A.M. Best Affirms Ratings Of Argo Group
A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating [FSR] of A [Excellent] and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings of “a” of Bermuda-based Argo Re Ltd. and its subsidiaries.
A.M. Best also has affirmed the Long-Term ICR of “bbb” and the Long-Term Issue Credit Ratings of the parent holding company, Argo Group International Holdings, Ltd.
Concurrently, A.M. Best has affirmed the Long-Term ICR of “bbb” and the Long-Term IR of “bbb” on $143.75 million 6.5% senior unsecured notes due 2042 of Argo Group US, Inc. These senior notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Argo Group. The outlook of these Credit Ratings is stable.
A statement from the ratings agency said, “The rating affirmations reflect Argo Re’s solid capitalization, historically strong operating performance and robust enterprise risk management program. The ratings also reflect the diversified insurance and reinsurance platforms within the Argo group of companies and the financial flexibility afforded by its publicly traded parent, Argo Group.
“Argo Group announced its acquisition of Ariel Re [Holdings] Limited [Ariel Re] on Nov. 13, 2016, for $235 million in cash. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2017. The potential effect of the transaction and the related integration plans were considered in the rating decision.
“These positive rating factors are partially offset by execution risk related to international expansion, and in particular, the future integration of Ariel Re. Also partially offsetting the rating strengths is potential volatility in the group’s underwriting results due to weather-related losses, as well as competitive pressures and the effects from sluggish economic conditions, which includes low investment yields.
“Argo Re utilizes demonstrated product expertise in niche focus areas, proven solid underwriting fundamentals across numerous lines of coverage and a strong business profile focused on writing surplus lines and specialty commercial business. These are managed holistically with respect to capital, investment strategy and market presence. The acquisition of Ariel Re is expected to enhance the group’s presence in the Lloyd’s market.
“Key drivers that could lead to upward movement in the ratings over the long term would be the ability to further enhance the underwriting and operating results of Argo Re with an accompanying increase in risk-adjusted capital.
?Downward pressure on the ratings or a revision of the rating outlooks to negative could result if there is material deterioration in the organization’s underwriting performance due to material adverse loss reserve development or outsized losses in relation to its peer group that results in a material decline in risk-adjusted capital.”
