TORONTO (Standard&Poor's) Oct. 11, 2001--Standard&Poor's today assigned its single-'A'-minus subordinated debt rating to National Bank of Canada's C$2.5 billion medium-term note program. At the same time, the outstanding ratings on the bank, including the long-term single-'A' and short-term 'A-1' counterparty credit ratings, remain unchanged. The current outlook is stable. (A complete list of ratings is available on RatingsDirect Canada, Standard&Poor's Web-based credit analysis system, or by calling the Toronto Ratings Desk at (1) 416-202-6000). The ratings on National Bank reflect its commanding market share in Quebec and its improved performance vis-à-vis the peer group. The strengths of the institution are rooted in its commercial lending capabilities, which are complemented by a good market share