NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire - Nov 25, 2011) - Cigarette sales have been recession resistant for the most part -- making several cigarette companies defensive plays for investors. Regulatory uncertainty, legal issues and a growing healthy living trend do pose a threat to sales however, leading some in the industry to turn to alternative revenue drivers. The Bedford Report examines the outlook for companies in the Cigarette industry and provides investment research on Star Scientific, Inc. (NASDAQ: [ CIGX ]) and Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE: [ MO ]). Access to the full company reports can be found at:

[ www.bedfordreport.com/CIGX ]

[ www.bedfordreport.com/MO ]

Legislative efforts are increasing outside of the US as well. Russia recently drew up a strong anti-smoking law that will go into effect sometime in the next 3 or 4 years. The law would ban smoking in public transportation, restaurants and nightclubs. Prices will also go up significantly as well as taxes on buyers and businesses. Considering that roughly 40 percent of the population smokes, the legislation could have a real impact on exports for domestic cigarette makers.

The Bedford Report releases stock research on the cigarette industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at [ www.bedfordreport.com ] and get exclusive access to our numerous analyst reports and industry newsletters.

Altria engages in the manufacture and sale of cigarettes, smokeless products, and wine in the United States and internationally. Altria's third-quarter earnings came in at 56 cents per share -- up 3.7% from the prior-year quarter. Revenues were down more than six percent year on year, however, attributable to lower net revenues from cigarettes, partially offset by higher net revenues from smokeless products, cigars, wine and financial services.

Star Scientific is a technology-oriented company with a mission to reduce the harm associated with tobacco at every level. It is engaged in the development of dissolvable smokeless tobacco products that deliver fewer carcinogenic toxins, principally through the utilization of its innovative "StarCured" tobacco curing technology. The company reported net sales for the third quarter of $0.4 million compared with $0.2 million for the same period in 2010.

The Bedford Report provides Market Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. The Bedford Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. The Bedford Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at [ http://www.bedfordreport.com/disclaimer ]