On Aug. 26, 2005, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'BBB+' corporate credit rating on Malaysia's Genting Bhd. The outlook is stable. Genting is a Malaysia-based investment holding company with a market capitalization of about Malaysian ringgit (RM) 14 billion (US$3.8 billion). Reflecting its position as the only licensed casino operator, leisure and hospitality operation is the key contributor, averaging two-thirds of group earnings in the past three years. Genting's cruise business is not consolidated into its accounts, as the company has an effective ownership of only 20.8% in Star Cruises Ltd. (BB/Stable/--). The rating on Genting Bhd. reflects the following strengths: Solid market position in its main resort and gaming business. Besides being the sole licensed casino operator