Sample Search: Give the Datasream code for Calstar,
a delisted stock.
Step 1
When a stock is delisted, Datastream stops using the
equity's ticker symbol and assigns a code to it. To find the code for a
dead stock, use the online CODE program (the clickable Code Lookup does
not contain dead stocks) to find Datastream codes. Type CODE at the
prompt, and when the input page appears type the name of the stock in the
first field. In the second field (the one that asks you to specify the
type of instrument you are looking for) type D, for "Dead". Press Enter.
The following output appears on the next screen:
CODE
THE FOLLOWING POSSIBLE MATCHES HAVE BEEN EXTRACTED:
NAME
CODE
MNEMONIC
CUR
NOTES
CALSTAR
511938
U$
DEAD NO DAILY PRICES
Finally, the above search can be performed in the "Expert" mode by typing
in the parameters for the code search on one line in the program number
box, e.g., CODE CALSTAR,D.
Things to Remember:
Remember that stocks that move from one exchange to another are not
"de-listed". The entire data series for a stock that switches from one
exchange to another may be found using the code associated with it in
its new location. Likewise, when a name change occurs, the
history remains on that one code and only the equity's name is changed.
You can use the codes of dead stocks to plot charts using any of the 401
chart programs. Type 401A
511938,,,-10Y at the prompt and you will see a price chart of Calstar
over the last 10 years, with the price
going flat in early '92.
Portions of the above information were provided by:
Andrew Barnes
Business Information Team
Datastream International, London
