Transatlantic to review sales of its shares by AIG

AIG, which teetered on the edge of failure before accepting an emergency loan from the U.S. government, has a 59 percent common stock interest in Transatlantic.

"We believe that our ratings profile has recently been impacted by events surrounding AIG and we look forward to resolving any uncertainty that may exist about our ratings," said Transatlantic Chief Executive Robert Orlich in a statement. "We believe this is the best way to protect the interests of all stakeholders."

AIG last week signed an agreement with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York for a two-year, $85 billion emergency loan at an interest rate of about 11.5 percent. AIG was brought to the brink of failure because of stresses caused by the collapse of the subprime mortgage market and the credit crunch that ensued.

AIG said it anticipates repaying the loan with the proceeds from asset sales.

Shares of Transatlantic rose 55 cents to close at $54.19, amid a broader market sell-off.