Which of these is NOT considered advertising?

The choice indicating that an AM Best company rating is not considered advertising is accurate because it pertains to information that is generally categorized as a rating service assessment rather than promotional material. AM Best provides independent ratings of insurance companies based on their financial stability and creditworthiness. Such ratings serve as informative tools for consumers and agents alike, aiding them in making informed decisions regarding the reliability of an insurer.

In contrast, items such as policy illustrations and direct mailings are designed specifically to promote insurance products and influence potential customers to purchase. Similarly, an agent's oral sales presentation is a direct method of conveying product information with the intent of securing a sale, which fundamentally aligns with advertising activities. Therefore, the AM Best rating’s nature as an evaluative metric, rather than a promotional effort, solidifies its classification as something other than advertising.