White Mountains Q4 2024 Earnings Report
Key Takeaways
White Mountains reported a decrease in book value per share and adjusted book value per share in Q4 2024, primarily due to mark-to-market declines in its investment portfolio, including MediaAlpha. However, the company saw growth in gross written premiums at Ark and Bamboo, and Kudu's portfolio surpassed $1 billion. The company had undeployed capital of approximately $700 million.
ABVPS decreased by 3% in Q4, mainly due to investment portfolio declines, including MediaAlpha.
Ark produced a 77% combined ratio and $264 million in gross written premiums, up 14% year-over-year.
Bamboo had a strong quarter with managed premiums and adjusted EBITDA up significantly year-over-year.
MediaAlpha's share price declined 38% in the quarter, resulting in a $122 million mark-to-market loss.
White Mountains
White Mountains
White Mountains Revenue by Segment
Forward Guidance
White Mountains anticipates continued growth in 2025, particularly for Bamboo, although the immediate focus is on supporting policyholders impacted by the wildfires in Los Angeles. Ark sees opportunities for profitable growth in 2025 despite a moderating rate environment.
Positive Outlook
- Ark anticipates profitable growth opportunities in 2025.
- Bamboo expects continued growth in 2025.
- Kudu continues to pursue a robust pipeline in 2025.
- HG Global recorded a strong quarter with a record quarter for par value assumed.
- Full year gross written premiums at Ark were $2.2 billion, up 16% year-over-year.
Challenges Ahead
- MediaAlpha's share price decline produced a $122 million mark-to-market loss.
- Kudu had a tough quarter, impacted by rising interest rates and a strengthening dollar.
- Bamboo has exposure to the recent California wildfires.
- The California wildfires represent a significant industry loss event in the first quarter of 2025.
- Returns were impacted by rising interest rates and related mark-to-market losses.