Fitch Receives Double-Eagle Award from US-Mexico Chamber of Commerce.

CHICAGO -- The expansion of Fitch Ratings into the financial markets of Mexico has been recognized by the US-Mexico Chamber of Commerce as Fitch recently received the Double-Eagle Award, an honor bestowed upon companies that exhibit extraordinary leadership and commitment to building alliances and strengthening business ties between the United States and Mexico.

Fitch Mexico has grown to become an integral part of Fitch, according to Managing Director William Hayes. 'This prestigious honor is in recognition of an experienced Mexican team with a deep understanding of the local market, coupled with Fitch's extensive expertise in various sectors throughout the world.'

Fitch's staff in Mexico, located in Monterrey and Mexico City, combined with international staff in the US, according to Hayes, 'has also provided ratings and research for most of the cross-border investments from Mexico. These investments should grow over time, especially as Mexico looks to expand investment in energy and other sectors without being limited by its local savings.'

'I am optimistic that over the next decade there will be further integration of the US and Mexican capital markets, and I'm confident that our Fitch Ratings staff are ready for these developments,' said Hayes. 'This further penetration will not only enhance Fitch's cross-border presence, but also strengthen its leading market share within the Mexican local markets,' said Roberto Guerra, Managing Director, Fitch Mexico.

Fitch's rating definitions are available on the agency's public web site, www.fitchratings.com. Published ratings, criteria and methodologies and relevant policies and procedures are also available from this site, at all times. This document will remain on the public site for seven days.