NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's) March 12, 2007--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services said today it affirmed its 'A' counterparty credit and senior debt ratings on UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH). At the same time, Standard&Poor's affirmed its financial strength ratings on UNH's operating subsidiaries. The outlook is negative. "The ratings are based on UNH's very strong earnings profile, very strong competitive position, good diversification, effective management strategy, and strong financial flexibility," said Standard&Poor's credit analyst Shellie Stoddard. Slightly offsetting these strengths, UNH maintains high goodwill levels stemming from recent multiple acquisitions that will persist with the intended acquisition of Sierra Health Services Inc. for $2.6 billion. The organization holds statutory capitalization that is considered good but below
