During the first nine months of 2025, QBE reported a 6% increase in gross written premiums, totaling $18.6 billion. However, the momentum observed in the first half of the year did not carry into the third quarter, particularly within the business property insurance sector. The group premium rate increase stood at 1.5% year-to-date, falling short of earlier performance metrics.
In response to these developments, QBE announced a A$450 million share buyback plan. Despite this initiative, investor concerns persisted, leading to the company's shares dropping as much as 5.9% to A$18.62. This decline positioned QBE among the worst-performing stocks on the ASX 200 index on that day.
Investment specialist Greg Smith noted that the market's reaction was influenced by the deceleration in premium increases. He highlighted that insurers had become accustomed to robust premium growth, and the recent slowdown has raised questions about future profitability.
Despite these challenges, QBE maintained its forecast for a combined operating ratio of around 92.5% for fiscal 2026, indicating continued underwriting profitability. This metric suggests that the company expects to earn more in premiums than it pays out in claims, a positive sign for its financial health.
It's also noteworthy that other insurers are facing similar challenges. For instance, Suncorp reported an estimated A$350 million net cost from severe storms in Queensland and northern New South Wales, leading to a share price decline of over 3%.
For small to medium business owners and self-employed professionals, these developments underscore the importance of staying informed about the financial health of their insurers. A slowdown in premium growth could lead to changes in policy terms, premium rates, and the availability of certain types of coverage. Businesses should regularly review their insurance policies, compare offerings from different providers, and consult with insurance brokers to ensure they have adequate and cost-effective coverage.
In conclusion, while QBE's recent market performance reflects broader trends in the insurance industry, it also serves as a reminder for businesses to proactively manage their insurance needs in a dynamic market environment.
