27.06.2006 |
The international rating agency Standard & Poor's has confirmed the ratings of the UNIQA core companies UNIQA Sachversicherung ("A"), UNIQA Personenversicherung ("A") and UNIQA Re AG ("A") as well as the holding company UNIQA Versicherungen AG ("A-") - which means their assessment of the UNIQA Group's financial strength has remained unchanged at an "A" level. The future prospects of the individual companies and the UNIQA Group continue to be categorised as "STABLE".
The impressive market position and powerful sales resources in Austria as well as the balanced product portfolio and strong capitalisation were emphasised as important rating factors. Standard & Poor's also recognises the continued progress in the operational performance through optimisation of the underwriting policy and general cost reductions.
S&P justifies the assessment of the stable outlook with the continuingly strong operational performance - despite growing price competition in Austria - and the increasing diversification of the income through the expanded presence in Central and Eastern Europe. The largest growth opportunities are also seen in these regions, although the activities in niche markets of Western Europe are also making a growing contribution to the turnover and income of the UNIQA Group.
For 2006, S&P expects a Group ROE of at least 15%. The rating agency also sees the capitalisation of the UNIQA Group remaining at a high level.
Vienna, 27. June 2006