The ratings of Ameriprise Financial Group reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, favorable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM). The balance sheet metrics for the RiverSource-grouped companies remain supportive of the very strong balance sheet strength assessment. On an enterprise level, the group has taken various steps to de-risk the balance sheet from interest rate volatility, and this has been accomplished primarily in the medium term through reinsurance. AM Best views the capabilities of Ameriprise's mature risk management program supportive of this strategy. The group's operating metrics include a return on equity well above industry averages at nearly 50% (excluding unlocking) and margins on a statutory reporting basis that reflect the strength of the group's operating performance.