The ratings on Austrian road operator Autobahnen-und Schnellstrassen-Finanzierungs-AG (ASFINAG) reflect Standard&Poor's Ratings Services' opinion that there is an "almost certain" likelihood that the Republic of Austria (AA+/Negative/A-1+) would provide timely and sufficient extraordinary support to ASFINAG in the event of financial distress. In accordance with our criteria for rating government-related entities, our view of an "almost certain" likelihood of extraordinary government support is based on our assessment of ASFINAG's: "Critical" role for Austria as its sole agent with a monopoly position as constructor and operator of the Austrian motorway and high-speed road network; and "Integral" link with the government as a wholly owned subsidiary of the government and subject to a tight legal, planning, and control framework. The
