Company Description
Atlantic American Corporation (NASDAQ: AAME) is an insurance holding company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Founded in 1968, Atlantic American operates through insurance subsidiaries that serve distinct segments of the life, health, property, and casualty insurance markets across the United States.
Business Structure and Operations
The company operates through two primary divisions. Bankers Fidelity Life Insurance Company serves as the flagship carrier for life and health insurance products, while American Southern Insurance Company handles property and casualty coverage. This dual-division structure allows Atlantic American to generate revenue from diversified insurance premium streams while managing risk across multiple insurance lines.
Market Focus and Distribution
Atlantic American targets specialty markets within the insurance industry rather than competing directly with large national carriers. The company holds insurance licenses in 46 states and the District of Columbia, enabling nationwide distribution capabilities. Products are marketed exclusively through independent agents and brokers, a distribution model that provides local market expertise without maintaining a captive sales force.
Financial Strength Ratings
The company's insurance subsidiaries maintain financial strength ratings from A.M. Best, the insurance industry's primary rating agency. These ratings—ranging from A- (Excellent) to B+ (Good)—indicate the subsidiaries' ability to meet ongoing policyholder obligations. For insurance buyers, these ratings provide third-party assessment of claim-paying capability.
Specialty Insurance Focus
Rather than pursuing commodity insurance lines, Atlantic American concentrates on specialized coverage areas where underwriting expertise and focused distribution create competitive advantages. The life and health division emphasizes products designed for specific demographic or risk segments, while the property and casualty operation targets niche commercial markets where specialized knowledge supports profitable underwriting.
Investment Considerations
As a micro-cap insurance holding company, Atlantic American's stock represents exposure to the insurance sector through a smaller, focused operator. The company's performance depends on underwriting results, investment income from insurance float, and claims experience across its insurance lines. Insurance stocks typically exhibit sensitivity to interest rates, catastrophic events, and regulatory environments.