Solid market shares in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America A diverse tire product line, extensive distribution, and strong brand recognition Comprehensive cost-reduction actions being implemented worldwide The need to further improve profitability of North American operations Intense competition from large mass producers and smaller, more focused domestic and international players Exposure to volatile prices for raw materials and energy The ratings on The Goodyear Tire&Rubber Co. reflect its aggressive financial risk profile, which is characterized by weak earnings in North America and a highly leveraged capital structure. The company has a weak business risk profile, which reflects tough global tire industry conditions and the company's high fixed-cost structure. These factors more than offset the company's business strengths,
