2026 AGM - addresses and slides

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Stock QBE Insurance Group Ltd (QBE.ASX)
Release Time 8 May 2026, 8:15 a.m.
Price Sensitive Yes
 QBE Holds 2026 Annual General Meeting
Key Points
  • Strong financial performance in 2025 with statutory net profit after tax of US$2.157 billion
  • Resilient underwriting and investment management driving positive 1Q 2026 results
  • Disciplined capital management and portfolio optimisation to deliver sustainable returns
Full Summary

QBE Insurance Group Ltd held its 2026 Annual General Meeting, where the company reported a strong financial performance in 2025. The Group delivered a statutory net profit after tax of US$2.157 billion, a 21% increase on the prior year, and declared a final dividend of 78 Australian cents per share. The company also completed a A$450 million on-market share buyback, bringing total shareholder distributions in 2025 to around 65% of annual profits. The company's Chair, Mike Wilkins, highlighted the importance of insurance in supporting customers, communities, and economies, particularly in the face of heightened geopolitical uncertainty, economic volatility, and the increasing frequency and severity of weather-related events. He also acknowledged the critical role of QBE's people in supporting customers during their most difficult moments.In his address, Group CEO Andrew Horton reported that the company's performance in the first quarter of 2026 has been strong, with resilient underwriting and investment management driving positive results. The company expects mid-single-digit gross written premium growth and a combined operating ratio of around 92.5% for 2026, and remains confident in sustaining strong performance over the medium-term.Horton also highlighted QBE's strategic priorities, including disciplined portfolio optimisation, investment in modernisation and digital capabilities, and a focus on customer-centricity. The company continues to see progress across these areas, which have strengthened the quality of its earnings and positioned QBE for more stable performance across the cycle.The meeting also marked the transition of leadership, with Yasmin Allen AM taking over as the new Chair of the QBE Board, succeeding Mike Wilkins. Wilkins was praised for his exceptional leadership and service to the company over the years.

Guidance

QBE expects mid-single-digit gross written premium growth and a Group combined operating ratio of around 92.5% for the 2026 financial year.

Outlook

QBE remains confident in sustaining strong performance over the medium-term, driven by disciplined execution of its strategic priorities and continued focus on resilient underwriting and investment management.