The revised outlook is based on the deterioration in the financial performance and capital position of Standard Casualty's parent, due to future uncertainty in Palm Harbor's credit facility and liquidity requirements, which may result in a potential burden on the insurance operations.
The ratings reflect Standard Casualty's solid risk-adjusted capitalization despite dividend payments, which have occurred to supplement its parent company's operations and financial issues that remain at Palm Harbor. In addition, the ratings contemplate Standard Casualty's local market knowledge and profitable operating performance, which has consistently outperformed the industry composite averages.
These positive rating factors are somewhat offset by Standard Casualty's elevated underwriting expense ratio, geographic concentration of risk and limited product offerings. As a property writer in a limited number of states, the company's operating performance remains susceptible to regulatory issues, highly competitive market conditions and weather-related events.
For Best's Credit Ratings, an overview of the rating process and rating methodologies, please visit www.ambest.com/ratings.
The principal methodologies used in determining these ratings, including any additional methodologies and factors that may have been considered, can be found at www.ambest.com/ratings/methodology.
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.
SOURCE: A.M. Best Co.
A.M. Best Co. Analysts: Michael T. Venezia, (908) 439-2200, ext. 5034 michael.venezia@ambest.com or Jeffrey Mango, CPA, (908) 439-2200, ext. 5204 jeffrey.mango@ambest.com or Public Relations: Jim Peavy, (908) 439-2200, ext. 5644 james.peavy@ambest.com or Rachelle Morrow (908) 439-2200, ext. 5378 rachelle.morrow@ambest.com

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