A.M. Best Affirms Ratings of Ameriprise Group and Its Members.

OLDWICK, N.J. -- A.M. Best Co. has affirmed the financial strength rating (FSR) of A (Excellent) and issuer credit ratings (ICR) of "a" of Ameriprise Group and its members (Ameriprise). Ameriprise consists of IDS Property Casualty Insurance Company (IDS) and its wholly owned subsidiary, Ameriprise Insurance Company (both of De Pere, WI). The outlook for all ratings is stable.

These ratings reflect Ameriprise's strong capital position resulting from its conservative investment risk profile, its favorable underwriting leverage and solid profit margins. As a result, the group has reported pre-tax operating returns on revenue and equity that exceed the industry averages. Also contributing to Ameriprise's favorable operating results has been its low-cost, direct marketing strategy.

Partially offsetting these positive rating factors is the inherent risk associated with the business growth that the group has experienced over the last five years. In addition, although capital remains strong, the group dividends a majority of its net income to its parent company. As a result, surplus appreciation has been somewhat dampened, and underwriting leverage ratios have modestly increased.

For Best's Ratings, an overview of the rating process and rating methodologies, please visit www.ambest.com/ratings.

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.