Improved Underwriting Performance
Core combined ratio improved to 88.9% (lowest in 6 quarters) and underwriting income was $71 million, a 149% year-over-year increase; this marks the 14th consecutive quarter of underwriting profitability.
Strong Returns on Equity
Operating ROE was 15.3% (within target) and core operating ROE was 17.9% (above the 12%-15% across-cycle target); GAAP ROE was 17.4% reflecting the Arcadian sale closure.
Capital Strength and Returns to Shareholders
Estimated BSCR capital ratio of 242%; redeemed $200 million of preference shares and repurchased over $40 million of common shares in 1Q; buyback authorization increased to full $174 million (additional $74 million announced); leverage/debt-to-capital declined to ~23% (22.8%).
Balance Sheet and Book Value Improvement
Book value per diluted share excluding AOCI increased 5% sequentially to $18.98; liquidity over $1 billion and net runoff reserves reduced to under $500 million (from just over $1 billion at end of 2023).
Ratings Upgrades and Financial Strength
Financial strength ratings upgraded to 'A' by S&P, Fitch and AM Best over the past 3 months, citing consistent earnings and balance sheet strength.
Top-line Momentum in Insurance & Services
Insurance & Services gross written premium grew 8% with Accident & Health up 9%; adjusted for one-offs, both gross and net written premiums grew ~4% year-over-year; management expects full-year GWP growth of 5%–10%, weighted to second half and strong Insurance growth.
Reserving and Prior Year Development
20th consecutive quarter of favorable prior year development; favorable PYD of $32 million within core ($18 million consolidated), supporting prudent reserving narrative.
Investment Portfolio Performance
Net investment income of $66 million and total investment result of $78 million; fixed income portfolio average credit quality AA-, 99% investment grade, duration 3.1 years and reinvestment yields exceeding 4.5%.