Following a review under our revised insurance criteria, we are affirming our 'A-' counterparty credit and financial strength ratings on Noridian Mutual Insurance Co. (d/b/a Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota). The ratings reflect our view of the group's strong business risk profile and moderately strong financial risk profile. The stable outlook reflects our view that the group will continue to have a dominant market share in North Dakota and maintain strong capital and earnings. On July 24, 2013, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'A-' counterparty credit and insurer financial strength ratings on Noridian Mutual Insurance Co. (d/b/a Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota). The outlook is stable. The ratings reflect our view of Noridian's strong