Best’s News & Research Service - May 02, 2008 11:36 AM (EDT)
A.M. Best Upgrades Ratings of Rockford Mutual Insurance Company
OLDWICK, N.J. //BestWire// - A.M. Best Co. has upgraded the financial strength rating to A- (Excellent) from B++ (Good) and issuer credit rating to “a-” from “bbb+” of Rockford Mutual Insurance Company (Rockford) (Rockford, IL). The outlook for both ratings is stable.
The ratings reflect Rockford’s strong capitalization and favorable operating performance over several years. The ratings also acknowledge the implementation of re-underwriting initiatives, reduced property exposure and rate adjustments, which contributed to significant improvements in operating profitability and growth in policyholders’ surplus since 2002. The ratings additionally recognize the enhancements made on Rockford’s assumed business program through the purchase of extensive reinsurance protection that further supported profitability.
Partially offsetting these positive rating factors is Rockford’s reinsurance dependence and geographic concentration in the Midwest, which exposes it to frequent weather-related events and potential changes in regulatory and judicial environments.
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