NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's) Nov. 1, 2001--Standard&Poor's today placed its ratings on Goodyear Tire&Rubber Co. on CreditWatch with negative implications (see list below). The rating actions reflect Standard&Poor's concern that competitive pressures and weakening demand could delay the expected improvement in the company's financial profile that is factored into existing ratings. Goodyear is the world's largest tire manufacturer, supplying both the replacement and original equipment segments of the industry. The company also produces rubber-related industrial and automotive components and chemicals. Goodyear has reported very disappointing financial results for the past two and a half years. In 1999, the company generated only $243 million in net income (net of $172 million in restructuring charges),
