LONDON, Feb. 21 - Moody's Investors Service placed on review for possible upgrade the Ba1 local currency long-term debt rating of Ukrsotsbank and the Ba3 long-term debt rating of the loan participation notes due 2008 issued by Ukrsots Finance B.V., the bank's issuing vehicle.

Moody's noted that the review for possible upgrade has been prompted by the recent announcement that Banca Intesa, the second largest bank in Italy by total assets (rated A1/P-1/B-), has signed a share purchase agreement to acquire 85.42% of Ukrsotsbank.