• The Associated Press, Friday, January 16, 2009 9:15 AM

Softening ratings for MTV may exacerbate the effects of a weak TV advertising market for parent Viacom, says Barclays analyst Anthony J. DiClemente. He estimates MTV's ratings were down about 24% in the fourth quarter, as younger viewers moved online.

Streaming video sites like Hulu.com and Netflix are gaining popularity as more consumers turn to their computers to watch TV. DVD sales at Viacom's Paramount unit also continue to be weak, he notes.

DiClemente lowered his 2009 earnings estimate for Viacom to $2.15 per share from $2.40 per share. Overall, Analysts expect a profit of $2.40 per share, per Thomson Reuters.

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