A.M. Best Affirms Ratings Of Validus Reinsurance, Ltd. And Validus Holdings, Ltd.

Rating factors that could lead to a positive outlook or rating upgrades would be the continuation of Validus Re’s long-term, consistently strong operating profitability relative to its peer group and maintaining strong risk-adjusted capital levels. The rating factors that could lead to a negative outlook or rating downgrades include outsized catastrophe or investment losses relative to the organization’s peer group, unfavorable operating profitability trends and a significant decline in risk-adjusted capital that would not be supportive of the current rating level.

The following debt rating has been affirmed:

Validus Holdings, Ltd.—

-- “bbb” on $250 million 8.875% senior unsecured notes, due January 2040

The following indicative ratings for securities available under the shelf registration have been affirmed:

Validus Holdings, Ltd.—

-- “bbb” on senior unsecured debt

-- “bbb-” on subordinated debt

-- “bb+” on preferred stock

The methodology used in determining these ratings is Best’s Credit Rating Methodology, which provides a comprehensive explanation of A.M. Best’s rating process and contains the different rating criteria employed in the rating process. Key criteria utilized include: “Risk Management and the Rating Process for Insurance Companies”; “Understanding Universal BCAR”; “Catastrophe Analysis in A.M. Best Ratings”; “Insurance Holding Company and Debt Ratings”; and “Rating Members of Insurance Groups.” Best’s Credit Rating Methodology can be found at www.ambest.com/ratings/methodology.

Founded in 1899, A.M. Best Company is the world’s oldest and most authoritative insurance rating and information source. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

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Copyright Business Wire 2010

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