In This Issue:
• Earnings Growth Could Boost Stocks: As companies report good first-quarter results, investors may well see a reason to buy equities.
• In the Limelight
• STARS Status: Changes in S&P analysts' STARS rankings for April 4 through April 8.
• Three Recent Upgrades: Our analysts believe these stocks will outperform over the next 12 months.
• Higher-Yielding Stocks We Like: The stocks appraised here have a yield of at least 4% and are ranked four STARS for expected outperformance over the next 12 months.
• Balanced Funds: Investing on Autopilot: For those who think the pros can do a better job of allocating between stocks and bonds, balanced funds may be the answer.
• Stocks Ranked Five STARS by S&P: On a rotating basis, we list issues by STARS ranking (quality rankings in parentheses).
• Affiliated Computer Rides Outsourcing Trend: We think this information technology services company is reaping the rewards of a solid customer base and a strong business process outsourcing market.
• S&P Sector Scorecard Some of the Companies Featured:
Affiliated Computer Services
Amerigas Partners LP
Boston Scientific
Darden Restaurants Inc.
Ensco International
Gerdau Sa
Harmonic Inc.
Lance Inc.
National City Corp.
Pfizer
PPL Corp.
Skywest
Verizon Communications | 
