NY -- Standard&Poor's CreditWire 12/9/98 -- Standard&Poor's today raised its subordinated debt rating on Fidelity National Financial Inc.'s (Fidelity National) zero coupon, liquid yield option notes (LYONs) due Feb. 15, 2009, to double-'B' plus from single-'B' plus. Standard&Poor's also raised its counterparty credit rating on the company to triple-'B'-minus from double-'B'. In addition, the outlook on the company has been revised to stable from developing. The outlook revision reflects Fidelity National's improved operational strategy over the last three years within the title insurance industry through it main subsidiary, Fidelity National Title Insurance Co., and its underwriting affiliates (combined FNTIC). The recent acquisition of Alamo Title Insurance Co. as well as Fidelity National's earnings diversification
