What's weighing down the IAG (ASX:IAG) share price lately?

The clouds have been hanging over IAG lately…

| More on:
A woman with a sad face stands under a shredded umbrella in a grey thunderstorm

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) share price has been struggling this year. Since the beginning of 2021, the insurance company's shares have been range-bound between $4.56 and $5.35.

The last week has been no exception, with the IAG share price bouncing between $4.84 and $5.00 apiece.

While investors can take solace in the company's shares being in the positive year-to-date (YTD), it doesn't make the last month or so much easier. In that time, the IAG share price has slipped ~5%.

Let's revisit Australia and New Zealand's largest general insurance provider and see where the downward pressure is coming from.

Why the IAG share price is under pressure?

As previously reported by my fellow Fool, Nikhil, the latest news from IAG is the finalisation of its FY22 aggregate reinsurance cover.

According to the company, the FY22 aggregate cover provides protection of $350 million in excess of $400 million. Additionally, individual events will be capped at $200 million in excess of $50 million per event.

Furthermore, IAG's catastrophe cover after allowing for quote share arrangements comes to a maximum event retention of $169 million at 1 July 2021.

Storms rain down on IAG

Zooming out on the IAG share price, the recent storms and floods in Victoria appeared to unleash concern among investors.

The insurance company noted that it had received around 4,300 claims as of 15 June. For the most part, these claims involved property damage.

At the time, the number of claims was expected to climb higher as residents returned and inspected their homes more closely.

IAG's preliminary estimate indicated that the Victorian floods could lift its FY21 natural perils claim costs between $720 million to $743 million. This would exceed the company's allowance of $658 million and its previous guidance of $660 million to $700 million.

When it comes to insurance, claims are costs. Therefore, the increased natural perils cost would weigh on profitability.

Motley Fool contributor Mitchell Lawler has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Insurance Australia Group Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Financial Shares

Man smiling at a laptop because of a rising share price.
Financial Shares

Up 41% since August, why this ASX All Ords stock could attract more interest in 2025

A leading fund manager has high hopes for this ASX All Ords stock in 2025.

Read more »

Man with rocket wings which have flames coming out of them.
Share Gainers

Guess which ASX All Ords stock just rocketed 44%

Investors are sending the ASX All Ords stock racing higher today. But why?

Read more »

A man stands with his arms crossed in an X shape.
Financial Shares

No deal! Why this ASX 200 stock is falling today

Bain Capital won't be taking this stock private for just $4.00 per share.

Read more »

A man holds his hand under his chin as he concentrates on his laptop screen and reads about the ANZ share price
Financial Shares

ASX 200 financial stock's $2.2 billion private equity deal in serious doubt

The deal has been dealt another blow.

Read more »

A woman sits at her computer with her hand to her mouth and a contemplative smile on her face as she reads about the performance of Allkem shares on her computer
Financial Shares

Are IAG shares expected to have another strong year in 2025?

Can this large stock ensure another strong return next year?

Read more »

Modern accountant woman in a light business suit in modern green office with documents and laptop.
Financial Shares

Top broker says buy this 'compelling' ASX 300 dividend stock now

This under-the-radar stock could be a strong contender for passive income.

Read more »

Businessman studying a high technology holographic stock market chart.
Financial Shares

Could 2025 be an even better year for AMP shares after a 70% rise in 2024?

Can AMP deliver electric returns again in 2025?

Read more »

a woman drawing image on wall of big fish about to eat a small fish
Financial Shares

Guess which ASX 200 share just received a $2.68b takeover offer

Private equity firm Bain Capital has its eyes on this financial services company.

Read more »