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J. Greg Ness |
For an insurance and asset management company, there is nothing more important than financial strength. Our customers and shareholders alike must be confident that we will be there regardless of the current economic environment.
We take this responsibility very seriously and back it up with our disciplined business practices, sound investment strategies and unique industry expertise. While various other financial institutions have struggled with their business mix and capital levels, at
The Standard, we have maintained our focus on providing excellent customer service while still seeking attractive business opportunities. By approaching our commitments with a long-term perspective, we are able to invest for our customers and build value for our shareholders.
Our balance sheet is the cornerstone of our financial strength and has provided us with a foundation for profitability through a wide range of economic cycles.
Bond Portfolio
Our bond portfolio is strong. Our strategy is to maintain a diversified portfolio of high quality fixed-maturity securities to keep us well protected if any industry experiences difficulties.
- Average portfolio rating of “A” as measured by Standard & Poor’s
- No preferred or common equities
- No direct exposure to sub-prime or alt-A mortgages
- No credit default swaps, collateralized debt obligations or commercial paper
- No mortgage-backed securities of any kind
Commercial Mortgage Loan Portfolio
Our commercial mortgage loans have consistently provided a superior balance of risk and return. We offer small commercial mortgage loans to borrowers who want a fixed rate over time, and we rigorously underwrite every commercial mortgage loan we make. The quality of our commercial mortgage loans is excellent, and our delinquency rates are very low.
- The average loan-to-value ratio on new loans was 66 percent in 2009
- As of December 31, 2009, the average loan-to-value ratio in our overall commercial mortgage portfolio was 66 percent
The Standard Stands the Test of Time
In the July 2009 issue of Best’s Review, Standard Insurance Company was recognized for maintaining an “A” rating or higher from A.M. Best Company since 1928. The Standard was honored to be among one of only 14 life/health insurers to consistently achieve an “A” rating or higher for more than 75 years. Given the rapidly evolving markets, changing customer needs and challenging economic times, this is a significant accomplishment. We are proud of this longstanding track record of financial strength.
