International rating agency S&P Global Ratings has upgraded the long-term credit rating of NLMK Group, an international steel company with operations in Russia, the United States, and the European Union, from BÂ+ to investment grade ÂÂÂ- with a negative outlook.

The national scale rating on NLMK liabilities was upgraded from ruAA+ to ruAAA.

In an official statement S&P Global Ratings gave a positive assessment of NLMK Group’s strong operating and financial performance; stable market positions; cost advantage; low leverage; and significant liquidity.

NLMK Group’s current rating is above the Russian sovereign rating.

Grigory Fedorishin, NLMK CFO, said: “We welcome S&P’s decision to assign NLMK an investment grade rating. It acknowledges the success of the Company’s strategy aimed at boosting business efficiency; and sends a positive sign to the investment community that confirms the stability of NLMK’s business model at a time of high market volatility.”

NLMK’s current credit ratings:

S&P Global Ratings:BBB- (negative)

Fitch Ratings:BBB- (negative)

Moody’s:Ba1 (negative)

For more detailed information about NLMK’s credit ratings click here.