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Investing.com -- Hiscox (LON:HSX) shares jumped on Wednesday after the specialist insurer raised its share buyback program to $275 million, citing strong first-half performance, particularly in its retail segment.
The London-listed group added $100 million to its existing buyback plan, reflecting solid momentum across the business.
Total (EPA:TTEF) insurance-contract written premiums rose to $2.94 billion in the first half, up from $2.78 billion a year earlier, with growth recorded across all major segments. Retail was the main driver, the company said.
The stock was up 6.8% in London as of 09:15 GMT.
Retail premiums increased 6.0% in constant currency, with all markets showing positive momentum, especially in the U.K. and the U.S.
Hiscox said it remains on track to deliver retail growth above 6% for the full year, supported by new distribution agreements and other strategic initiatives over the past year.
"Given that momentum in Retail is critical to the investment thesis, and has been the source of considerable pushback from U.K. based investors, premium growth of +6.0% in constant currency is reassuring," said Jefferies analyst Philip Kett.
Net written premiums climbed to $2.13 billion from $2.0 billion. Investment income rose to $234.9 million, benefiting from higher coupon returns and some fair value gains.
Pre-tax profit slipped slightly to $276.6 million from $283.5 million, while operating return on tangible equity dropped to 14.5% from 20.3%, with the company noting industry-wide losses from California wildfires.
Hiscox said it remains focused on profitable growth and expects continued strength in its retail business through the second half of the year.