Unitrin Revised

A.M. Best Co. affirmed the financial strength rating of “A” (excellent) of Unitrin Property and Casualty Insurance Group, based in Dallas, Texas, and revised the rating outlook to negative from stable.

The rating reflects Unitrin’s adequate capitalization for the current rating and balanced book of business among personal and commercial lines. These positive rating factors are derived from a diversified product offering, strong regional market presence, long-standing independent agency relationships and prudent catastrophe exposure management. The rating acknowledges Unitrin’s actions to improve profitability, which have included implementing rate increases, geographically diversifying business and re-underwriting select books of business. As a result of these actions and firm market conditions, operating results have initially improved in 2003.