Hiscox Ltd.'s (Bermuda) operating companies have been affirmed the financial strength rating (FSR) of A (excellent) and issuer credit rating (ICR) of "a" by AM Best Europe Rating Services Ltd.

The outlook for the ratings of Hiscox Insurance Company (Bermuda) Ltd. (Hiscox Bermuda), Hiscox Insurance Company Ltd. (Hisco) (United Kingdom) and Hiscox Insurance Company (Guernsey) Limited (Hiscox Guernsey) remains stable.

Best said that the ratings of the Hiscox operating companies continued to reflect the strong consolidated risk-adjusted capitalisation of the group's holding company, Hiscox Ltd.

In 2010, an increase in consolidated shareholders' funds is anticipated, in spite of total net losses of approximately £110 million expected from the Chilean earthquake, Windstorm Xynthia and the Deepwater Horizon event. Each rated operating entity benefits from excellent stand-alone risk-adjusted capitalisation and an excellent business profile, supported by membership of the Hiscox group, Best said.