AM Best Confirms Financial Strength of Bao Minh Insurance Corporation

AM Best Affirms Ratings for Bao Minh Insurance Corporation

AM Best has recently confirmed the Financial Strength Rating of B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “bbb” (Good) for Bao Minh Insurance Corporation (BMI). The organization has also assigned the Vietnam National Scale Rating of aaa.VN (Exceptional) to BMI with a stable outlook.

Understanding the Ratings

These ratings showcase BMI’s robust balance sheet strength, which is categorized as strong by AM Best. The assessment reflects BMI’s stable operating performance, neutral business profile, and adequate enterprise risk management. A noteworthy factor is the company's majority ownership by the State Capital Investment Corporation (SCIC), which plays a significant role in BMI's operations as the sovereign wealth fund of Vietnam.

Balance Sheet Strength

The company's balance sheet strength stands out due to its impressive risk-adjusted capitalization, as determined by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). This ratio is projected to remain at a strong level in the foreseeable future. BMI’s investment portfolio is highlighted as having moderate risk, primarily consisting of term deposits, alongside non-rated corporate bonds, equity investments, and real estate.

Reinsurance Practices

Furthermore, BMI practices moderate reinsurance to support large limit risks and to effectively manage potential catastrophe exposure. The reinsurance counterparty risk is partially mitigated by collaborating with reputable reinsurers, ensuring a solid foundation for their underwriting strategies.

Operational Performance

AM Best considers BMI's operating performance adequate, fortified by an average return-on-equity ratio of 11.1% over the past five years (2019-2023). Over recent years, BMI has consistently generated underwriting profits, although a high expense ratio has somewhat offset these results.

Impact of Health Lines and Typhoon

Despite a small decline in profitability due to tighter margins in health lines, the company maintained positive underwriting results throughout 2023. As of the first nine months of the following year, BMI continued to report operating profits, although it faced challenges from underwriting losses influenced by adverse loss experiences, such as those prompted by Typhoon Yagi. Meanwhile, investment returns have remained a consistent contributor to overall earnings.

Market Position

When examining BMI’s market position, AM Best defines its business profile as neutral. According to 2023 direct premium metrics, BMI ranks as the third-largest non-life insurer in Vietnam. The company's underwriting portfolio shows a healthy diversity across lines of business and distribution channels, which represents a significant advantage in maintaining competitive efficiency.

Majority Shareholder Benefits

BMI's association with its majority stakeholder, SCIC, further enhances its business profile, serving as a reliable source of referrals that augment their market presence.

Conclusion

In summary, AM Best's affirmation of Bao Minh Insurance Corporation’s ratings underscores the company’s financial strength and operational stability in a dynamic market landscape. As the organization navigates challenges and opportunities within the insurance sector, its continued focus on risk management and diversified investments will be key to maintaining its esteemed ratings and robust market position.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current Financial Strength Rating of Bao Minh Insurance Corporation?

The Financial Strength Rating of Bao Minh Insurance Corporation is affirmed at B++ (Good).

What influences Bao Minh's credit ratings?

Bao Minh's credit ratings are influenced by its balance sheet strength, operating performance, and neutral business profile, along with its risk management practices.

How does SCIC impact Bao Minh Insurance Corporation?

The State Capital Investment Corporation (SCIC) enhances Bao Minh's business profile by providing referrals and stabilizing its operations.

What is the significance of BMI's investment portfolio?

BMI's investment portfolio is considered of moderate risk, contributing to its strong capital positioning and overall financial performance.

How did Typhoon Yagi affect BMI's performance?

Typhoon Yagi had a negative impact on BMI's underwriting profitability, causing some unfavorable loss experiences despite the company's overall stable performance.

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