RATING IN THE OPINION OF THE OLSZTYN INSURANCE COMPANIES

The aim of studies was an attempt of giving the opinion about rating, its usefulness and a level of its using so far by the insurance companies from the city of Olsztyn. The research was carried out in the year 2005 in the companies of I and II branch that had been operating on the market for more than 5 years. The research tool was a questionnaire put forward to the managers of 24 insurance companies who had given their assent for carrying out the research. The study shows that more than a half of respondents consider rating to be a reliable and comprehensive source of evaluation. In the opinion of 92% out of the examined insurance companies, the possession of ranking note contributes to increasing investors' confidence, while only 17% think that it is not important for their clients. However, the high costs of external rating and fear of getting a low note are the barrier in using that type of tool by the insurance companies from Olsztyn.