UVE

Universal Insurance Holdings, Inc. UVE is benefiting from stronger underwriting, premium growth and an improving Florida insurance environment. The company’s strategy is increasingly focused on growing profitably, while expansion outside Florida is helping diversify its risk profile. UVE’s top-line momentum remained healthy. In the second quarter of 2026, direct premiums written increased 4.1% year over year to $621.3 million, supported by higher policies in force, disciplined pricing and geographic diversification. Growth outside Florida was particularly strong, with premiums increasing 14.4%, compared with 0.8% growth in Florida in the second quarter. This expansion could help reduce catastrophe concentration while supporting longer-term premium growth. Florida’s legislative reforms remain an important driver of underwriting improvement. Lower litigation frequency and severity helped UVE’s net loss ratio improve 750 basis points to 64.8% in the second quarter. As a result, the net combined ratio improved 620 basis points to 91.6%, pointing to stronger underwriting profitability.Reinsurance is another important part of the strategy. UVE’s 2026-27 renewal benefited from more favorable rates and includes $352 million of multi-year coverage, providing greater protection against catastrophe losses and reducing renewal uncertainty. Catastrophe risk remains the biggest challenge, particularly given UVE’s Florida exposure. Verisk’s latest 2026 report estimates global economic losses from natural catastrophes at more than $450 billion annually, while global modeled insured property catastrophe losses are estimated at $171 billion. However, geographic diversification, stronger reinsurance protection, premium growth and underwriting discipline could help UVE manage catastrophe exposure while supporting profitable growth. Among UVE’s peers, Mercury General MCY is also seeing strong premium growth and improving underwriting. In the second quarter, net premiums earned increased 9.6%, while the combined ratio improved 260 basis points to 89.9%. Direct premiums written rose 9.3%, supported by growth in its core auto and homeowner businesses. Meanwhile, HCI Group HCI remains more focused on Florida homeowner insurance, making its premium growth and underwriting performance. HCI Group's expansion beyond Florida also supports diversification as insurers look to manage catastrophe exposure. Shares of Universal Insurance Holdings have rallied 76.2% in the past year, outperforming the industry’s growth of 1.6%. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research UVE’s shares are trading at a premium compared with the industry. Its trailing 12-month price-to-book value of 1.88X is higher than the industry average of 1.42X. However, it currently carries a Value Score of A. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Universal Insurance’s 2026 revenues are pegged at $1.60 billion, indicating a year-over-year decrease of 0.5%. The consensus estimate for UVE’s 2026 earnings per share (EPS) indicates a year-over-year decrease of 21.8%. The consensus estimates for 2027 revenues and EPS indicate an increase of 1.5% and 2.1%, respectively, from the corresponding 2026 estimates. Thus, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 earnings have remained unchanged, respectively, over the past 30 days. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research UVE stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report UNIVERSAL INSURANCE HOLDINGS INC (UVE) : Free Stock Analysis Report HCI Group, Inc. (HCI) : Free Stock Analysis Report Mercury General Corporation (MCY) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

Track your investments for FREE with Simply Wall St, the portfolio command center trusted by over 7 million individual investors worldwide. Universal Insurance Holdings (UVE) is back in focus after completing a share repurchase program, buying 325,637 shares for US$11.39 million, alongside Q2 2026 results that included earnings of US$1.84 per share. See our latest analysis for Universal Insurance Holdings. The Q2 earnings beat and completion of the US$11.39 million buyback have coincided with a sharp move in Universal Insurance Holdings' share price, which jumped 10.43% on the day to US$41.61. That follows a 31.22% year to date share price return and a 1 year total shareholder return of 85.94%. This suggests momentum has been building around the stock as investors reassess its risk and growth profile. If strong recent performance at Universal Insurance Holdings has you looking further across the market, this could be a good moment to broaden your search with 18 top founder-led companies Universal Insurance Holdings now pairs strong Q2 profitability with a completed buyback and a sharp share price move, so the key issue is whether the stock already reflects this progress or still trades at a discount. The most followed narrative currently places Universal Insurance Holdings' fair value at $44 per share, a touch above the latest close at $41.61. This frames the recent rally through a valuation lens rather than just short term sentiment. Read the complete narrative. Curious how a company with falling forecast earnings still screens as undervalued? The narrative leans heavily on margin shifts, slower revenue, and a richer future earnings multiple. The exact mix of these moving parts is what drives that $44 fair value call. Result: Fair Value of $44 (UNDERVALUED) Have a read of the narrative in full and understand what's behind the forecasts. However, investors in Universal Insurance Holdings still need to weigh pressure on underwriting margins and the softer Florida premium base, both of which could challenge this undervalued narrative. Find out about the key risks to this Universal Insurance Holdings narrative. With mixed signals around Universal Insurance Holdings, this is a moment to move quickly. Review the underlying data and form your own stance using the 4 key rewards and 2 important warning signs If Universal Insurance Holdings is on your radar, do not stop there. Cast a wider net now so you are not relying on just one story. Target resilient potential by scanning 81 resilient stocks with low risk scores that may offer steadier profiles when markets feel unpredictable. Hunt for strong cash generators through the screener containing 20 high quality undiscovered gems that pair robust fundamentals with quieter market attention. Strengthen your income toolkit by reviewing 9 dividend fortresses that combine higher yields with a focus on durability. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include UVE. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email [email protected]

This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Adjusted Return on Common Equity: 33.2% annualized. Net Loss Ratio: Improved by 7.5 points year-over-year. Direct Premiums Written: $621.3 million, up 4.1% from the prior year quarter. Core Revenue: $419.4 million, up 4.6% year-over-year. Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share: $1.84, compared to $1.23 in the prior year quarter. Net Premiums Earned: $377.3 million, up 4.7% from the prior year quarter. Net Combined Ratio: 91.6%, down 6.2 points compared to the prior year quarter. Net Expense Ratio: 26.8%, up 1.3 points compared to the prior year quarter. Share Repurchase: Approximately 122,000 shares repurchased at an aggregate cost of $4.5 million. Quarterly Cash Dividend: 16 cents per share declared. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 4 Warning Sign with UVE. Is UVE fairly valued? Test your thesis with our free DCF calculator. Release Date: July 24, 2026 For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. Universal Insurance Holdings Inc (NYSE:UVE) reported a strong 33.2% annualized adjusted return on common equity, driven by solid underwriting and revenue performance. The net loss ratio improved by 7.5 points year-over-year, benefiting from favorable claims and litigation trends. Direct premiums written grew by 4.1%, with notable growth in both Florida and other states. The company achieved a 4.6% year-over-year increase in core revenue, primarily due to higher net premiums earned and net investment income. The Florida homeowners insurance market has stabilized, with litigation inventory returning to pre-crisis levels, enhancing the company's operational environment. The net expense ratio increased by 1.3 points compared to the prior year quarter, driven by higher policy acquisition costs outside of Florida. Despite improvements, the company still faces challenges in maintaining rate adequacy across its multi-state footprint. The competitive environment remains a concern, particularly as the company expands its business outside of Florida. The company's share repurchase program has limited remaining authorization, with only $8.6 million left. There are ongoing uncertainties in the regulatory environment, although currently favorable, which could impact future operations. Q: Can you provide updated thoughts on the competitive environment today and where Universal Insurance Holdings fits into it, both in Florida and outside of Florida? A: Stephen Donaghy, CEO, stated that the company continues to write new business across its portfolio, focusing on internal profitability models. They aim to write rate adequate business where possible and feel positive about their position and relationships with agents, particularly in Florida. Q: What are your thoughts on expanding business outside of Florida, and is this something you would consider accelerating? A: Stephen Donaghy, CEO, mentioned that they study profitability models in other states and continue to take rate increases where necessary. As rate adequacy improves, they plan to open additional areas for business, feeling confident about their entire footprint. Q: Are there any changes expected in the Citizens Property Insurance Corporation situation or the regulatory environment in Florida? A: Stephen Donaghy, CEO, noted that Citizens has reduced substantially and is no longer a competitive threat. The regulatory environment in Florida has been steady, with efforts to encourage new business, reflecting a positive market outlook. Q: How has the company's financial performance been in the recent quarter? A: Frank Wilcox, CFO, reported an adjusted diluted earnings per share of $1.84, up from $1.23 in the prior year. This increase is due to a lower net loss ratio and higher net premiums earned and investment income. Core revenue rose by 4.6% year-over-year. Q: What are the key drivers behind the improved net loss ratio and overall financial results? A: Stephen Donaghy, CEO, attributed the improved net loss ratio to favorable claims and litigation trends, particularly due to Florida's legislative reforms. This has led to a more stable homeowners insurance market in Florida, benefiting non-catastrophe margins. For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Universal Insurance Holdings UVE delivered adjusted earnings of $1.84 per share for the second quarter of 2026, up 49.6% year over year. Earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.43 by 28.7%.Total revenues increased 6.7% to $427 million and surpassed the consensus estimate of $382 million by 11.9%. The upside reflected improved underwriting results, higher net premiums earned and stronger investment income. Direct premiums written rose 4.1% to $621.3 million. UNIVERSAL INSURANCE HOLDINGS INC price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | UNIVERSAL INSURANCE HOLDINGS INC Quote Direct premiums written in Florida increased 0.8% year over year to $453.2 million. Growth in the company’s largest market remained modest but positive, supported by retention and new business generation.Expansion outside Florida remained considerably faster. Direct premiums written in other states climbed 14.4% to $168.1 million, reflecting continued growth across Universal Insurance’s multi-state platform. Total policies in force advanced 7.1% to 934,371, while premiums in force increased 4.3% to $2.20 billion. The net loss ratio improved 750 basis points year over year to 64.8%, reflecting better current accident-year results. Management attributed the favorable claims and litigation trends to Florida’s legislative reforms and said its litigation inventory had returned to levels seen before the state’s litigation crisis.Net expense ratio deteriorated 130 basis points to 26.8%. Higher policy acquisition costs associated with growth outside Florida drove the increase, partly offset by a lower ceded premium ratio. The lower losses more than absorbed that pressure, improving the net combined ratio by 620 basis points to 91.6%. Net premiums earned rose 4.7% to $377.3 million, helped by higher direct premiums earned and a lower ceded premium ratio. Direct premiums earned increased 4.1% to $544.8 million, reflecting premium growth generated over the past 12 months.The ceded premium ratio declined to 30.8% from 31.2% a year earlier, primarily due to the new reinsurance program that took effect on June 1, 2026. Core revenues, which exclude realized and unrealized investment movements, increased 4.6% to $419.4 million. Net investment income rose to $20.2 million from $17.3 million in the prior-year quarter. Higher fixed-income reinvestment yields and a larger invested-asset base supported the increase.Commissions, policy fees and other revenues moved in the opposite direction, declining 6.7% to $21.9 million. The decrease primarily reflected commissions earned on reinstatements in the year-ago period. Total invested assets were $1.63 billion at quarter end, up from $1.53 billion at the end of 2025. Adjusted net income available to common stockholders increased 49.7% year over year to $53.4 million. The improvement was primarily driven by the lower net loss ratio, higher net premiums earned and stronger net investment income.Adjusted operating income advanced 51.6% to $74 million. Adjusted operating income margin expanded 540 basis points to 17.6%, demonstrating the earnings leverage generated by better underwriting performance. On a GAAP basis, operating income surged 70% to $81.6 million, while operating margin improved to 19.1% from 12%. Book value per share increased 39.7% year over year to $22.89. Adjusted book value per share rose 35.4% to $24.17, while annualized adjusted return on common equity improved 3.8 percentage points to 33.2%.UVE repurchased about $4.5 million worth of shares during the quarter. About $8.6 million remained under the current repurchase authorization. The board also declared a quarterly cash dividend of 16 cents per share, to be paid out on Aug. 7, 2026, to shareholders of record as of July 31. UVE currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. The Progressive Corporation’s PGR second-quarter 2026 earnings per share of $4.85 beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 3.2%. The bottom line, however, decreased 6.1% year over year. Net premiums written were $21.1 billion in the quarter, up 5% from $20.1 billion a year ago. Net premiums earned grew 6% to $21.6 billion. The reported figure met the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Net realized gains on securities were $604 million, up 56% year over year. Combined ratio — the percentage of premiums paid out as claims and expenses — deteriorated 110 basis points from the prior-year quarter’s level to 87.1.The Travelers Companies, Inc. TRV reported second-quarter 2026 core income of $10.04 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $5.21 by 92.7%. The bottom line climbed 54% year over year. Revenues of $12.09 billion missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $12.27 billion by 1.5%.Net investment income rose 14% year over year to $1.07 billion pre-tax ($883 million after tax). The combined ratio improved 670 basis points year over year to 83.6%, reflecting lower catastrophe losses, stronger reserve development and a better underlying combined ratio.W.R. Berkley Corporation WRB reported second-quarter 2026 operating income of $1.27 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 16.5%. The bottom line increased 21% year over year. Operating revenues totaled $3.8 billion, up 3.6% year over year. The top line surpassed the consensus estimate by 1.87%.W.R. Berkley’s net premiums written were about $3.4 billion, up 2.4% year over year. The consolidated combined ratio (a measure of underwriting profitability) improved 160 basis points year over year to 90, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 92. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report UNIVERSAL INSURANCE HOLDINGS INC (UVE) : Free Stock Analysis Report The Travelers Companies, Inc. (TRV) : Free Stock Analysis Report W.R. Berkley Corporation (WRB) : Free Stock Analysis Report The Progressive Corporation (PGR) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

Our analysts just identified a stock with the potential to be the next Nvidia. Tell us how you invest and we'll show you why it's our #1 pick. Tap here. Management attributes the 7.5 point improvement in the net loss ratio to favorable claims and litigation trends resulting from Florida's legislative reforms. The Florida homeowners insurance market has stabilized and is now operating similarly to other national markets, according to executive commentary. Litigation inventory has returned to levels seen before the state's litigation crisis, indicating that the impact of pre-reform claims practices is now largely resolved. Management believes aggregate reserves currently provide a meaningful margin above expected ultimate losses due to improved claims environments. Growth in direct premiums written was driven by a combination of strong retention and new business generation across both Florida and multi-state footprints. The company is prioritizing internal profitability models to ensure all new business is written at rate-adequate levels. Operational focus remains on maintaining strong agent relationships to serve as a reliable resource in markets where capacity may be constrained. Management expects favorable claims and litigation trends to continue benefiting non-catastrophe margins throughout the remainder of the year. The company anticipates sustained profitable growth supported by more favorable reinsurance rates and a robust organic new business pipeline. Expansion into states outside of Florida is contingent on actuarial models confirming rate adequacy before opening additional areas for business. Management assumes continued regulatory stability in Florida, noting that current oversight is actively encouraging market entry and competition. The company intends to continue its share repurchase program with approximately $8.6 million remaining under the current authorization. The net expense ratio increased by 1.3 points, primarily due to higher policy acquisition costs associated with expanding the business footprint outside of Florida. A lower seeded premium ratio partially offset the increase in acquisition costs, contributing to the overall net premiums earned growth. Management noted that Citizens Property Insurance Corporation is no longer viewed as a competitive threat as its policy count has reduced substantially. One stock. Nvidia-level potential. 30M+ investors trust Moby to find it first. Get the pick. Tap here. Management stated they are laser-focused on internal profitability models and only writing business where they can achieve rate adequacy. Growth in Florida is a direct reflection of management's positive outlook on the current state of that specific book of business. Expansion is governed by actuarial studies on profitability; as rate adequacy improves in other states, the company opens those areas for more business. Agents are increasingly viewing the company as a key resource in non-Florida markets when they require additional capacity. Citizens is no longer considered a competitive threat as their inventory is at a multi-year low and they have implemented stricter new business criteria. The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) is credited with creating a steady environment that encourages new capital and participants to enter the state.

Interested in Universal Insurance Holdings Inc? Here are five stocks we like better. Universal Insurance posted stronger Q2 results, with adjusted diluted EPS rising to $1.84 from $1.23 a year earlier as improved claims trends, higher premiums earned and more investment income boosted results. Underwriting metrics improved significantly, including a 7.5-point drop in the net loss ratio to 64.8% and a 6.2-point improvement in the net combined ratio to 91.6%, helped by favorable Florida legislative reforms and better current-year accident results. The company is still focused on profitable growth and capital returns, expanding selectively outside Florida while maintaining rate discipline, and it repurchased $4.5 million of stock while declaring a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share. 3 Analyst-Backed Stocks the Market Is Getting Totally Wrong Universal Insurance (NYSE:UVE) reported higher second-quarter earnings as improved claims trends, premium growth and increased investment income helped lower its net loss ratio and strengthen underwriting results. Chief Executive Officer Steve Donaghy said the company generated a 33.2% annualized adjusted return on common equity during the quarter, supported by underwriting and revenue performance. He said favorable claims and litigation trends contributed to a 7.5-point year-over-year improvement in the net loss ratio. → Could Truth API Become Trump Media’s First Meaningful Revenue Driver? Airbnb Joins the S&P 500, Time to Buy In? “The favorable claims and litigation trends in our results are a direct product of Florida's legislative reforms,” Donaghy said. He added that the Florida homeowners insurance market has stabilized and is operating more like insurance markets elsewhere in the country. Chief Financial Officer Frank Wilcox said adjusted diluted earnings per common share rose to $1.84 from $1.23 in the prior-year quarter. The increase primarily reflected a lower net loss ratio, higher net premiums earned and greater net investment income. → GE Vernova Just Sent a Mixed AI Signal to Investors Universal Insurance: Navigating Florida’s Insurance Crisis Core revenue increased 4.6% year over year to $419.4 million. Direct premiums written rose 4.1% to $621.3 million, including 0.8% growth in Florida and 14.4% growth in other states. Wilcox said the increase mostly reflected a higher number of policies in force across the company’s multistate footprint. Direct premiums earned increased 4.1% to $544.8 million. Net premiums earned rose 4.7% to $377.3 million. The net combined ratio improved 6.2 points to 91.6%. The net loss ratio declined 7.5 points to 64.8%. The net expense ratio increased 1.3 points to 26.8%. Wilcox attributed the lower net loss ratio to better current accident-year results. The higher expense ratio was primarily driven by increased policy acquisition costs associated with growth outside Florida, partly offset by a lower ceded premium ratio. → D-Wave Quantum or a Quantum ETF: Which Is the Better Bet? Donaghy said Universal’s litigation inventory has returned to levels seen before Florida’s insurance litigation crisis, and that the effects of claims practices that existed before reforms have moved into the past. As a result, he said management believes the company’s aggregate reserves provide “a meaningful margin above expected ultimate losses.” Donaghy also cited more favorable reinsurance rates and the company’s ability to write rate-adequate premiums as factors that position Universal for sustained profitable growth. During the question-and-answer session, Donaghy said Universal remains focused on underwriting profitability rather than growth for its own sake. The insurer is continuing to write new business across its portfolio while using internal profitability models to determine where and how it writes policies. “Our goal is to continue to write rate-adequate business where possible,” Donaghy said. Outside Florida, Donaghy said the company continues to take rate increases in many markets and expands into additional areas as actuarial models indicate rate adequacy is improving. He said Universal’s agent relationships have supported its position across its operating footprint. Donaghy said the company feels positive about its Florida book of business, as reflected in its premium growth in the state. He also described Florida’s Citizens Property Insurance Corp. as no longer being a competitive concern for Universal, noting that Citizens has reduced its size substantially. “They’re not a competitive threat whatsoever to us any longer,” Donaghy said, adding that the state’s regulatory environment has been steady and that regulators have encouraged insurers to participate in the market. Universal repurchased approximately 122,000 shares during the second quarter for an aggregate cost of $4.5 million. The company had about $8.6 million remaining under its current share repurchase authorization as of the call. The board also declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per common share on July 8. The dividend is payable Aug. 7 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on July 31. Universal Insurance Holdings, Inc (NYSE: UVE) is a property and casualty insurance holding company headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. The company underwrites homeowners and other residential property insurance products to protect against natural catastrophes such as hurricanes, windstorms and fires. It distributes policies primarily through a network of independent agents and brokers, offering coverage for primary residences, secondary homes, condominiums, vacant dwellings and rental properties across its service territory. In addition to personal lines, Universal provides commercial property and casualty insurance tailored to small businesses and institutional clients. This instant news alert was generated by narrative science technology and financial data from MarketBeat in order to provide readers with the fastest reporting and unbiased coverage. Please send any questions or comments about this story to [email protected]. The article "Universal Insurance Q2 Earnings Call Highlights" was originally published by MarketBeat. View MarketBeat's top stocks for July 2026.

Universal Insurance Holdings (UVE) came out with quarterly earnings of $1.84 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.43 per share. This compares to earnings of $1.23 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items. This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +28.67%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this property and casualty insurance company would post earnings of $1.39 per share when it actually produced earnings of $2, delivering a surprise of +43.88%. Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates four times. Universal Insurance, which belongs to the Zacks Insurance - Property and Casualty industry, posted revenues of $427.03 million for the quarter ended June 2026, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 11.91%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $400.14 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates four times over the last four quarters. The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call. Universal Insurance shares have added about 11.8% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 9.6%. While Universal Insurance has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock? There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately. Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions. Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Universal Insurance was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $0.01 on $383.29 million in revenues for the coming quarter and $4.63 on $1.54 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year. Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Insurance - Property and Casualty is currently in the bottom 39% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1. Another stock from the same industry, Heritage Insurance (HRTG), has yet to report results for the quarter ended June 2026. This property and casualty insurance holding company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.99 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -36.1%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days. Heritage Insurance's revenues are expected to be $212.84 million, up 2.3% from the year-ago quarter. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report UNIVERSAL INSURANCE HOLDINGS INC (UVE) : Free Stock Analysis Report Heritage Insurance Holdings, Inc. (HRTG) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

Diluted GAAP earnings per common share (EPS) of $2.04; diluted adjusted* EPS of $1.84 Annualized return on average common equity ("ROCE") of 38.8%, annualized adjusted* ROCE of 33.2% Direct premiums written of $621.3 million, up 4.1% from the prior year quarter Book value per share of $22.89, up 39.7% year-over-year; adjusted book value per share* of $24.17, up 35.4% year-over-year FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., July 23, 2026--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Universal Insurance Holdings (NYSE: UVE) ("Universal" or the "Company") reported second quarter 2026 results. *Reconciliations of non-GAAP to GAAP financial measures are provided in the attached tables. "In the quarter, we delivered a very strong 38.8% annualized return on common equity, driven by solid underwriting and revenue performance," said Stephen J. Donaghy, Chief Executive Officer. "Notably, the net loss ratio improved by 7.5 points year-over-year, driven by favorable claims and litigation trends that we expect to benefit non-catastrophe margins throughout the year. Strong retention and new business generation resulted in 4.1% direct premiums written growth, including growth in Florida and across our multi-state footprint." "The favorable claims and litigation trends in our results are a direct product of Florida’s legislative reforms. Thanks to the efforts of the Governor, the Legislature, and the OIR, the Florida homeowners insurance market has stabilized and now operates much more like the rest of the country. Our litigation inventory is back down to levels that preceded Florida’s litigation crisis, and the impact of pre-reform claims practices is behind us. As a result, we believe our aggregate reserves provide a meaningful margin above expected ultimate losses. Combined with more favorable reinsurance rates and our ability to write rate-adequate premium through our robust organic new business pipeline, we believe we are well positioned to deliver sustained profitable growth." Net Income and Adjusted Net Income Net income available to common stockholders was $59.2 million, compared to net income of $35.1 million in the prior year quarter, and adjusted net income available to common stockholders was $53.4 million, compared to adjusted net income of $35.7 million in the prior year quarter. The higher adjusted net income available to common stockholders mostly stems from a lower net loss ratio and higher net premiums earned and net investment income. Revenues Revenue was $427.0 million, up 6.7% from the prior year quarter and core revenue was $419.4 million, up 4.6% from the prior year quarter. The increase in core revenue primarily stems from higher net premiums earned and net investment income. Direct premiums written were $621.3 million, up 4.1% from the prior year quarter. The increase stems from 0.8% growth in Florida and 14.4% growth in other states. Overall growth mostly reflects higher policies in force across our multi-state footprint. Direct premiums earned were $544.8 million, up 4.1% from the prior year quarter. The increase stems from direct premiums written growth over the past twelve months. The ceded premium ratio was 30.8%, down from 31.2%, in the prior year quarter. The decrease primarily reflects Universal’s new reinsurance program, which incepted on June 1, 2026. Net premiums earned were $377.3 million, up 4.7% from the prior year quarter. The increase is primarily attributable to higher direct premiums earned and a lower ceded premium ratio, as described above. Net investment income was $20.2 million, up from $17.3 million in the prior year quarter. The increase stems from higher fixed income reinvestment yields and higher invested assets. Commissions, policy fees and other revenue were $21.9 million, down 6.7% from the prior year quarter. The decrease primarily reflects commissions earned on reinstatements in the prior year quarter. Margins The operating income margin was 19.1%, compared to an operating income margin of 12.0% in the prior year quarter. The adjusted operating income margin was 17.6%, compared to an adjusted operating income margin of 12.2% in the prior year quarter. The higher adjusted operating income margin primarily stems from a lower net loss ratio. The net loss ratio was 64.8%, down 7.5 points compared to the prior year quarter. The decrease reflects better current accident year results. The net expense ratio was 26.8%, up 1.3 points from 25.5% in the prior year quarter. The increase was primarily driven by higher policy acquisition costs associated with growth outside Florida, partly offset by a lower ceded premium ratio. The net combined ratio was 91.6%, down 6.2 points compared to the prior year quarter. The decrease reflects a lower net loss ratio, partly offset by a higher net expense ratio, as described above. Capital Deployment During the second quarter, the Company repurchased approximately 122 thousand shares at an aggregate cost of $4.5 million. The Company’s current share repurchase authorization program has approximately $8.6 million remaining. On July 8, 2026, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of 16 cents per share of common stock, payable on August 7, 2026, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on July 31, 2026. Conference Call and Webcast Friday, July 24, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. ET Investors and other interested parties may listen to the call by accessing the online, real-time webcast at universalinsuranceholdings.com/investors or by registering in advance via teleconference at https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIdc4bc2764e6b4f8884cc9b237d9a34ab. Once registration is completed, participants will be provided with a dial-in number containing a personalized conference code to access the call. An online replay of the call will be available at universalinsuranceholdings.com/investors soon after the investor call concludes. About Universal Universal Insurance Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: UVE) is a holding company providing property and casualty insurance and value-added insurance services. We develop, market, and write insurance products in the personal residential homeowners lines of business and perform substantially all other insurance-related services for our primary insurance entities, including risk management, claims management and distribution. We provide insurance products in the United States through both our appointed independent agents and our direct online distribution channels. Learn more at universalinsuranceholdings.com or get an insurance quote at Clovered.com. Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Key Performance Indicators This press release contains non-GAAP financial measures within the meaning of Regulation G promulgated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), including core revenue, adjusted net income (loss) available to common stockholders and diluted adjusted earnings (loss) per common share, which exclude the impact of net realized gains (losses) on investments and net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments. Adjusted operating income (loss) and adjusted operating income (loss) margin exclude the impact of net realized gains (losses) on investments and net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments and interest and amortization of debt issuance costs. Adjusted common stockholders’ equity and adjusted book value per share exclude accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI), net of taxes. Adjusted return on common equity excludes after-tax net realized gains (losses) on investments and net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments from the numerator and AOCI, net of taxes, and current period after-tax net realized gains (losses) on investments and net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments from the denominator. A "non-GAAP financial measure" is generally defined as a numerical measure of a company’s historical or future performance that excludes or includes amounts, or is subject to adjustments, so as to be different from the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). UVE management believes that these non-GAAP financial measures are meaningful, as they allow investors to evaluate underlying revenue and profitability trends and enhance comparability across periods. When considered together with the GAAP financial measures, management believes these metrics provide information that is useful to investors in understanding period-over-period operating results separate and apart from items that may, or could, have a disproportionately positive or negative impact on results in any particular period. UVE management also believes that these non-GAAP financial measures enhance the ability of investors to analyze UVE’s business trends and to understand UVE’s operational performance. UVE’s management utilizes these non-GAAP financial measures as guides in long-term planning. Non-GAAP financial measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for or superior to, financial measures presented in accordance with GAAP. For more information regarding our key performance indicators, please refer to the section titled "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Key Performance Indicators" in our forthcoming Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "will," "plan," and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statement was made. Such statements may include commentary on plans, products and lines of business, marketing arrangements, reinsurance programs, other business developments, projections, and estimates, and assumptions relating to the foregoing. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified. Important factors that could cause our actual results or performance to differ materially from those contained in or implied by our forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the following: we may face significant losses, and our financial results may vary from period to period, due to exposure to catastrophic events and severe weather conditions, the frequency and severity of which could be affected by climate change; if we fail to adequately price the risks we underwrite and/or the estimates we make, or if emerging trends outpace our ability to adjust prices timely, or if we lose desirable exposures to competitors by overpricing our risks, we may experience underwriting losses depleting surplus at our risk-bearing insurance subsidiaries and capital at the holding company; unanticipated increases in the severity or frequency of claims adversely affect our profitability and financial condition; the failure of the risk mitigation strategies we utilize could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations; and the risks and uncertainties, as they may be amended from time to time, set forth in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including under the heading "Risk Factors" and "Liquidity and Capital Resources" in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, and supplemented in our subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in any of our forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results or outcomes could differ materially from those projected or assumed in any of our forward-looking statements. There may be other factors not presently known to us or which we currently consider to be immaterial that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements we make. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. For further information regarding risk factors that could affect the Company’s operations and future results, refer to the Company’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the most recent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260723686265/en/ Contacts Investors/Media: Arash Soleimani, CFA, CPA, CPCU, AReChief Strategy [email protected]