC) is a small player in the IT services market. The company posted mixed 4Q08 results, with revenue below expectation but in line EPS.

The company's Application Development and Software Product Engineering segment performed very well in 4Q08. However,

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American Capital Agency Corp. (AGNC) is a REIT that focuses on investments in mortgage pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs).AGNC reported 4Q08 net income of $11.0 million or $0.73 per share on revenues of $17.1 million. The company reported a 16.5% annualized return on equity in 4Q08. Net interest spreads were 1.19% during the quarter, well below last quarter. Higher funding costs and lower mortgage rates are having a negative effect on spreads.In addition, pre-payments should increase at a rapid pace over the next couple of quarters, which will negatively affect interest income. We continue our Hold rating. Leverage is low at about 5x, and AGNC only invests in government guaranteed mortgages which somewhat insulates the company from the falling housing market.Muddling the picture for agency REITs is the prospect of continued government intervention in housing. Hold the shares for the ...