Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Underwriting profit increased from $9 million in 2024 to $67 million in 2025, marking a significant improvement [6] - Net investment income grew by nearly 20%, contributing to the overall financial performance [6] - Full-year operating earnings per share improved by 80%, reaching $4.60, while book value per share increased by more than $6 [6][10] - Full-year net written premium rose by 9% to over $1.3 billion, driven by record new business production and strong retention [7] - The annual combined ratio improved to 94.8%, reflecting ongoing enhancements in the underlying loss ratio and expense ratio [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Growth in net written premium was strongest in the core commercial business, which includes small business, middle market, and construction [12] - Specialty E&S net written premium experienced double-digit growth in both the fourth quarter and full year [15] - The surety business also delivered double-digit net written premium growth for the quarter and full year [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Rate increases moderated to 4.8% for the quarter, indicating a more competitive environment, particularly in property lines [13] - Casualty lines experienced modest impacts, with umbrella lines returning to double-digit increases [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has focused on deepening underwriting expertise and enhancing actuarial insights to attract a broader customer base [5] - Strategic investments in technology are aimed at improving operational efficiency and expanding underwriting capabilities [8] - The company is positioned to deliver continued profitable growth as a disciplined, solution-oriented underwriting company [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the sustainability of improved profitability and the ability to navigate competitive market dynamics [26] - The company anticipates continued attractive business opportunities despite increased competition [35] - Management highlighted the importance of disciplined underwriting and maintaining a conservative reserve posture to protect the balance sheet [17] Other Important Information - The board of directors declared a 25% increase in the quarterly cash dividend from $0.16 to $0.20 per share [11] - The company reported a strong capital position, allowing for flexibility in capital management and shareholder returns [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Current pricing expectations in a competitive market - Management noted that while the market is more competitive, they are still achieving positive rates and will maintain disciplined risk selection to navigate the environment [26] Question: Long-term target for underwriting expense ratio - The target run rate for the expense ratio is around 35%, with expectations for gradual reduction over time as growth continues [30][31] Question: Margin compression in the assumed insurance business - Management acknowledged increased competition affecting rates and terms but emphasized their commitment to disciplined underwriting and long-term relationships [34] Question: Profitability dynamics in the other liability line - Management indicated pressure on profitability in the umbrella line due to large losses but is taking a conservative approach to pricing and reserves [36][39]