AM Best Affirms PanAsia Re Ratings At Excellent Level
KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has affirmed Hawaii’s PanAsia Reinsurance Inc (PanAsia Re) financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “a-” (Excellent), with a stable outlook.
The credit ratings (ratings) reflect PanAsia Re’s very strong balance sheet, adequate operating performance, limited business profile, and appropriate enterprise risk management. The assessment also incorporates both implicit and explicit support from its parent, Hikari Tsushin Inc (Hikari Tsushin).
PanAsia Re’s balance sheet strength is underpinned by projected risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, supported by a significant capital injection from its parent in mid-2025, according to AM Best in a statement.
The company has demonstrated strong capital growth, expanding 102.9 per cent between fiscal year 2020 and fiscal year 2024, driven by profitable underwriting and capital infusion from the parent. Its low reliance on reinsurance and conservative investment strategy further support its capital position.
Operating performance is assessed as adequate, supported by consistent profitability with double-digit average return on equity and favourable combined ratios over the past five years.
The company’s small amount and short-term insurance (SASTI) segment, which forms the bulk of its portfolio, typically records low loss ratios, although commission expenses to its parent remain relatively high. PanAsia Re is pursuing gradual expansion of its SASTI business while exploring non-SASTI opportunities to diversify its premium base.
PanAsia Re operates under a captive licence, primarily reinsuring risks from affiliated entities, with selective third-party business subject to regulatory approval. Its business profile remains limited due to modest scale and concentration in Japan-originated personal property, health, and accident lines. The company’s risk management framework is closely integrated with that of its parent.
-- BERNAMA