08.06.2020
Creditreform Rating has confirmed the BBB+ unsolicited corporate issuer rating of Naturgy Energy Group, S.A. The stable outlook remains in place. The rating result of Naturgy Energy Group, S.A. reflects its scale, its geographical and product diversification, as well as high proportion of regulated and contracted activities - reflected in a large proportion of stable and predictable cash flows. The Company has a solid earnings capacity and strong financial metrics, which have improved in the course of the implementation of the cost efficiency program introduced in 2018. Naturgy´s proved access to financial markets, solid liquidity, controlled investment policy and commitment to financial discipline underpin our rating assessment. However, a significant part of Naturgy´s business remains negatively affected by volatile power demand and prices. The Company´s generous dividend policy, with envisaged further annual increase in distribution payments and share buyback program, particularly against the backdrop of the overall economic slowdown resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with a drop in energy demand and aggravated counterparty and liquidity risks, have a dampening effect on the rating.