A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “a-” of Maxseguros EPM, based in Bermuda.
The outlook of these credit ratings is stable.
According to A.M. Best, the ratings reflect Maxseguros’ balance sheet strength, which they categorised as strongest, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
It added that the ratings reflect Maxseguros’ risk-adjusted capitalisation, which was assessed at the strongest level and supported by a comprehensive and adequate reinsurance programme coupled with conservative investment policy and limited premium risk exposure.
A.M. Best also noted that the ratings recognise the important role of the company within its corporate parent structure, Empresas Públicas de Medellin E.S.P. (EPM), which is owned by the Colombian municipality of Medellin.
EPM is the largest power generation and multi-utility company in Colombia. Maxseguros is a single-parent captive insurer wholly owned by EPM and provides reinsurance to the EPM group, covering property damage and business interruption, commercial crime, cyber risk, directors and officers, errors and omissions and general liability exposures.
A.M. Best said: “These positive rating factors are offset partially by EPM’s substantial financial leverage and Maxseguros’ limited business and market scope, which is somewhat mitigated by the company’s stable results, favourable geographic spread of risk and the history of Maxseguros’ growing surplus position.”
Additionally, while Maxseguros depends on reinsurance, EPM’s senior management is involved intimately in the captive’s operations.
The rating firm suggested that the stable outlooks are “derived from Maxseguros’ role within EPM’s strategy and its ability to post adequate operating performance amid significant events, demonstrating its management capabilities and the adequacy of its reinsurance programme”.
It noted that this has been proven true during the last three years when the company presented higher net claims while producing constant and increasing positive bottom-line results. A.M. Best said it has a favourable view of Maxseguros’ overall profile within the ultimate parent’s structure, however, EPM’s credit profile and financial leverage remain key factors for future reviews of Maxseguros.
A.M. Best added that negative rating actions could occur if the credit profile of EPM becomes pressured.
Additionally, it noted that negative rating actions could arise if there is a material shift in Maxseguros’ risk profile or role within EPM that undermines its stability and profitability, including increased activity in cash outflows to the parent company.
“Positive rating actions are not foreseen at this time,” A.M. Best concluded.
