The ratings on New York City-based Colgate-Palmolive Co. reflect Standard&Poor's Ratings Services' view that the company has an excellent business profile based on its diversified portfolio of consumer brands and an extensive international presence. We also consider the company's financial risk profile to be minimal, based on the company's solid cash flow generating ability and strong credit protection measures as a result of its conservative financial policy. 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 (approximately 75% of revenues and
