OREANDA-NEWS. Fitch Ratings has withdrawn the 'A+' Insurer Financial Strength (IFS) rating for Essex Insurance Company.

The withdrawal is the result of the company's merger with the surviving entity, Evanston Insurance Company, which Fitch currently rates 'A+' for IFS. Accordingly, Fitch will no longer provide ratings or analytical coverage for Essex Insurance Company. The merger was finalized on June 30, 2016.

Markel Corporation is the ultimate parent company for Evanston Insurance Company. Markel Corporation's ratings were affirmed on June 15, 2016.

Fitch has withdrawn the following rating as the entity no longer exists:

Essex Insurance Company

--IFS 'A+'; Outlook Stable.