Credit ratings are opinions provided by agencies on an issuer's ability to repay debt. The rating process involves collecting financial data, meeting with management, analyzing risk factors, and assigning a rating. Ratings indicate relative default risk and are meant to protect investors while promoting market growth. The main credit rating agencies in India are CRISIL, CARE, ICRA and FITCH which provide ratings on a variety of financial instruments using standardized scales. Ratings benefit both issuers through lower borrowing costs and investors by aiding investment decisions.