To: D.J.Smyth who wrote (69507 ) 10/6/1998 10:36:00 AM From: Mohan Marette Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 176387
'Outlook stable'?,jeeeeees thanks guys! Darrel: Thanks for that report from John Dessauer,pretty reliable guy I say. Now check this out willya? ================================ Tuesday October 6, 10:11 am Eastern TimeS&P raises Dell Computer senior debt (Press release provided by Standard & Poor's) NEW YORK, Oct 6 - Standard & Poor's today raised its senior debt and corporate credit ratings on Dell Computer Corp. to triple-'B'-plus from triple-'B'. The outlook has been revised to stable from positive.The upgrade reflects Dell's improved market position, expanded product line and strong financial profile. Austin, Texas-based Dell pioneered the direct model of build-to-order sales, service and support of PC systems to end users.Strong revenue growth is expected to continue, based on underlying industry growth and Dell's expanding market position in more profitable PC server and workstation products. A low-cost manufacturing model and efficient asset management should enable Dell to maintain operating margins (before depreciation and amortization) at about 11%. Strong working capital management and moderate capital requirements have benefited free operating cash flow, despite high growth rates. Moderate debt levels (including capitalized operating leases) and cash balances in excess of $2 billion contribute to Dell's strong financial profile. Additional financial flexibility is provided by a $250 million unutilized credit facility. OUTLOOK: STABLE Highly competitive industry conditions limit the potential for ratings improvement, while Dell's expanded market position and strong financial profile provide downside protection, Standard & Poor's said.