19th August 2012

Aviva downgraded by Standard & Poor's as interest in US life book grows

Standard & Poor's have downgraded Aviva plc from A to A- and its core operating subsidiaries from AA- to A+.
The rating agency says that whilst its recently announced strategic plan has positive objectives, "we expect a significant period of transition, a high cost of execution, and risks in delivery."
In addition to Guggenheim Partners, further interest is being shown from private equity companies in the insurer's US life business.