UPDATE 1-Scope maintains Italy’s debt rating, outlook in relief for Meloni govt

Credit ratings agency Scope on Friday maintained its stance on Italy, citing the country's relevance in European blocs and regional policy which would likely get the euro zone's third-largest economy support from institutions if in distress. The European Commission last month forecast that Italy's debt, proportionally the second-highest in the euro zone, would rise marginally from a projected 140% of national output this year to 141% in 2025. While Scope maintained its "BBB+" rating and stable outlook on Italy, it highlighted challenges from the country's "elevated, albeit declining fiscal deficits".