W. R. Berkley Q4 2024 Earnings Report
Key Takeaways
W. R. Berkley Corporation reported a strong fourth quarter and full year for 2024, characterized by record operating income and a high return on equity. The company's net income for the fourth quarter increased by 45.0% to $576 million, and operating income rose by 15.5% to $453 million. The company's full year results were highlighted by record net income, with outstanding underwriting performance and net investment income, culminating in a 23.6% return on beginning of year equity.
Return on equity and operating return on equity were 30.9% and 24.3%, respectively, for the fourth quarter.
Net income increased 45.0% to $576 million, and operating income increased 15.5% to a record $453 million in Q4.
The current accident year combined ratio before catastrophe losses was 87.7%, and the reported combined ratio was 90.2%.
Operating cash flow increased 16.0% to $810.0 million for the quarter.
W. R. Berkley
W. R. Berkley
Forward Guidance
The Company anticipates ongoing success for its shareholders in 2025. The current property and casualty (re)insurance and investment environments remain favorable to our business model. The Company is confident in its ability to deliver superior long-term risk-adjusted returns and enhanced shareholder value in 2025 and beyond.
Positive Outlook
- Favorable property and casualty (re)insurance environment
- Positive investment environment
- Ability to deliver superior long-term risk-adjusted returns
- Potential for enhanced shareholder value
- Strong financial records in 2024
Challenges Ahead
- Cyclical nature of the property casualty industry
- Significant competition, including new entrants to the industry
- Long-tail and potentially volatile nature of the insurance and reinsurance business
- Investment risks, including those of our portfolio of fixed maturity securities and investments in equity securities
- Natural and man-made catastrophic losses, including as a result of terrorist activities