United Fire Group reports Q2 EPS (7c) vs ($2.27) last year

Reports Q2 revenue $301.2M, one estimate $300.8M.Our second quarter results reflect continued progress in our efforts to deliver improved performance through the strategic execution of our business plan,” said UFG President and CEO Kevin Leidwinger. “The quarter was marked by continued premium growth, lower underlying loss ratio, neutral prior period development and increased investment income. “Net written premiums grew 9% to $326.1 million, led by ongoing growth in our core commercial and assumed reinsurance business units. Core commercial growth remained steady with average renewal premium increases of 12.3%, healthy retention and attractive new business opportunities reflecting our continued focus on profitability. Rate increases accelerated to 9.8% with all liability lines increasing in the second quarter and improving margins above loss cost trends. “The second quarter GAAP combined ratio of 105.6% improved significantly over prior year, primarily due to lower prior period reserve development and decreases in catastrophe and underlying combined ratios. “Prior period reserve development in the second quarter was neutral overall. Consistent with the first quarter, favorable emergence across several lines of business enabled us to further reinforce our position against the future inflationary uncertainty challenging our industry in certain liability lines. Loss emergence remains within our expectations, and we believe these proactive steps are a prudent measure to mitigate the impact of a potential further acceleration in severity trends.