dow jones

0930 [Dow Jones] STOCK CALL: RBS downgrades Biota (BTA.AU) to Hold from Buy after recent share price rally. Says Australian government's purchase of additional Relenza drugs is positive for Biota, as is news that the national stockpile is now 33% Relenza, up from 20%, with the balance Tamiflu. "This change in mix between Relenza and Tamiflu supports our view that governments are seeking a more equal balance between the two main antiviral drugs, driven by the resistance issues with Tamiflu which have emerged since last year's flu season," RBS says. BTA target price upped to A$1.46 from A$1.41; Biota last traded at A$1.41. (APW)