The revision of the Outlook to Positive on Spain’s sovereign rating drives the Outlook change for the region.

The rating reflects the bank’s well-established regional banking model, robust capitalisation and solid profitability metrics. Some asset quality risk, amid a weak macro-economic environment, is the main credit challenge.

The issuance ratings are supported by a guarantee from Telemark County Municipality and are therefore aligned with Telemark’s AA+/Stable ratings.

The issuance ratings are supported by a guarantee from Vestfold County Municipality and are therefore aligned with Vestfold’s AA+/Stable ratings.

Robust economic performance, stronger public finances and receding external vulnerabilities drive the Outlook change. High public debt, structural unemployment, ageing-related fiscal pressures and parliamentary fragmentation are challenges.

EU membership, a still-moderate public debt burden, and strong growth support the rating. High fiscal deficits and budgetary rigidities, elevated political polarisation, and vulnerability to external shocks are challenges.

The periodic review has resulted in no rating action.

The ratings are supported by moderate debt levels, effective debt management, solid liquidity and adequate reserves. Challenges relate to high operating expenditure, limited revenue flexibility and demographic pressures.

Strong liquidity and ample reserves, moderate debt levels and a resilient debt structure support the ratings. Challenges relate to operating pressures coupled with high investment needs and limited budgetary flexibility.

The periodic review has resulted in no rating action.