Credit rating agencies registered with the SEC are continuing to enhance their policies, procedures and internal controls in response to SEC rules and staff examinations, according to an SEC release.

According to staff reports released by the SEC on nationally recognized statistical rating organizations, some companies are self-reporting noncompliance, and some smaller firms are actively competing with larger ones in certain ratings categories.

The reports summarize the staff's findings and recommendations within each of the eight required review areas and discuss the state of competition, transparency and conflicts of interest among the companies, as well as identifies applicants for registration.