-- CFRA, an independent research provider, has providedwith the following research alert. Analysts at CFRA have summarized their opinion as follows:
CINF posted Q1 operating EPS of $2.10 versus a $0.24 operating loss per share a year ago, matching our estimate and topping the $1.94 consensus view. Results reflected 12% higher operating revenues driven by 11% premium growth and 14% higher net investment income, with written premium growth of 7% likely at the upper end of peer averages. We believe CINF's competitive strengths include its facile underwriting style and ability to allocate underwriting capital to areas with the most promising fundamentals, positioning it well despite increasingly competitive market conditions. Management will provide more color on current market conditions during tomorrow's investor call. The property-casualty insurance market is at a turning point. Property Lines are becoming more price-competitive after years of significant rate hikes, while Casualty Lines pricing remains strong due to high claim costs and climate-related weather volatility affecting Personal Lines profitability.