What is Standard & Poor's (S&P)?

Standard & Poor's, often referred to simply as S&P, is a leading financial services company known for its role in providing various types of financial analysis, research, ratings, and benchmarks. Founded in 1860, S&P has established itself as a trusted source for evaluating the creditworthiness of businesses, governments, and other entities. One of its most recognized contributions is the S&P credit ratings, which assess the risk associated with a particular investment. These ratings play a crucial role in guiding investors in making informed decisions. Additionally, S&P operates the S&P Dow Jones Indices, which includes numerous well-known stock market indices such as the S&P 500, a key indicator of the United States equity market. This firm also offers a range of data analytics and research services through S&P Capital IQ, which provides insight into financial performance, market trends, and economic indicators. S&P Global Inc. is the parent company of Standard & Poor's and encompasses various divisions that deliver data and analytics across multiple sectors. For more specific information, individuals are encouraged to explore the current webpage dedicated to S&P and its offerings.