10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2018

ARCH CAPITAL GROUP LTD. Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2018

Filed November 9, 2018For Securities:ACGLACGLNACGLO

Summary

Arch Capital Group Ltd. (ACGL) reported its third-quarter 2018 financial results, showcasing a return to profitability after a loss in the prior year's quarter. Net income available to common shareholders was $217.0 million, a significant improvement from a net loss of $52.8 million in the third quarter of 2017. This turnaround was driven by strong performance across its insurance, reinsurance, and mortgage segments, particularly benefiting from lower losses and loss adjustment expenses compared to the previous year, which was impacted by significant catastrophe events. The company's book value per share increased to $21.15, reflecting continued growth in shareholder value. Investments generated a positive, albeit modest, total return for the quarter, influenced by rising interest rates which impacted fixed-income portfolios. The company continued its share repurchase program, demonstrating a commitment to returning capital to shareholders. Management highlighted the disciplined underwriting strategy and favorable market conditions in certain segments, like mortgage insurance, as key drivers for future performance. Despite ongoing competitive market conditions, Arch Capital remains focused on profitable growth and maintaining its strong financial position.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$1.40B
Interest Expense$29.73M
Net Income$227.41M
EPS (Basic)$0.54
EPS (Diluted)$0.53
Shares Outstanding (Basic)402.94M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)411.72M

Key Highlights

  • 1Arch Capital Group Ltd. reported a net income of $217.0 million for the third quarter of 2018, a significant improvement from a net loss of $52.8 million in the same period of 2017.
  • 2Book value per share grew to $21.15 as of September 30, 2018, up from $20.30 at December 31, 2017, indicating growth in shareholder equity.
  • 3The company's Operating Return on Average Common Equity (Operating ROAE) was 11.4% for Q3 2018, a substantial increase from -5.3% in Q3 2017, demonstrating improved operational profitability.
  • 4Total investments grew to $19.59 billion (excluding the 'other' segment), with a positive total return of 0.31% for the quarter, although slightly below its benchmark.
  • 5The mortgage segment showed robust underwriting income, with a loss ratio of 3.2% for the quarter, reflecting strong performance and favorable market conditions.
  • 6Losses and loss adjustment expenses decreased significantly year-over-year across segments, from $1.05 billion in Q3 2017 to $0.70 billion in Q3 2018, indicating improved underwriting performance and reduced impact from prior year catastrophes.
  • 7The company repurchased approximately $184.5 million of its common shares during the first nine months of 2018, continuing its capital return strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arch Capital reported a net income of $217.0 million for the third quarter of 2018, a significant improvement from a net loss of $52.8 million in the third quarter of 2017. This turnaround was driven by lower losses and loss adjustment expenses, and improved underwriting results across its segments.

The company's investment portfolio generated a total return of 0.31% for the third quarter of 2018. This performance was influenced by rising interest rates, which negatively impacted the fair value of fixed-income securities, and modest returns on equities.

The improved results are primarily attributed to a decrease in losses and loss adjustment expenses compared to the prior year, which was heavily impacted by major catastrophe events. Additionally, strong underwriting performance, particularly in the mortgage segment, and disciplined risk management contributed to the positive financial outcome. Favorable market conditions in the mortgage insurance sector also played a role.

Yes, Arch Capital continued its share repurchase program, repurchasing $184.5 million of its common shares during the first nine months of 2018. The company also has an authorized remaining repurchase amount of $262.0 million available under its program.