Synopses & Reviews
What are credit rating agencies? Many people paying for ratings and ratings reports do not fully understand what they are buying and how these agencies really work. Ratings agencies wield immense power over the fate of individual corporations, countries, and whole economies, yet their workings are remarkably opaque. Many events over the past decade, such as the Asian crisis and the demise of certain financial institutions have highlighted some of the limitations of ratings agencies, and raised questions as to their accountability and the level of service they provide.
In this comprehensive account of the workings of the rating agencies,Andrew Fight explains the role played by ratings agencies, how ratings are obtained, the methodologies through which organisations are assessed and the wider consequences of these decisions.
Review
"The book deals admirably with these problems, explaining the debates involved and detailing ratings companies' excuses with the right level of cynicism." (
Investment Adviser, 19th February 2001)
"...This is a comprehensive guide to ratings agencies." (Portfolio International, February 2001)
Synopsis
Understanding how the creditworthiness of an institution and its holdings is arrived at is now considered essential financial knowledge. The Ratings Process examines this once arcane area of financial life, explaining why ratings exist as well as the history and background of the ratings process.
Synopsis
The Ratings Game places the subject of rating agencies within the context of the economy at large. There is no doubt that the influence of credit rating companies in financial and capital markets has been growing rapidly. However, the growth in their power has also resulted in allegations of abusive practices and lawsuits in the USA. It is against this background that Fight lays out his account, providing a thorough background and explanation as to what ratings are and what role the agencies have to play. He then explains how the agencies have fitted into, and ultimately come to influence, the economic and political environment. Fight concludes with an examination of how the system could be improved. Using his extensive knowledge, Fight explains why ratings exist and the history and background of the ratings process.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. [263]-264) and index.
About the Author
ANDREW FIGHT is a senior consultant with the CFPB - French Bankers Training Institution. He is also the author of nine books and training manuals on banking related matters. Andrew Fight has 15 years experience with various banks, central banks and consulting firms as a financial analyst, consultant and writer in international banking. His career included direct ratings experience with IBCA.
Table of Contents
Preface.
The World of Ratings.
The Rating Agencies.
Methodologies and Characteristics.
Rating Agencies in the Economic Environment.
Quis Custodiet Ipsos Custodes.
The Future.
Glossary.
Sources.
Index.