DVB Bank AG reports that on Friday, 29 July 2005, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services (S&P) raised its long-term counterparty credit and certificate of deposit ratings on the Bank from ´BBB+´ to ´A-´. S&P also affirmed the ´A-2´ short-term ratings and, in line with last year's improved rating, again described the outlook as  "stable". DVB's rating from Moody's has remained unchanged at ´A3´ since 2000. The rating action in respect of DVB was part of a general rating exercise in relation to DZ BANK AG (DZ BANK), the majority shareholder in DVB with a 92.62% interest. The raised ratings for DZ BANK and its subsidiaries largely reflect sustainable improvements in proftability, asset quality and capitalisation. DVB perceives S&P's conclusions as an acknowledgement of the Bank's strategic focus on transport finance and its position in the global market place. During recent years, DVB's growth has found reflection in increased profits and strengthened capital reserves. DZ BANK remains fully supportive of DVB's strategy and has consistently emphasised its long-term commitment to the Bank.