Case | HBS Case Collection | 2013 (Revised from original 2011 version)

Kroll Bond Rating Agency

by Bo Becker

Abstract

The established credit raters were criticized for inflating the mortgage credit bubble that imploded in 2008. A new rating agency, KBRA, is considering how to capitalize on the opportunity this presents and how to enter the industry. A small group of managers have to decide on a business model, how to meet hiring and funding needs, and what types of ratings to start with: municipal, corporate, or structured. Where are the needs for new ratings stronger? How can investors be convinced to use the new ratings? How can KBRA compete with Fitch, Moody's, and S&P?

Keywords: Financial Instruments; Financial Management; Financial Services Industry;

Citation:

Becker, Bo. "Kroll Bond Rating Agency." Harvard Business School Case 212-034, April 2013. (Revised from original October 2011 version.)