New rules for analysts. This article from Investor's Business Daily talks about how suspected conflicts of interest between securities firms' banking and analytical functions have changed the relationship between analysts and the press:

Less documented has been one of those changes: Many analysts can't talk with the press anymore, or they don't. And those that do often are, by company policy, much more cautious. But some new rules are expected within weeks that could clarify the situation.

Because interplay between these analysts and reporters is a foundation of business news, observers say the result is a loss for investors. They might not be getting all the info they need to make sound investment decisions. Investment banks may not have written policies about how their analysts must deal with the press but in many cases, they must consult with their company's compliance department before an interview is granted.