Palomar(PLMR) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an 85% growth in adjusted net income, reaching $51.3 million or$1.87 per share compared to $27.8 million or$1.09 per share in Q1 2024 [30] - The adjusted combined ratio improved to 68.5% from 73% in the same quarter last year, indicating better underwriting performance [31] - Gross written premiums increased by 20% year over year to $442.2 million, with a 37$48 million in written premium, a 25% increase year over year, despite seasonal limitations [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted pressure in the commercial accounts market, with rate decreases of approximately 5% in small commercial accounts and 7.5% in large commercial accounts [16] - The Hawaii hurricane segment experienced an 82% growth, with new business written at rates 26% higher than the previous year [18] - The company is facing increased competition in the commercial all-risk segment, leading to significant pricing pressure [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing its strategic imperatives, including integrating and operating new acquisitions, building new market leaders, and maintaining a conservative risk appetite [7][10] - The acquisition of Advanced Ag Protection is expected to enhance the crop business and contribute to long-term growth [24] - The company aims to build a leading specialty insurance franchise with a diversified portfolio, targeting $500 million in premium for the crop business in the intermediate future [25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating economic uncertainties, noting that the insurance sector is less impacted by tariffs compared to other industries [11] - The company raised its full-year 2025 adjusted net income guidance to a range of$186 million to $200 million, reflecting strong performance and growth potential [29] - Management acknowledged that a recession could have a more significant impact on the portfolio than tariffs, but emphasized the diversity of the portfolio as a strength [13] Other Important Information - The company secured$525 million of earthquake limit through a catastrophe bond issuance, exceeding its target [26] - The net investment income for Q1 was $12.1 million, a 69.1% increase year over year, attributed to higher yields on invested assets [36] - The company is committed to investing in talent across various departments to support growth and operational efficiency [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you help us think through the flat to down five that you're assuming in your outlook? - Management indicated that all placements to date have come in better than the forecast of flat to down 5%, with a conservative approach to future placements [44] Question: Could you talk about the thought process around splitting out Laulima separately? - The decision to separate Laulima stems from the desire to establish it as an independent entity, allowing for better management and fee generation [47] Question: What sort of growth did you see in the residential and commercial sides? - Management noted strong growth in both residential and commercial segments, with residential benefiting from heightened awareness and new partnerships [52][55] Question: How much of the acceleration in the casualty book was due to market growth versus internal ramp-up? - Management stated that the acceleration was a combination of both new hires and favorable market conditions, allowing for broader distribution and service capabilities [61] Question: Are you keeping the commercial all-risk program in the portfolio? - Management confirmed that they will maintain a minimal presence in the commercial all-risk market, ready to re-enter when conditions improve [73]