In a well-reasoned recent opinion, an Illinois appellate court strictly construed a cyber policy, ruling that reasonable—but contractually unnecessary—payments made by an insured following a cyberattack did not constitute insured “extra expense.”While the decision is designated as “unpublished,” it is an important decision for cyber insurers and insureds alike. Specifically, the case provides clear guidance in situations where an insured takes appropriate, but ultimately flawed, actions in response to a cyb ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted net income for Q3 2025 was $18 million, with gross written premium growing by 33% year over year to $311 million, up from $234 million in Q3 2024 [5][13] - Net written premium increased by 30% year over year to $118 million, up from $91 million in Q3 2024 [15] - Consolidated net income for Q3 was $98 million, or $3.77 per diluted share, a $107 million improvement year over year [19] - Total shareholders' equity at the end of the quarter was $422 million, up 14% from $362 million at year-end 2024 [19][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Casualty increased to 25% of gross written premium, up from 14% last year, while commercial and multi-peril increased to 21%, up from 13% [14] - Homeowners decreased from 47% of gross written premium in Q3 2024 to 32% in Q3 2025 [14] - Renters increased to 22% of net written premium, up from 10% last year, with a significant growth of 203% year over year [15][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company bound its first new policies with Westwood Insurance Agency, which is expected to triple access to annual new home closings [7] - The underwriting results improved significantly, with a net loss ratio improving by 25 percentage points year over year to 48% [9][17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on three strategic pillars: strategic diversification, unlocking market growth, and optimized risk management [6] - The introduction of a new reporting structure aligns with a unified way of managing the business, emphasizing gross and net premium by line of business [12] - The company anticipates growth in the homeowners market over the next three years, aiming for over $2 billion in premium by 2028 [31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the underwriting discipline and the ability to maintain pricing standards amid increased competition [8] - The company raised its full-year 2025 guidance for gross written premium to a range of $1.09-$1.11 billion, reflecting expectations for continued growth in newer lines of business [20] - The consolidated net loss ratio guidance was improved to a range of 63%-64%, driven by positive loss trends [21] Other Important Information - The company appointed Robin Gordon as Chief Data Officer to enhance risk management and customer experience [10] - The consolidated combined ratio improved by 28 percentage points year over year to 100% [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Growth in casualty business - Management noted that casualty growth is a combination of cyber, commercial general liability, and other lines, with a cautious approach to risk retention until profitability is established [25][26] Question: Competition in homeowners market - Management indicated that the admitted market is rebounding, leading to increased competition, but they feel confident in their pricing adequacy [27] Question: Future business mix by 2028 - Management expects to diversify further while anticipating growth in the homeowners market, aiming for over $2 billion in premium by 2028 [30][31] Question: Share repurchases and capital use - Management stated that capital will be used for portfolio growth and potential acquisitions to accelerate diversification [34]

Core Insights - Global commercial insurance rates fell by 4% in Q3 2025, marking the fifth consecutive quarterly decrease, driven by increased competition among insurers and favorable reinsurance pricing [1][3][5] - All global regions experienced year-over-year composite rate decreases, with the Pacific region seeing the largest decline at 11% [2][5] - Casualty rates increased by 3% globally, primarily due to an 8% increase in the US, while property rates declined by 8% globally [5] Summary by Category Global Insurance Market Trends - The overall composite rate in the US declined by 1% in Q3 2025, following a flat rate in Q2 2025 [2] - The trend of declining rates began in Q1 2021, reversing a seven-year period of increases [3] Regional Performance - The Pacific region experienced the largest composite rate decrease at 11%, followed by Latin America and the Caribbean (6%) and the UK (6%) [2] - Rates in Asia and India, as well as the Middle East and Africa, declined by 5% each, while Europe saw a 4% decrease and Canada a 3% decrease [2] Specific Insurance Lines - Property insurance rates declined by 8% globally, with the Pacific region experiencing a 14% decrease [5] - Financial and professional lines saw a 5% decrease globally, with the Pacific region experiencing the largest drop at 10% [5] - Cyber insurance rates decreased by 6% globally, with Europe seeing a 12% decline [5]

Core Insights - Asset managers are particularly vulnerable to cybercrime due to the sensitive data and large volumes of money they handle [1] - A survey revealed that 93% of investment management executives experienced at least one cyber incident in the past year, with nearly 20% facing multiple threats [2] Cybersecurity Risks - 88% of surveyed executives acknowledged that a successful cyberattack could lead to asset withdrawals or losses, with this figure rising to 94% among CFOs [3] - Concerns include operational disruption (63%), financial theft or fraud (47%), loss of client trust (46%), and increased insurance premiums (30%) [3] Preparedness and Response - Ransomware is the type of attack that 51% of executives feel least prepared to recover from [4] - While most leaders believe employees can recognize AI-driven threats, about one-third lack full confidence, and only 17% prioritize security awareness training in the coming year [5] Cybersecurity Spending - Over 78% of firms increased cybersecurity spending in the past year, with 88% of firms managing $101 million to $500 million in assets doing so [6] - Registered investment advisers were the least likely to increase security budgets, with only 57% doing so, and 11% significantly decreasing IT spending [6] Assessment Frequency - 41% of firms still rely on quarterly or less-frequent cybersecurity assessments, creating vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit [7]

Core Insights - Many U.S. homeowners lack essential insurance protections, creating opportunities for agents to educate clients on necessary coverages [1][4] - Homeowners often overestimate the protection offered by standard policies, highlighting the need for additional coverage for valuable items [2][3] Opportunities for Agents - Independent agents play a critical role in educating homeowners about evolving risks and coverage options [4] - After learning about umbrella coverage, two-thirds of unprotected homeowners expressed interest in obtaining it, with nearly 25% being "very interested" [5] - Customer service is crucial, with 81% of homeowners rating it as "absolutely essential" or "very important," compared to only 58% prioritizing the lowest price [5] Coverage Awareness - A significant gap exists in homeowners' awareness of various coverages; 87% had not been informed about cyber insurance, and 61% about umbrella coverage [6] - Despite high awareness of coverage for valuables (87%), only 26% of homeowners have additional coverage for them [7] - Cyber insurance has the lowest awareness at 46%, with only 7% of homeowners having coverage [9] Customer Preferences - Homeowners prefer having a single insurance company for all policies, which enhances customer service and helps identify coverage gaps [7][8] - Bundling policies can provide discounts and streamline the claims process, making it more convenient for homeowners [8]

Core Insights - A survey by The Hanover Insurance Group reveals that many U.S. homeowners lack essential insurance protections, exposing them to risks like lawsuits, cybercrime, and inflation [1][2]. Coverage Awareness - The survey assessed homeowners' understanding of four types of insurance: umbrella, cyber, valuables, and recreational vehicles, showing a significant gap between awareness and actual coverage [2]. - Only 23% of homeowners have an umbrella policy, while 66% expressed interest in obtaining one after learning about its benefits, indicating a need for better education on insurance options [2]. - Cyber insurance has the lowest awareness at 46%, with only 7% of homeowners having coverage [8]. - Awareness of valuables coverage stands at 87%, but only 26% are actually covered [8]. - Recreational vehicle insurance is known by 94% of homeowners, yet only 31% have discussed it with their insurance agents [8]. Role of Insurance Agents - The findings emphasize the critical role of independent agents in educating homeowners about their insurance needs and helping them make informed decisions [3]. - Customer service is deemed essential, with 81% of homeowners rating it as "absolutely essential" or "very important," compared to 58% prioritizing the lowest price [3]. Coverage Management - Keeping insurance coverage with a single carrier can help identify potential gaps and provide a more consistent customer service experience [4].

Summary of Hippo Conference Call - September 17, 2025 Company Overview - **Company Name**: Hippo (NYSE:HIPO) - **Industry**: Insurance, specifically a tech-enabled program carrier focusing on personal and commercial lines, with a legacy in homeowners insurance [3][4] Key Financial Metrics - **Gross Written Premium**: Approximately $950 million in the last 12 months, projected to reach $1.1 billion by the end of 2025 [4][5] - **Revenue**: $425 million in the last 12 months, expected to be between $460 million and $465 million by the end of 2025 [4][5] - **Net Income**: Achieved net income positive for the first time from net operating activities [4] - **Book Value**: $333 million as of the end of the quarter, projected to increase to about $420 million by the end of 2025 [5] Growth Projections - **Future Growth**: Expected to nearly double gross written premium from $1.1 billion to over $2 billion by 2028 [7] - **Adjusted Net Income**: Projected to quadruple from about $30 million in 2025 to more than $125 million in 2028 [7] - **Return on Equity**: Anticipated to be in the high-teens by 2028 [7] Strategic Initiatives - **Organic Growth**: Plans to grow existing programs by 10% to 15% annually, leveraging a history with managing general agents (MGAs) [9] - **New Programs**: Aiming to add $100 million to $150 million in gross written premium from new programs each year [10] - **Partnership with The Baldwin Group**: This strategic transaction will triple access to new homes closed annually, enhancing growth and underwriting profitability [11][24][25] Underwriting Approach - **Diligent Underwriting**: Reviewed over 140 program opportunities in 2024, approving only 4, which resulted in $130 million of new business [10] - **Legacy Homeowners Business**: Focused on newly constructed homes through builders, with a loss ratio significantly lower than the industry average [18][30] - **Rate Increases**: Implemented over 170 rate filings resulting in a cumulative rate increase of more than 80% [19] Risk Management - **Geographic Diversification**: Reduced concentration in high-risk areas like Harris County, Texas, and focused on states with lower catastrophic exposure [31][32] - **Portfolio Diversification**: Increased mix of commercial property and casualty lines to enhance predictability and reduce volatility [32] Market Resilience - **Interest Rate Sensitivity**: Business has shown resilience to interest rate changes, with partnerships with builders providing better mortgage terms [22][23] - **Performance in Challenging Markets**: Despite challenges in homeowners insurance, diversification into casualty and commercial lines has provided stability [32] Conclusion - **Execution Track Record**: The company has a strong history of meeting or exceeding ambitious goals set in previous investor communications [20] - **Future Outlook**: Focus on responsible growth, improved underwriting performance, and a diversified portfolio to achieve higher profitability with lower volatility [21][14]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported consolidated pretax operating income of $267.5 million for Q2 2025, an increase from $253.8 million in Q2 2024, reflecting strong growth and profitability [5] - Net operating income for the quarter was $209 million, up from $202 million year-over-year, with a per share increase of 9% from $0.76 to $0.83 [10] - The consolidated combined ratio was 93.6%, slightly up from 93.5% in the same quarter last year [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Specialty insurance net premiums earned grew by 14.6% in Q2 2025, with pretax operating income rising to $253.7 million from $202.5 million in Q2 2024 [6] - Title insurance premiums and fees earned increased by 5.2% year-over-year, but pretax operating income decreased to $24.2 million from $46 million [7][17] - The combined ratio for title insurance rose to 99% from 95.4% in the previous year, primarily due to increased legal settlement costs [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The title insurance segment faced challenges due to higher mortgage interest rates and a slow real estate market, impacting overall performance [6][17] - The company noted that commercial premiums in title insurance increased to 23% of earned premiums, up from 21% in the previous year [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to invest in new specialty underwriting subsidiaries, technology, and talent to enhance its competitive edge [8] - Management emphasized a focus on profitability in the title insurance segment despite challenging market conditions, aiming to improve the combined ratio [19][62] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the continued growth and profitability of the specialty insurance segment, supported by strong renewal retention ratios and rate increases [13][15] - The company is actively exploring AI tools and data analytics to improve decision-making and operational efficiency [58][60] Other Important Information - The company paid $71 million in regular cash dividends during the quarter and has over $200 million remaining in its current share repurchase program [12] - The annualized operating return on beginning equity improved to 14.6% from 12.1% year-over-year, reflecting effective capital management [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more detail about retention across different lines of business? - Management reported strong renewal retention ratios above 85% across all lines of business, attributing this to their value proposition focused on service rather than price [25] Question: How is the competition affecting the larger account business? - Management acknowledged increased competition but noted their focus on non-catastrophic property, which differentiates them from peers heavily involved in large catastrophic exposures [28] Question: What are your views on the title insurance rate decrease in Texas? - Management indicated that the rate decrease has not yet taken effect due to legal challenges and that they believe their rates remain adequate [38] Question: Why was there no stock repurchase in the last quarter? - Management explained that they had recently issued a special dividend and are mindful of market prices relative to book value when considering share repurchases [42][44] Question: What is the investment outlook given current cash flow and yields? - Management expects no dramatic improvements in new money rates compared to existing yields, indicating a tightening trend [46][47] Question: Can you discuss the specialty insurance segment's combined ratios? - Management expects the combined ratio to remain in the 90% to 95% range, primarily due to their focus on casualty business and conservative loss reserving [52][55] Question: How is the company implementing AI in its operations? - Management is exploring various AI tools and has hired an AI leader to enhance decision-making and efficiency through data analytics [58][60] Question: Will mortgage rates need to fall for combined ratios to improve in title insurance? - Management is actively looking for internal efficiencies to improve margins, regardless of market conditions, while aiming to bring the combined ratio below 95% [61][62]

Core Viewpoint - Markel Insurance has appointed Joanna Quigan as Senior Underwriter for Professional and Financial Risks in Melbourne, aiming to enhance its Professional Indemnity business in Australia [1][2]. Company Overview - Markel Insurance operates as a leading global specialty insurer under Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), focusing on complex specialty insurance needs with a people-first approach [5]. Appointment Details - Joanna Quigan will develop and manage underwriting strategies for both renewing and new business, particularly in Professional Indemnity, and will report to Kym Beazleigh [2][4]. - Quigan has nearly 20 years of experience in liability insurance, previously serving as Cyber Product Lead at Delta Insurance Group New Zealand [3]. Strategic Impact - The appointment of Quigan is part of Markel's strategy to strengthen its talent pool across its Australian offices, enhancing the underwriting team in Victoria [4]. - Beazleigh expressed confidence in Quigan's ability to positively impact the market with her extensive product, management, and strategic experience [4].

Financial Performance Highlights - The company achieved an all-time high quarterly operating EPS of $3.17[47] - The annualized operating return on average common equity (ROACE) reached 19.2%[13, 35, 48] - The diluted book value per share hit a record of $66.48, marking a 16.4% increase over the past 12 months[48] - The company executed $440 million in share repurchases during the first quarter of 2025[19, 44, 47] Underwriting Performance - The current accident year combined ratio, excluding catastrophes and weather, improved to 87.9%, a 1.7 percentage point improvement year-over-year[48] - The insurance segment's gross premiums written (GPW) reached $1.7 billion, a 5% increase year-over-year, representing the highest first-quarter volume for the segment[33, 47] - Reinsurance segment GPW increased by 5% year-over-year to $1.1 billion, driven by new business in Professional Lines and Credit & Surety lines[33] Strategic Focus and Portfolio - The company's total capital stands at $7.2 billion, with a debt-to-total capital ratio of 18.2%[13] - The company's gross premiums written (GPW) is $9.1 billion[13, 22] - The company aims for a G&A ratio of less than 11% by 2026 through the "How We Work" program[38]