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S&P continues negative outlook on reinsurance industry


August 11, 2003   by Canadian Underwriter


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Rating agency Standard & Poor’s (S&P) says the downward pressure continues on ratings for North American reinsurers, despite premium increases. Overall, S&P is continuing its “negative outlook” for the sector, for the sixth consecutive year.
A negative outlook implies downgrades should outpace upgrades or even affirmations of ratings in the short-to-medium term.
“Despite further price increases in the January 2003 renewal season, the market continues to suffer from diminished quality of capital, reduce financial flexibility, prior-year liabilities, the overhang of reinsurance recoverables, and the likelihood that many companies’ operating performance will fall short of expectations,” says S&P credit analyst Laline Carvahlo.
Competition continues to flourish in the sector, due to the ease of entry, putting increased pressure on existing players to rebound, the report notes.


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