Standard & Poor’s has affirmed its counterparty credit and financial strength ratings on Manufacturers Life Insurance Co. and its U.S. insurance subsidiaries.

At the same time, S&P affirmed its counterparty credit rating on Manufacturers Life’s parent company, Toronto-based Manulife Financial Corp.

In a release, S&P said he ratings affirmations reflect the group’s competitive market positions in Canada, the U.S., and Asia; very strong capitalization; excellent operating performance; and strong management team. Partially offsetting these strengths is intense competitive pressure within most insurance markets in which Manulife operates.

The outlook on Manulife is stable. Operating performance is expected to remain very strong, with a return on equity of about 14%-15% in 2002 and 2003. Capital strength on a consolidated basis, as well as for the individual operating companies, will remain very strong. In addition, financial leverage and fixed-charge coverage are expected to remain appropriate for the current ratings. S&P said the insurer’s investment portfolio will continue to be well diversified, with limited erosion in credit quality.