Fitch Ratings assigned first-time long-term issuer default ratings of A- with a stable outlook to CITIC Securities (HKG:6030, SHA:600030) and its wholly owned subsidiary, CITIC Securities International, according to a Tuesday press release.
Fitch said the ratings reflect an "extremely high" likelihood of support from parent CITIC Group, citing CITIC Securities' position as the group's flagship securities platform and one of its two core financial businesses alongside China CITIC Bank.
The ratings agency also highlighted CITIC Securities' leading market position, diversified revenue base, improving profitability, and strong integration with CITIC Group.
CITIC Securities International received the same rating due to its role as the group's principal offshore securities platform and Fitch's expectation of support from its parent in the event of financial stress.
Fitch said the ratings could face pressure if China's sovereign rating is downgraded, state support for CITIC Group weakens, or CITIC Securities becomes less strategically important to the group.