AIG's Q4 2024: Unpacking Contradictions in AI Strategy, Loss Ratios, and Growth Prospects

These are the key contradictions discussed in American International Group's (AIG) latest 2024Q4 earnings call, specifically including: AI Deployment and Impact on Underwriting, Loss Ratio Expectations in General Insurance, Growth Strategy in High Net Worth Segment, Inorganic Opportunities and Capital Management, and Underwriting Leverage and Reinsurance Strategy:



Strong Financial Performance and Strategic Accomplishments:
- AIG reported strong fourth quarter results, with net premiums written of $6.1 billion, an increase of 7% year-over-year, and adjusted after tax income per share growing 5% to $1.30.
- The company achieved 92% combined ratio in 2024, reaching 91.8% for General Insurance.
- This performance was driven by disciplined underwriting, rigorous expense management, and execution of strategic initiatives such as the deconsolidation of Corebridge Financial.

Capital Management Strategy:
- AIG returned $8.1 billion of capital to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends in 2024.
- The company reduced shares outstanding by 12% and increased the quarterly dividend per share by 11%.
- This strategy is part of a balanced capital management approach aimed at providing financial flexibility.

Reinsurance Market and Positioning:
- AIG's reinsurance strategy focused on maintaining lower excess of loss attachment points and meaningful aggregate coverage.
- Despite growth in underlying portfolios, the core retention for North America remained unchanged at $500 million.
- This strategy is designed to manage frequency of loss and tailor coverage to geographic exposure and peril types.

AI and Technology Integration:
- AIG implemented AIG Underwriter Assist, a generative AI large language model solution to automate qualitative unstructured data extraction.
- The company launched Reinsurance Syndicate 2478 at Lloyd's, supported by a multiyear strategic relationship with Blackstone.
- These initiatives are part of AIG's broader strategy to leverage AI and technology for business growth and competitive advantage in underwriting.