U.S.-based Whirlpool Corp.'s operating performance has improved while liquidity has meaningfully strengthened due to better-than-expected cash flow generation We are affirming Whirlpool's 'BBB-' corporate credit rating. We are revising the outlook to stable from negative because we expect credit measures to improve to levels that support the ratings over the next year. On March 15, 2010, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services revised its outlook on Benton Harbor, Mich.-based Whirlpool Corp. to stable from negative. At the same time, we affirmed our ratings on the company, including the 'BBB-' corporate credit rating. As of Dec. 31, 2009, Whirlpool had reported debt outstanding of $2.9 billion and cash of $1.38 billion. The outlook revision reflects our expectations that credit measures will improve
