Argo Group Provides Preliminary Loss Estimate for the Christchurch, New Zealand Earthquake

Argo Group International Holdings, Ltd. AGII announced today its preliminary pre-tax loss estimate for the February 22, 2011, earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand is in the range of $35 million to $45 million, net of reinsurance and reinstatement premiums.

Additionally, Argo Group is in the process of assessing its exposure to the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck the northeast coast of Japan on March 11, 2011. The company is reviewing exposures from in force contracts in both its insurance and reinsurance businesses, but believes based on the limited available information and the significant uncertainties regarding the extent and nature of the damages resulting from the events it is too early to issue an estimate at this time.