...First Quarter Auto Sales: Although U.S. auto sales were weaker than expected in the first quarter of 2014, this was primarily weather driven, and Fitch continues to expect U.S. sales to reach 16 million for the year. Outside the U.S., sales in the quarter continued to grow in Western Europe and China, but they remained weak in South America and India. GM Recalls: Despite the heavy recall activity at General Motors Company (GM) over the past several months, Fitch is maintaining its Positive Outlook on the company, and GM's ratings could still be upgraded in 2014. Although the recalls will be costly, GM has sufficient liquidity to cover the direct costs, as well as potentially significant cash outlays tied to any customer settlements. However, Fitch will be more concerned if the recalls begin to affect new vehicle sales. Ford Outlook Revision to Positive: Fitch revised Ford Motor Company's (Ford) outlook to Positive in April 2014. Primary drivers of the outlook revision include expectations...
