Golden Bear upgraded to "A-"

Golden Bear Insurance Co., Stockton, Calif., has been upgraded to an "A- "(Excellent) rating by A.M. Best Co.. The rating reflects the company's continued underwriting and operating profitability, solid capitalization and well-established local market presence in California. A.M. Best recognizes the company's conservative operating strategies, niche underwriting expertise, aggregate risk management and extensive knowledge of the California earthquake market. Golden Bear Insurance writes direct business in California, its domiciled state, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. GBIC is writing direct property and casualty business in the above states either on an admitted or non-admitted basis.