The economic downturn and decline in global auto and truck unit volumes have weakened German automotive manufacturer Daimler AG's performance beyond our previous assumptions. We are lowering our long-term corporate credit rating on the company to 'BBB+' from 'A-' and affirming the 'A-2' short-term rating. The negative outlook reflects the possibility that Daimler's performance in 2009 will be weaker than previously expected. FRANKFURT (Standard&Poor's) June 18, 2009--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services said today that it had lowered its long-term corporate credit rating on German automotive manufacturer Daimler AG to 'BBB+' from 'A-'. The 'A-2' short-term rating was affirmed. The outlook is negative. "The downgrade reflects a negative revision of our financial forecast for Daimler, in light of the
