Siam Cement Plc's Bt20 billion unsecured and unsubordinated debentures, due 2012, are awarded the "A+" rating from Fitch Ratings (Thailand), thanks to its good revenue diversification, leading position, extensive distribution channels and strong brand recognition.
The rating agency also said that the rating reflects the group's relatively strong cash flow generation and good track record of senior management.
The new debentures will be used to refinance the company's maturing debentures, as well as to invest in its planned new projects.
Fitch took into account the continued pressure on the company's margins in all core businesses amid rising costs of raw materials and energy. Other key credit concerns include the effect of the Thai Baht appreciation against the US Dollar on SCC's export revenue and the execution risks of new investments.