S&P has placed a BBB+ long-term issue credit rating to NTT Finance's US dollar, euro, and pound sterling notes, according to a recent release.
The notes' rating is equivalent to the company's long-term issuer credit rating, stemming from S&P's view of no subordination for the consolidated debt with the absence of debt senior to the notes.
The company's rating is also in line with parent NTT's (TYO:9432) long-term issuer credit rating, given its core status within the group as the primary financing arm, S&P said.
NTT's rating reflects its major position as Japan's largest telecom carrier and likely improved energy amid segment synergies.
These strengths counterbalance continued earnings pressure in the domestic mobile communications business and elevated debt amid slow profit growth.