The rating took into consideration the following: the financial strength rating of Forethought Life Assurance Company (FLAC) (Batesville, IN); a review of the actuarial assumptions and their impact on cash flow; an analysis of the deal model cash flow projections including stress testing of key risk factors, interest rate and investment conditions; and a review of the structure, legal documentation and regulatory environment. In addition, A.M. Best considered the notes’ stand-alone rating (i.e. rating of the notes without the support of the financial guarantor) and the payment assurance provided by XL Capital Assurance Inc. (XLCA), a financial guarantor and operating subsidiary of Security Capital Assurance Limited (SCA) (Bermuda).
The rating downgrade is solely due to A.M. Best’s concerns regarding financial pressures and continued uncertainty currently being experienced by SCA in executing its capital remediation plans and the change in credit profile of XL Capital Group (XL Capital) (Cayman Islands), which provides substantial reinsurance support to SCA’s operating subsidiaries and guarantees certain SCA obligations. A.M. Best will continue to monitor SCA’s capital strengthening activities to assess any further impact to FLAC Holdings’ rating (both long and short term).
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