A.M. Best upgraded the issuer credit ratings (ICR) to "bbb" from "bbb-" of FBL Financial. Subsequently, the rating agency upgraded the financial strength rating to A (Excellent) from A- (Excellent) and the ICR to "a" from "a-" of Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company, its primary operating subsidiary. The ratings carry a stable outlook. Rating affirmations or upgrades from credit rating agencies play an important role in retaining investors' confidence in the stock as well as maintaining creditworthiness in the market. The recent upgrade hence instills further optimism and will help it write more business, going forward.