Name the major rating agencies, and list some factors that affect bond ratings. Additionally, make sure to discuss who pays for the ratings and how this can influence ratings.
The major ratings agencies are Moody's, S&P and Fitch.
Some factors that affect bond ratings are :
The practice is for the firm whose bonds are being rated to pay for the ratings. This could influence the ratings agencies to give a better rating, since they do not want to lose the client's business in a highly concentrated and competitive industry. Thus, the ratings could be overstated (ratings are better than they should be).
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