CLEAN: Europe fires back at credit rating agencies

The transcript discusses the downgrade of Portuguese sovereign debt, expressing regret over its timing and magnitude. It also critiques the decisions of rating agencies, suggesting they add speculation rather than clarity to the financial situation.

What aspect of the Portuguese sovereign debt downgrade does the speaker regret?

• The positive market reaction

• The timing and magnitude

• The lack of public awareness

• The involvement of multiple countries

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a regret by the speaker regarding the debt downgrade?

• Its effect on Portugal

• Its timing

• Its impact on global markets

• Its magnitude

What is the speaker's opinion on the recent decisions by rating agencies?

• They provide much-needed clarity

• They fail to offer clarity

• They are universally praised

• They are irrelevant to the current situation

According to the speaker, what do the actions of the rating agencies add to the situation?

• A financial boost

• A clear resolution

• A speculative element

• A sense of relief

What is the primary effect of the rating agencies' decisions, according to the speaker?

• They add confusion

• They stabilize the market

• They enhance transparency

• They reduce speculation