RLI Corp. (NYSE: RLI) reported Q4 EPS of $1.21, $0.74 better than the analyst estimate of $0.47.

“RLI’s strong customer focus, financial performance and rewards to shareholders continued to distinguish us in 2017,” said RLI Corp. Chairman & CEO Jonathan E. Michael. “The 96 combined ratio included 4 points from hurricane losses, which was within our expectations for events of this magnitude. Despite exiting a few underperforming product lines and re-underwriting our transportation business, we ended the year with a 1% increase in gross premiums written, which was supported by an 11% increase in premium in the fourth quarter. Our investment portfolio and minority investment in Maui Jim contributed significantly to earnings and book value growth in 2017. At year end, we paid another special dividend, reinforcing our commitment to shareholders.”

“We enter 2018 well positioned to capitalize on market conditions with a talented team, diverse product portfolio, disciplined underwriting and service-oriented culture,” said Michael.

For earnings history and earnings-related data on RLI Corp. (RLI) click here.