Assurant(US:AIZ)2025-11-05 14:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, the company achieved 13% adjusted EBITDA growth and 15% adjusted EPS growth, both excluding reportable catastrophes [4][5] - The full-year adjusted EPS growth is now expected to be in the low double digits, with adjusted EBITDA growth approaching 10%, a significant increase from initial expectations [5][25] - The liquidity position at the end of the quarter was $613 million, allowing for continued investment and shareholder returns [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global Lifestyle adjusted EBITDA increased 12% year-over-year, driven by double-digit growth in Connected Living and Global Automotive [19] - In Connected Living, earnings increased 11%, supported by a new card benefits program and subscriber growth in mobile with 2.1 million net additions year-over-year [19][20] - Global Housing's adjusted EBITDA was $256 million, with a 13% increase excluding catastrophes, benefiting from favorable non-catastrophe loss experience and strong lender-placed results [22][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company continues to see strong performance in the housing market, with an 8% year-over-year increase in policy counts, driven by favorable market conditions [66] - The voluntary market has hardened, contributing to policy growth and improved placement rates [66] - The company has maintained a strong market position in lender-placed insurance, holding over 60% market share [63] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding offerings and increasing attachment rates with existing partners while prioritizing investments in core markets [16] - Strategic investments in technology and operational efficiencies are expected to drive improved margins and customer experiences [12][14] - The company plans to launch a new program in an adjacent business in early 2026, which is anticipated to create long-term growth opportunities [79] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to continue creating value for stakeholders, driven by strong momentum across Global Lifestyle and Global Housing [17][28] - The company is well-positioned for future growth, with expectations of continued expansion in 2025 across its global housing, Connected Living, and global automotive businesses [15][16] - Management acknowledged the potential impact of a softening housing market but noted that the company could benefit from countercyclical trends [36] Other Important Information - The company returned $122 million to shareholders in Q3, including $81 million in share repurchases and $41 million in dividends [23] - The company completed the issuance of $300 million in senior notes, demonstrating strong demand for its investment-grade bonds [23][24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you expand on the strong pipeline in housing? - Management noted strong momentum across housing, with significant investments in technology and operational capabilities leading to growth opportunities [32] Question: Is the improved loss performance in Global Auto sustainable? - Management expressed satisfaction with the stable loss performance and improvements in vehicle service contracts, indicating a positive outlook [34] Question: How might a softening housing market affect top-line prospects? - Management acknowledged the benefits from a challenging voluntary market but indicated that a downturn could lead to increased placement rates [36] Question: What impact are the new partnerships in Connected Living expected to have? - Management indicated that the reverse logistics and Geek Squad deals will begin contributing in 2026, with ongoing investments expected to positively impact EBITDA [47] Question: How does the company plan to approach capital deployment in 2026? - Management highlighted a balanced approach to capital deployment, with expectations for continued investments in organic growth and M&A opportunities [50][52] Question: What are the notable drivers supporting recent housing results? - Management ranked policy growth as the primary driver, followed by placement rates and AIV increases, indicating a strong outlook for continued growth [65]