Despite still-difficult economic conditions, diversified chemicals producer FMC continues to generate relatively stable earnings and cash flow, with strength in its agricultural products and specialty chemicals segments offsetting cyclical weakness in industrial chemicals. The financial profile is strong for the ratings. We are affirming all our ratings on FMC and revising the outlook to positive from stable. The positive outlook reflects the potential for a one-notch upgrade in the near term if business prospects do not worsen and we believe the company can accomplish its growth objectives while maintaining credit metrics supportive of a slightly higher rating. On Sept. 17, 2009, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services revised its outlook on Philadelphia-based FMC Corp. to positive from stable and affirmed its
