Ratings

Ratings are a form of financial analysis applied to a variety of corporations, securities, governments and other entities. For example, an insurance company rating is a measure of financial strength and the ability of of an insurance company to meet its obligations. Ratings are provided by third-party rating agencies such as A.M. Best, Standard and Poor’s, Moody’s and Fitch. These third party rating agencies assign grades to the entity or security they are analyzing. For example, high quality, which are considered the least riskiest, get an AAA rating whereas bonds with a BB or less are considered highly risky junk bonds. The lower the rating, the more the issuer has to pay in terms of a coupon rate to attract buyers. Ratings are not static and can be downgraded or upgraded depending on the agency’s appraisal of the issuer’s or entity’s financial health.

The Case for Mutual Insurance Companies

The best interests of financial services consumers are much better aligned with a mutual insurance company than a stock insurance company.

Mutual insurance companies are owned by policyholders. Owners of an insurance contract issued by a mutual company are both customers and owners of the insurance company.

Stock-based insurance companies are owned by shareholders, so their focus is divided between customers and shareholders.

Mutual insurance companies are a form of cooperative where individuals voluntarily associate to form an organization that serves the mutual...

Why Financial De-Risking May Leave Consumers at a Loss

The term de-risk has been appearing frequently in recent financial news. 

General Motors’ recent decision to offer lump-sum...

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New Deferred Income Annuity from NY Life

News on a recent deferred income annuity product release from New York Life:

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Top Ten Annuity Buying Tips

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Annuity Digest Buying Guide: Top Ten Annuity Buying Tips

 

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