On Oct. 27, 2003, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'BBB+' senior unsecured debt rating to Unitrin Inc.'s (NYSE:UTR) $200 million, 4.875% senior notes, which are due in 2010. The $200 million issue exhausts the $500 million universal shelf filed on May 9, 2002, in which the company initially issued $300 million of 5.75% senior notes due in 2007. The proceeds from the notes are expected to be used to pay down $140 million outstanding under the company's existing $360 million credit facility. The balance of $60 million is expected to be used for general corporate purposes. As of Sept. 30, 2003, GAAP interest coverage and debt-to-total capital were strong at 6x and 24%, respectively. After the issuance, financial
