How do I obtain data for multiple companies using Datastream lists?
Datastream provides flexibility in creating lists of companies, such as a portfolio or a watch list. Users can analyse the companies as a set or individually. Lists are a convenient way to make reports, charts and data requests for multiple companies. Users can create copies of Datastream's index constituent lists, remove unwanted companies, reorder the list, or merge two lists to create one.
Tips:
- Constituent lists provide a number of lists pre-defined by Datastream, e.g. ‘LFSTE100’ is the current FTSE 100 shares. Creating a list can be done using the Datastream Navigator or by selecting a list of identifiers (DS codes, mnemonics, ISIN codes, SEDOL codes, CUSIP codes) in Excel and using ‘Tools > Create List From Range’. By default, a list is stored as a local list on the PC that you are using. Choose a description to help you identify the list. See our post Introduction to Datastream via Eikon and See How to create a Datastream list on the Refinitiv website.
- You can use the ‘List Picker’ (magnifying lens icon) to select a local list using its stored description (pre-defined lists are available through the Navigator).
- The Datastream Excel add-In Request Table facility can be very useful if you want to make several different requests for your list. One useful request is a static request including the DS code ‘DSCD’, Name ‘NAME’, ISIN code ‘ISIN’; the results can be used to re-create the list if required. See What is a Datastream Request Table?.
