NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's CreditWire) Nov. 16, 2000--Standard&Poor's today placed its long-term ratings on DaimlerChrysler AG and various related entities on CreditWatch with negative implications. All short-term ratings are affirmed (see list below). The CreditWatch placements reflect Standard&Poor's concern that the exodus of management talent from DaimlerChrysler's key Chrysler Division, and the resulting dwindling morale, heighten the risk that performance prospects for Chrysler will continue to fall well short of historically superior levels. Although Chrysler's new operating management is expected to accelerate restructuring actions, it is increasingly uncertain if such actions will be sufficient to offset intensification of price competition across Chrysler's core product segments--minivans, sport utilities, and pickups-–among other competitive challenges. As part of
