Third person singular or plural of downgrade; reductions in rank, quality, status, or rating, especially of credit or performance.
From 'downgrade,' combining 'down' and 'grade' (from Latin 'gradus,' a step). Originated in late 19th-early 20th century business and financial contexts.
When a bank 'downgrades' a company's credit rating, it's not just reducing a number—it's a financial stamp saying 'this company is riskier.' These downgrades can trigger panic and cascade through markets because they signal danger to investors everywhere.
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