Data Downlink releases VestExec executive compensation database
October 8, 1999

Data Downlink is pleased to announce the addition of Thomson Financial Wealth Identification's VestExec executive compensation database to .xls. TFWI, formerly CDA/Investnet, has been tracking insider transactions for over 16 years. VestExec allows users to access more than 125,000 insiders with detailed, historical stock option plans, including complete vesting schedules and grants of derivatives. The database contains more than 25,000 current and historical publicly traded U.S. companies. All data is updated daily.

Key points about VestExec on .xls:

• More timely than a proxy - proxy statements are updated annually; VestExec is updated daily and can be up to 14 months more current than a proxy.
• More comprehensive than a proxy - proxies typically include only the top 5 executives, while the average VestExec company has 11 insiders.
• User friendly - information downloads directly to Excel for easy analysis
• IPO filings within 10 days - VestExec also includes the options granted, but not exercised, of all executives while the company was private.
• Historical Analysis - VestExec contains option grant and transaction data from 1985, allowing a user to gain a historical perspective on a company's stock-option plans; a corporate proxy document details only those grants and transactions occurring during the previous fiscal year.

.xls users can search VestExec by specific insider, or search for companies by name, industry, state or market capitalization. Reports are priced between $25.00 and $75.00 each.