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Moody's downgrades Colombia's Ecopetrol to scrap status

Rating firm Moody's on Wednesday devalued Colombian majority stateowned energy business Ecopetrol into junk territory, mentioning increased insolvency, a boost in dividends and an ambitious investment plan over the next three years.

Moody's cut Ecopetrol's long-lasting issuer rating and senior unsecured scores to Ba1, considered scrap, from Baa3.

Ecopetrol has been handling more debt to finance its expansion plans, Moody's stated, including the purchase of a. majority stake in energy corporation Interconexion Electrica. ( ISA).

Nevertheless, increased financial investments have not become. likewise increased core earnings, Moody's said.

A number of Ecopetrol's planned tasks, particularly those. involving gas, are dangerous due to their deep-water,. offshore conditions, Moody's added.

On the other hand, Ecopetrol's offered cash has actually been used to pay. out dividends, the scores agency stated.

Ecopetrol minimized the scores cut in a statement,. stating its share price would likely stay unaffected as its. investors prioritize company performance over score. statements.

The company included that it was devoted to accountable financial obligation. management which it was working to keep costs down.

(source: Reuters)