We are affirming our 'A+' financial strength rating (FSR) on BMO Life Assurance Co. based on its status as a "core" subsidiary of Bank of Montreal. We are removing the rating from CreditWatch with negative implications. Subsequent to our review, we are withdrawing the rating at the company's request. On May 6, 2013, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'A+' financial strength rating (FSR) on BMO Life Assurance Co. (BMO Life). At the same time, Standard&Poor's removed the rating from CreditWatch, where it had been placed with negative implications. The outlook is stable. Subsequent to our review, Standard&Poor's withdrew the FSR at the company's request. The FSR on BMO Life has been equalized with the
