Swiss Re Outpaces Expectations with Strategic Renewals and Diminished Catastrophe Claims

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

Compared to the previous year's net income of $US1.8 billion ($2.65 billion), this year's results showcased substantial growth. Reduced losses from large natural catastrophes - an outcome greatly influenced by Tropical Cyclone Megan in northern Australia and the Noto earthquake in Japan - were a key factor. Catastrophe losses dropped dramatically to $US138 million ($203.03 million) from the previous $US634 million ($932.76 million).

In the property and casualty reinsurance space, July's renewal period brought positive news with an overall price hike of 8% applicable to $US4.5 billion ($6.63 billion) of renewed treaty premium volumes. This renewal represented a 7% volume increase relative to the preceding renewal period. Swiss Re attributes part of its success to a cautious stance on inflation along with updated loss models, which raised loss assumptions by 10%.

Group CEO Andreas Berger affirmed the company's trajectory towards achieving its full-year target of net income surpassing $US3.6 billion ($5.3 billion). "Our strong first-half performance sets a robust foundation for meeting our 2024 targets. Despite macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges, we remain committed to disciplined underwriting to ensure portfolio resilience and consistent results," Berger stated.

Swiss Re's property and casualty reinsurance division reported a net income of $989 million ($1.46 billion), significantly benefiting from the decrease in large natural catastrophe claims. The division's revenue reached $9.8 billion ($14.42 billion) with a combined operating ratio of 84.5%, setting the target for the full-year ratio below 87%.

Swiss Re Corporate Solutions, the commercial insurance sector of the company, achieved a net income of $435 million ($640.18 million), alongside insurance revenue of $3.8 billion ($5.59 billion), and a combined operating ratio of 88.7%.

In the life and health reinsurance domain, net income was $883 million ($1.3 billion), bolstered by a positive United States mortality experience and an uptick in investment income.

Published:Tuesday, 17th Sep 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Federal Court Denies Truck Driver's Insurance Appeal

25 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

In a recent legal development, the Federal Court of Australia dismissed an appeal by Bradley Henschke, a logging truck driver, concerning his insurance claim against the Australian Retirement Trust. The court's decision, delivered on February 12, 2026, underscores the critical importance of active insurance coverage for workers in high-risk occupations. - read more

Heightened Road Risks Amid Holiday Freight Traffic Surge

25 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

As the Australian summer holidays approach, insurers and transport specialists are raising alarms about increased road risks due to the convergence of peak freight activity and heightened passenger vehicle travel. This period traditionally sees a surge in both freight movements and family road trips, leading to congested roads and a higher potential for accidents. - read more

InfoAgent Launches Advanced Vehicle Data Services for Heavy Trucks

25 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Australian vehicle data provider InfoAgent has unveiled two innovative services designed to deliver accurate and detailed information for heavy commercial trucks and trailers. These services aim to address critical challenges in industries such as insurance, roadside assistance, fleet management, and logistics by simplifying processes and enabling better decision-making. - read more

Rising Insurance Premiums: A Growing Concern for Australians

25 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

In recent times, Australian consumers have been grappling with substantial increases in insurance premiums, prompting widespread concern and scrutiny. Reports indicate that some policyholders have experienced premium hikes ranging from 30% to 50%, with certain cases witnessing even more significant surges. This trend has raised questions about the affordability and transparency of insurance pricing in the country. - read more

Navigating the Surge in Insurance Risks for Australian Businesses

25 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Australian businesses are currently grappling with a complex landscape of escalating insurance risks, driven by factors such as increased litigation, rapid technological advancements, supply chain disruptions, catastrophic events, and geopolitical tensions. These challenges necessitate a proactive approach to risk management and insurance coverage. - read more

Click for more Insurance News