Standard & Poor's today revised its outlook on American Commercial Lines LLC - the largest operator of dry bulk commodity barges - to negative from stable. At the same time, Standard & Poor's affirmed its ratings on the company, and its rating on ACL Capital Corp.
The outlook revision reflects American Commercial's weaker-than-expected operating performance and potential negative credit effect from continued poor operating conditions on key inland waterways, lower coal-hauling contract rates, and higher fuel costs.