The Globe and Mail reports in its Saturday, Nov. 28, edition that Desjardins Securities analyst Keith Howlett continues to rate Jean Coutu Group ($17.50) "hold." The Globe's David Leeder writes in the Eye On Equities column that Mr. Howlett is now valuing the franchise business for Jean Coutu separately from its Pro Doc generic-drug manufacturing business. Mr. Howlett says: "The Minister of Health of Quebec has introduced draft legislation in the National Assembly which would enable generic-drug prices to be established by having qualified manufacturers bid for exclusive supply rights in the province for a defined period. ... The objective is to lower generic-drug prices for both public and private payers. ... Our initial view is that Pro Doc is particularly vulnerable as a small legal manufacturer who often subcontracts physical production of generic drugs to others." Mr. Howlett lowered his price target to $21 from $23, noting the components of the target are franchising ($18), Pro Doc ($2) and cash ($1). Analysts on average target the shares at $21.70. The Globe reported on July 7 that Desjardins was maintaining its "hold" rating on Jean Coutu. The stock could then be had for $22.30.