MARINE MIDLAND <MM> AFFIRMED BY S/P
Standard and Poor's Corp said it
affirmed Marine Midland Banks Inc's 500 mln dlrs of debt.
    S and P cited a 400 mln dlr provision to reserves for
developing country credits. The provision brings Marine's
reserve to about 29 pct and will enhance its flexibility in
actively managing this portfolio. S and P also said Marine's
earnings and asset quality are showing steady improvement.
    Affirmed were the bank's A-plus senior debt, A-rated
subordinated debt, A-minus preferred stock and A-1-plus
commercial paper. Also affirmed were lead bank Marine Midland
Bank NA's A-plus/A-1-plus certificates of deposit.
 Reuter
