Employers Holdings Shares Popped: What You Need to Know (EIG)

Employers Holdings Shares Popped: What You Need to Know

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Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.

What: Shares of workers comp insurance provider Employers Holdings (NYSE: EIG ) were reaching for the stars today, gaining as much as 13% in intraday trading after the company reported third-quarter earnings.

So what: Total revenue for the third quarter was up 11% from last year and the $113 million reported was above the $111 million that analysts were expecting. On the bottom line, after backing out amortization of deferred reinsurance gains, per-share profit was $0.20, up considerably from last year's $0.13. Analysts were looking for $0.10 in earnings per share.

Now what: Employers' combined ratio so far this year has been 115.3%, which is up from last year and far from attractive. Like other insurers, the company also faces headwinds from the rocky economic climate, volatile capital markets, and low interest rates. The improved bottom line is certainly a good sign for investors, but they'll want to watch for broad, consistent signs that Employers' business is actually moving in the right direction.

Want to keep up to date on Employers Holdings? Add it to your watchlist.

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