New York (Standard&Poor's) April 16, 2014--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services said today it assigned its 'AA' issue-level rating to Wal-Mart Stores Inc.'s $500 million notes due 2017, $1 billion notes due 2024, and $1 billion notes due 2044, the same as the 'AA' corporate credit rating. According to the company, it will use the proceeds from this debt issuance for general corporate purposes. Following the completion of this transaction, our forecast for leverage over the next 18 to 24 months remains relatively unchanged. Wal-Mart's "excellent" business risk profile reflects its market leadership in general merchandise and groceries, large scale, and highly efficient operations provide the company with significant competitive advantage. In addition, Wal-Mart has demonstrated a strong track
