Rating outlook characterized as “developing”
France loses AAA rating
If you believe the powers in Europe will be guided by sensible economics, then scoop up euro-linked bonds from solid U.S. names
Downgrades reflect the stronger headwinds facing the banking industry as a whole
Placement comes amid deepening political, financial, and monetary problems within the eurozone
Rating based on guarantees from various European nations
Ratings could be lowered by up to one notch for Austria, Belgium, Finland, Germany, Netherlands, and Luxembourg, and by up to two notches for the other governments
Deeper issues continue to plague that region’s financial system
The probability of multiple defaults by euro area countries is no longer negligible