The general softness of stocks did not seem to discourage investors, however.

That cuts into potential future profits and can further discourage investors.

In addition, the law is believed to have discouraged other foreign investors from seeking to acquire American companies.

The fall in stocks was discouraging foreign investors before Sept. 11.

They said its primary goal is to discourage foreign investors in Cuba as a means of encouraging economic and political reform there.

And that could discourage investors at a time when the outlook for profits is mixed.

The complicated legal status of the land, which belonged to the military, effectively discouraged potential investors.

Others contend that such an intiative would discourage foreign investors.

Showing the volatility, and the way it can affect the business, would probably discourage investors, companies say.

Lower rates discourage investors from buying the dollars needed to purchase American securities.