OREANDA-NEWS. Fitch Ratings says in a new report that global reinsurers' profitable underwriting results weakened slightly in 2014 due to increased non-catastrophe property losses and a higher underlying run-rate loss ratio. Catastrophe-related losses remained manageable and favourable loss reserve development persisted.

However, reinsurers' profitable results continue to attract capital to the sector, leading to deteriorating reinsurance market conditions and recent accelerated industry consolidation.

The global reinsurers that Fitch tracks achieved an underwriting combined ratio of 86.4% in 2014, compared with 85.9% in 2013. The weaker results partially reflect larger non-catastrophe property losses that have hit several reinsurers. It also reflects a shift in business mix by traditional reinsurers away from property catastrophe business, which historically has the highest margins, as competitive market pressures drive property catastrophe premium rates to inadequate levels.

Solid earnings and unrealised gains on fixed-income securities drove a 4.9% increase in shareholders' equity in 2014. This was partially offset by increased share repurchases and dividends as companies have generally sought to return current earnings to shareholders as organic growth opportunities remain limited. It is also expected that capital will be utilised for additional mergers & acquisitions.

Fitch's global reinsurance sector outlook is negative, as intense market competition and sluggish demand from reinsurance buyers has resulted in a softening market for reinsurers. Fitch views current market conditions as unlikely to improve in the near term given the continuing competitive reinsurance market environment. Fitch maintains a stable outlook for the ratings of the reinsurance sector as most reinsurers will maintain both profitability and balance sheet strength over the next 12-18 months commensurate with current ratings.

The report, entitled "Global Reinsurers' 2014 Financial Results" is available on www.fitchratings.com or by clicking the link above.