S&P Global Inc. - SPGI STOCK NEWS

On July 20, 2021, S&P Dow Jones Indices and Experian published the latest S&P/Experian Consumer Credit Default Indices data through June 2021. The composite credit default rate decreased by three basis points to 0.41%. Significant declines were observed in bank card defaults, which fell 18 basis points to 2.83%, and auto loan defaults, down four basis points to 0.30%. First mortgage defaults also decreased by two basis points to 0.26%. Among major metropolitan areas, Los Angeles showed the largest drop in defaults at 0.37%.

S&P Global Platts analyzes China's carbon emissions trading program, the world's largest, launched on July 16, 2021. This initiative aligns with China's commitment to meet its 2030 Paris Agreement targets. Although the initial impact on carbon pricing is deemed minimal, with only a 0.5% increase in LNG costs, it signals new investment opportunities in clean energy. Experts suggest that while coal will still account for nearly 30% of China's energy mix by 2050, this program may catalyze the development of carbon-neutral products, contributing to future decarbonization goals.

S&P Global Platts has analyzed the EU's ambitious greenhouse gas reduction proposals aimed at a 55% decrease by 2030. The report notes that while the EU is taking significant steps, actual implementation remains a challenge. The EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism may not effectively reduce emissions in the near term. Platts projects that even if all power sector emissions were eliminated, it wouldn't suffice to meet the targets. Current EU emissions are expected to exceed 2030 goals, indicating that substantial measures are required for success.

S&P Dow Jones Indices has launched the S&P Cryptocurrency Broad Digital Market (BDM) Index, which includes over 240 cryptocurrencies, offering a broad performance overview of the crypto market. This launch is part of an enhancement of their S&P Digital Market Indices, which now includes several new indices: the S&P Cryptocurrency LargeCap Index, BDM Ex-MegaCap Index, BDM Ex-LargeCap Index, and LargeCap Ex-MegaCap Index. These indices aim to provide greater transparency and access to the rapidly growing cryptocurrency market.

Middlesex Water Co. (MSEX) is set to join the S&P SmallCap 600 index on July 15, 2021, replacing Luminex Corp. (LMNX), which is being acquired by DiaSorin S.p.A. This change will be effective prior to the market's opening on that date. The addition of Middlesex Water underscores its growth and stability in the utilities sector, while Luminex's removal reflects the implications of its pending acquisition. The decision was made by S&P Dow Jones Indices, which oversees significant financial market indicators.

S&P Global Ratings announced a significant growth in sustainable debt markets, forecasting a 40% year-over-year increase in sustainable debt issuance for 2021. This surge is driven by heightened interest in ESG factors, as issuers and investors aim to meet sustainability goals. The report indicates a trend where sustainable bonds may be priced at a premium, though isolating the impact of ESG is challenging. Improved standardization could further enhance liquidity in these markets, while issuers failing to meet ESG criteria may encounter higher financing costs.