TWFG, Inc.(TWFG) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue grew by 16.6% to $53.8 million, with organic revenue growth of 14.3% [4][13] - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 35.3% year over year to$ 12.2 million, with adjusted EBITDA margin expanding to 22.6% from 19.5% [16] - Net income for the quarter was $6.9 million, up 3.4% year over year, while adjusted net income rose 14.3% to$ 9.2 million [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total written premiums rose by 15.5% to $371 million, with insurance services growing by 14.7% and TWFG MGA increasing by 20.1% [10][12] - New business growth was 26% or$ 18.4 million, while renewal business growth was 12.5% or $31.3 million [11] - The retention rate for written premiums decreased to 88% from 94% in the prior year period [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The personal lines market is softening, with stable carrier capacity in most regions [6] - The private passenger auto market has normalized, with expectations of moderate rate increases in 2025 [7] - Retention rates have normalized to the historic average of 88% as markets open up for growth [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its national footprint, investing in agent success, and maintaining operational efficiency [19] - TWFG has a robust M&A pipeline and plans to continue investing in growth opportunities [19] - The company is adjusting its 2025 guidance upward, expecting organic revenue growth of 12% to 16% and total revenues between$ 240 million and $255 million [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating macroeconomic uncertainties and highlighted increased demand for insurance options [18] - The company is well-positioned to support clients through economic transitions, emphasizing the value of a trusted local adviser [18] - Future public company expenses are anticipated as the company complies with long-term obligations [21] Other Important Information - The company added 17 new branch locations during the quarter and completed two corporate acquisitions [5] - Interest income has been moved from the revenue line to other income for better comparability [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Are the first quarter expenses fully loaded for public company costs? - Management indicated that future public company expenses will arise as compliance requirements evolve [21] Question: What gives comfort that retention has bottomed out? - Management noted that the 88% retention rate aligns with their long-term average and is supported by market conditions [24] Question: How are commission rates characterized in the quarter? - Management described commission rates as stabilizing, with potential upward skew due to new business incentives [31] Question: Was the 17 branch additions a gross or net number? - Management confirmed that the 17 additions were gross and higher than pre-disruption averages [35] Question: Is there a specific revenue or EBITDA contribution from acquisitions in the guidance? - Management stated that the guidance reflects the original analyst model, with confidence in achieving projected results from acquisitions [36] Question: Why does TWFG's agent onboarding take longer compared to others? - Management explained that agents often come from captive relationships and face non-compete clauses, requiring time to build a client base [44] Question: How significant is the addition of GEICO to the portfolio? - Management emphasized that GEICO provides favorable pricing and commission rates, enhancing retention and stability in the market [50] Question: What is the outlook for the Texas homeowners market? - Management expects favorable conditions in Texas, with improved capacity and economic conditions [70]