Last year’s uncertainty drove investors to safe-haven assets early in the year. So far, though, 2025 doesn’t have anything on 2026. For anyone who missed the numerous news alerts, the US captured Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro over the weekend in a raid that reportedly killed dozens and may lead to a long-term restructuring of oil markets. In comments since Maduro’s arrest, President Trump and officials in his administration alluded to a takeover of Greenland, territory controlled by a NATO ally, and ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income from continuing operations of $9 million, or $0.18 per diluted share, with adjusted net operating income of $9.1 million, or $0.19 per share for Q1 2025 [17] - The annualized operating return on common tangible equity was 11.5%, and tangible common book value per share increased to $7.11, reflecting a growth of 6.6% [10][17] - The first quarter combined ratio was 99.5%, driven by a loss ratio of 66.8%, which is largely unchanged from 66.4% a year ago [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The E and S segment produced a combined ratio of 91.5% for Q1, with $11.7 million of underwriting income, indicating a solid start to the year [13] - New and renewal submissions in the E and S segment grew by 6%, establishing a new quarterly record of over 91,000 submissions [10] - The Specialty Admitted segment saw gross written premiums decline by 21% compared to the prior year quarter, primarily due to a reduction in primary commercial auto exposure [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a 26% growth in submissions for environmental insurance, 18% for manufacturers, and 10% for small business, driving strong premium growth [10] - Renewal rates for the E and S segment increased by 7.8%, with several divisions experiencing double-digit increases [11] - The average premium size declined by 8.4% per policy compared to the prior year quarter, with specific divisions like life sciences seeing a 23% decline [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on long-term stability and profitability, particularly in the E and S business, while actively managing risks and expenses [5][16] - There is an emphasis on profitability and efficiency, with initiatives underway to grow the E and S book profitably [32] - The company is transitioning its holding company from Bermuda to the United States, which is expected to reduce the effective tax rate and result in significant expense savings [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while global headlines are focused on market volatility and economic uncertainty, the company remains well-positioned due to its focus on U.S.-based SME insurance [6] - The company is monitoring new administration policy changes and their potential impact on business [6] - Management expressed confidence in the stability of recently underwritten quarters and the conservative approach taken in underwriting [18] Other Important Information - The company concluded a post-close purchase price adjustment process for its former Bermuda reinsurance segment, resulting in a minor downward adjustment of approximately $500,000 [8] - The impending retirement of the E and S segment leader was announced, with Todd Sutherland set to succeed him [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: March premium growth and focus on smaller accounts - Management confirmed that they will continue to manage the portfolio actively and aim for profitable growth in the E and S book, utilizing technology for efficiency [32] Question: Visibility around E and S reinsurance program pricing - Management indicated that they will provide updates on the reinsurance program in the next quarter [34] Question: Update on claims in construction in Florida - Management noted elevated claim activity in Florida but observed a decrease in severity over the last twelve months [38][39] Question: Moving pieces in Specialty Admitted premiums - Management explained the decline in premiums was due to the runoff from individual risk workers' comp business and the focus on reducing exposure in the fronting market [47] Question: Economic proposition of the Specialty Admitted business - Management stated that the fronting business is deal-driven and will continue to evaluate its scale and profitability [52][53]