Thursday's Analysts' Upgrades and Downgrades

CHANGE IN RATINGS

Atmos Energy (ATO Quote) upgraded at Wachovia to Outperform. Stock has pulled back for two specific reasons, but the long-term growth outlook remains positive. Atmos can generate a 15% to 20% total return over the next year.

BB&T (BBT Quote) upgraded at Suntrust Robinson Humphrey from Neutral to Buy. $44 price target. Stock trades at an attractive valuation, even though the near-term outlook remains murky.

Dice Holdings (DHX Quote) initiated at Morgan Stanley with an overweight rating and $15 price target.

Idacorp (IDA Quote) upgraded at Wachovia from Underperform to Market Perform. Valuation call, as recent regulatory action should add to earnings. ...