Credit Rating

CREDIT RATING
FINAL PROJECT REPORT ON
CREDIT RATING IN INDIA
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CREDIT RATING
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UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF
DIPTI PERIWAL
SUBMITTED BY
(NAME OF THE CANDIDATE)
(ROLL NO: B3)
(NAME OF THE DEGREE)
(BATCH)
_______________________________________________________
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CREDIT RATING
TO
THE UNIVERSITY OF MUMBAI

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF TWO YEAR FULL TIME
DEGREE
OF
( MASTERS IN MANAGEMENT STUDIES)
GURU NANAK INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT STUDIES

MATUNGA, MUMBAI 400 019.
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Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY........................................................................................6
INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................7
EVOLUTION.........................................................................................................11
TYPES OF RATING..............................................................................................13
BENEFITS OF CREDIT RATING.........................................................................14
BENEFITS TO INVESTORS.......................................................................................14
BENEFITS OF RATING TO THE COMPANY............................................................17
BENEFITS TO BROKERS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES.............................18
CREDIT RATING AGENCY..................................................................................19
USES OF RATINGS BY CREDIT RATING AGENCIES.............................................19

FUNCTIONS OF A CREDIT RATING AGENCY.........................................................20
CREDIT RATING IN INDIA...................................................................................22
CRISIL................................................................................................................... 24
ICRA...................................................................................................................... 35
ONICRA CREDIT RATING AGENCY OF INDIA.....................................................47
CREDIT ANALYSIS & RESEARCH LTD. (CARE)..................................................49
MOODY'S INVESTOR SERVICE............................................................................56
DISADVANTAGES OF CREDIT RATING............................................................66
IPO GRADING......................................................................................................69
CRISIL IPO GRADING..........................................................................................69
CONCLUSION......................................................................................................73
BIBLIOGRAPHY..................................................................................................74
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CREDIT RATING
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The project entitled Credit Rating gives you an insight to the most important concept in
any industry, be it service oriented or a manufacturing firm i.e. working capital.
Credit rating is a qualified assessment and formal evaluation of companys credit history
and capability of repaying obligations. It measures the default probability of the
borrower, and its ability to repay fully and timely its financial debt obligations.
The main purpose of credit rating is to provide investors with comparable information on
credit risk based on standard rating scale, regardless of specifics of companies,
separate sector of the economy and country as a whole.
Credit rating has proven itself to be effective instrument of risk assessment in countries
with advanced economy since it demonstrates transparency of an enterprise. Credit
rating reflects financial, sectoral, operational, legal and organizational sides of
companies, which characterize ability and willingness duly and in full amount to repay
obligations.
In world practice, credit rating can be assigned to sovereign governments, regional and
local executive bodies, corporations, financial organizations and etc.
Different Types of Credit Rating are explained in this project. Functions of Credit Rating
are highlighted.
Various advantages and limitation to Credit Rating are highlighted.
This project has also covered the Rating Process, Rating Symbols for short term
debentures n long term bonds, Rating Methodology, of various rating agencies like
CRISIL, ICRA, SMERA, ONICRA, CARE and International Rating Agency.
IPO Grading has also been included in this project.
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CREDIT RATING
INTRODUCTION
Definition
CREDIT RATING
The evaluation of a people or businesses' ability and past performance in paying debts.
A credit rating is generally established by a credit bureau and used by merchants,
suppliers, and bankers to determine whether a loan should be granted or credit
extended.
A rating is an opinion on the future ability and legal obligation of the issuer to make
timely payments of principal and interest on a specific fixed income security. The
rating measures the probability that the issuer will default on the security over its life,
which depending on the instrument may be a matter of days to 30 years or more. In
addition, long term ratings incorporate an assessment of the expected monetary loss
should a default occur."
"Credit ratings help investors by providing an easily recognizable, simple tool that
couples a possibly unknown issuer with an informative and meaningful symbol of
credit quality." Standard and Poors
Ratings, usually expressed in alphabetical or alphanumeric symbols, are a simple

and easily understood tool enabling the investor to differentiate between debt
instruments based on their underlying credit quality. The credit rating is thus a
symbolic indicator of the current opinion of the relative capability of the issuer to
service its debt obligation in a timely fashion, with specific reference to the instrument
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being rated. It is focused on communicating to the investors, the relative ranking of

the default loss probability for a given fixed income investment, in comparison with
other rated instruments.
In fact, the rating is an opinion on the future ability and legal obligation of the issuer
to make timely payments of principal and interest on a specific fixed income security.
The rating measures the probability that the issuer will default on the security over its
life, which depending on the instrument may be a matter of days to 30 years or more.
In addition, long-term rating incorporates an assessment of the expected monetary
loss should a default occur. Credit rating helps investors by providing an easily
recognizable, simple tool that couples a possible unknown issuer with an informative
and meaningful symbol of credit quality. Credit rating can be defined as an
expression, through use of symbols, of the opinion about credit quality of the issuer
of security/instrument. Credit rating does not amount to any recommendation to
purchase, sell or hold that security. It is concerned with an act of assigning values by
estimating worth or reputation of solvency, and honesty to repose trust in a person's
ability and intention to repay.
The ratings assigned are generally regarded in the investment community as an

objective evaluation of the probability that a borrower will default on a given security
issue. Default occurs whenever a security issuer is late in making one or more
payments that it is legally obligated to make. In the case of a bond, when any interest
or principal payment falls due and is not made on time, the bond is legally in default.
While many defaulted bonds ultimately resume the payment of principal and interest,
others never do, and the issuing company winds up in bankruptcy proceedings. In
most instances, holders of bonds issued by a bankrupt company receive only a part
amount on his investments, invested, once the company's assets are sold at auction.
Thus, the investor who holds title to bankrupt bonds typically loses both principal and
interest. It is no wonder, then, that security ratings are so closely followed by
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investors. In fact, many investors accept the ratings assigned by credit agencies as a
substitute for their own investigation of a security's investment quality.
Credit Rating Function
1) Credit rating plays an important role in developed and developing capital markets
throughout the world.
2) The use of ratings fosters growth in local and international markets, and
streamlines their functioning.
3) Capital markets currently include bonds and other bond-like instruments
guaranteeing a fixed income amounting to an aggregate total of over $80 trillion.
4) Ratings serve a wide array of players in the capital market.
5) The service is designed first and foremost to provide reliable ratings to fulfill the
needs of investors interested in obtaining a reliable, independent estimate of a
companys credit risk, of issuers and borrowers seeking flexible sources of
financing on the capital market and brokering entities enjoying this service namely:
savers, governments, economists, the financial media and other observers.
Clients for Credit Rating
Clients comprise manufacturing companies, non-banking finance companies,

nationalized and private banks, financial institutions, public sector units, utilities, real
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estate developers, state governments, municipal corporations, stock brokers and

others.
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EVOLUTION OF CREDIT RATING AGENCIES
The origins of credit rating can be traced to the 1840's. Following the financial crisis
of 1837, Louis Tappan established the first mercantile credit agency in New York in
1841. The agency rated the ability of merchants to pay their financial obligations.
Robert Dun subsequently acquired it and its first rating guide was published in 1859.
John Bradstreet set up another similar agency in 1849, which published a rating book
in 1857. These two agencies were merged together to form Dun and Bradstreet in
1933, which became the owner of Moody's Investors Service in 1962.
The history of Moody's itself goes back about 100 years. John Moody (1868 - 1958)
was a self-taught reformer who had a strong entrepreneurial drive and a firm belief
about the needs of the investment community - as well as considerable journalistic
talent. Relying on his assessment of the markets needs, John Moody and Company
published Moodys Manual of Industrial and Miscellaneous Securities in 1900, the
companys founding year. The manual provided information and statistics on stocks
and bonds of financial institutions, government agencies, manufacturing, mining,
utilities, and food companies. Within two months, the publication had sold out. By
1903, circulation had exploded, and Moodys Manual was known from coast to coast.
When the stock market crashed in 1907, Moodys company did not have adequate
capital to survive, and he was forced to sell his manual business. Moody returned to
the financial market in 1909 with a new idea. Instead of simply collecting information
on the property, capitalization, and management of companies, he now offered
investors an analysis of security values. His company would publish a book that
analyzed the railroads and their outstanding securities. It offered concise conclusions
about their relative investment quality. He expressed his conclusions using letter-
rating symbols adopted from the mercantile and credit rating system that had been
used by the credit-reporting firms since the late 1800s.
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Moody had now entered the business of analyzing the stocks and bonds of Americas
railroads, and with this endeavor, he became the first to rate public market securities.
In 1909, Moodys Analyses of Railroad Investments described for readers the analytic
principles that Moody used to assess a railroads operations, management, and
finance. The new manual quickly found a place in investors hands. In 1913, he
expanded his base of analyzed companies, launching his evaluation of industrial
companies and utilities. By that time, the "Moody's ratings" had become a factor in
the bond market. On July 1, 1914, Moody's Investors Service was incorporated. That
same year, Moody began expanding rating coverage to bonds issued by US cities
and other municipalities.
Further expansion of the credit rating industry took place in 1916, when the Poor's
Publishing Company published its first rating followed by the Standard Statistics
Company in 1922, and Fitch Publishing Company in 1924. The Standard Statistics
Company merged in 1941 to form Standard and Poor's, which was subsequently
taken, over by McGraw Hill in 1966. For almost 50 years, since the setting up of Fitch
Publishing in 1924, there were no major new entrants in the field of credit rating and
then in the 1970s, a number of credit rating agencies commenced operations all over
the world. These included the Canadian Bond Rating Service (1972), Thomson
Bankwatch (1974), Japanese Bond Rating Institute (1975), McCarthy Crisani and
Maffei (1975 acquired by Duff and Phelps in 1991), Dominican Bond Rating Service
(1997), IBCA Limited (1978), and Duff and Phelps Credit Rating Company (1980).
There are credit rating agencies in operation in many other countries such as
Malaysia, Philippines, Mexico, Indonesia, Pakistan, Cyprus, Korea, Thailand and
Australia.
In India, the Credit Rating and Information Services of India Ltd. (CRISIL) was set up
as the first rating agency in 1987, followed by ICRA Ltd. (formerly known as
Investment Information and Credit Rating Agency of India Limited) in 1991, and
Credit Analysis and Research Ltd. (CARE) in 1994. The ownership pattern of all the
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three agencies is institutional. Duff and Phelps has tied up with two Indian NBFCs to
set up Duff and Phelps Credit Rating India (P) Limited in 1996.
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TYPES OF RATING
Following are the different kinds of rating:
(1) Bond/Debenture Rating
Rating the debentures/ bonds issued by corporates, government etc. is called

debenture or bond rating.
(2) Equity Rating
Rating of equity shares issued by a company is called equity rating.
(3) Preference Share Rating
Rating of preference share issued by a company is called preference share

rating.
(4) Commercial Paper Rating
Commercial papers are instruments used for short-term borrowing.

Commercial papers are issued by manufacturing companies, finance
companies, banks and financial institutions and rating of these instruments is
called commercial paper rating.
(5) Fixed Deposits Rating
Fixed deposits programmes are medium term unsecured borrowings. Rating

of such programmes is called as fixed deposits rating.
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(6) Borrowers Rating
Rating of borrowers is referred as borrower rating.
(7) Individuals Rating
Rating of individuals is called as individual's credit rating.
(8) Structured Obligation Rating
Structured obligations are also debt obligations and are different from
debenture or bond or fixed deposit programmes and commercial papers.
Structured obligation is generally asset-backed security. Credit rating agencies
assessed the risk associated with the transaction with the main trust on cash
flows emerging from the asset would be sufficient to meet committed
payments, to the investors in worst case scenario.
(9) Sovereign Rating
Is a rating of a country, which is being considered whenever a loan is to be

extended, or some major investment is envisaged in a country.
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BENEFITS OF CREDIT RATING`
For different classes of persons different benefits accrue from the use of rated
instruments. The benefits directly accruing to investors through rated instruments
are:
(A) BENEFITS TO INVESTORS
Investors are benefited in many ways if the corporate security in which they intend to
invest their saving has been rated. Some of the benefits are:
(1) Safeguards Against Bankruptcy
Credit rating of an instrument done by a credit rating agency gives an idea to the
investors about the degree of financial strength of the issuing company, which
enables him to decide about the investment. A highly rated instrument of a company
gives an assurance to the investors of the safety of that instrument and a minimum
risk of bankruptcy.
(2) Recognition Of Risk
Credit rating provides investors with rating symbols that carry information in easily
recognizable manner for the benefit of investors to perceive the risk involved in the
investment. It becomes easier for the investors by looking at the symbol to
understand the worth of the issuing company. The rating symbol gives them the idea
about the risk involved or the expected advantages from the investment.
(3) Credibility Of Issuer
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Rating gives a clue about the credibility of the issuing company. The rating agency is
quite independent of the issuer company and has no business connections or any
relationship with it or its Board of Directors, etc. Absence of business links between
the rater and the rated firm establishes ground for credibility and attract investors.
(4) Easy Understandability Of Investment Proposal
An investor needs no analytical knowledge on his part and can understand the rating
symbol. The investor can take quick decisions about the investment to be made in
any particular rated security of a company.
(5) Saving Of Resources
Investors rely upon credit rating. This relieves investors from the hassle of acquiring
knowledge about the fundamentals of a company, its actual strength, financial
standing, management details, etc. The quality of credit rating done by professional
experts of the credit rating agency repose confidence in him to rely upon the rating
for taking investment decisions.
(6) Independence Of Investment Decisions
For making investment decisions, investors have to seek advice of financial

intermediaries, the stockbrokers, merchant bankers, the portfolio managers etc.
about the good investment proposal. For rated instruments, investors need not
depend upon the advice of these financial intermediaries as the rating symbol
assigned to a particular instrument suggests the credit worthiness of the instrument
and indicates the degree of risk involved in it.
(7) Choice Of Investments
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Several alternative credit rating instruments are available at a particular point of time
for investing in the capital market and the investors can make choice depending upon
their own risk profile and diversification plan.
(8) Benefits Of Rating Surveillance
Investors get the benefit of the credit rating agency's on-going surveillance of the
rating and rated instruments of different companies. The credit rating agency
downgrades the rating of any instrument if subsequently the company's financial
strength declines or any event takes place, which necessitates consequent
dissemination of information on its position to the investors.
(9) Other Advantages
The investor can quickly understand the credit instrument and weigh the ratings with
advantages from instruments; and make quick decisions to invest or sell or buy
securities to take advantages of market conditions; or, perceiving of default risk by
the company.
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(B) BENEFITS OF RATING TO THE COMPANY
Company which had its credit instrument or security rated by a credit rating agency is
benefited in many ways as summarized below:
(1) Lower Cost Of Borrowing
A company with highly rated instrument has the opportunity to reduce the cost of
borrowing from the public by quoting lesser interest on fixed deposits or debentures
or bonds as the investors with low risk preference would come forward to invest in
safe securities though yielding marginally lower rate of return.
(2) Wider Audience For Borrowing
A company with a highly rated instrument can approach the investors extensively for
the resource mobilization using the press media. Investors in different strata of the
society could be attracted by higher rated instrument, as the investors understand the
degree of certainty about timely payment of interest and principal on a debt
instrument with better rating.
(3) Rating As Marketing Tool
Companies with rated instruments improve their own image and avail of the rating as
a marketing tool to create better image in dealing with its customers feel confident in
the utility products manufactured by the companies carrying higher rating for their
credit instruments.
(4) Reduction Of Cost In Public Issues
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A company with higher rated instrument is able to attract the investors and with least
efforts can raise funds. Thus, the rated company can economize and minimize cost
of public issues by controlling expenses on media coverage, conferences and other
publicity stunts and gimmicks. Rating facilitates best pricing and timing of issues.
(5) Motivation For Growth
Rating provides motivation to the company for growth as the promoters feel
confident in their own efforts and are encouraged to undertake expansion of their
operations or new projects. With better image created though higher credit rating the
company can mobilize funds from public and instructions or banks from self-
assessment of its own status, which is subject to self-discipline and self-
improvement, it can perceive and avoid sickness.
(6) Unknown Issuer
Credit rating provides recognition to a relatively unknown issuer while entering into
the market through wider investor base who rely on rating grade rather than on
'name recognition'.
(C) BENEFITS TO BROKERS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
Rating is a useful tool for merchant bankers and other capital market intermediaries
in the process of planning, pricing, underwriting and placement of issues. The
intermediaries, like brokers and dealers in securities, could use rating as an input for
their monitoring of risk exposures. The merchant bankers are also using credit
ratings for pre-packing of issues by way of securitisation/ structured obligations.
Highly rated instruments put the brokers at an advantage to make less efforts in
studying the company's credit position to convince their clients to select an
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investment proposal. This enables brokers and other financial intermediaries to save
time, energy, costs and manpower in convincing their clients about investment in any
particular instrument.
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CREDIT RATING AGENCY
A credit rating agency (CRA) is a company that assigns credit ratings for issuers of
certain types of debt obligations. In most cases, these issuers are companies, cities,
non-profit organizations, or national governments issuing debt-like securities that can be
traded on a secondary market. A credit rating measures credit worthiness, the ability to
pay back a loan, and affects the interest rate applied to loans. (A company that issues
credit scores for individual credit-worthiness is generally called a credit bureau or
consumer credit reporting agency.)
Interest rates are not the same for everyone, but instead are based on risk-based
pricing, a form of price discrimination based on the different expected costs of different
borrowers, as set out in their credit rating. There exist more than 100 rating agencies
worldwide.
USES OF RATINGS BY CREDIT RATING AGENCIES
Credit ratings are used by investors, issuers, investment banks, broker-dealers, and by
governments. For investors, credit rating agencies increase the range of investment
alternatives and provide independent, easy-to-use measurements of relative credit risk;
this generally increases the efficiency of the market, lowering costs for both borrowers
and lenders. This in turn increases the total supply of risk capital in the economy,
leading to stronger growth. It also opens the capital markets to categories of borrower
who might otherwise be shut out altogether: small governments, startup companies,
hospitals and universities.
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FUNCTIONS OF A CREDIT RATING AGENCY
Credit rating serves the following functions:
(1) Provides Superior Information:
It provides superior information on credit risk for three reasons:
(i) It is an independent rating agency, and is likely to provide an unbiased

opinion; unlike brokers, financial intermediaries and underwriters who have a vested
interest in the issue,
(ii) Due to professional and highly trained staff, their ability to assess risk is
better, and finally,
(iii) The rating firm has access to a lot of information, which may not be publicly
available.
(2) Low Cost Information
A rating firm gathers, analyses, interprets and summarizes complex information in a

simple and readily understood formal manner. It is highly welcome by most investors
who find it prohibitively expensive and simply impossible to do such credit evaluation
of their own.
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(3) Basis For A Proper Risk And Return
If an instrument is rated by a credit rating agency, then such instrument enjoys higher
confidence from investors. Investors have some idea as to what is the risk that
he/she is likely to take, if investment is done in that security.
(4) Healthy Discipline On Corporate Borrowers
Higher credit rating to any credit investment tends to enhance the corporate image
and visibility and hence it induces a healthy discipline on corporates.
(5) Greater Credence To Financial And Other Representation
When a credit rating agency rates a security, its own reputation is at stake.
Therefore, it seeks high quality financial and other information. As the issue complies
with the demands of the credit rating agency on a continuing basis, its financial and
other representations acquire greater credibility.
(6) Formation Of Public Policy
Public policy guidelines on what kinds of securities are eligible for inclusions in
different kinds of institutional portfolios can be developed with greater confidence if
debt securities are rated professionally.
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CREDIT RATING IN INDIA
In the Indian context, the scope of credit rating is limited generally to debt,
commercial paper, fixed deposits, mutual funds and of late IPOs as well. Therefore, it
is the instrument, which is rated, and not the company. In other words, credit quality
is not general evaluation of issuing organization, i.e. if debt of company XYZ is rated
AAA and debt of company ABC is rated BBB, then it does not mean firm XYZ is
better than firm ABC. However, the issuer company gets strength and credibility with
the grade of rating awarded to the credit instrument it intends to issue to the public to
raise funds. Rating, in a way, reflects the issuer's strength and soundness of
operations and management. It expresses a view on its prospective composite
performance and the organizational behaviour based on the study of past results.
Further, the rating will differ for different instruments to be issued by the same
company, within the same time span. For example, credit rating for a debenture issue
will differ from that of a commercial paper or certificate of deposit for the same
company because the nature of obligation is different in each case. Credit rating has
been made mandatory for issuance of the following instruments
(1) As per the regulations of Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) public
issue of debentures and bonds convertible/ redeemable beyond a period of 18
months need credit rating.
(2) As per the guidelines of Reserve Bank Of India (RBI), one of the conditions for
issuance of Commercial Paper in India is that the issue must have a rating not below
the P2 grade from CRISIL/A2 grade from ICRA/PR2 from CARE.
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(3) As per the guidelines of Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Non

Banking Finance Companies (NBFCs) having net owned funds of more than Rs.2
core must get their fixed deposit programmes rated. The minimum rating required by
the NBFCs to be eligible to raise fixed deposits are FA (-) from CRISIL/ MA (-) from
ICRA/BBB from CARE. Similar regulations have been introduced by National
Housing Bank (NHB) for housing finance companies also
(4) As per the regulations of the Ministry of Petroleum, the parallel marketers of
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Superior Kerosene Oil (SKO) in India are also
subjected to mandatory rating. The three rating agencies have a common approach
for such rating and the dealers are categorized into four grades between 1 to 4
indicating good, satisfactory, low risk and high risk
(5) There is a proposal for making the rating of fixed deposit programmes of limited
companies, other than NBFCs also mandatory, by amendment of the companies Act
1956.
CRAs registered with SEBI.
Name of the CRA Year of

commencement of
Operations
CRISIL 1988
ICRA 1991
CARE 1993
Fitch India 1996
Brickworks 2008
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CRISIL
Credit Rating Information Services Of India Limited (CRISIL) has been promoted
by Industrial Credit and Investment Corporation of India Ltd. (ICICI) and Unit Trust of
India Ltd. (UTI) as a public limited company with its headquarters at Mumbai. CRISIL,
incorporated in 1987, pioneered the concept of credit rating in India and developed
the methodology for rating of debt in the context of India's financial, monetary and
regulatory system. It was the first rating agency to rate Commercial Paper
Programme in 1989, debt instruments of financial institutions and banks in 1992 and
asset-backed securities in 1992.
The main objective of CRISIL has been to rate debt obligation of Indian companies.
Its rating provides a guide to the investors as to the risk of timely payment of interest
and principal on a particular debt instrument. Its rating creates awareness of the
concept of credit rating amongst corporations, merchant bankers, brokers, regulatory
authorities, and helps in creating environment that facilitates the debt rating.
CRISIL provides rating and risk assessment services to manufacturing companies,

banks, non-banking financial companies, financial institutions, housing finance
companies, municipal bodies and companies in the infrastructure sector.
CRISIL's comprehensive offerings include ratings for long-term instruments such as
debentures/bonds and preference shares, structured obligations (including asset-
backed securities) and fixed deposits; it also rates short-term instruments such as
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commercial paper programmes and short-term deposits. As part of bank loan ratings,
CRISIL also rates credit facilities extended to borrowers by banks. In addition,
CRISIL undertakes credit assessments of various entities including state
governments. CRISIL also assigns financial strength ratings to insurance companies.
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CRISIL through the years has continued to innovate and play the role of a pioneer in
the development of the Indian debt market. CRISIL has pioneered the rating of
subsidiaries and joint ventures of multinationals in India and has rated several
multinational entities, both start-up entities as well as players with a well established
track record in India. Over the years, CRISIL has also developed several structured
ratings for multinational entities based on Guarantees from the parent as well as
Standby Letter of Credit arrangements from bankers. The rating agency has also
developed a methodology for credit enhancement of corporate borrowing
programmes through the use of partial guarantees. In essence, CRISIL is uniquely
placed in its experience in understanding the extent of credit enhancement arising
out of such structures.
CRISIL's Rating Process
CRISIL'S Ratings Processes In As Given Below:
(1) Request Of The Company

The rating process beings at the request of a company desirous of having its issue
obligations under proposed instrument rated by CRISIL.
(2) Assignment To Analytical Team

On receipt of the above request, CRISIL assigns the job to an analytical team that
will be responsible for carrying out the rating assignment.
(3) Obtaining And Processing Of Data

The analytical team, which generally contains two experts, obtains requisite
information from the client company and analyses the same. To obtain clarification
and better understanding of the client's operations, the team meets and interacts with
company's executives.
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(4) Findings Presentation
The findings of the team completion of investigation process are presented to Rating
committee (which comprises some directors not connected with any CRISIL
shareholder) which then decides on the rating.
(5) Communication Of Decision
The decision of the Rating committee is communicated to the client company with
remarks that the company, if it so likes, may present some additional information for
reconsideration of rating grade assigned to the instrument. In case the company has
nothing to produce as additional fact, the rating grade is formally confirmed to the
company by CRISIL.
(6) Monitoring Of Change Of Rating
Once the company has decides to use the rating, CRISIL is obliged to monitor the
rating, over the life of the instrument. Depending upon new information, or
developments concerning the company, CRISIL may change the rating. Any change,
so effected, is made public by CRISIL.
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CRISIL'S Rating Methodology
CRISIL analyses five factors while assessing the instrument. These five factors are
as follows:
(1) Business Analysis
All the relevant information concerning the business is covered under the following
sub-heads.
(a) Industry Risk
CRISIL evaluates the industry risk by taking into consideration various factors like
nature and basis of competition, key success factors, demand and supply position,
structure of industry, government policies etc. Industry strength is evaluated within
the economy considering factors like inflation, energy requirements and availability,
international competitive situation and socio-political scenario; demand projection
growth stages and maturity of markets; cost structure of industry in domestic and
international scenario; or, the government policies toward industry. Industry risk
analysis may set an upper limit on rating.
(b) Market Position Of The Company Within The Industry
Market position of the company within the industry is evaluated form different angles,
i.e. market share and stability of market share; competitive advantage through
marketing and distribution strength and weakness; marketing/support service
infrastructure; diversity of products and customers base; research and development
and its linkage to product obsolescence; quality important programme; as finally, the
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long term sales contract, strong marketing position of the company within the industry
attracts better grade rating.
(c) Operating Efficiency
Operating efficiency of the company is assessed vis--vis competitors' comparison.

For instance, the pricing or cost advantage; availability, cost, quality of raw material;
availability of labour and labour relations; integration of manufacturing operations and
cost effectiveness of plant and equipments; level of capital employed and
productivity; energy cost; or finally, the compliance to pollution control requirement on
taken into consideration.
(d) Legal Position
Legal position of issue of debt instrument is assessed by letter of offer; terms of

debenture trust deed, trustees and their responsibilities; system of timely payment of
interest and principal; or protection of forgery and fraud. Thus, business covers all
relevant aspects as related to business operations of the client company to assess
the creditworthiness of the company.
(2) Financial Analysis
Under financial analysis, all relevant aspects connected with the business and
financial position of the company is assessed in the following four important
segments. Firstly the accounting finally is seen as qualifications of auditors; focus on
determining extent to which performance is overstated; method of income
recognition; depreciation policies and inventory calculations; Under Valued/Over
Valuing of assets; or off balance sheet liabilities.
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Secondly, the Earning Potential return to long term earning potential under varying
conditions is assessed. Key consideration is: Profitability ratios; pretax coverage
ratios; earnings on assets/capital employed; source of future earnings; or ability to
finance growth internally.
Thirdly, the adequacy of the Cash Flows is appraised in relation to debt and fixed and
working capital requirements of the company. Main focus of analysis is on variability
of future cash flows; capital spending flexibility; cash flows to fixed and working
capital requirements; or Working Capital management. Fourthly, the Financial
Flexibility is assessed through financial plans in times of stress and their reliability;
ability to attract capital; capital spending flexibility; asset redeployment potential; or
the debt service schedule.
(3) Management Evaluation
The track record of management is evaluated by observing:
the goals and philosophies;

strategies and ability to overcome adverse situations;
judgment of management performance based on past operating and financial
results;
planning and control systems;
conservatism or aggressiveness with reference to financial risk;
depths of managerial, talents and succession plans;
shareholding pattern and constitution/ of Board of Directors;
relationship with shareholders;
or mergers and acquisition considerations.
(4) Regulatory And Competitive Environment
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CREDIT RATING
CRISIL evaluates structure and regulatory framework of the financial system in which
it works. Trends in regulation/ deregulation and their impact on the company are
evaluated.
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CREDIT RATING
(5) Fundamental Analysis
It covers aspects on liquidity management; assets quality; profitability and financial

position; and interest and tax sensitively. Liquidity management includes aspects on
capital structure, matching of assets and liabilities; or policy on liquid asset in relation
to financing commitments and maturing deposits. Asset Quality includes aspects
concerning quality of company's credit risk management, system for monitoring
credit, sector risk, exposure of individual borrowers, or management of problem
credits. Profitability and Financial Position includes aspects on historic profits,
spreads on fund deployment, revenues on non fund-based services, and accretion to
reserves. Interest or Tax Sensitivity includes aspects dealing with exposure to
interest rate changes, revenues on non-fund based activities, and accretion to
reserves.
Factors listed above at serial number 1,2,3, are evaluated for manufacturing
companies but for finance companies, emphasis is laid in addition to above factors at
serial number 4 and 5.
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CREDIT RATING
CRISILS RATING SYMBOLS FOR LONG TERM

INSTRUMENTS
Investment Grade Ratings:
AAA
(Triple A) Highest Safety
Instruments rated 'AAA' are judged to offer the highest degree of safety with regard
to timely payment of financial obligations. Any adverse changes in circumstances are
most unlikely to affect the payments on the instrument
AA
(Double A) High Safety
Instruments rated 'AA' are judged to offer a high degree of safety with regard to
timely payment of financial obligations. They differ only marginally in safety from
`AAA' issues.
A
Adequate Safety
Instruments rated 'A' are judged to offer an adequate degree of safety with regard to
timely payment of financial obligations. However, changes in circumstances can
adversely affect such issues more than those in the higher rating categories
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CREDIT RATING
BBB
(Triple B) Moderate Safety
Instruments rated 'BBB' are judged to offer a moderate safety with regard to timely
payment of financial obligations for the present; however, changing circumstances are
more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal than for
instruments in higher rating categories.
Speculative Grade Ratings:
BB
(Double B) Inadequate Safety
Instruments rated 'BB' are judged to carry inadequate safety with regard to timely
payment of financial obligations; they are less likely to default in the immediate future
than other speculative grade instruments, but an adverse change in circumstances
could lead to inadequate capacity to make payment on financial obligations.
B
High Risk
Instruments rated 'B' are judged to have greater likelihood of default; while currently
financial obligations are met, adverse business or economic conditions would lead to
lack of ability or willingness to pay interest or principal.
C
Substantial Risk
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CREDIT RATING
Instruments rated 'C' are judged to have factors present that make them vulnerable to
default; timely payment of financial obligations is possible only if favourable
circumstances continue.
D
Default
Instruments rated 'D' are in default or are expected to default on scheduled payment
dates. Such instruments are extremely speculative and returns from these instruments
may be realized only on reorganisation or liquidation.
NM
Not Meaningful
Instruments rated 'N.M' have factors present in them, which render the rating
outstanding meaningless. These include reorganisation or liquidation of the issuer, the
obligation is under dispute in a court of law or before a statutory authority etc.
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CREDIT RATING
RATING SYMBOL FOR SHORT TERM INSTRUMENT
P-1 This rating indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment on the
instrument is very strong.
P-2 This rating indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment on the
instrument is strong; however, the relative degree of safety is lower than that for
instruments rated 'P-1'.
P-3 - This rating indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment on the
instrument is adequate; however, the instrument is more vulnerable to the adverse
effects of changing circumstances than an instrument rated in the two higher categories.
P-4 - This rating indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment on the
instrument is minimal and it is likely to be adversely affected by short-term adversity or
less favourable conditions.
P-5 - This rating indicates that the instrument is expected to be in default on maturity or
is in default.
NM - Instruments rated 'N.M' have factors present in them, which render the rating
outstanding meaningless. These include reorganisation or liquidation of the issuer, the
obligation is under dispute in a court of law or before a statutory authority etc.
Not Meaningful
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CREDIT RATING
ICRA
ICRA Limited (an Associate of Moody's Investors Service) was incorporated in 1991 as
an independent and professional company. ICRA is a leading provider of investment
information and credit rating services in India. ICRAs major shareholders include
Moody's Investors Service and leading Indian financial institutions and banks. With the
growth and globalization of the Indian capital markets leading to an exponential surge in
demand for professional credit risk analysis, ICRA has been proactive in widening its
service offerings, executing assignments including credit ratings, equity gradings,
specialized performance grading and mandated studies spanning diverse industrial
sectors. In addition to being a leading credit rating agency with expertise in virtually
every sector of the Indian economy, ICRA has broad-based its services for the
corporate and financial sectors, both in India and overseas, and currently offers its
services under the following banners:
ICRA Limited (an Associate of Moody's Investors Service) was incorporated in 1991 as
an independent and professional company. ICRA is a leading provider of investment
information and credit rating services in India. ICRAs major shareholders include
Moody's Investors Service and leading Indian financial institutions and banks. With the
growth and globalisation of the Indian capital markets leading to an exponential surge in
demand for professional credit risk analysis, ICRA has been proactive in widening its
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CREDIT RATING
service offerings, executing assignments including credit ratings, equity gradings,

specialised performance gradings and mandated studies spanning diverse industrial
sectors. In addition to being a leading credit rating agency with expertise in virtually
every sector of the Indian economy, ICRA has broad-based its services for the
corporate and financial sectors, both in India and overseas, and currently offers its
services under the following banners:
Rating Services Information, Grading and Reasearch Services Advisory Services
Economic Research Outsourcing
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CREDIT RATING
ICRA'S Rating Process

The Rating Process Follows:
Rating Process
Rating is an interactive process with a prospective approach. It involves series of

steps. The main points are described as below:
(A) Rating Request
Ratings in India are initiated by a formal request (or mandate) from the prospective
issuer . This mandate spells out the terms of the rating assignment. Important issues
that are covered include, binding the credit rating agency to maintain confidentiality,
the right to the issuer to accept or not to accept the rating and binds the issuer to
provide information required by the credit rating agency for rating and subsequent
surveillance.
(B) Rating Team
The team usually comprises two members. The composition of the team is based on
the expertise and skills required for evaluating the business of the issuer.
(C) Information Requirements
Issuers are provided a list of information requirements and the broad framework for
discussions. These requirements are derived from the experience of the issuers
business and broadly conform to all the aspects, which have a bearing on the rating.
These factors have been discussed in detail under rating framework.
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CREDIT RATING
(D) Secondary Information
The credit rating agency also draws on the secondary sources of information
including its own research division. The credit rating agency also has a panel of
industry experts who provide guidance on specific issues to the rating team. The
secondary sources generally provide data and trends including policies about the
industry.
(E) Management Meetings And Plant Visits
Rating involves assessment of number of qualitative factors with a view to estimate

the future earnings of the issuer. This requires intensive interactions with the issuers
management specifically relating to plans, outlook, and competitive position and
funding policies.
Plan visits facilitate understanding of the production process, assess the state of
equipment and main facilities , evaluate the quality of technical personnel and form
an opinion on the key variables that influence level , quality and cost of production.
These visits also help in assessing the progress of projects under implementation.
(F) Preview Meeting :
After completing the analysis , the findings are discussed at length in the internal
committee , comprising senior analysts of the credit rating agency. All the issues
having a bearing on the rating are identified. At this stage, an opinion on the rating is
also formed.
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CREDIT RATING
(G) Rating Committee Meeting
This is the final authority for assigning ratings. A brief presentation about the issuers
business and the management is made by the rating team. All the issues identified
during discussions in the internal committee are discussed. The rating committee
also considers the recommendation of the internal committee for the rating. Finally , a
rating is assigned and all the issues, which influence the rating, are clearly spelt out.
(H) Rating Communication
The assigned rating along with the key issues is communicated to the issuers top
management for acceptance. The ratings, which are not accepted, are either rejected
or reviewed. The rejected ratings are not disclosed and complete confidentiality is
maintained.
(I) Rating Reviews
If the rating is not acceptable to the issuer , he has a right to appeal for a review of
the rating . These reviews are usually taken up only if the issuer provides fresh inputs
on the issues that were considered for assigning the rating . Issuer's response is
presented to the Rating Committee. If the inputs are convincing, the Committee can
revise the initial rating decision.
(J) Surveillance
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CREDIT RATING
It is obligatory on the part of the credit rating agency to monitor the accepted ratings
over the tenure of the rated instrument. As has been mentioned earlier, the issuer is
bound by the mandate letter to provide information to the credit rating agency. The
ratings are generally reviewed every year, unless the circumstances of the case
warrant an early review. In a surveillance review, the initial rating could be retained or
revised (upgrade or downgrade). The various factors that are evaluated in assigning
the ratings have been explained under rating framework.
Rating Scale of ICRA
Long Term Including Debentures Bonds, Preference Shares
LAAA: Highest Safety:
It indicates fundamentally strong position. Risk factors are negligible. There may be
circumstances adversely affecting the degree of safety but such circumstances, as
may visualized, are not likely to affect the timely payment of principal and interest as
per times.
LAA+,LAA, LAA- : High Safety:
Risk factors are modest and may vary slightly. The protective factors are strong and
the prospect of timely payment of principal and interest as per terms and interest
under adverse circumstances, as may be visualized, differs from LAAA only
marginally.
LA+,LA, LA- :Adequate Safety:
The risk factors are more variable and grater in periods of economic stress. The
protective factors any averse change in circumstances, as may be visualized, may
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CREDIT RATING
alter the fundamental strength and effect the timely payment of principal and interest
as per terms.
LBBB+,LBBB,LBBB- Moderate Safety:
Considerable variability in risk factors. The protective factors are below average.
Adverse changes in business/economic circumstances, are likely to affect the timely
payment of principal and interest as per terms.
LBB+, LBB, LBB-Inadequate Safety:
The timely payment of interest and principal are more likely to be affected by present
or prospective changes in business/economic circumstances. The protective factors
fluctuate in case of changes in economy/business conditions.
LBB+, LB, LB- Risk Prone:
Risk factors indicate that obligation may not be met when due. The protective factors
are narrow. Adverse changes in economic/business conditions could result in
inability/unwillingness to service debts on time as per terms.
LC+,LC,LC- Substantially Risk:
There are inherent elements of risk and timely servicing of debts/obligations could be
possible only in case of continued existence of favourable circumstances.
LD Default. Extremely Speculative:
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CREDIT RATING
Either already in default in payment of interest and/or principal as per terms or

expected to default. Recovery is likely only on liquidation or reorganization.
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CREDIT RATING
Medium Term - including Certificates of Deposits and Fixed

Deposits Programmes
MAAA: Highest Safety

The prospect of timely servicing of interest and principal as per terms is the best.
MAA+, MAA, MAA- High Safety
The prospect of timely servicing of interest and principal as per terms is high, but not
as high as in MAAA rating.
MA+, MA, MA-: Adequate Safety
The prospect of timely serving interest and principal is adequate. However, debt
servicing may be affected by adverse changes in the business/economic conditions.
MB+, MB, MB-: Inadequate Safety
The timely payment of interest and principal are more likely to be affected by future
uncertainties.
Mc+, Mc, Mc- Risk Prone
Susceptibility to default high. Adverse changes in the business/economic conditions

could result in inability/unwillingness to service debts on time as per terms.
Md Default
Either already in default or expected to default.
Short Term - including Commercial Papers
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CREDIT RATING
Al+, A1 Highest Safety
The prospect of timely payment of debt/obligation is the best.
A2+, A1 High Safety
The relative safety is marginally lower than A1
A3+, A3 Adequate Safety
The prospect of timely payment of interest and installment is adequate, but any
adverse changes in business/economic conditions may affect the fundamental
strength.
A4+, A4 Risk Prone
The degree of safety is low. Likely to default in case of adverse changes in

business/economic conditions.
A5 Default
Either already in default or expected to default. Inadequate capacity.
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CREDIT RATING
Short-Term Ratings
ICRA assigns short-term ratings with symbols from A1 through to A5 to debt instruments
with original maturity up to one year. ICRAs short-term ratings measure the probability
of default on the rated debt securities over their entire tenure. A suffix of + may be
attached to the rating symbols of A1 through to A4 to indicate the relative position of the
issuer within the rating category. While the short-term rating of A1 indicates that the
rated debt issuance has the highest credit quality, A5 indicates that the rated debt is
either in default or is expected to default on its repayment obligations.
ICRA assigns short-term ratings to instruments such as commercial paper, certificates

of deposit, short-term debentures, and other money market related instruments
maturing within one year from the date of issuance.
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CREDIT RATING
Linkage Between Long-Term And Short-Term Ratings
Although ICRA ratings are specific to the rated instruments, the short-term ratings in
general have a linkage with the assigned or implicit long-term ratings of the issuers
concerned.
Besides the fact that short-term instruments like commercial paper are usually on-going
programmes, thus warranting a longer-term rating view, in ICRAs opinion, refinancing
risk or an issuers access to other sources of funding, is also largely influenced by the
issuers longer-term credit profile.
Thus, apart from focusing on short-term factors like near-term business risk drivers and
liquidity position of the issuers, ICRA also factors in an issuers long-term credit profile
while assigning short-term ratings to debt instruments issued by it. The following table
presents a broad guidance to the linkage between ICRAs short-term and long-term
ratings.
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ONICRA
CREDIT
RATING AGENCY OF INDIA
ONICRA CREDIT RATING AGENCY OF INDIA Ltd. is recognised as the pioneers of

the concept of individual Credit rating in India. After being the first to introduce the
concept, Onicra has been continuously conducting in-depth research into all aspects of
the behaviour of credit seekers and has developed a comprehensive rating system for
various types of credit extensions. Onicra provides a platform to credit seekers and
granters build long lasting relationship.
Credit Rating
With the advance of credit, the principal has an increased level of exposure in the
market. So, a mandatory check is done to assess the credentials of the individual in
question before extending a loan or advance. We assess the financial visibility and look
into all related aspects. We have an in-house developed credit rating module which is
customized to suit various customer requirements.
Associate Rating
We provide an objective assessment of existing and potential associates of our clients,

with reference to infrastructure, resources, adherence to defined system and processes
and commitment to their customers. This evaluation helps our clients understand the
value their associates bring to their business relationships.
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CREDIT RATING
Employment Background Screening
This service provides our clients with authenticated and validated data on employees
which includes but is not limited to the Physical Address, qualification both educational
and professional, criminal record check and other pertinent information.
SSI/SME Rating
We help Small Scale Industries that are looking for loans and financial assistance to get
assessed on their credit worthiness, financial viability and performance. This helps their
cause to get unbiased analysis in a funding situation.
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CREDIT RATING
CARE
Credit Analysis & Research Ltd. (CARE), incorporated in April 1993, is a credit rating,
information and advisory services company promoted by Industrial Development Bank
of India (IDBI), Canara Bank, Unit Trust of India (UTI) and other leading banks and
financial services companies. In all CARE has 14 shareholders.
CARE assigned its first rating in November 1993, and up to March 31, 2006, had
completed 3175 rating assignments for an aggregate value of about Rs 5231 billion.
CARE's ratings are recognized by the Government of India and all regulatory authorities
including the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and the Securities and Exchange Board of
India (SEBI). CARE has been granted registration by SEBI under the Securities &
Exchange Board of India (Credit Rating Agencies) Regulations, 1999.
The rating coverage has extended beyond industrial companies, to include public
utilities, financial institutions, infrastructure projects, special purpose vehicles, state
governments and municipal bodies. CARE's clients include some of the largest private
sector manufacturing and financial services companies as well financial institutions of
India. CARE is well equipped to rate all types of debt instruments like Commercial
Paper, Fixed Deposit, Bonds, Debentures and Structured Obligations.
CARE's Information and Advisory services group prepares credit reports on specific
requests from banks or business partners, conducts sector studies and provides
advisory services in the areas of financial restructuring, valuation and credit appraisal
systems. CARE was retained by the Disinvestment Commission, Government of India,
for assistance in equity valuation of a number of state owned companies and for
suggesting divestment strategies for these companies.
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CREDIT RATING
CARE'S Rating Process
The process involves:
(i) Client gives request for rating and submits information and details schedules;
(ii) CARE assigns rating team and team analyses the information;
(iii) The team interacts with the clients, undertakes site visits;
(iv) The client interacts with the Team respond to queries raised and provides any
additional data necessary for the analyses;
(v) The team analyses the data submitted by the Client and put up to Internal
Committee of CARE for previews analyses;
(vi) Rating Committee of CARE awards rating to the Client;
(vii) Client may ask for review of the rating assigned and furnish additional
information for the purpose. Client has the option not to accept the final rating in
which case CARE will not publish the rating or monitor it; and, finally,
(viii) If the rating is accepted by the client, CARE gives it for notification and a
periodic surveillance is undertaken by CARE.
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CREDIT RATING
RATING SYMBOLS OF CARE
A. Long-Term And Medium Term Instrument
CARE AAA (FD)/(CD)/(SO)
Instruments carrying this rating are considered to be of the best quality, carrying
negligible investment risk. Debt service payments are protected by stable cash flows
with good margin. While the underlying assumptions may change, such changes as
can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the strong position of such instruments.
CARE AA (FD)/(CD)/(SO)
Instruments carrying this rating are judged to be of high quality by all standards. They
are also classified as high investment grade. They are rated lower than CARE AAA
securities because of somewhat lower margins of protection. Changes in
assumptions may have a greater impact on the long-term risks may be somewhat
larger. Overall, the difference with CARE AAA rated securities is marginal.
CARE A (FD)/(CD)/(SO)
Instruments with this rating are considered upper medium grade instruments and
have many favourable investment attributes. Safety for principal and interest are
considered adequate. Assumptions that do not materialize may have a greater
impact as compared to the instruments rated higher.
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CREDIT RATING
CARE BBB (FD)/(CD)/(SO)
Such instruments are considered to be of investment grade. They indicate sufficient

safety for payment of interest and principal, at the time of rating. However, adverse
changes in assumptions are more likely to weaken the debt servicing capability
compared to the higher rated instruments.
CARE BB (FD)/(CD)/(SO)
Such instruments are considered to be speculative, with inadequate protection for

interest and principal payments.
CARE B (FD)/(CD)/(SO)
Instruments with such rating are generally classified susceptible to default. While
interest and principal payments are being met, adverse changes in business
conditions are likely to lead to default.
CARE C (FD)/(CD)/(SO)
Such instruments carry high investment risk with likelihood of default in the payment
of interest and principal.
CARE D (FD)/(CD)/(SO)
Such instruments are of the lowest category. They either are in default or are likely to
be in default soon.
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CREDIT RATING
B. Short-Term Instruments
Instruments with maturities of one year or less are classified in this category. These
include: CP - Commercial Paper and ICD - Inter-Corporate Deposits
PR-1
Instruments would have superior capacity for repayment of short-term promissory
obligation. Issuers of such PR-instruments will normally be characterized by leading
market position in established industries, high rates of return on funds employed etc.
PR-2
Instruments would have strong capacity for repayment of short-term promissory
obligations. Issuers would have most of the characteristics as for those with PR1
instruments but to a lesser degree.
PR-3
Instruments have an adequate capacity for repayment of short-term promissory
obligations. The effect of industry characteristics and market composition may be
more pronounced. Variability in earning and profitability may result in change in the
level of debt protection.
PR-4
Instruments have minimal degree of safety regarding timely payment of short-term
promissory obligations and safety is likely to be adversely affected by short-term
adversity or less favourable conditions.
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PR-5
The instrument is in default or is likely to be in default on maturity.
SME Rating Agency of India Limited (SMERA) is a joint initiative by SIDBI

(http://www.sidbi.in/), Dun & Bradstreet Information Services India Private Limited (D&B)
(http://www.dnb.co.in/), Credit Information Bureau (India) Limited (CIBIL)
(http://www.cibil.com/) and several leading banks in the country. SMERA is the country's
first rating agency that focuses primarily on the Indian SME segment.
SMERA's primary objective is to provide ratings that are comprehensive, transparent

and reliable. This would facilitate greater and easier flow of credit from the banking
sector to SMEs.
Rating Process Simplified -
Based on receipt of application form, applicable rating fees and documents from
the SME, SMERA will begin its process of evaluation.
A Questionnaire, seeking information on financial and qualitative factors, would
be sent to the SME and would need to be filled by an authorised representative
of the SME.
A SMERA correspondent will contact the SME to collect a duly filled
questionnaire to facilitate the rating process.
The correspondent would also conduct a site visit as part of the evaluation
process.
SMERA shall complete the evaluation exercise and provide SMERA rating within
15 business days of receipt of all documents from the SME.
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CREDIT RATING
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CREDIT RATING
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Moody's Investor Service
Today, Moody's Investor Service rates thousands of issues of corporate and

municipal bonds, commercial paper, short-term municipal notes, and preferred stock.
These security ratings are reported in Moody's Bond Record, which is published
monthly. In addition to assigning issue ratings, Moody's also notes for its subscribers
the essential terms on each security issue; dates when interest, principal or dividend
payments are due; call provisions (if any); registration status; bid and asked price
quotations; yield to maturity; tax status; coverage; and amount of securities
outstanding.
Moody's Corporate Bond Ratings
The credit ratings assigned by Moody's to corporate bonds are listed below with the
definitions of each rating category:
AAA
Bonds, which are rated Aaa, are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the
smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge".
Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable margin and
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CREDIT RATING
principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely to change, such
changes as can be visualized are most likely to impair the fundamentally strong
position of such issues.
AA
Bonds, which are rated Aa, are judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together
with the AAA group they comprise what are generally known as high-grade bonds.
They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection may not be
as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater
amplitude or there may be other elements present which make the long-term risks
appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
Bonds, which are rated A, possess many favourable investment attributes and are to
be considered as upper medium-grade obligations. Factors giving security to
principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present which
suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
BAA
Bonds, which are rated Baa, are considered as medium-grade obligations, i.e., they
are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and principal
security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may be
lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such
bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and, in fact, have speculative
characteristics as well.
BA
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Bonds, which are rated Ba, are judged to have speculative elements; their future
cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest and principal
payments may be moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during both good and
bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class.
Bonds, which are rated B generally, lack characteristics of a desirable investment.

Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of the
contract over any long period of time may be small.
CAA
Bonds, which are rated Caa, are of poor standing. Such issues may be in default and
there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or interest.
CA
Bonds, which are rated Ca, represent obligations, which are speculative in some
degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
Bonds, which are rated C, are the lowest rated class of bonds and issues so rated
are to be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real
investment standing.
Moody's Commercial Paper Ratings
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CREDIT RATING
Promissory notes sold in the open market by large corporations and having an
original maturity of nine months or less are known as commercial paper. Moody's
assigns those commercial notes it is willing to rate to one of three quality categories:
Prime-1 (or P-l) - Highest quality
Prime-2 (or P-2) - Higher quality

Prime-3 (or P-3) -High quality
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CREDIT RATING
Moody's Ratings of Short-Term Municipal Notes
Short-term securities issued by states, cities, counties, and other local governments
are rated by Moody's as to their investment quality. For these short-term issues
Moody's uses the rating symbol MIG, meaning Moody's Investment Grade. As shown
below, only four rating categories are used and speculative issues or those for which
adequate information is not available are not rated. The rating categories are as
follows:
MIG I
Loans bearing this designation are of the best quality, enjoying strong protection from
established cash flows of funds for their servicing or from established and broad-
based access to the market for refinancing, or both.
MIG2
Loans bearing this designation are of high quality, with margins of protection ample
though not so large as in the preceding group.
MIG3
Loans bearing this designation are of favourable quality, with all security elements
accounted for but lacking the undeniable strength of the preceding grades. Market
access for refinancing, in particular, is likely to be less well established.
MIG4
Loans bearing this designation are of adequate quality, carrying specific risk but having
protection commonly regarded as required of an investment security and not distinctly
or predominantly
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International Scale Ratings
International foreign currency ratings effectively benchmark credit quality off US

Government risk, and measure the ability of an organization to service foreign currency
obligations. In this regard, typically no organization or debt issue in a country can be
rated higher than the country's sovereign risk rating on the basis that, regardless of a
company's stand-alone strength, the government can block any organization within its
jurisdiction from obtaining/disbursing foreign currency. Exceptions can arise in the case
of structured finance transactions (if there is an opportunity to pierce the sovereign cap,
e.g. by trapping foreign currency offshore).
National Scale Ratings
The domestic local currency ratings assigned by GCR are tiered against an assumed
best possible (usually central government) rating of AAA' in each country and,
therefore, do not incorporate the sovereign risks of a country. Such ratings are designed
to give an indication of the relative risks only within a specific country and are not
comparable across different countries. Accordingly, a Zimbabwe Dollar rating accorded
to a Zimbabwean organisation is not comparable to a South African Rand rating
accorded to a South African organisation.
The rating methodologies and rating scales utilised in the accordance of both types of
ratings are very similar, but the key difference is that one scale measures the probability
of default on FOREIGN CURRENCY obligations (taking into account all sovereign risk
and currency conversion considerations), while the other measures the probability of
default on LOCAL CURRENCY obligations. It stands to reason that, particularly in
emerging markets such as Africa, there is a far higher probability of default with regards
to the former.
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Short Term Debt Rating Scale:
GCR's Rating Symbols and Definitions Summary
A short term debt rating rates an organisation's general unsecured creditworthiness over
the short term (i.e. over a 12 month period). Such a rating provides an indication of the
probability of default on any unsecured short term debt obligations, including
commercial paper, bank borrowings, BA's and NCD's.
High Grade
Highest certainty of timely payment. Short-term liquidity, including internal

A1+ operating factors and/or access to alternative sources of funds is outstanding, and
safety is just below that of risk-free treasury bills.
Very high certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors are excellent and supported
A1
by good fundamental protection factors. Risk factors are minor.
High certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors are strong and supported by
A1-
good fundamental protection factors. Risk factors are very small.
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CREDIT RATING
Good Grade
Good certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors and company fundamentals are
A2 sound. Although ongoing funding needs may enlarge total financing requirements,
access to capital markets is good. Risk factors are small.
Satisfactory Grade
Satisfactory liquidity and other protection factors qualify issues as to investment

A3
grade. However, risk factors are larger and subject to more variation.
Non-Investment Grade
Speculative investment characteristics. Liquidity is not sufficient to insure against

B disruption in debt service. Operating factors and market access may be subject to a
high degree of variation.
Default
C Issuer failed to meet scheduled principal or interest payments.
Long Term Debt Rating Scale:
A long term debt rating rates the probability of default on specific long term debt
instruments over the life of the issue. It is possible that different issues by a single
issuer could be accorded different ratings, depending on the underlying characteristics
of each issue (e.g. is it a senior or a subordinated debt instrument, is it secured or
unsecured and, if secured, what is the nature of the security).
Investment Grade
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CREDIT RATING
AAA
Highest credit quality. The risk factors are negligible, being only slightly more
than for risk free government bonds.
AA+ Very high credit quality. Protection factors are very strong. Adverse changes in
AA business, economic or financial conditions would increase investment risk
AA- although not significantly.
A+
High credit quality. Protection factors are good. However, risk factors are more
A
variable and greater in periods of economic stress.
A-
BBB+ Adequate protection factors and considered sufficient for prudent investment.
BBB However, there is considerable variability in risk during economic cycles.
BBB-
Non - Investment Grade
BB+
Below investment grade but capacity for timely repayment exists. Present or
BB
prospective financial protection factors fluctuate according to industry conditions
BB-
or company fortunes. Overall quality may move up or down frequently within this
category.
B+ Below investment grade and possessing risk that obligations will not be met when
B due. Financial protection factors will fluctuate widely according to economic
B- cycles, industry conditions and/or company fortunes.
CCC Well below investment grade securities. Considerable uncertainty exists as to

timely payment of principal or interest. Protection factors are narrow and risk can
be substantial with unfavourable economic/industry conditions, and/or with
unfavourable company developments.
DD
Defaulted debt obligations. Issuer failed to meet scheduled principal and/or
Interest payments.
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CREDIT RATING
Such ratings are exclusively accorded to insurance/reinsurance companies and rate the
probability of timeously honouring policyholder obligations over the medium term (i.e.
over the next 2 to 3 years)
AAA
Highest claims paying ability. The risk factors are negligible.
AA+ Very high claims paying ability. Protection factors are strong. Risk is modest, but
AA may vary slightly over time due to economic and/or underwriting conditions.
AA-
A+ High claims paying ability. Protection factors are above average although there
A is an expectation of variability in risk over time due to economic and/or
A- underwriting conditions.
BBB+ Adequate claims paying ability. Protection factors are adequate although there is
BBB considerable variability in risk over time due to economic and/or underwriting
BBB- conditions.
BB+ Moderate claims paying ability. The ability of these organisations to discharge
BB obligations is considered moderate and thereby not well safeguarded in the
BB- event of adverse future changes in economic and/or underwriting conditions.
B+ Possessing substantial risk that policyholder and contract-holder obligations will

B not be paid when due. Judged to be speculative to a high degree.
B-
CCC Company has been, or is likely to be, placed under an order of the court.
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CREDIT RATING
DISADVANTAGES OF CREDIT RATING
(1) Biased Rating And Misrepresentations
In the absence of quality rating, credit rating is a curse for the capital market industry,
carrying out detailed analysis of the company, should have no links with the company
or the persons interested in the company so that their reports impartial and judicious
recommendations for rating committee. The companies having lower grade rating do
not advertise or use the rating while raising funds from the public. In such cases, the
investor cannot get information about the riskiness of instrument and hence is at loss.
(2) Static Study
Rating is done on the present and the past historic data of the company and this is
only a static study. Prediction of the company's health through rating is momentary
and anything can happen after assignment of rating symbols to the company.
Dependence for future results on the rating, therefore defeats the very purpose of
risk indicative ness of rating. Many changes take place in economic environment,
political situation, government policy framework, which directly affect the working of a
company.
(3) Concealment Of Material Information
Rating company might conceal material information from the investigating team of
the credit rating company. In such cases, quality of rating suffers and renders the
rating unreliable.
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CREDIT RATING
(4) Rating Is No Guarantee For Soundness Of Company
Rating is done for a particular instrument to assess the credit risk but it should not be
construed as a certificate for the matching quality of the company or its management.
Independent views should be formed by the public using the rating symbol.
(5) Human Bias
Findings of the investigation team, at times, may suffer with human bias for
unavoidable personal weakness of the staff and might affect the rating.
(6) Reflection Of Temporary Adverse Conditions
Time factor affects rating. Sometimes, misleading conclusions are derived. For
example, company in a particular industry might be temporarily in adverse condition
but it is given a low rating. This adversely affects the company's interest
(7) Down Grade
Once a company has been rated and if it is not able to maintain its working results
and performance, credit rating agencies would review the grade and down grade the
rating resulting into impairing the image of the company.
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CREDIT RATING
(8) Difference In Rating Of Two Agencies
Rating done by the two different credit rating agencies for the same instrument of the
same issuer company in many cases would not be identical. Such differences are
likely to occur because of value judgment differences on qualitative aspects of the
analysis in two different agencies.
(9) Conservative Rating
Default by an investment-grade firm is seen as the most costly error for the agency.
In order to preserve their reputation by avoiding the failure of any investment-grade
firm, rating agencies downgrade even "good" firms in response to higher global risk.
The downgrades may look self-fulfilling, but in fact, investors rationally ignore them,
as they actually convey no information about the relative quality of firms
75
CREDIT RATING
IPO GRADING
IPO grading (initial public offering grading) is a service aimed at facilitating the
assessment of equity issues offered to public. The grade assigned to any individual
issue represents a relative assessment of the 'fundamentals' of that issue in relation
to the universe of other listed equity securities in India. Such grading is assigned on a
five-point point scale with a higher score indicating stronger fundamentals.
IPO Grading Is Different From An Investment Recommendation
Investment recommendations are expressed as 'buy', 'hold' or 'sell' and are based on a
security specific comparison of its assessed 'fundamentals factors' (business prospects,
financial position etc.) and 'market factors' (liquidity, demand supply etc.) to its price.
On the other hand, IPO grading is expressed on a five-point scale and is a relative
comparison of the assessed fundamentals of the graded issue to other listed equity
securities in India.
As the IPO grading does not take cognizance of the price of the security, it is not an
investment recommendation. Rather, it is one of the inputs to the investor to aiding in
the decision making process.
All other things remaining equal, a security with stronger fundamentals would command
a higher market price.
How Long Would The Assigned Grade Be Valid?
The assigned grade would be a one time assessment done at the time of the IPO and
meant to aid investors who are interested in investing in the IPO. The grade will not
have any ongoing validity.
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CREDIT RATING
Main features of SEBI decision
The important features of SEBI's decision on IPO grading are as follows:
The grading exercise will exclude the issue price from its scope;
It will be carried out by recognised credit rating agencies;
The grading will be on a 5-point scale, the lowest grade to be indicated by 1 and
the highest by 5; and
The issuing company will be allowed to choose the rating agency for grading its
IPO.
CRISIL IPO Grading
CRISIL, the originator of this concept, has been at the forefront of developing the
IPO grading model into a usable form. The views and feedback of the regulator,
Market participants, investors and investor forums have been core inputs in the
development of this product. Therefore, CRISIL has a uniquely evolved
understanding of this globally revolutionary idea.
CRISIL believes that IPO grading provided by an independent agency would be free
from bias and add structure to the tools available at present for assessing the
Investment attractiveness of an equity security.
The IPO grading will be based on CRISILs proprietary framework that has been
developed to help investors arrive at their own judgment on factors that drive
Equities as an asset class.
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CREDIT RATING
The debt market has benefited immensely from the availability of such an assessment
in the form of credit rating - a representation of a relative assessment of the
fundamentals of the debt security i.e., likelihood of timely repayment of interest
and principal.
The IPO grading product of CRISIL, is a relative assessment of the fundamentals of
the equity security.
Investment decisions for IPO are at present based on voluminous and complex
disclosure documents, which pose a challenge to investors to arrive at informed
decisions. The focus, in these documents is meeting regulatory guidelines on
disclosures.
Though seemingly there is a lot of information available on IPOs through free
research on websites, media and other sources, investors often look for structured,
consistent and unbiased analysis to aid their investment decisions.
Moreover, information available on new companies varies with the size of the issue,
the market conditions and the industry that the issuing company belongs to. CRISIL
IPO grading aims to bridge this gap and facilitate more informed investment decisions.
Contents Of The CRISIL IPO Grading Report
The report for each CRISIL IPO grading will contain a summary and a detailed report.
Summary- One-page report highlighting the key elements of analysis
Detailed report- Comprehensive commentary on the assessment parameters.
This report will be a one-time assessment based on the information disclosed in the
draft prospectus filed with Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI); our
understanding of the industry and company fundamentals; and interactions with
the issuer management and other stakeholders.
The report will comprise our assessment on the following parameters:
Management quality
Business prospects: Industry and company
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CREDIT RATING
Financial performance
Corporate governance
Project related factors
Other factors:
- Compliance track record
- Litigation history
- Capital history.
A comprehensive assessment that aids investment decisions of both -

Institutional and retail investors.
CRISIL IPO Grading: Assessment Scale

The assessment is an overall assessment of fundamentals on a five-point scale.
The companies assessed highest will be scored 5/5 and the lowest score will be 1/5.
Gradings are assigned to various parameters and then aggregated.
CRISIL IPO grading is not to be construed to mean

A valuation of the equity offering; present or future
A comment on the issue price or the likely price on listing
An assessment of the market risk associated with equity investments
An audit or a recommendation to invest
A forensic exercise that can detect fraud.
CRISIL IPO Grading - Scale
CRISIL IPO Grade Assessment

5/5 Strong fundamentals
4/5 Above average fundamentals
3/5 Average fundamentals
2/5 Below average fundamentals
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CREDIT RATING
1/5 Poor fundamentals
CONCLUSION
Thus we can say that Credit rating is a qualified assessment and formal evaluation of
companys credit history and capability of repaying obligations. It measures the default
probability of the borrower, and its ability to repay fully and timely its financial debt
obligations.
The main purpose of credit rating is to provide investors with comparable information on
credit risk based on standard rating scale, regardless of specifics of companies,
separate sector of the economy and country as a whole.
Credit rating has proven itself to be effective instrument of risk assessment in countries
with advanced economy since it demonstrates transparency of an enterprise. Credit
rating reflects financial, sectorial, operational, legal and organizational sides of
companies, which characterize ability and willingness duly and in full amount to repay
obligations
In world practice, credit rating can be assigned to sovereign governments, regional and
local executive bodies, corporations, financial organizations and etc.
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CREDIT RATING
BIBLIOGRAPHY
www.crisil.com
www.stretcher.com
www.careratings.com
www.onicra.com
www.care.org
www.careratings.com
www.smera.in
www.sebi.gov.in
www.hindubusiness.com
www.wikipedia.org
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CREDIT RATING

FINAL PROJECT REPORT ON

CREDIT RATING IN INDIA

THE UNIVERSITY OF MUMBAI

GURU NANAK INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT STUDIES

BENEFITS OF CREDIT RATING.........................................................................14

CREDIT RATING AGENCY..................................................................................19

USES OF RATINGS BY CREDIT RATING AGENCIES.............................................19

CREDIT RATING IN INDIA...................................................................................22

DISADVANTAGES OF CREDIT RATING............................................................66

Various advantages and limitation to Credit Rating are highlighted.

IPO Grading has also been included in this project.

Ratings, usually expressed in alphabetical or alphanumeric symbols, are a simple

being rated. It is focused on communicating to the investors, the relative ranking of

The ratings assigned are generally regarded in the investment community as an

Credit Rating Function

Clients for Credit Rating

Clients comprise manufacturing companies, non-banking finance companies,

estate developers, state governments, municipal corporations, stock brokers and

EVOLUTION OF CREDIT RATING AGENCIES

Following are the different kinds of rating:

(1) Bond/Debenture Rating

Rating the debentures/ bonds issued by corporates, government etc. is called

(2) Equity Rating

Rating of equity shares issued by a company is called equity rating.

(3) Preference Share Rating

Rating of preference share issued by a company is called preference share

(4) Commercial Paper Rating

Commercial papers are instruments used for short-term borrowing.

(5) Fixed Deposits Rating

Fixed deposits programmes are medium term unsecured borrowings. Rating

(6) Borrowers Rating

Rating of borrowers is referred as borrower rating.

(7) Individuals Rating

Rating of individuals is called as individual's credit rating.

(8) Structured Obligation Rating

(9) Sovereign Rating

Is a rating of a country, which is being considered whenever a loan is to be

BENEFITS OF CREDIT RATING`

(A) BENEFITS TO INVESTORS

(1) Safeguards Against Bankruptcy

(2) Recognition Of Risk

(3) Credibility Of Issuer

(4) Easy Understandability Of Investment Proposal

(5) Saving Of Resources

(6) Independence Of Investment Decisions

For making investment decisions, investors have to seek advice of financial

(7) Choice Of Investments

(8) Benefits Of Rating Surveillance

(9) Other Advantages

(B) BENEFITS OF RATING TO THE COMPANY

(1) Lower Cost Of Borrowing

(2) Wider Audience For Borrowing

(3) Rating As Marketing Tool

(4) Reduction Of Cost In Public Issues

(5) Motivation For Growth

(6) Unknown Issuer

(C) BENEFITS TO BROKERS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES

CREDIT RATING AGENCY

USES OF RATINGS BY CREDIT RATING AGENCIES

FUNCTIONS OF A CREDIT RATING AGENCY

Credit rating serves the following functions:

(1) Provides Superior Information: