http://www.eiu.com/site_info.asp?info_name=sovereign_ratings&rf=0
Characteristics of countries in the different rating bands are summarised as follows:
Band Characteristics AAA Capacity and commitment to honour obligations not in question under any foreseeable circumstances.
AA Capacity and commitment to honour obligations not in question.
A Capacity and commitment to honour obligations strong.
BBB Capacity and commitment to honour obligations currently but somewhat susceptible to changes in economic climate.
BB Capacity and commitment to honour obligations currently but susceptible to changes in economic climate.
B Capacity and commitment to honour obligations currently but very susceptible to changes in economic climate.
CCC Questionable capacity and commitment to honour obligations. Patchy payment record. CC Somewhat weak capacity and commitment to honour obligations. Patchy payment record. Likely to be in default on some obligations.
C Weak capacity and commitment to honour obligations. Patchy payment record. Likely to be in default on significant amount of obligations.
D Very weak capacity and commitment to honour obligations. Poor payment record. Currently in default on significant amount of obligations.
(Χρεωκοπια)