Suncorp Group (ASX:SUN) will benefit from reduced earnings volatility and improved capital efficiency following its new five-year aggregate reinsurance program, though growth forecasts have been modestly revised lower, Jefferies said in an April 24 note.
Jefferies noted that the new reinsurance program, starting June 30, provides AU$800 million in annual catastrophe protection and up to AU$2.4 billion over five years, capping natural hazard costs at budgeted levels in about 90% of scenarios and reducing earnings volatility from extreme weather.
The equity research firm said that the company's revised framework raises its fiscal 2027 natural hazard allowance to AU$1.85 billion and ties it to exposure growth following a AU$453 million first-half 2026 overrun, with the impact broadly neutral.
The research firm stated that, despite differing economics from its peers, the company's underlying insurance trading ratio outlook remains steady at 10% to 12% at the top end of its range, with reported earnings expected to better reflect underlying performance as catastrophe volatility eases.
The research firm slightly revised its forecasts, cutting gross written premium growth to about 3% from 3.8% due to foreign exchange effects in New Zealand and updating investment income and valuation assumptions, with earnings estimates adjusted within a range of negative 3% to 1% over the forecast period.
Jefferies maintained a hold rating on Suncorp Group and raised the price target to AU$17.70 from AU$16.50.