Summary
Chubb Ltd. (ACE Limited at the time of this filing) presented its 2008 annual report highlighting a year marked by significant strategic moves, including its redomestication to Zurich, Switzerland, and the substantial acquisition of Combined Insurance Company of America for $2.56 billion. This acquisition significantly bolstered its Accident & Health (A&H) franchise and distribution capabilities. The company navigated a challenging economic environment, characterized by market volatility and a recession, which impacted investment performance and business exposures. Despite these headwinds, Chubb emphasized its strong capital position and global diversification as key strengths, allowing it to capitalize on market opportunities and maintain a focus on disciplined underwriting. The report also detailed the company's ongoing efforts in managing complex liabilities such as asbestos and environmental claims, alongside robust risk management strategies and a focus on maintaining strong financial strength ratings.
Financial Highlights
33 data points| Revenue | $13.63B |
| Interest Expense | $230.00M |
| Net Income | $1.20B |
| EPS (Basic) | $3.52 |
| EPS (Diluted) | $3.50 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 332.90M |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 334.61M |
Key Highlights
- 1Redomestication to Zurich, Switzerland, completed in July 2008, shifting legal jurisdiction and governance.
- 2Acquisition of Combined Insurance Company of America for $2.56 billion on April 1, 2008, significantly expanding the Accident & Health (A&H) business.
- 3Net income of $1.197 billion for 2008, down from $2.578 billion in 2007, largely due to significant net realized investment losses of $1.633 billion.
- 4Total assets stood at $72.06 billion and shareholders' equity at $14.45 billion as of December 31, 2008.
- 5Net premiums earned increased by 7% to $13.20 billion, driven by the Combined Insurance acquisition and growth in A&H business, despite a decline in casualty lines.
- 6Combined ratio improved slightly to 89.6% in 2008 from 87.9% in 2007, though this was influenced by significant catastrophe losses ($567 million pre-tax).
- 7The company actively managed its capital, including the redemption of all outstanding Preferred Shares for $575 million in June 2008.