Key Insurance Metrics You Must Know Before Buying a Policy
Purchasing insurance involves more than comparing premiums and coverage details. It’s about trusting an insurer with your financial protection. While a policy’s basic details might look appealing, the true strength of an insurance company lies in essential metrics known as insurance ratios. These ratios are crucial for regulators and financial analysts who assess an insurer’s capacity to settle claims, manage costs, and maintain profitability. Understanding these numbers helps make informed, confident decisions when choosing an insurance policy. 1. Loss Ratio The loss ratio is a key indicator of an insurance company’s financial health. It measures claims paid compared to premiums collected. A typical loss ratio ranges from 60% to 70%, showing the company is balancing obligations to policyholders while keeping a margin for expenses and profit. A consistently high loss ratio might signal inefficiency or mispricing, both of which threaten an insurer’s stability. 2. Expense Ratio Every business has operating