Moody's Corporation is a global financial services company that provides credit ratings, research, and risk analysis. The company was founded in 1909 by John Moody and initially focused on publishing manuals containing financial statistics and analyses of railroad investments. Over time, Moody's expanded its services to include credit ratings and research for various sectors, including corporate, government, and structured finance.
Moody's main business is to assess the creditworthiness of debt issuers and provide credit ratings that help investors evaluate the risk associated with their investments. The company evaluates factors such as financial strength, operating environment, and management quality to assign ratings to debt securities. These ratings play a crucial role in the global financial markets, influencing investment decisions and the cost of borrowing for issuers.
Moody's operates through two main segments: Moody's Investors Service and Moody's Analytics. Moody's Investors Service is responsible for credit ratings, research, and related services. Moody's Analytics, on the other hand, offers software solutions and risk management tools to help clients assess and manage financial risk.
As a prominent player in the financial industry, Moody's is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol "MCO." The company is also a component of the S&P 500 Index. Moody's has a global presence, serving clients in more than 130 countries.
The company's credit ratings are highly regarded by investors, financial institutions, and governments worldwide. Moody's ratings are considered an important benchmark for assessing the credit quality and default risk of debt issuers. This trust in Moody's ratings has established the company as a critical player in the global financial markets.
Moody's Analytics, the company's subsidiary, offers a suite of software solutions and analytical tools to help clients assess credit risk, conduct stress testing, and manage regulatory compliance. These tools provide financial professionals with valuable insights and help them make informed decisions in an increasingly complex and regulated financial landscape.
Moody's aims to continue its focus on providing independent and reliable credit ratings and research. The company is committed to innovation, leveraging advanced technologies and data analytics to enhance its analytical capabilities and provide more sophisticated risk assessments. Moody's also seeks to expand its presence in emerging markets and strengthen its position as a trusted provider of credit ratings and financial insights globally.