On Dec. 9, 2008, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'A-' counterparty credit rating on UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH) and its various counterparty credit and financial strength ratings on UNH's subsidiaries (see ratings list). The outlooks on all of these companies remain negative. The ratings are based on the consolidated group's (collectively referred to as UNH) very strong competitive position; favorable business model, scale, and diversification; and strong risk culture and risk controls. UNH's earnings are solid for the rating but are well below historical levels because of lower enrollment and premium yield in the commercial business and higher medical costs in portions of the government-sponsored business. UNH's strong risk culture and controls give us confidence that management will
