In this report, we use three of our research publications--weakest links, potential bond downgrades, and the distressed debt monitor--to identify and spotlight the U.S. sectors we believe are currently subject to the highest levels of credit stress. In our opinion, the media and entertainment, consumer products, and oil and gas sectors were the most troubled sectors in the U.S. as of March 28, 2012. The decent GDP growth rate, the positive employment numbers, and the uptick in the Purchasing Managers' Index have provided a much needed positive start to the year. But unless the economy continues to strengthen through 2012, headwinds remain for the three most stressed sectors. In March, the companies in these sectors had the highest levels of
