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  5. IFC: Hi, Regarding your recent addition of Intac Financial to Balanced Portfolio, could you please elaborate more on the rationale for this selection, as this company has not been discussed much on this... [Intact Financial Corporation]
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Q: Hi, Regarding your recent addition of Intac Financial to Balanced Portfolio, could you please elaborate more on the rationale for this selection, as this company has not been discussed much on this forum. Property and Casualty Insurance has been talked about a lot by Portfolio Managers lately and in their opinion, projected to be the fastest growing sector in Insurance business. So, it should be a timely addition to the 5i portfolio!!

Who are Intac's main competitors and how does IFC compare with them in terms of market share, growth trajectory and valuation ? What are the major components of IFC's business and their geographical presence ? What's your take on company's recent decision for selling their UK Personal Line of business to Admiral, as, looks like, the news caused some concern among investors resulting a bit of selling in the stock, over past 2 days. (BTW, we started a 1.5% position, on Friday. Thanks for the alert !! )
Asked by rajeev on December 11, 2023
5i Research Answer:

IFC is the industry-leading property and casualty insurer in Canada and it has held a strong lead for many years. Its main competitors include DFY, TRV, FFH, GWO, SLF, and a few other private insurers. 

IFC has demonstrated the highest annual returns against these names over both a five and 10-year timeframe. IFC holds the highest market share in Canada for P&C, representing around 17% market share as of 2022. IFC trades at a relatively higher valuation compared to its peers, although, we feel this is justified given its industry-leading position and quality fundamentals. Its main segments include Canadian P&C insurance (69% of sales), UK and international (21% of sales), and specialty lines within the US (10% of sales).

IFC has decided to sell the UK direct personal lines operations (RSA's assets). This move allows RSA to focus on becoming a leading UK commercial and specialty lines player, which we feel is a smart strategic move. Commercial and specialty lines is a more lucrative line of business, and we feel IFC has made the right move. The stock has recovered from the initial news, and continues to demonstrate its quality management team.