Six major credit agencies determine insurers' financial strength and viability to meet claims obligations. They are A.M. Best Co.; Duff & Phelps Inc.; Fitch, Inc.; Moody's Investors Services; Standard & Poor's Corp.; and Weiss Ratings, Inc. Factors considered include company earnings, capital adequacy, operating leverage, liquidity, investment performance, reinsurance programs, and management ability, integrity and experience. A high financial rating is not the same as a high consumer satisfaction rating.

"Rating Agencies" In Context

"Where did they fall short, if they did? Regulators should also complete the unfinished business of re-regulating the credit rating agencies, so that they can be confident they have an unbiased partner in assessing bank risk. While rating agencies ..."