International General Insurance(IGIC) - 2024 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a growth in book value per share of almost 20% and over 24% when including dividends [11] - The combined ratio for Q4 was 77.8% and for the full year was just under 80% [19][29] - Record net income of $135.2 million for the full year, up almost 15% from the prior year [35] - Core operating income reached a record$ 40.9 million in Q4 and $144.8 million for the full year [36][40] - Total assets increased by almost 11% to over$ 2 billion [37] - Total equity increased by 21.1% to over $650 million [38] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gross premiums in the short tail segment were up marginally in Q4 and up just shy of 3% for the full year [30] - The reinsurance segment saw gross premiums up more than 36% for the full year [32] - The long tail segment experienced a contraction of about 1.5% points in Q4 and almost 10 points for the full year [33] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company entered new markets, notably the U.S., and expanded its underwriting portfolio significantly [14][23] - The U.S. market remains a key growth area, with gross premiums of just over$ 120 million written in 2024 [55][56] - The European market dynamics are relationship-driven, requiring longer penetration times [56] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain a disciplined approach to underwriting, focusing on bottom-line profitability [28][72] - There is a commitment to finding new business opportunities while adhering to risk appetites [70][72] - The company has established a presence at Lloyd's in London to enhance marketing activities [25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a challenging start to 2025 with elevated loss activity, particularly in short tail and reinsurance lines [46] - There are signs of rate stabilization in some long tail lines, although the overall environment remains competitive [46][47] - The company is confident in its ability to navigate market challenges and continue delivering value to shareholders [60][62] Other Important Information - The company repurchased more than 220,000 common shares in Q4, with approximately 2.3 million shares remaining under the repurchase authorization [39] - The company has maintained a strong cultural integrity despite rapid growth [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on competitive environment and growth opportunities - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline and risk appetite while seeking growth opportunities [68][70] Question: Impact of California wildfire losses on growth appetite - Management stated it is too early to determine the long-term impact on reinsurance pricing but remains open to opportunities if conditions improve [76][78] Question: Core loss ratio performance compared to peers - Management attributed better performance to disciplined underwriting and a focus on bottom-line profitability [87][90] Question: Pricing environment in various markets - Management noted that while competition is increasing, there are still areas with rate adequacy, particularly in construction and engineering [101][102]