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Exhibit 99.1
Global Credit Research
Rating Action
14 NOV 2008
Rating Action: Bowne & Co., Inc.
Moodys downgrades Bowne CFR to Ba3, ratings under review for further downgrade
New York, November 14, 2008 Moodys Investors Service downgraded the corporate family rating
of Bowne & Co., Inc. (Bowne) to Ba3 from Ba2 and the rating on its convertible subordinated
notes to B2 from B1. The downgrade incorporates the negative impact of the deteriorating
performance in Bownes Capital Markets segment on credit metrics, as well as a weakened
liquidity profile. Moodys expected the companys business diversification to enable it to
withstand a downturn in the capital markets, but the severity and prolonged nature of the
current decline exceeds previous expectations. Furthermore, Bowne utilized its revolver to fund
the repayment of the majority of its bonds when bondholders exercised put rights in October.
While total debt increased only modestly (due to acquisitions), the revolver usage has reduced
external liquidity sources, and the weak operating performance, combined with use of cash for
acquisitions, has eroded Bownes internal sources.
Moodys also placed ratings under review for further downgrade. In resolving the review,
Moodys will evaluate the cash costs and potential benefits of managements restructuring
plans, the outlook for its business in 2009, and the impact of these on the liquidity
profile. Given the companys seasonal pattern of cash usage in the first half of the year,
Moodys will focus on the companys plans to manage cash needs during this time. A summary of
todays actions follows.
Bowne & Co., Inc.
Probability of Default Rating, Downgraded to Ba3 from Ba2
Corporate Family Rating, Downgraded to Ba3 from Ba2
Subordinate Convertible Bonds, Downgraded to B2, LGD6, 96% from B1, LGD5, 88%
Outlook, Changed To Rating Under Review From Stable
Bownes Ba3 corporate family rating reflects the seasonality and volatility of its cash flow and
exposure to the capital markets cycle, which has depressed already modest EBITDA margins, as
well as some vulnerability to the reduction in demand for printed products. Its moderate debt
level, managements track record of successful integration of acquisitions and implementation of
cost cutting initiatives, and the considerable stream of recurring revenue support the ratings.
In April 2008, Moodys upgraded Bownes corporate family rating to Ba2 from Ba3, based on
improved free cash flow, some margin improvement, and a moderation in the share repurchase
program, as well as expectations that adequate business diversification would enable the
company to withstand a downturn in capital markets.
Please see the credit opinion to be posted on Moodys.com for more information.
Bowne & Co., Inc. provides global shareholder and marketing communications services, including
capital markets communications, assistance with the preparation and filing of regulatory and
shareholder communications online and in print, and the creation and distribution of
customized communication on demand. With headquarters in New York, New York, Bowne maintains
60 offices around the globe and has approximately 3,200 employees. Its annual revenue is
approximately $800 million.
New York
Karen Berckmann
Analyst
Corporate Finance Group
Moodys Investors Service
JOURNALISTS: 212-553-0376
SUBSCRIBERS: 212-553-1653
New York
Andris G. Kalnins
Senior Vice President
Corporate Finance Group
Moodys Investors Service
JOURNALISTS: 212-553-0376
SUBSCRIBERS: 212-553-1653
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