On May 14, 2007, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services raised its long-term counterparty credit rating on National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) to 'A+' from 'A'. At the same time, the 'A-1' short-term rating was affirmed. The outlook is stable. The upgrade reflects the bank's strong financial performance amid sustained economic momentum in the United Arab Emirates (UAE; not rated), and increasing business diversification. The government of Abu Dhabi has a 73% stake in NBAD through the Abu Dhabi Investment Council (ADIC). Standard&Poor's considers that the bank's ownership structure, importance to Abu Dhabi's economy, and flagship bank status mean that government support in case of need would be very strong. The long-term rating on NBAD (considered as a