Standard&Poor's Ratings Services placed its ratings on GDF SUEZ S.A. on CreditWatch with negative implications on July 20, 2010. The CreditWatch status reflects the planned transaction between GDF SUEZ and U.K.-based power developer International Power PLC (IPR; BB/Watch Pos/--). The ratings on GDF SUEZ are underpinned by the group's scale and diversification as one of the largest utilities worldwide in both gas and electricity. The group's predominant position in power generation and supply in Belgium, its still quasi-monopolistic position in French gas, and its vertical integration in most of its markets are also positive. The rating is also supported by the sizable share of GDF SUEZ's regulated and contracted operations, its relatively young and clean power generation assets,
