Increase in Net Income and Operating Income
Net income was $255 million or $3.01 per share, an increase from $254 million or $2.67 per share a year ago. Net operating income increased 10% from a year ago to $259 million or $3.07 per share.
Growth in Life Insurance and Health Premiums
Life insurance premium revenue for the first quarter increased 3% to $830 million, with a life underwriting margin up 9% from a year ago. Health insurance premium revenue grew 8% to $370 million.
Strong Agent Count Growth
The average producing agent count for the first quarter increased by 3% at American Income Life and 8% at Liberty National compared to a year ago.
Commercial Mortgage Loans and Limited Partnerships Investment
Invested approximately $51 million in commercial mortgage loans and limited partnerships with expected cash returns of approximately 8.5%.