A.M. Best Revises Outlook to Positive for Wilton Reinsurance Bermuda Limited

Business Wire, Jan 18, 2008

OLDWICK, N.J. -- A.M. Best Co. has revised the outlook to positive from stable and affirmed the financial strength rating (FSR) of A- (Excellent) and the issuer credit ratings (ICR) of "a-" of Wilton Reinsurance Bermuda Limited (Hamilton, Bermuda), Wilton Reassurance Company (Plymouth, MN) and Wilton Reassurance Life Company of New York (Rye Brook, NY) (together known as Wilton Re).

Wilton Re's revised outlook reflects its very strong risk-adjusted capital position and high quality invested asset portfolio; improved GAAP earnings; its continued success in executing a strategy, which focuses on the acquisition of closed books of business that fit within defined parameters; successful efforts in raising substantial capital in a competitive market environment and a proven ability to provide value added solutions to clients in the life reinsurance arena.

Management's adherence to its business plan, and informed pricing, as well as the quality and volume of business secured since inception has established Wilton Re as a viable player within the life reinsurance market. Acquisition activity over the last 12 months, which has led to improved economies of scale, are accretive to earnings and has secured Wilton Re's position in the U.S. domestic life reinsurance industry, where financial resources, industry expertise and market power increasingly have become concentrated.

Offsetting rating factors are Wilton Re's relatively small size in the life reinsurance industry; statutory losses for the last two years due to significant strain associated with new business; and challenges associated with sustaining profitable growth in the highly competitive U.S. life reinsurance marketplace. Although Wilton Re has been successful in raising capital to support its business activities to date and is well capitalized, there can be no assurances that the company can raise significant capital in the future.

For current Best's Ratings, independent data and analysis on more than 330 reinsurance companies, please visit www.ambest.com/reinsurance.> Founded in 1899, A.M. Best Company is a global full-service credit rating organization dedicated to serving the financial and health care service industries, including insurance companies, banks, hospitals and health care system providers. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.