International General Insurance(US:IGIC)2022-03-04 20:10Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong fourth quarter, with gross premiums growing by over 16% year-over-year, reaching over $545 million for the full year 2021 [8][21] - Core operating earnings return on average equity was 13.7% for Q4 and 13.6% for the full year [8][35] - Book value per share increased by 5.2% year-over-year, totaling $8.83 at year-end [35] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Short-tail segment, gross premiums grew by 18.7% for the full year, primarily in energy, property, and engineering lines [22] - The Long-tail segment saw a 13.8% increase in gross written premiums, driven by professional indemnity and D&O business [22] - The treaty reinsurance book reported gross premiums of $4 million for Q4 and $24 million for the full year, marking increases of 42.9% and 24.4% respectively [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. market saw a 50% increase in premiums written in 2021 compared to 2020, with expectations for continued growth in 2022 [21][36] - In Europe, significant opportunities are anticipated, particularly in long-tail lines, with expected gross written premium production of around $25 million in 2022 [37][38] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue being a responsible steward of shareholders' capital while building on its solid foundation for future growth [16][44] - The growth strategy has been entirely organic and tightly controlled, focusing on core strengths and capabilities [43][44] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's future, highlighting the importance of navigating market cycles effectively [45] - The ongoing situation in Ukraine is being monitored closely, with potential impacts on the energy book, though these are not expected to be material [41][42] Other Important Information - The company reported record net underwriting income of $30.6 million for Q4 and $105.8 million for the full year 2021 [25] - General and administrative expenses increased due to new hires and technology investments, with a focus on managing these costs as the company grows [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Exposure to Russia and Ukraine - Management elaborated that exposure is mainly on the energy side, with physical damage and business interruption risks related to property engineering [48][49] Question: Real estate write-down in Lebanon - The remaining value from Lebanese real estate is about $5.7 million, with the rest predominantly from the head office in Amman, Jordan [50][51] Question: Catastrophe losses related to European flooding - Net losses from European floods currently stand at about $8.5 million, which is within expectations for the overall portfolio [52]