(Editor's note: The version of this article published earlier today contained incorrect information regarding ORIX Corp.'s real estate portfolio in the fourth paragraph. A corrected version follows.) TOKYO (Standard&Poor's) Dec. 18, 2003--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services said today that it had raised its rating on ORIX Corp. to 'BBB+' from 'BBB', reflecting the company's improving capitalization and asset quality. The outlook on the rating is stable. Despite intense competition in its core leasing business, ORIX is likely to maintain a stable performance, supported by its diversification into high-value-added businesses and its enhanced risk management. ORIX has strengthened its capital through the steady accumulation of profits. The company has adopted a strategy of limiting asset growth by increasing its
