(FORTUNE Magazine) – In the past few months, Wall Street analysts have been eyeing communications companies generally, and television networks in particular, as attractive takeover targets. In many cases stock prices understate the potential asset value. The acquisition of ABC by Capital Cities Communications (see Corporate Performance) heightened investor interest in these stocks. After the ABC-Cap Cities deal was announced, media stocks took wing. When a group of investors announced a plan to take control of and liquidate Miami-based Storer Communications Corp., the stock jumped from $64 to $72 a share. CBS has benefited from the acquisitive interests of cable operator Ted Turner and & right-wing groups spurred by North Carolina Senator Jesse Helms; its stock rose 58% after the ABC deal was announced. Other stocks lifted by the new enthusiasm included Cox Communications and Taft Broadcasting.