Progressive's January Earnings Increase Y/Y on Higher Premiums

Core Insights - The Progressive Corporation (PGR) reported earnings per share of $1.98 for January 2026, reflecting a 4% year-over-year increase driven by higher revenues and investment income, despite rising expenses [1][7] Financial Performance - Total revenues for Progressive reached $7.5 billion, marking a 5.3% increase year over year, attributed to a 5% rise in premiums and a 16% increase in investment income [3][7] - Net premiums written were $6.7 billion, up 4% from $6.5 billion in the same month last year, while net premiums earned rose 5% to approximately $6.9 billion [2] - The combined ratio deteriorated by 30 basis points year over year to 84.4, indicating a slight increase in claims and expenses relative to premiums [2] Policy Growth - Policies in force (PIF) in the Vehicle business increased significantly, with Personal Auto segment policies rising 10% to 37.6 million and Direct Auto policies improving 14% to 16.1 million [4] - The Property business also saw growth, with 3.6 million policies in force, up 3% year over year [5] Investment Metrics - The book value per share increased by 16.4% to $53.24 as of January 31, 2026, compared to $45.75 a year earlier [5] - The return on equity for the trailing 12 months was 38.9%, up 130 basis points from 37.6% in January 2025 [5] - The debt-to-total-capital ratio improved by 230 basis points year over year to 18.1 as of January 31, 2026 [5] Market Performance - Progressive shares have experienced a decline of 24.6% over the past year, contrasting with the industry's growth of 3.5% [6]