U.S. reinsurers see 2.3% decline in net premiums written

Major U.S. reinsurers reported a 2.3% decline in net premiums written to $18.3 billion for the nine months ended Sept. 30, according to the Reinsurance Assn. of America.

This compares with the 4.2% decrease, to $12.29 billion, reported by the 19 reinsurers for the first half.

Among other results, the reinsurers reported a 96.6% combined ratio for the nine-month period vs. a 95.1% ratio for the comparable period a year ago, according to the Washington-based RAA. The 2010 ratio reflects a 66.8% loss ratio and a 29.8% expense ratio.

Reinsurers also reported $6.27 billion in net income and $103.94 billion in policyholder surplus.