Independent ratings companies assess the financial strength of life companies through in-depth detailed analysis.
They are independent financial analysts who examine the financial security of institutions based on their credit ratings and assets. Scottish Widows and Clerical Medical have been allocated the following ratings for financial strength
| Company | Moody's | Standard & Poor's | AKG |
| Scottish Widows plc |
A1 Good |
A Strong |
B+ Very Strong |
| Clerical Medical Investment Group Ltd |
A1 Good |
A Strong |
B+ Very Strong |
Source: Moody's, Standard & Poor's and AKG. All ratings correct at 30 November 2011.
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