The ratings on New York, N.Y.-based Colgate-Palmolive Co. reflect its diversified portfolio of consumer brands, extensive international presence, and strong cash-flow-generating ability. The company maintains strong market shares in a number of core categories, including oral care (Colgate), personal care (Speed Stick, Irish Spring, and Softsoap), household products (Palmolive, Ajax, and Murphy's Oil Soap), and premium pet nutrition (Hill's). Colgate-Palmolive's diverse product portfolio and its broad international presence (about 75% of revenues are currently generated outside the U.S.) should continue to provide it with a solid and consistent stream of future earnings and cash flow. A number of new products aimed at increasing market share have bolstered the company's positive operating momentum. Standard&Poor's Ratings Services expects Colgate-Palmolive's new-product
