The ratings on Cargill Inc. and related entities are supported by the firm's position as one of the world's leading agribusiness companies, with major market positions in agricultural processing and merchandising, industrial production, and financial services. However, this is partially offset, in Standard&Poor's view, by a moderately aggressive financial profile. The company's product and geographic diversity, and a vast communication and transportation network, help optimize commodity movements and provide competitive advantages. In addition, Cargill has less exposure to any one U.S. agricultural segment, or to any one international locale. Despite increased volatility in grain prices (in part due to current U.S. energy concerns), and disease issues in the meat-processing segment, recent results for the most part have continued
