In Brief: SEC Issues 'Investor Alert' About Analysts.(Brief Article)

The Securities and Exchange Commission warned investors Thursday against making decisions based solely on analyst recommendations.

In an "investor alert," the SEC outlined the potential for conflicts of interests among analysts who work for firms that underwrite or own securities they cover. As a result, the agency said, investors should consult multiple and independent sources of information, including a company's own financial filings.

"I am hopeful the industry will eliminate the conflicts of interest that threaten the fairness and objectivity of analyst recommendations. Our first priority, however, is making sure individual investors are aware of the …