The investment-grade ratings on Dallas-based Kimberly-Clark Corp., a global manufacturer and marketer of household and personal care products, reflects its strong business profile, and its intermediate financial risk profile. Standard&Poor's Ratings Services' view that Kimberly-Clark's business risk profile is strong is based on the diversity and strength of the company's product portfolio, in addition to its well-established brands and very good market positions globally. The company's exposure to volatility of commodity and energy costs over the past several years, and sensitivity to consumer trade-down under weaker economic conditions, are offsetting risk factors. The diversity and strength of Kimberly-Clark's product portfolio is good and has improved over time. The company has solid market positions in a number of segments
