RLI Corp. has reported Q3 2026 underwriting income of $58.8 million, with gross premiums written increasing 2% to $522.2 million for the period, supported by growth in its casualty and surety businesses.
The firm’s operating earnings rose to $79.3 million in Q3 2026 from $75.8 million a year earlier, while the combined ratio stood at 86.2%, compared with 85.1% in Q3 2025.
RLI’s gross premiums written increased from $510.2 million in the same period last year, with casualty continuing to account for the largest share of business.
Notably, casualty premiums rose 4.4% to $330.9 million, while surety premiums increased 1.1% to $38.9 million. Meanwhile, property premiums declined 1.5% to $152.4 million.
As mentioned, the firm’s underwriting income totalled $58.8 million in Q3 2026, down slightly from $60.5 million a year earlier.
RLI said that results in both periods benefited from favourable development in prior-year loss reserves, which contributed a net $20.1 million to underwriting income in the latest quarter, compared with $13.7 million in Q3 2025.
In Q3 2026, property remained the largest contributor to underwriting income, generating $50.5 million, broadly unchanged from the $50.4 million recorded a year earlier. Its combined ratio improved marginally to 60.1% from 60.2%.
The surety segment recorded underwriting income of $7.3 million in Q3 2026, up from $5.6 million in the prior-year quarter, while its combined ratio improved to 79.8% from 85%.
In contrast, casualty underwriting income declined to $1 million in Q£ 2026 from $4.5 million, and its combined ratio deteriorated to 99.6% from 98.2%.
Across the business, RLI’s 86.2% combined ratio in Q3 2026 compared with 85.1% in Q3 2025, reflecting the lower contribution from casualty despite stronger property and surety results.
Net investment income provided further support, rising 13% to $46.7 million in Q3 2026. However, net earnings fell 35% to $81 million, against $124.6 million a year earlier.
RLI Corp. President & CEO Craig Kliethermes commented, “Our third-quarter results reflect consistent, disciplined execution across the business. We delivered an 86 combined ratio, with strong underwriting performance in our property and surety segments.
“Gross premiums written increased 2%, led by our casualty segment. Investment income grew 13%, further contributing to earnings. As market conditions evolve across our portfolio, we remain focused on risk selection and profitable growth.
“We will continue to pursue opportunities where our underwriting expertise can deliver attractive long-term returns.”
