Bear Stearns MBS Class Downgraded

Class B-3 of Bear Stearns Mortgage Securities Inc., series 1997-6, has been downgraded from BBB to BBB-minus by Fitch Ratings.In addition, the ratings on five other classes in the fixed- and adjustable-rate mortgage pools were affirmed. The downgrade of class B-3, part of the fixed-rate pool, reflects a decrease in credit enhancement relative to loss expectations, Fitch said. The high delinquency rate, especially in foreclosure and real estate owned, "puts this class at a greater risk of future losses," the rating agency said.