Latest Debt Downgrade Worsens First Republic Bank’s Already-Fragile State

San Francisco-based First Republic Bank suffered another blow on Sunday after S&P Global Inc. downgraded its long-term issuer credit rating from BB+ to B+, Bloomberg reported, making it harder and more expensive for the bank to borrow the very funds that could help it continue to stay afloat.

The downgrade comes as banks around the world are struggling to fend off catastrophe following the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank on March 10. It came just days after the bank's debt rating was downgraded to junk status, and means that First Republic's creditworthiness is considered highly speculative by the ratings agency.

The bank had already suffered downgrades from by S&P and Moody's on Wednesday, moving it to a level considered a risky bet. S&P lowered the bank's rating from A- to BB+, or high risk. Moody's followed suit, downgrading the bank below investment grade.

Following the recent downgrades, a spokesperson for First Republic Bank said that the bank was well-positioned to manage short-term deposit activity thanks to the U.S.-orchestrated rescue by 11 of the bank’s competitors, which deposited $30 billion. The spokesperson said the support—which commentators have said was essential to stave off a systemwide crisis—reflects confidence in First Republic and its ability to continue to provide exceptional service to its clients and communities.

However, this latest downgrade suggests that First Republic Bank's solvency is becoming increasingly fragile. It has been the subject of global attention as a possible next domino to fall in the context of the current crisis in bank solvency globally, which has been caused by a combination of factors, including low interest rates, economic uncertainty and rising levels of debt.

The recent deposit infusion from other banks is only a temporary solution, and the bank needs to find a more sustainable way to attract deposits to support its operations, according to S&P, Bloomberg reported. If the bank is not able to attract additional depositors and defend the value of its stock, its rating could be downgraded further, the report said.