TORONTO, March 5, 2014 /CNW/ – Stephen Smith announced that he has
purchased 143,900 common shares of Equitable Group Inc. (“Equitable Group“) at a purchase price of $52.51 per common share, including
commissions. The common shares were purchased from a third party in a
private transaction. The common shares purchased represent
approximately 0.94% of the total number of issued and outstanding
common shares of Equitable Group.

As a result of this transaction, Mr. Smith now beneficially owns,
directly or indirectly, or exercises control or direction over,
1,997,200 common shares of Equitable Group, representing approximately
13.01% of the total number of issued and outstanding common shares of
Equitable Group.

Mr. Smith’s acquisition was made for investment purposes. Mr. Smith may,
in the future, acquire ownership and control over additional securities
of Equitable Group for investment purposes.

SOURCE Stephen Smith