OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has assigned the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” to Mutual Insurance Company Limited (MIC) (Hamilton, Bermuda). The outlook assigned to these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
The ratings of MIC reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best categorizes as very strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM).
MIC’s balance sheet strength assessment reflects its risk-adjusted capitalization, which is categorized as strongest, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). Balance sheet strength is supported further by a conservative investment portfolio that has produced consistent investment income and consistent favorable loss reserve development. However, MIC does expect surplus to decline in 2019, driven by technological investments and other expenses.
MIC has been operational for nearly 60 years and primarily writes media liability and professional liability coverages throughout North America and the Caribbean. The company has experienced volatility in its underwriting performance in recent years, and its expense ratio is elevated relative to peers due to the commission costs of media liability business, and more recently, investment expenses to expand the organization. Despite the recent underwriting challenges, with the exception of 2017, the company has generated operating profits, supporting the adequate operating performance assessment. The company’s expense structure is expected to improve prospectively with new product offerings and corresponding premium growth, which should improve underwriting performance. In addition, MIC, which has established risk tolerance and appetite statements, is further developing additional risk controls and processes to support the organization’s recently enhanced risk profile. Nonetheless, there is execution risk surrounding the implementation of a new business plan.
Negative rating action could occur if risk-adjusted capitalization declines due to poor underwriting results or if performance is not in line with the business plan.
This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Understanding Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper media use of Best’s Credit Ratings and AM Best press releases, please view Guide for Media – Proper Use of Best’s Credit Ratings and AM Best Rating Action Press Releases.
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Contacts
Lewis DeLosa, CFA
Financial Analyst
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5529
[email protected]
Jennifer Marshall
Director
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5327
[email protected]
Christopher Sharkey
Manager, Public Relations
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5159
[email protected]
Jim Peavy
Director, Public Relations
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5644
[email protected]
