What Is Combined Ratio?

A comprehensive guide to understanding the Combined Ratio in insurance, including its definition, measurement, formula, and real-world examples.

The combined ratio is a key financial metric used by insurance companies to evaluate their overall underwriting performance and profitability. It measures the proportion of premiums collected that are used to pay claims and administrative costs.

Measuring the Combined Ratio

Components of the Combined Ratio

The combined ratio consists of two main components:

• Loss Ratio: This is the ratio of claims paid to premiums earned. It represents the cost of claims relative to the premiums collected.
• Expense Ratio: This is the ratio of administrative expenses to premiums earned. It reflects the cost of underwriting and servicing policies.

Combined Ratio Formula

The combined ratio is calculated using the following formula:

$$ \text{Combined Ratio} = \text{Loss Ratio} + \text{Expense Ratio} $$

Where:

$$ \text{Loss Ratio} = \frac{\text{Incurred Losses}}{\text{Earned Premiums}} $$

$$ \text{Expense Ratio} = \frac{\text{Underwriting Expenses}}{\text{Earned Premiums}} $$

Interpreting the Combined Ratio

Benchmark Values

• Below 100%: Indicates profitability. The company is earning more from premiums than it is spending on claims and expenses.
• Equal to 100%: Break-even point. The company’s expenses and claims are exactly equal to its earnings from premiums.
• Above 100%: Indicates underwriting losses. The company is spending more on claims and expenses than it earns from premiums.

Real-world Examples

Let’s consider an example to illustrate the combined ratio:

• Earned Premiums: $1,000,000
• Incurred Losses: $650,000
• Underwriting Expenses: $250,000

$$ \text{Loss Ratio} = \frac{650,000}{1,000,000} = 65\% $$

$$ \text{Expense Ratio} = \frac{250,000}{1,000,000} = 25\% $$

$$ \text{Combined Ratio} = 65\% + 25\% = 90\% $$

In this example, the combined ratio of 90% indicates that the insurance company is operating profitably.

Historical Context

The concept of the combined ratio has been a foundational metric in the insurance industry for decades. It provides insight into the underwriting efficiency of an insurance company, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding investments and operational strategies.

Applicability and Comparisons

Related Terms

• Operating Ratio: Similar to the combined ratio but includes investment income.
• Loss Adjustment Ratio: Focuses on the costs associated with processing claims relative to earned premiums.

FAQs

Q: How can an insurance company improve its combined ratio?
A1: An insurance company can improve its combined ratio by either reducing its incurred losses (e.g., better risk management) or cutting its underwriting expenses (e.g., improving operational efficiency).

Q: Why is the combined ratio important for investors?
A2: The combined ratio is important for investors because it provides a clear picture of an insurance company’s core profitability and operational efficiency, excluding investment income.

Summary

The combined ratio is a critical measure of an insurance company’s profitability and efficiency in its underwriting activities. By breaking down operational costs and claims payouts relative to earned premiums, the combined ratio offers valuable insights into the company’s financial health.

References

1. Insurance Information Institute: Understanding Financial Statements and Key Ratios.
2. CFA Institute: Analysis of Financial Statements in the Insurance Industry.

In conclusion, the combined ratio serves as a fundamental metric for assessing the financial performance of an insurance company’s core underwriting business. Understanding and monitoring this ratio helps provide transparency and guide strategic decisions in the highly competitive insurance market.