S&P: Molson Coors Credit Ratings Off Credit Watch

The stable outlook reflects the analysts belief that Molson Coors' leverage will likely remain close to or slightly above current levels in the near term. They cite challenging industry conditions but acknowledge some benefits from the company's ongoing restructuring efforts.

The ratings service said it could revise the outlook to negative if the company pursues a more aggressive financial policy or debt grows, said Standard & Poor's credit analyst Jean C. Stout.

"We estimate that credit measures could weaken if the cash needs at the joint venture are greater than our current expectations and operating performance at either Molson Coors or the joint venture does not continue to improve as expected," she continued.

Although unlikely in the near term, the outlook could be revised to positive, if Molson Coors can improve its operating performance and credit measures.

Shares of Molson Coors rose 40 cents to $41.96.