Beckman Rating Raised From Negative to Stable

Moody's Investors Service, noting that Beckman Coulter Inc.'s operating results have improved and debt-protection measures have increased, on Tuesday revised the Fullerton company's rating outlook from negative to stable.

Moody's added that Beckman Coulter, a medical instruments maker, will continue to face challenges, including formidable competition, ongoing cost containment pressure in the health care industry and uncertainty in foreign markets.

"However, we believe Beckman Coulter is well-positioned given its improved financial condition, the breadth of its product line and its pipeline of recent and pending product introductions," the ratings agency said.

The stock closed at $51.69, down $1.94 a share, on the New York Stock Exchange.