Apr 10, 2008. /Lesprom.com/. Standard & Poor's Ratings Services upgraded Hercules Inc., citing an improved financial profile and the likelihood that cash flow protection measures and other key ratios will be maintained at levels in line with expectations for the revised ratings, Thomson Financial News. The corporate credit rating on the company was raised to 'BB+' from 'BB'. The outlook is stable. The ratings reflect U.S.-based Hercules' slightly aggressive, albeit much reduced, debt balance; low-growth, very competitive pulp and paper chemicals markets; and some exposure to asbestos-related liabilities.