Title Insurance Volume Continues at Brisk Pace

The nation’s title insurance underwriters generated $3 billion of premiums in the third quarter, up from $2.8 billion in 2Q12 and $2.4 billion for the same period in 2011, according to the American Land Title Association.

During the first nine months, title insurers generated $8.1 billion of premiums, a 17% gain from the comparable period last year.

ALTA noted that the industry has seen three consecutive quarter-over-quarter increases in underwriting activity.

The business posted operating income of $581 million, a 22% improvement over the previous year.

Michelle Korsmo, ALTA CEO, said, “The industry remains in a strong financial position and has admitted assets of $8.7 billion, including nearly $7.7 billion in cash and invested assets.”

Meanwhile, three of the four national title insurance underwriters lost market share on a year-over-year basis, although actual premiums written increased at all four.

Fidelity National Financial remained at No. 1, with $1.1 billion of premiums written and a 33.7% share, compared to $803 million and 34.1% one year prior.

First American ranked second with $783 million (26.1% share) versus $633 million and 26.9%.

Old Republic was ranked third with $412 million (13.7%), followed by Stewart Title ($407 million/13.6.%).

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