This document presents information on credit ratings. It defines a credit rating as an assessment of an entity's ability to pay back loans. Credit ratings are calculated based on financial history and current assets/liabilities and expressed numerically. The objectives of credit ratings are to provide risk information to investors and encourage better financial disclosure. The major credit rating agencies in India are CRISIL, ICRA, CARE, FITCH and others. CRISIL was the first agency established in 1988 and remains a leader. Credit ratings benefit both rated companies and investors by providing risk assessments and transparency.