Tuesday, December 22, 2020

Partners Life Credit Ratings placed under review with developing implications - AM Best

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 21 -- AM Best has placed under review with developing implications the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of ‘a-’ of Partners Life Limited (Partners Life) New Zealand.

These Credit Rating (rating) actions follow the announcement on Dec 16, this year, that Partners Life has entered into an agreement with National Australia Bank Limited to acquire its New Zealand life insurance business, including BNZ Life Insurance Limited.

According to a statement, the transaction also includes establishment of an exclusive 10-year agreement for the referral of Bank of New Zealand customers with life insurance needs to Partners Life.

The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory and other approvals, is expected to be completed in the second half of 2021.

The under review with developing implications status reflects the need for AM Best to fully assess the financial and operational impacts of the acquisition and funding structure on Partners Life’s rating fundamentals, including on its balance sheet strength and business profile.

The ratings will remain under review pending completion of the transaction, and until AM Best can complete its assessment of the post-acquisition credit rating fundamentals of Partners Life.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry.

More details at www.ambest.com. 

-- BERNAMA

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