Panama’s Debt Downgraded by S&P to Lowest Investment Grade

  • Rating cut reflects higher vulnerability to fiscal challenges
  • Country’s bonds have dropped as traders lament budget gap

Panama City skyline in Panama. 

Photographer: Joe Raedle/Getty Images
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Panama’s credit score was cut by S&P Global Ratings, putting the Central American nation a step closer to losing its investment-grade status.

S&P lowered Panama by a notch to BBB-, on par with Mexico and Romania, citing rising government debt levels made worst by sluggish revenue. The outlook is stable.