(5)First, credit ratings may not be paid for by the rated entity. Point 1.3 of the Code provides that the Banque de France does not receive any remuneration from the rated entities with regard to the credit rating related to them and of which they are informed. Point 2.2 of the Code specifies that the users (credit institutions clients of the FIBEN — ‘Fichier Bancaire des Entreprises’) of the credit ratings are the ones paying for the service in accordance to a published rate.