AM Best


A.M. Best Places Ratings of Lloyd's Syndicate 1414 Under Review


CONTACTS:

Analyst(s)

Miles Trotter

+(44) 20 7626 6264

miles.trotter@ambest.com

Ali Karakuyu

+(44) 20 7626 6264

ali.karakuyu@ambest.com
Public Relations

Jim Peavy

(908) 439-2200, ext. 5644

james.peavy@ambest.com

Rachelle Striegel

+(1) 908 439 2200, ext. 5378

rachelle.striegel@ambest.com


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OLDWICK, N.J. - MAY 04, 2005 12:00 AM (EDT)
A.M. Best Co. has placed the financial strength rating of A+ (Superior) and the issuer credit rating of "aa-" of Lloyd's Syndicate 1414 under review with negative implications. The syndicate is managed by Ascot Underwriting Limited (AUL).

This action reflects today's downgrade in the ratings of American Home Assurance Company, which provides syndicate 1414 with an unconditional guarantee of payment in respect of policyholder liabilities. The American Home ratings are also under review with negative implications.

For Best's Ratings, an overview of the rating process and rating methodologies, please visit Best's Rating Center.

A.M. Best Co., established in 1899, is the world's oldest and most authoritative insurance rating and information source.


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AMB# Company Name
048930 Lloyd's Synd 1414 (Ascot Undrwr Ltd)