One to watch

AIM-quoted FFastFill provides software and services to the global financial community. It is headquartered in London with offices in Chicago, Prague and Sydney, where its services support over 80 financial institutions worldwide.

In a recent note following a trading update, the research house Edison underlined the strength of the group's SAS – "software as a service" platform – which has continued to develop despite the problems in the international financial market; recent new customers include HSBC.

Any investment company operating in today's markets has to have full confidence in the systems that support its operations. The tsunami of fines that have been sweeping through the financial community from the FSA recently makes the need for visible conformity to regulatory strictures essential.

FFastFill has an established reputation and the pedigree of its customer base emphasises the stress-tested nature of its software.

FFastFill does appear to be worth a look.

The value of your investment could fall and you may get back less than you invested. You should take professional advice if you have any doubt about the suitability of this company for your portfolio.

Games Workshop

389.5p -0.5p

Broker says BUY

KBC Peel Hunt is positive on Games Workshop, following a brief trading update from the fantasy games retailer. In a note, KBC analyst Charles Hall said: "Positive momentum continues, with improving sales trends, higher gross margins and strong cost control. The company is well on track to at least meet full-year expectations."

AstraZeneca

2,943p +11p

Broker says HOLD

ANALYSTS at Ambrian are advising investors to stick with AstraZeneca after noting the drugs giant faces increased American generic competition for its Toprol XL tablets. The same broker has a "buy" recommendation on shares in rival pharmaceuticals group GlaxoSmithKline.