Leading market position in U.K. financial services, supplemented by growing franchises in global and international businesses; Strong and diversified earnings profile; Good strategic focus; Robust funding base; and Strong risk-management techniques. Capital ratios lower than those of its international peers, and likely to be maintained at tighter levels than before; Ambitious growth objectives in a range of businesses, including Barclays Capital and outside of the U.K., could affect overall earnings quality; Overall asset quality remains correlated with the strength of the U.K. economy; and Margin pressures restrain profit growth in some areas. The ratings on Barclays Bank PLC reflect its good income levels, strengthened risk management, and strong U.K. market position. Profitability is robust on an international basis, although correlated
