S&P Global Stock Price, News & Analysis

S&P Global Ratings reported on May 18, 2022, that the current global credit landscape is challenged by persistent inflation, geopolitical tensions, and ongoing COVID-19 lockdowns in China. Although credit ratings remain stable, there are warning signs of potential distress among U.S. speculative-grade borrowers. The outlook could worsen if household incomes decline and financing conditions tighten further. The report underscores the heightened risks of recession if global conditions do not improve, especially in light of the prolonged conflict in Ukraine and strict Chinese measures against COVID-19.

S&P Global has updated its economic growth forecasts, expecting a decline in U.S. growth by 80 basis points to 2.4%, eurozone growth to drop by 60 basis points to 2.7%, and China's growth to fall by 70 basis points to 4.2%. The adjustments are attributed to worsening macroeconomic conditions, including the prolonged Russia-Ukraine conflict, rising energy prices, and persistent inflation, which is now broader and more sustained than previously anticipated. The outlook remains cautious, with risks skewed to the downside.

S&P Global Ratings announced the formation of a new Decentralized Finance (DeFi) strategy group to enhance its approach to decentralized markets. Led by Chuck Mounts as Chief DeFi Officer, the initiative aims to integrate insights from traditional capital and crypto-native markets, addressing the evolving dynamics in capital markets. This development reflects the growing interest in DeFi and its potential to disrupt established financial frameworks. The team will support both institutional and crypto-native clients by leveraging S&P's analytics and risk assessment capabilities.

Auto Loan Default Rate Hits Highest Since December 2020

According to data released by S&P Dow Jones Indices and Experian for April 2022, the composite credit default rate rose to 0.50%, marking a two basis point increase. The auto loan default rate also saw a rise, reaching 0.58%, up two basis points. The bank card default rate surged to 2.52%, a 25 basis point increase. Notably, Miami reported the highest regional default rate at 0.80%. This marks the fifth consecutive month of increase in the composite rate, indicating potential concerns about consumer credit health.

D.A. Davidson has committed to enhancing its marketing and digital transformation efforts within its Investment Banking and Institutional Equities divisions. The firm has appointed Andreea Popa as the head of Equity Capital Markets Marketing to spearhead a strategic marketing plan aimed at growth across key industry verticals including consumer, diversified industrials, technology, and financial institutions. With over 20 years of experience, Popa will focus on increasing visibility and supporting business development initiatives.

Douglas L. Peterson, President and CEO of S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI), will speak at the Barclays Americas Select Conference on May 10, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. BST (6:00 a.m. EDT). The session will feature a 'fireside chat' format and will be web-broadcasted, including potential forward-looking information. Live and replay access will be available through S&P Global's Investor Relations website, with a replay lasting until May 9, 2023. S&P Global provides essential intelligence across various markets.

Catalytic converter thefts have surged by approximately 977% from 2018 to 2020, with over 14,000 reported incidents. CARFAX highlights the top ten vehicles targeted by thieves, including 1985-2021 Ford F-Series trucks and 1989-2020 Honda Accords. To combat this issue, CARFAX recommends strategies for consumers, such as parking in well-lit areas and installing anti-theft devices. The insights are based on data from over 60,000 service reports collected since 2019, facilitating awareness and prevention for vehicle owners against costly replacements.