W. R. Berkley has followed the market’s trajectory closely, rising in tandem with the S&P 500 over the past six months. The stock has climbed by 14.5% to $73.41 per share while the index has gained 16.2%.
Is now a good time to buy WRB? Find out in our full research report, it’s free.
Why Does W. R. Berkley Spark Debate?
Founded in 1967 and operating through more than 50 specialized insurance units across the globe, W. R. Berkley (NYSE: WRB) underwrites commercial insurance and reinsurance through specialized subsidiaries serving industries from healthcare to construction to transportation.
Two Positive Attributes:
1. Net Premiums Earned Skyrocket, Fueling Growth Opportunities
When insurers sell policies, they protect themselves from extremely large losses or an outsized accumulation of losses with reinsurance (insurance for insurance companies). Net premiums earned are therefore gross premiums less what’s ceded to reinsurers as a risk mitigation and transfer strategy.
W. R. Berkley’s net premiums earned has grown at a 12.7% annualized rate over the last five years, better than the broader insurance industry and in line with its total revenue.
2. Projected BVPS Growth Is Remarkable
The key to book value per share (BVPS) growth is an insurer’s ability to earn underwriting profits while generating strong returns on its float - Warren Buffet’s secret sauce.
Over the next 12 months, Consensus estimates call for W. R. Berkley’s BVPS to grow by 28.2% to $26.28, elite growth rate.
Final Judgment
W. R. Berkley’s merits more than compensate for its flaws, but at $73.41 per share (or 2.8× forward P/B), is now the right time to buy the stock? See for yourself in our in-depth research report, it’s free.
Stocks We Like Even More Than W. R. Berkley
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