Definition
The buy, hold or sell recommendations that analysts at banks and research firms put on stocks. An upgrade raises the rating; a downgrade lowers it.
The story
A bank upgrading a stock from hold to buy can move its price for a day, especially for well-followed companies. Ratings are opinions, and analysts often disagree; many also publish a price target alongside.
Why markets watch it
Coverage of a single stock's move regularly cites an upgrade or downgrade.
Connects to
We explain why it moves markets. What you do with it is your call. Commentary and education only. Not financial advice. All terms