The insurer financial strength rating on Noridian Mutual Insurance Co. d/b/a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) reflects the following: Dominant market position. BCBSND is well-positioned to maintain its dominant market share in providing health insurance products and services in North Dakota. It is the leading health insurer in the state, where it has an estimated 80% market share. Extremely strong capitalization. BCBSND's capital adequacy level of 186% for 2000, as measured by Standard&Poor's model, is extremely strong, and it represents a significant improvement from 168% in 1999. Surplus quality continues to be good, tied to the plan's conservative reserving practices. Conservative investment portfolio. BCBSND has a conservative investment portfolio with good asset quality and