, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) announced today it will hold a conference call on Thursday, October 29, 2026 beginning at 9:30 a.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss quarterly results and business developments.
Investors, analysts and the general public may listen to the call via live webcast at ir.mklgroup.com. The call may be accessed telephonically by dialing (833) 461-5787 in the U.S., or +44 808 196 8935 internationally, and providing Meeting ID: 576 810 349. A replay of the call will be available on our website approximately one hour after the conclusion of the call.
The webcast, the conference call and the content and permitted replays or rebroadcasts thereof are the exclusive copyrighted property of Markel Group Inc. and may not be copied, taped, rebroadcast, or published in whole or in part without the express written consent of Markel Group Inc.
About Markel Group
Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) is a diverse family of companies that includes everything from insurance to bakery equipment, building supplies, houseplants, and more. The leadership teams of these businesses operate with a high degree of independence, while at the same time living the values that we call the Markel Style. Our specialty insurance business sits at the core of our company. Through decades of sound underwriting, the Markel Insurance team has provided the capital base from which we built a system of businesses and investments that collectively increase Markel Group's durability and adaptability. It's a system that provides diverse income streams, access to a wide range of investment opportunities, and the ability to efficiently move capital to the best ideas across the company. Most importantly though, this system enables each of our businesses to advance our shared goal of helping our customers, associates, and shareholders win over the long term. Visit mklgroup.com to learn more.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) announced today it will hold a conference call on Thursday, October 29, 2026 beginning at 9:30 a.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss quarterly results and business developments.
Investors, analysts and the general public may listen to the call via live webcast at ir.mklgroup.com. The call may be accessed telephonically by dialing (833) 461-5787 in the U.S., or +44 808 196 8935 internationally, and providing Meeting ID: 576 810 349. A replay of the call will be available on our website approximately one hour after the conclusion of the call.
The webcast, the conference call and the content and permitted replays or rebroadcasts thereof are the exclusive copyrighted property of Markel Group Inc. and may not be copied, taped, rebroadcast, or published in whole or in part without the express written consent of Markel Group Inc.
About Markel Group
Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) is a diverse family of companies that includes everything from insurance to bakery equipment, building supplies, houseplants, and more. The leadership teams of these businesses operate with a high degree of independence, while at the same time living the values that we call the Markel Style. Our specialty insurance business sits at the core of our company. Through decades of sound underwriting, the Markel Insurance team has provided the capital base from which we built a system of businesses and investments that collectively increase Markel Group's durability and adaptability. It's a system that provides diverse income streams, access to a wide range of investment opportunities, and the ability to efficiently move capital to the best ideas across the company. Most importantly though, this system enables each of our businesses to advance our shared goal of helping our customers, associates, and shareholders win over the long term. Visit mklgroup.com to learn more.
Markel strengthens Marine & Energy Liability team in London with key appointmentsPR Newswire
LONDON, Oct. 15, 2026
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced two key appointments within its Marine & Energy Liability underwriting team in London. Josephine Stroud has been appointed Head of Energy Liability, while Jenny McFarlane joins as Senior Underwriter – Marine & Energy Liability, with both appointments strengthening Markel's London Market underwriting team.
Both appointments follow the establishment of Markel's new Marine Transportation business within its London Market operations, which brings together Hull & Hull War, MECO, Marine & Energy Liabilities (M&E), and Transport & Logistics, giving brokers greater access to underwriting expertise across these portfolios.
As Head of Energy Liability, Stroud will be responsible for underwriting multi-line, cross-class facilities, working alongside Rhys O'Neill, Head of Marine Liability, to drive further profitable growth across the Marine & Energy Liability portfolio. She'll oversee risk assessments and help develop risk mitigation strategies, working closely with brokers, distribution partners and stakeholders to continue delivering effective underwriting solutions for clients' evolving risk exposures.
In her new role as Senior Underwriter – Marine & Energy Liability, McFarlane will support the strategic development and continued evolution of the Marine & Energy Liability product offering, ensuring clients continue to receive specialist coverage and support. She'll help develop new wordings, drive broker engagement and identify growth opportunities, while maintaining underwriting discipline and delivering high service levels.
Based in London, Stroud and McFarlane will report into the Marine & Energy Liability team, part of the Marine Transportation business, led by Grant Smith.
Smith said: "I'm delighted to welcome Josephine and Jenny to our growing Marine & Energy Liability team. They bring strong expertise and enthusiasm for portfolio management, underwriting, data analysis, claims service and client relationship management. Our Marine Transportation business was built on the technical expertise and precision that Josephine and Jenny bring to their new roles. With their appointments, our Marine & Energy Liability operation is well positioned to continue supporting clients as they navigate an increasingly complex and volatile risk landscape."
Stroud commented: "The marine and energy industries continue to face uncertainty, driven by heightened geopolitical volatility, energy security challenges and disruption to global shipping routes. Against this backdrop, clients need tailored, innovative solutions backed by specialist underwriting expertise. I look forward to working closely with our underwriting team and brokers to continue delivering consistently high levels of service and prioritise our clients' needs, especially during times of geopolitical instability."
McFarlane added: "I'm thrilled to be taking on my new role as Senior Underwriter in Markel's Marine & Energy Liability team. I look forward to driving innovation across our product offering, strengthening broker relationships and enhancing Markel's client proposition to ensure we continue to meet the evolving needs of our clients and the wider market."
Stroud has more than 18 years' experience in liability broking and underwriting, having worked at Willis Towers Watson and, most recently, AXA XL. At AXA XL, she was responsible for underwriting, risk assessment and pricing for clients operating across the oil and gas sector and the energy transition.
McFarlane joins from Tokio Marine HCC International, bringing more than eight years' experience in Marine & Energy Liability.
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/markel-strengthens-marine--energy-liability-team-in-london-with-key-appointments-302908797.html
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced two key appointments within its Marine & Energy Liability underwriting team in London. Josephine Stroud has been appointed Head of Energy Liability, while Jenny McFarlane joins as Senior Underwriter – Marine & Energy Liability, with both appointments strengthening Markel's London Market underwriting team.
Josephine Stroud, Head of Energy Liability
Jenny McFarlane, Senior Underwriter - Marine & Energy Liability
Both appointments follow the establishment of Markel's new Marine Transportation business within its London Market operations, which brings together Hull & Hull War, MECO, Marine & Energy Liabilities (M&E), and Transport & Logistics, giving brokers greater access to underwriting expertise across these portfolios.
As Head of Energy Liability, Stroud will be responsible for underwriting multi-line, cross-class facilities, working alongside Rhys O'Neill, Head of Marine Liability, to drive further profitable growth across the Marine & Energy Liability portfolio. She'll oversee risk assessments and help develop risk mitigation strategies, working closely with brokers, distribution partners and stakeholders to continue delivering effective underwriting solutions for clients' evolving risk exposures.
In her new role as Senior Underwriter – Marine & Energy Liability, McFarlane will support the strategic development and continued evolution of the Marine & Energy Liability product offering, ensuring clients continue to receive specialist coverage and support. She'll help develop new wordings, drive broker engagement and identify growth opportunities, while maintaining underwriting discipline and delivering high service levels.
Based in London, Stroud and McFarlane will report into the Marine & Energy Liability team, part of the Marine Transportation business, led by Grant Smith.
Smith said: "I'm delighted to welcome Josephine and Jenny to our growing Marine & Energy Liability team. They bring strong expertise and enthusiasm for portfolio management, underwriting, data analysis, claims service and client relationship management. Our Marine Transportation business was built on the technical expertise and precision that Josephine and Jenny bring to their new roles. With their appointments, our Marine & Energy Liability operation is well positioned to continue supporting clients as they navigate an increasingly complex and volatile risk landscape."
Stroud commented: "The marine and energy industries continue to face uncertainty, driven by heightened geopolitical volatility, energy security challenges and disruption to global shipping routes. Against this backdrop, clients need tailored, innovative solutions backed by specialist underwriting expertise. I look forward to working closely with our underwriting team and brokers to continue delivering consistently high levels of service and prioritise our clients' needs, especially during times of geopolitical instability."
McFarlane added: "I'm thrilled to be taking on my new role as Senior Underwriter in Markel's Marine & Energy Liability team. I look forward to driving innovation across our product offering, strengthening broker relationships and enhancing Markel's client proposition to ensure we continue to meet the evolving needs of our clients and the wider market."
Stroud has more than 18 years' experience in liability broking and underwriting, having worked at Willis Towers Watson and, most recently, AXA XL. At AXA XL, she was responsible for underwriting, risk assessment and pricing for clients operating across the oil and gas sector and the energy transition.
McFarlane joins from Tokio Marine HCC International, bringing more than eight years' experience in Marine & Energy Liability.
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Markel Insurance, the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced the launch of its Contractors & Trades sector, providing brokers with a dedicated insurance proposition for contractors, trades and specialist construction-related businesses. Building on Markel's established environmental liability and property and casualty expertise, the new sector brings together casualty, property and selected specialist coverage within a coordinate.
Key Takeaways MKL launches CORE coverage for small and midsize U.S. energy businesses, with limits of up to $50 million.The offering covers property damage, business interruption and catastrophe risks across energy operations.MKL's expansion could drive premium growth, but underwriting discipline remains crucial to profitability. Markel Group Inc. (MKL - Free Report) is expanding its specialty insurance footprint in the United .States. with a new Chemical, Oil & Gas-related Energy Property (CORE) offering for small and midsize businesses.
The product strengthens Markel International’s First-Party Energy capabilities and covers property damage, business interruption and, for selected risks, equipment breakdown. Coverage also includes natural catastrophe exposures such as flood, windstorm and earthquake, with limits of up to $50 million on a primary or excess-of-loss basis.
The launch broadens Markel’s access to businesses across chemical, petrochemical, natural gas, terminal and midstream and downstream operations. The expansion could help Markel access a broader pool of complex commercial risks and increase its presence in the U.S. energy insurance market. Targeting small and midsize businesses also allows the company to build a diversified book rather than relying only on large energy accounts. Markel has also added dedicated energy underwriting leadership to support the business.
The move is particularly relevant as energy companies face increasingly complex property and business-interruption risks. Specialized underwriting expertise can help insurers price these exposures more effectively while managing potential loss volatility.
The expansion creates another potential source of premium growth for Markel’s specialty insurance business. However, energy facilities face significant property damage, business interruption, and catastrophe risks that can lead to substantial claims.
The key challenge will be turning premium growth into underwriting profits. If the company combines its underwriting expertise with disciplined risk selection, the business could become a meaningful contributor to its long-term insurance growth.
What Are Peers Doing?Chubb Limited (CB - Free Report) provides energy insurance for oil and gas operations, refineries, petrochemical facilities and pipelines. Its coverage includes property damage, machinery breakdown and business interruption, alongside solutions for offshore and renewable-energy projects.
Arch Capital Group Ltd. (ACGL - Free Report) also competes in specialty insurance, providing property and casualty coverage for commercial clients with complex exposure. In January 2025, it expanded its renewable-energy property underwriting capabilities, strengthening its focus on wind, solar and battery-storage projects. Its broader energy portfolio also covers midstream, downstream and liquefied natural gas risks.
MKL’s Price PerformanceShares of MKL have lost 7.8% in the past year against the industry’s growth of 6.5%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
MKL’s ValuationThe stock is undervalued compared with its industry. Its forward price-to-book value of 1.15X is lower than the industry average of 2.69X. It carries a Value Score of B.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Estimate Movement for MKLThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for MKL’s third-quarter and fourth-quarter 2026 EPS has both moved down 1.9% and 6.2%, respectively, in the past 60 days.The same for full-year 2026 and 2027 EPS has moved down 3.4% and 0.9%, respectively, in the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The consensus estimate for MKL’s 2026 and 2027 EPS and revenues indicates a year-over-year increase.
MKL stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Markel International launches new chemical, oil & gas related energy property offering for small to midsize US-domiciled businessesPR Newswire
LONDON, Oct. 8, 2026
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. NYSE:MKL, has announced the launch of its Chemical, Oil & Gas related Energy Property (CORE) offering, and the appointment of Candice Walker to Head of First-Party Energy and Michael McClain as Senior Underwriter – Energy.
The launch strengthens Markel's US First-Party Energy proposition, providing a dedicated property solution for small to midsize US-domiciled businesses across the chemical, oil, gas and broader energy sectors, including industrial organic chemicals, petrochemicals, natural gas transmission and storage, terminals, gas processing, and midstream and downstream operations.
Designed for a diverse range of onshore energy and energy-adjacent engineered risks, the new offering provides tailored cover for property damage, business interruption and, on selected risks, equipment breakdown. Clients will also benefit from protection against natural catastrophe exposures, including flood, windstorm and earthquake, with limits of up to US$50 million on both a primary and excess-of-loss basis.
Walker will lead the development of the new offering, working closely with Markel International's existing Midstream and Downstream underwriting teams to deliver a dedicated solution for US-domiciled risks. Her team will assess, price and underwrite a broad range of businesses, from smaller operations to complex US onshore businesses, while maintaining strong underwriting discipline and service levels.
Walker has more than 20 years of experience in the property insurance sector and has been with Markel since 2015. She joined the organisation's US Environmental & Casualty team as a Senior Underwriter before progressing to Director, Property & Marine and later, Senior Director, First Party – West Region. During that time, she partnered with product leaders and underwriting teams to develop tailored insurance solutions and implement technical underwriting strategies for clients across the United States.
Walker commented: "Energy businesses are navigating a complex risk landscape, driven by increasing natural catastrophe events, operational disruptions and a challenging economic environment. Our new product offering provides US-based brokers and clients with a tailored solution, designed around their evolving risk exposures, while offering greater access to Markel's specialist underwriting, claims and engineering expertise through a long-term, committed partner."
Based in Texas, McClain will report to Walker as Senior Underwriter – Energy. In his new position, he will support the continued development and evolution of the CORE offering. Guiding the direction of Markel's Midstream and Downstream US portfolios, McClain will help strengthen broker and client relationships within the businesses' First-Party Energy portfolio.
Most recently, McClain served as Manager of Technical Operations at Tomorrow RNG, a subsidiary gas group of Enbridge Inc, where he led the organisation's Technical Operations team and worked within the Senior Leadership team to establish and implement corporate standards and processes. Prior to this, McClain held various senior roles at Aethon Energy, LLC, a privately held gas producer and midstream group, across facilities, construction and production. In these positions, he executed multimillion-dollar oil and gas infrastructure projects and was responsible for asset planning and development in Aethon's largest East Texas premises.
On McClain's appointment, Walker said: "We're delighted to welcome Michael to our First-Party Energy team here in the US. With his impressive engineering background, operations experience and strong track record in managing multimillion energy infrastructure projects, he'll bring valuable technical insight to our underwriting."
She added: "I look forward to working closely with Michael so that we can continue providing an unrivalled service for our brokers, clients and trading partners, while we position ourselves for long-term profitable growth."
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/markel-international-launches-new-chemical-oil--gas-related-energy-property-offering-for-small-to-midsize-us-domiciled-businesses-302901273.html
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL), has announced the launch of its Chemical, Oil & Gas related Energy Property (CORE) offering, and the appointment of Candice Walker to Head of First-Party Energy and Michael McClain as Senior Underwriter – Energy.
Candice Walker, Head of First Party Energy, US
Michael McClain, Senior Underwriter - Energy The launch strengthens Markel's US First-Party Energy proposition, providing a dedicated property solution for small to midsize US-domiciled businesses across the chemical, oil, gas and broader energy sectors, including industrial organic chemicals, petrochemicals, natural gas transmission and storage, terminals, gas processing, and midstream and downstream operations.
Designed for a diverse range of onshore energy and energy-adjacent engineered risks, the new offering provides tailored cover for property damage, business interruption and, on selected risks, equipment breakdown. Clients will also benefit from protection against natural catastrophe exposures, including flood, windstorm and earthquake, with limits of up to US$50 million on both a primary and excess-of-loss basis.
Walker will lead the development of the new offering, working closely with MarkelInternational's existing Midstream and Downstream underwriting teams to deliver a dedicated solution for US-domiciled risks. Her team will assess, price and underwrite a broad range of businesses, from smaller operations to complex US onshore businesses, while maintaining strong underwriting discipline and service levels.
Walker has more than 20 years of experience in the property insurance sector and has been with Markel since 2015. She joined the organisation's US Environmental & Casualty team as a Senior Underwriter before progressing to Director, Property & Marine and later, Senior Director, First Party – West Region. During that time, she partnered with product leaders and underwriting teams to develop tailored insurance solutions and implement technical underwriting strategies for clients across the United States.
Walker commented: "Energy businesses are navigating a complex risk landscape, driven by increasing natural catastrophe events, operational disruptions and a challenging economic environment. Our new product offering provides US-based brokers and clients with a tailored solution, designed around their evolving risk exposures, while offering greater access to Markel's specialist underwriting, claims and engineering expertise through a long-term, committed partner."
Based in Texas, McClain will report to Walker as Senior Underwriter – Energy. In his new position, he will support the continued development and evolution of the CORE offering. Guiding the direction of Markel's Midstream and Downstream US portfolios, McClain will help strengthen broker and client relationships within the businesses' First-Party Energy portfolio.
Most recently, McClain served as Manager of Technical Operations at Tomorrow RNG, a subsidiary gas group of EnbridgeInc, where he led the organisation's Technical Operations team and worked within the Senior Leadership team to establish and implement corporate standards and processes. Prior to this, McClain held various senior roles at Aethon Energy, LLC, a privately held gas producer and midstream group, across facilities, construction and production. In these positions, he executed multimillion-dollar oil and gas infrastructure projects and was responsible for asset planning and development in Aethon's largest East Texas premises.
On McClain's appointment, Walker said: "We're delighted to welcome Michael to our First-Party Energy team here in the US. With his impressive engineering background, operations experience and strong track record in managing multimillion energy infrastructure projects, he'll bring valuable technical insight to our underwriting."
She added: "I look forward to working closely with Michael so that we can continue providing an unrivalled service for our brokers, clients and trading partners, while we position ourselves for long-term profitable growth."
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL), has announced the launch of its Chemical, Oil & Gas related Energy Property (CORE) offering, and the appointment of Candice Walker to Head of First-Party Energy and Michael McClain as Senior Underwriter – Energy.
Candice Walker, Head of First Party Energy, US
Michael McClain, Senior Underwriter - Energy The launch strengthens Markel's US First-Party Energy proposition, providing a dedicated property solution for small to midsize US-domiciled businesses across the chemical, oil, gas and broader energy sectors, including industrial organic chemicals, petrochemicals, natural gas transmission and storage, terminals, gas processing, and midstream and downstream operations.
Designed for a diverse range of onshore energy and energy-adjacent engineered risks, the new offering provides tailored cover for property damage, business interruption and, on selected risks, equipment breakdown. Clients will also benefit from protection against natural catastrophe exposures, including flood, windstorm and earthquake, with limits of up to US$50 million on both a primary and excess-of-loss basis.
Walker will lead the development of the new offering, working closely with Markel International's existing Midstream and Downstream underwriting teams to deliver a dedicated solution for US-domiciled risks. Her team will assess, price and underwrite a broad range of businesses, from smaller operations to complex US onshore businesses, while maintaining strong underwriting discipline and service levels.
Walker has more than 20 years of experience in the property insurance sector and has been with Markel since 2015. She joined the organisation's US Environmental & Casualty team as a Senior Underwriter before progressing to Director, Property & Marine and later, Senior Director, First Party – West Region. During that time, she partnered with product leaders and underwriting teams to develop tailored insurance solutions and implement technical underwriting strategies for clients across the United States.
Walker commented: "Energy businesses are navigating a complex risk landscape, driven by increasing natural catastrophe events, operational disruptions and a challenging economic environment. Our new product offering provides US-based brokers and clients with a tailored solution, designed around their evolving risk exposures, while offering greater access to Markel's specialist underwriting, claims and engineering expertise through a long-term, committed partner."
Based in Texas, McClain will report to Walker as Senior Underwriter – Energy. In his new position, he will support the continued development and evolution of the CORE offering. Guiding the direction of Markel's Midstream and Downstream US portfolios, McClain will help strengthen broker and client relationships within the businesses' First-Party Energy portfolio.
Most recently, McClain served as Manager of Technical Operations at Tomorrow RNG, a subsidiary gas group of Enbridge Inc, where he led the organisation's Technical Operations team and worked within the Senior Leadership team to establish and implement corporate standards and processes. Prior to this, McClain held various senior roles at Aethon Energy, LLC, a privately held gas producer and midstream group, across facilities, construction and production. In these positions, he executed multimillion-dollar oil and gas infrastructure projects and was responsible for asset planning and development in Aethon's largest East Texas premises.
On McClain's appointment, Walker said: "We're delighted to welcome Michael to our First-Party Energy team here in the US. With his impressive engineering background, operations experience and strong track record in managing multimillion energy infrastructure projects, he'll bring valuable technical insight to our underwriting."
She added: "I look forward to working closely with Michael so that we can continue providing an unrivalled service for our brokers, clients and trading partners, while we position ourselves for long-term profitable growth."
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
Key Takeaways MKL's Q2 combined ratio improved to 93%, while underwriting income more than doubled to $142.1 million. U.S. Wholesale & Specialty improved to a 97% combined ratio through better loss and expense ratios. Expense management and portfolio repositioning support profitability as pricing momentum moderates. Markel Group Inc. (MKL - Free Report) appears well positioned to sustain its improving underwriting profitability, although the pace of improvement could moderate as insurance pricing softens and catastrophe-related volatility persists.
In the second quarter of 2026, Markel Insurance’s combined ratio improved to 93% from 97% a year earlier, while underwriting income more than doubled to $142.1 million from $63.2 million. The six-month combined ratio also improved to 93% from 96%. The improvement was supported by favorable prior-year reserve development, a lower expense ratio and continued underwriting actions.
Several factors support the sustainability of this trend. Markel has been reorganizing and refocusing its insurance operations, with greater emphasis on disciplined risk selection, portfolio optimization and expense efficiency. The U.S. Wholesale & Specialty division’s combined ratio improved to 97% from 102%, reflecting improvements in both loss and expense ratios. These initiatives should help Markel maintain underwriting discipline even as pricing momentum moderates.
However, risks remain. Pricing is softening in parts of the market, particularly property, while Markel is deliberately reducing exposure to certain casualty and contractors’ lines. The Programs & Solutions division’s combined ratio deteriorated to 94% from 91%, partly due to higher losses in personal umbrella and certain delegated programs. Middle East conflict losses also added to volatility during the quarter.
Overall, Markel’s second-quarter results indicate that the improvement in underwriting profitability is becoming increasingly supported by operational and underwriting discipline rather than pricing alone. Continued expense management, portfolio repositioning and selective risk-taking should support margins. Investors will nevertheless watch whether MKL can sustain low-to-mid-90% combined ratios through exposure growth, risk selection and productivity gains as favorable pricing conditions fade.
What About Its Peers?W.R. Berkley Corporation (WRB - Free Report) appears well positioned to sustain improving underwriting profitability despite a gradually softer pricing environment. In the second quarter of 2026, WRB’s pre-tax underwriting income increased 21.8% year over year, while its current accident-year combined ratio, excluding catastrophes, remained strong at 88.1%. The improvement reflects disciplined risk selection, a favorable business mix, and expense management, which can help offset moderating insurance rates. With pricing momentum fading across parts of the commercial P&C market, investors will increasingly focus on whether WRB can preserve its underwriting margins through exposure growth, new business opportunities, retention and continued portfolio optimization.
Chubb Limited (CB - Free Report) appears well positioned to sustain improving underwriting profitability despite a gradually softer pricing environment. In the second quarter of 2026, Chubb’s P&C combined ratio was supported by strong underwriting performance, favorable business mix and disciplined risk selection. The company’s diversified portfolio across commercial P&C, specialty and international markets provides flexibility to manage areas where pricing is moderating, while continued exposure management and expense discipline should support margins. As rate increases lose momentum, investors will increasingly focus on whether Chubb can preserve its strong underwriting profitability through new business growth, retention, risk selection and portfolio optimization rather than relying primarily on pricing tailwinds.
MKL’s Price PerformanceShares of MKL have lost 11.1% in the past year against the industry’s growth of 2.5%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
MKL’s UndervaluationThe stock is undervalued compared with its industry. Its forward price-to-book value of 1.13X is lower than the industry average of 2.67X. It carries a Value Score of B.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Estimate Movement for MKLThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for MKL’s third-quarter and fourth-quarter 2026 EPS has both moved down 1.9% and 6.2%, respectively, in the past 60 days. The same for full-year 2026 and 2027 EPS has moved down 3.4% and 0.9%, respectively, in the past 60 days.
Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week low on Thursday. The company traded as low as $1,712.45 and last traded at $1,716.7330, with a volume of 82771 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $1,740.09.
Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities analysts have issued reports on MKL shares. Wolfe Research assumed coverage on Markel Group in a research report on Wednesday, July 1st. They issued an “underperform” rating on the stock. Weiss Ratings downgraded shares of Markel Group from a “buy (b-)” rating to a “hold (c+)” rating in a research report on Thursday, September 17th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Markel Group from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Saturday, August 1st. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company’s stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of “Reduce” and an average target price of $2,025.00.
View Our Latest Stock Report on MKL
Markel Group Stock Down 1.3% The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a current ratio of 0.63. The firm has a market capitalization of $21.27 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.44 and a beta of 0.65. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $1,828.06 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $1,868.93. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of MKL. Reflection Asset Management acquired a new stake in Markel Group during the fourth quarter worth about $26,000. Pin Oak Investment Advisors Inc. bought a new position in shares of Markel Group during the second quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Livforsakringsbolaget Skandia Omsesidigt acquired a new stake in shares of Markel Group during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $39,000. NFSG Corp acquired a new stake in shares of Markel Group during the 1st quarter worth approximately $40,000. Finally, Security National Bank of SO Dak bought a new stake in shares of Markel Group in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $45,000. 77.12% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.
Markel Group Company Profile (Get Free Report)
Markel Group Inc (NYSE: MKL) is a diversified holding company focused primarily on specialty insurance and investments. Through its insurance operations, the company provides coverage for risks that may be complex, specialized or underserved by standard insurance markets, including commercial, professional liability, marine, casualty and other specialty lines.
Markel’s insurance business operates through a network of underwriting platforms and subsidiaries serving businesses and individuals in the United States and international markets, including the United Kingdom, Europe, Canada and other regions.
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Shares of Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Get Free Report) have been given an average recommendation of “Reduce” by the six ratings firms that are currently covering the firm, Marketbeat Ratings reports. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation and five have given a hold recommendation to the company. The average 1-year price objective among brokerages that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $2,025.00.
A number of analysts recently weighed in on MKL shares. Wolfe Research began coverage on Markel Group in a report on Wednesday, July 1st. They issued an “underperform” rating for the company. Wall Street Zen raised Markel Group from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a report on Saturday, August 1st. Finally, Weiss Ratings lowered Markel Group from a “buy (b-)” rating to a “hold (c+)” rating in a research report on Thursday, September 17th.
Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on MKL
Institutional Trading of Markel Group Several institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in MKL. BlackRock Inc. bought a new position in Markel Group during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $1,362,880,000. Norges Bank bought a new stake in shares of Markel Group in the 4th quarter valued at $317,583,000. Bank of America Corp DE bought a new stake in shares of Markel Group in the 2nd quarter valued at $231,608,000. Davis Asset Management L.P. acquired a new stake in shares of Markel Group during the second quarter worth $179,882,000. Finally, Legal & General Group Plc acquired a new stake in shares of Markel Group during the second quarter worth $122,219,000. 77.12% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Markel Group Price Performance MKL stock opened at $1,741.43 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $21.58 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.58 and a beta of 0.65. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $1,832.61 and a 200-day moving average price of $1,870.54. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a current ratio of 0.63. Markel Group has a 52-week low of $1,716.00 and a 52-week high of $2,207.59.
About Markel Group (Get Free Report)
Markel Group Inc (NYSE: MKL) is a diversified holding company focused primarily on specialty insurance and investments. Through its insurance operations, the company provides coverage for risks that may be complex, specialized or underserved by standard insurance markets, including commercial, professional liability, marine, casualty and other specialty lines.
Markel’s insurance business operates through a network of underwriting platforms and subsidiaries serving businesses and individuals in the United States and international markets, including the United Kingdom, Europe, Canada and other regions.
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Bank of America Corp DE bought a new position in shares of Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Free Report) during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor bought 118,590 shares of the insurance provider’s stock, valued at approximately $231,608,000. Bank of America Corp DE owned 0.96% of Markel Group as of its most recent SEC filing.
A number of other large investors also recently modified their holdings of MKL. Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec bought a new stake in Markel Group during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $8,814,000. Man Group plc purchased a new stake in shares of Markel Group in the second quarter valued at about $3,312,000. Western Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Markel Group during the second quarter valued at about $373,000. Roberts Glore & Co. Inc. IL bought a new position in shares of Markel Group during the second quarter valued at about $268,000. Finally, Jupiter Topco LLC purchased a new position in Markel Group during the second quarter worth about $36,444,000. 77.12% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.
Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth MKL has been the subject of several analyst reports. Wolfe Research initiated coverage on shares of Markel Group in a research note on Wednesday, July 1st. They issued an “underperform” rating for the company. Wall Street Zen upgraded Markel Group from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Saturday, August 1st. Finally, Weiss Ratings raised Markel Group from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “buy (b-)” rating in a report on Monday, August 17th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company’s stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $2,025.00.
Get Our Latest Report on MKL Markel Group Stock Down 0.2% Markel Group stock opened at $1,788.24 on Thursday. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $1,869.01 and a 200-day moving average price of $1,886.89. The company has a quick ratio of 0.63, a current ratio of 0.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23. Markel Group Inc. has a twelve month low of $1,719.41 and a twelve month high of $2,207.59. The company has a market capitalization of $22.16 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.83 and a beta of 0.65.
Markel Group Company Profile (Free Report)
Markel Group Inc is a diversified financial holding company headquartered in Glen Allen, Virginia. Its principal business is specialty insurance, including commercial and personal lines, excess and surplus lines, professional liability, marine, workers’ compensation, and other niche coverage. The company also provides reinsurance and insurance-related services through subsidiaries and underwriting platforms.
Markel serves customers and business partners in the United States and international markets, including the United Kingdom, Europe, Canada, Asia-Pacific and other regions.
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, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced the appointment of Nick Rugg as Head of Financial Institutions & Fintech – PFR & Cyber within its London-based specialty insurance operation, with immediate effect.
Nick Rugg, Head of Financial Institutions and Fintech - PFR & Cyber, International Reporting to Martin McCarron, Director of Financial Institutions and Management Liability, International, Rugg will lead the team providing professional indemnity, directors' and officers' liability, crime and cyber coverage across four product lines: Investment Managers, Fintech, Traditional Financial Institutions and Offshore Financial Institutions.
This follows Bhavik Desai's appointment as Managing Director of PFR & Cyber in London and is the latest leadership development within the division.
Rugg said: "Fintech has moved from being an emerging segment to an established part of the financial services market. As businesses have scaled and the range of business models has expanded, their insurance needs have become more varied. Markel entered the market early, so we have seen that development first-hand and built considerable specialist experience alongside it.
"I look forward to working with our underwriting team, brokers and clients to develop the wider Financial Institutions portfolio. We will continue to strengthen our position as a leading partner to financial services businesses across our four product lines."
Desai added: "Nick has played a key role in building Markel's Fintech product suite, designed for businesses whose exposures cut across professional liability, directors' and officers' liability, crime and cyber risk. This includes Markel's early move to provide blended cyber FI coverage across its Fintech and investment management products, an approach that's helped establish Markel as a leading insurer for Fintech and investment management sectors.
"His product expertise, broker relationships and experience in developing these portfolios give him a strong foundation to lead the wider team. In this expanded role, Nick will bring that experience across the wider financial institutions portfolio, with a focus on developing products that respond to the way financial services risks are continuing to converge."
Rugg joined Markel in 2014 as an underwriter in the financial institutions team and has since held senior underwriting positions, most recently as Head of Fintech and Investment Management Insurance. He has more than 20 years of underwriting experience and previously worked as a financial institutions underwriter at Arch Europe.
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
Markel International appoints Nick Rugg to Head of Financial Institutions & Fintech - PFR & Cyber, InternationalPR Newswire
LONDON, Sept. 17, 2026
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced the appointment of Nick Rugg as Head of Financial Institutions & Fintech – PFR & Cyber within its London-based specialty insurance operation, with immediate effect.
Reporting to Martin McCarron, Director of Financial Institutions and Management Liability, International, Rugg will lead the team providing professional indemnity, directors' and officers' liability, crime and cyber coverage across four product lines: Investment Managers, Fintech, Traditional Financial Institutions and Offshore Financial Institutions.
This follows Bhavik Desai's appointment as Managing Director of PFR & Cyber in London and is the latest leadership development within the division.
Rugg said: "Fintech has moved from being an emerging segment to an established part of the financial services market. As businesses have scaled and the range of business models has expanded, their insurance needs have become more varied. Markel entered the market early, so we have seen that development first-hand and built considerable specialist experience alongside it.
"I look forward to working with our underwriting team, brokers and clients to develop the wider Financial Institutions portfolio. We will continue to strengthen our position as a leading partner to financial services businesses across our four product lines."
Desai added: "Nick has played a key role in building Markel's Fintech product suite, designed for businesses whose exposures cut across professional liability, directors' and officers' liability, crime and cyber risk. This includes Markel's early move to provide blended cyber FI coverage across its Fintech and investment management products, an approach that's helped establish Markel as a leading insurer for Fintech and investment management sectors.
"His product expertise, broker relationships and experience in developing these portfolios give him a strong foundation to lead the wider team. In this expanded role, Nick will bring that experience across the wider financial institutions portfolio, with a focus on developing products that respond to the way financial services risks are continuing to converge."
Rugg joined Markel in 2014 as an underwriter in the financial institutions team and has since held senior underwriting positions, most recently as Head of Fintech and Investment Management Insurance. He has more than 20 years of underwriting experience and previously worked as a financial institutions underwriter at Arch Europe.
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/markel-international-appoints-nick-rugg-to-head-of-financial-institutions--fintech--pfr--cyber-international-302880601.html
Berkshire Hathaway (BRKA +0.84%)(BRKB +0.59%) has a market cap of $1.1 trillion. Markel's (MKL -0.24%) market cap is "just" $22 billion. This comparison is important because Markel is open about the fact that it is copying Berkshire Hathaway's business model, leading many to describe it as baby Berkshire. With Markel down around 18% from its 52-week high, as of this writing, and Berkshire Hathaway only down around 2%, should investors buy Markel?
What does Markel do? Like Berkshire Hathaway, Markel's core business is insurance. Both companies have taken an aggressive view of the float. The float is made up of the premiums that Markel collects and holds until they are needed to pay claims. While most insurance companies focus on buying bonds, Berkshire and Markel use the float to buy entire companies and invest in select publicly traded stocks.
Image source: Getty Images.
Equities make up around $13.4 billion of Markel's $33.5 billion investment portfolio, as of the second quarter of 2026. The key here is that the cost basis of its equity investments is only about $4.2 billion, so the company has created a lot of value for shareholders with just its stock investments alone. And that doesn't even take into consideration the operating businesses it owns across the industrial, consumer, and "other" spaces. Markel's goal is to support and grow these businesses over the long term, adding even more value for shareholders.
MKL data by YCharts
For many years, Markel's stock actually outperformed Berkshire Hathaway's. However, the recent pullback has left Berkshire Hathaway ahead. Only, both companies have gone through material transitions. Berkshire Hathaway's world-famous CEO, Warren Buffett, handed over the CEO job to hand-picked lieutenant Greg Abel at the start of 2026. And Markel spent some time repositioning its business ahead of 2026, fine-tuning its strategy and simplifying its reporting structure. So both businesses are still doing the same basic thing, but not exactly in the same way.
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Markel is a unique long-term investment with a strong history Like Berkshire Hathaway, Markel is a fairly complex company to track because there are so many moving parts. Historically, the Berkshire Hathaway-styled approach has proven a winner for investors, so the pullback is probably worth looking into. However, that's really only true if you are looking to invest for the long term and look at Markel as something of a mutual fund-like investment.
All in, you are investing alongside Markel as it invests in other businesses and stocks. Historically, that's worked out well for shareholders, even though past performance isn't a guarantee of future results. For investors who like to do their own research, Markel probably won't be a good fit.
Markel International bolsters leadership in new Marine Transportation business with two key appointmentsPR Newswire
LONDON, Sept. 15, 2026
LONDON, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced the appointment of Dean Johnson to Head of Transport & Logistics (T&L), and Rhys O'Neill as Head of Marine Liability.
These appointments follow the establishment of Markel International's new Marine Transportation business, which brings together leadership across Hull & Hull War, MECO, Marine and Energy Liabilities (M&E), and Transport & Logistics to provide brokers with more coordinated access to specialist underwriting expertise.
In his new position, Johnson will lead the sustainable expansion of Markel's Transport & Logistics portfolio, overseeing robust risk assessment and pricing decisions while driving portfolio optimisation through analysis of performance, trends and emerging risks. He'll provide strategic direction for the T&L underwriting team, where he'll work to identify profitable growth opportunities, increase broker engagement and ensure best-in-class underwriting standards are upheld for brokers and clients.
As Head of Marine Liability, O'Neill will lead the Marine Liability strategy to drive further profitable growth across the M&E portfolio, while maintaining high service levels for customers and supporting the continued professional development of the team. He will be responsible for managing, assessing and placing complex risks with brokers, ensuring clients continue to receive bespoke insurance solutions for their evolving exposures.
Both Johnson and O'Neill will be based in London and report directly to Grant Smith, who was appointed Director of Marine Transportation earlier this year.
Smith commented: "From rising geopolitical tensions and shifting weather patterns to emerging technological developments, the marine and energy industries are navigating a myriad of complex, interconnected risks requiring tailored solutions and specialist underwriting expertise."
"Since starting at Markel, both Dean and Rhys have demonstrated exceptional leadership across their teams, fostered strong connections in the market and negotiated large broker deals to support the expansion of our Transport & Logistics and Marine & Energy Liability portfolios. With their deep sector knowledge and technical expertise, I'm delighted to see them step up in their new roles to further strengthen our portfolios and provide brokers with even greater access to Markel's bespoke solutions."
Johnson said: "Increasing nat cat exposures, geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions are just some of the interconnected risks impacting vessel owners and terminal operators worldwide. In my new position, I'm looking forward to enhancing our products, services and support and strengthening cohesion between our underwriting teams and broker partners to provide clarity of coverage and long-term, sustainable solutions for clients navigating an increasingly complex risk environment."
O'Neill added: "The marine and energy liability market is experiencing a period of heightened geopolitical volatility where risks are becoming increasingly integrated and more complex than ever before. As head of marine liability, and together with Markel's M&E team, I will ensure that our brokers continue to receive the high level of service that they've come to expect and value from Markel, while also focusing on delivering more tailored solutions to address our clients' emerging marine and energy liability exposures."
Johnson joined Markel as Senior Underwriter for Transport & Logistics in 2025, underwriting liability and property package policies for the ports, terminals and marine trades industries, as well as cargo liabilities and marine professional indemnity globally. Previously, he spent 14 years at Travelers, where he played a key role in the development and growth of the T&L portfolio through underwriting, product development and broker expansion in the London Market and internationally.
O'Neill possesses more than 15 years of Liability underwriting experience across Lloyd's Syndicates and P&I Clubs. He was hired as Senior Underwriter – Marine & Energy Liability at Markel International, two years ago, and has since managed the M&E portfolio and become a senior referral point for complex risks, supporting strategic decisions on pricing, coverage and broker negotiations.
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/markel-international-bolsters-leadership-in-new-marine-transportation-business-with-two-key-appointments-302877959.html
LONDON, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced the appointment of Dean Johnson to Head of Transport & Logistics (T&L), and Rhys O'Neill as Head of Marine Liability.
These appointments follow the establishment of Markel International's new Marine Transportation business, which brings together leadership across Hull & Hull War, MECO, Marine and Energy Liabilities (M&E), and Transport & Logistics to provide brokers with more coordinated access to specialist underwriting expertise.
Dean Johnson, Head of Transport & Logistics at Markel International
Rhys O'Neill, Head of Marine Liability at Markel International In his new position, Johnson will lead the sustainable expansion of Markel's Transport & Logistics portfolio, overseeing robust risk assessment and pricing decisions while driving portfolio optimisation through analysis of performance, trends and emerging risks. He'll provide strategic direction for the T&L underwriting team, where he'll work to identify profitable growth opportunities, increase broker engagement and ensure best-in-class underwriting standards are upheld for brokers and clients.
As Head of Marine Liability, O'Neill will lead the Marine Liability strategy to drive further profitable growth across the M&E portfolio, while maintaining high service levels for customers and supporting the continued professional development of the team. He will be responsible for managing, assessing and placing complex risks with brokers, ensuring clients continue to receive bespoke insurance solutions for their evolving exposures.
Both Johnson and O'Neill will be based in London and report directly to Grant Smith, who was appointed Director of Marine Transportation earlier this year.
Smith commented: "From rising geopolitical tensions and shifting weather patterns to emerging technological developments, the marine and energy industries are navigating a myriad of complex, interconnected risks requiring tailored solutions and specialist underwriting expertise."
"Since starting at Markel, both Dean and Rhys have demonstrated exceptional leadership across their teams, fostered strong connections in the market and negotiated large broker deals to support the expansion of our Transport & Logistics and Marine & Energy Liability portfolios. With their deep sector knowledge and technical expertise, I'm delighted to see them step up in their new roles to further strengthen our portfolios and provide brokers with even greater access to Markel's bespoke solutions."
Johnson said: "Increasing nat cat exposures, geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions are just some of the interconnected risks impacting vessel owners and terminal operators worldwide. In my new position, I'm looking forward to enhancing our products, services and support and strengthening cohesion between our underwriting teams and broker partners to provide clarity of coverage and long-term, sustainable solutions for clients navigating an increasingly complex risk environment."
O'Neill added: "The marine and energy liability market is experiencing a period of heightened geopolitical volatility where risks are becoming increasingly integrated and more complex than ever before. As head of marine liability, and together with Markel's M&E team, I will ensure that our brokers continue to receive the high level of service that they've come to expect and value from Markel, while also focusing on delivering more tailored solutions to address our clients' emerging marine and energy liability exposures."
Johnson joined Markel as Senior Underwriter for Transport & Logistics in 2025, underwriting liability and property package policies for the ports, terminals and marine trades industries, as well as cargo liabilities and marine professional indemnity globally. Previously, he spent 14 years at Travelers, where he played a key role in the development and growth of the T&L portfolio through underwriting, product development and broker expansion in the London Market and internationally.
O'Neill possesses more than 15 years of Liability underwriting experience across Lloyd's Syndicates and P&I Clubs. He was hired as Senior Underwriter – Marine & Energy Liability at Markel International, two years ago, and has since managed the M&E portfolio and become a senior referral point for complex risks, supporting strategic decisions on pricing, coverage and broker negotiations.
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
Hsbc Holdings PLC increased its holdings in Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Free Report) by 18.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 33,966 shares of the insurance provider’s stock after acquiring an additional 5,269 shares during the period. Hsbc Holdings PLC owned about 0.27% of Markel Group worth $66,423,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.
A number of other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Brighton Jones LLC purchased a new position in Markel Group in the fourth quarter valued at about $236,000. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. grew its stake in shares of Markel Group by 13.5% in the 1st quarter. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. now owns 109 shares of the insurance provider’s stock valued at $204,000 after buying an additional 13 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of Markel Group by 9.7% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 34,704 shares of the insurance provider’s stock valued at $64,883,000 after buying an additional 3,083 shares in the last quarter. Empowered Funds LLC increased its holdings in Markel Group by 49.1% in the first quarter. Empowered Funds LLC now owns 416 shares of the insurance provider’s stock worth $778,000 after buying an additional 137 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership acquired a new position in Markel Group in the second quarter worth approximately $463,000. 77.12% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.
Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of research firms have issued reports on MKL. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Markel Group from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Saturday, August 1st. Weiss Ratings upgraded shares of Markel Group from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “buy (b-)” rating in a research note on Monday, August 17th. Finally, Wolfe Research initiated coverage on shares of Markel Group in a report on Wednesday, July 1st. They set an “underperform” rating on the stock. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus price target of $2,025.00.
View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Markel Group MKL stock opened at $1,828.12 on Tuesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $22.65 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.05 and a beta of 0.65. The company has a 50-day moving average of $1,893.22 and a two-hundred day moving average of $1,900.77. Markel Group Inc. has a 52-week low of $1,719.41 and a 52-week high of $2,207.59. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a current ratio of 0.63 and a quick ratio of 0.63.
Markel Group Company Profile (Free Report)
Markel Group (NYSE: MKL) is a diversified insurance holding company best known for underwriting specialty insurance products. Founded in 1930 and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the company provides a wide range of commercial property and casualty coverages tailored to niche and hard-to-place risks. Its underwriting operations focus on specialty lines across multiple industries, delivering customized policy structures, program administration, and claims management services for complex exposures.
In addition to primary specialty insurance, Markel operates reinsurance and alternative risk-transfer activities and manages invested assets derived from underwriting float.
Read More Five stocks we like better than Markel Group 3 Under-the-Radar Defense Stocks With Record Backlogs This Korea ETF Has Soared, But the Rally May Not Be Over Why Guidewire’s Post-Earnings Plunge May Not Last Ride-Share Reckoning: Tesla Drives Into Uber’s Lane Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MKL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Free Report).
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Simon Wilson and Andrew Crowley Promoted to Co-Presidents Establishes Leadership Council Consisting of Lead Independent Director, Chairman, and Co-Presidents , /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) today announced that Steve Markel, Chairman of the Board of Directors, informed the Board on Thursday, September 3, 2026 that after more than 50 years of distinguished service to Markel, he will retire as Chairman and will not seek re-election to the Board at Markel's 2027 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Effective today, the Board has appointed Chief Executive Officer Tom Gayner to the additional role of Chairman, succeeding Mr. Markel. Michael O'Reilly, Markel Board member and former Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer at Chubb, as well as former Chairman of Alterra Capital Holdings Limited, will remain Lead Independent Director.
"On behalf of the Board, we thank Steve for his many contributions and expert counsel throughout his decades of service to Markel and its customers, employees, and shareholders," said Mr. O'Reilly. "Steve's leadership, wisdom, expertise, and commitment to Markel are unmatched and we look forward to continuing to benefit from his insights until he completes his board service next year. As we prepare for that transition, we have the utmost confidence that Tom brings the right mix of expertise, proven leadership and commitment and will seamlessly step into this new role and continue to drive substantial long-term value for our shareholders."
Mr. Markel said, "It has been an honor to work alongside so many talented people across Markel's businesses over the years. Markel has always been guided by a strong set of values — a long-term orientation, an ownership mindset and a commitment to doing things the right way — and I am proud of the culture we have cultivated. I am deeply grateful to our employees, customers, and shareholders for their trust and support, and I have every confidence that Markel is in the hands of tremendous leaders who will ensure it continues to thrive for years to come."
Markel also announced that Simon Wilson and Andrew Crowley, previously Executive Vice Presidents of Markel Group, have been promoted to the roles of Co-Presidents of Markel Group, effective immediately. The promotions reflect their successful efforts to further strengthen and drive focus across Markel's principal businesses. As Co-Presidents, Mr. Wilson and Mr. Crowley will serve as CEO of Markel Insurance and CEO of Markel Ventures, respectively.
Additionally, the Board announced the establishment of a Leadership Council, consisting of the Lead Independent Director, Chairman and CEO, and Co-Presidents. The Council is designed to facilitate regular coordination among independent Board leadership and senior management, and enhance the Board and management's review of the Company's strategy, performance, and capital allocation.
"Markel has a distinctive collection of businesses, strong franchises, and significant opportunities to continue to create value for shareholders, customers, and employees," said Mr. Gayner. "Our Company has always operated with a long-term orientation toward value generation, combining disciplined capital allocation with an ownership mindset. As we prepare for Steve's well-earned retirement, we will benefit from even greater connectivity between our Board and executive leaders as we continue to evolve and execute our strategy in alignment with those priorities. I look forward to collaborating with Mike, Simon, and Andrew as well as the full Board as we deliver on the many opportunities ahead for Markel."
About Markel Group
Markel Group Inc. is a diverse family of companies that includes everything from insurance to bakery equipment, building supplies, houseplants, and more. The leadership teams of these businesses operate with a high degree of independence, while at the same time living the values that we call the Markel Style. Our specialty insurance business sits at the core of our company. Through decades of sound underwriting, the Markel Insurance team has provided the capital base from which we built a system of businesses and investments that collectively increase Markel Group's durability and adaptability. It's a system that provides diverse income streams, access to a wide range of investment opportunities, and the ability to efficiently move capital to the best ideas across the company. Most importantly though, this system enables each of our businesses to advance our shared goal of helping our customers, associates, and shareholders win over the long term. Visit mklgroup.com to learn more.
Key Takeaways MKL is partnering with Midwest to expand small-business workers' compensation coverage in California.Midwest's online quoting and established platform could help Markel reach smaller accounts more efficiently.MKL can use Midwest's data-driven approach to improve risk selection and pricing amid rising cost pressures. Markel Group (MKL - Free Report) is expanding its workers' compensation business in California through a collaboration with Midwest General Insurance Agency, a subsidiary of Acrisure.
The partnership will focus on small-business workers' compensation coverage. Midwest brings more than 20 years of experience in the California market and offers online quoting capabilities, which could help Markel access smaller accounts more efficiently.
The move could support Markel's insurance business by expanding its addressable market in one of the largest and most competitive workers' compensation markets in the United States. Midwest already has capabilities spanning marketing, underwriting, policy issuance, claims and loss control. This established platform could allow Markel to broaden its reach without having to develop an entirely new distribution infrastructure.
However, California's workers' compensation market is facing rising cost pressures. The state adopted an average advisory pure premium rate that is 6.6% higher than the 2025 level, effective Sept. 1, 2026. This makes disciplined underwriting particularly important for Markel as it expands its business in the state.
Midwest's data-driven approach to account selection could benefit Markel. Better risk selection and appropriate pricing for rising medical and claims costs can help the insurer grow premiums while maintaining underwriting discipline.
The collaboration gives Markel an efficient avenue to expand its small-business workers' compensation portfolio in California and could support premium growth over the long term.
What About Its Peers?The Travelers Companies, Inc. (TRV - Free Report) has expanded its digital small-business quoting capabilities, making workers’ compensation available through its platform in more than 30 states. Its use of data and analytics can help improve risk selection and streamline policy issuance.
Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.B - Free Report) , through its GUARD business, has also been expanding its workers’ compensation business through partnerships. In 2025, GUARD partnered with London Underwriters to allow agencies to quote and bind its workers’ compensation policies through the LU One digital platform. GUARD also works with hundreds of payroll-service partners to distribute its workers’ compensation products.
MKL’s Price PerformanceShares of MKL have lost 5.3% in the past year against the industry’s growth of 8.8%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
MKL’s UndervaluationThe stock is undervalued compared with its industry. Its forward price-to-book value of 1.19X is lower than the industry average of 2.70X. It carries a Value Score of B.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Estimate Movement for MKLThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for Markel’s 2026 earnings per share (EPS) indicates a year-over-year increase of 13.5%.
The consensus estimate for revenues is pegged at $15.9 billion, implying a year-over-year improvement of 3.9%.
The consensus estimate for 2027 EPS and revenues indicates an increase of 9.9% and 1.2%, respectively, from the corresponding 2026 estimates.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 earnings have moved 0.7% and 1% south, respectively, over the last 30 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
MKL stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
California State Teachers Retirement System lifted its stake in Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Free Report) by 194,510.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 35,222,535 shares of the insurance provider’s stock after buying an additional 35,204,436 shares during the period. California State Teachers Retirement System owned about 284.28% of Markel Group worth $68,789,963,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.
Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Wellington Shields & Co. LLC lifted its position in shares of Markel Group by 3.2% in the 4th quarter. Wellington Shields & Co. LLC now owns 160 shares of the insurance provider’s stock worth $344,000 after acquiring an additional 5 shares during the period. Root Financial Partners LLC raised its stake in shares of Markel Group by 13.9% in the fourth quarter. Root Financial Partners LLC now owns 41 shares of the insurance provider’s stock valued at $88,000 after purchasing an additional 5 shares in the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC lifted its position in Markel Group by 4.4% in the fourth quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 118 shares of the insurance provider’s stock worth $254,000 after purchasing an additional 5 shares during the period. Lido Advisors LLC boosted its stake in Markel Group by 1.1% during the fourth quarter. Lido Advisors LLC now owns 460 shares of the insurance provider’s stock worth $912,000 after buying an additional 5 shares in the last quarter. Finally, CHICAGO TRUST Co NA increased its holdings in Markel Group by 5.6% in the 1st quarter. CHICAGO TRUST Co NA now owns 113 shares of the insurance provider’s stock valued at $216,000 after buying an additional 6 shares during the period. 77.12% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.
Analysts Set New Price Targets MKL has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Markel Group from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Saturday, August 1st. Weiss Ratings upgraded shares of Markel Group from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “buy (b-)” rating in a research note on Monday, August 17th. Finally, Wolfe Research began coverage on Markel Group in a report on Wednesday, July 1st. They set an “underperform” rating on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Markel Group has a consensus rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $2,025.00.
View Our Latest Analysis on MKL Markel Group Stock Up 0.1% MKL opened at $1,828.12 on Monday. The firm’s 50-day simple moving average is $1,895.75 and its 200-day simple moving average is $1,902.58. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a current ratio of 0.63. Markel Group Inc. has a twelve month low of $1,719.41 and a twelve month high of $2,207.59. The firm has a market cap of $22.65 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.05 and a beta of 0.65.
Markel Group Company Profile (Free Report)
Markel Group (NYSE: MKL) is a diversified insurance holding company best known for underwriting specialty insurance products. Founded in 1930 and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the company provides a wide range of commercial property and casualty coverages tailored to niche and hard-to-place risks. Its underwriting operations focus on specialty lines across multiple industries, delivering customized policy structures, program administration, and claims management services for complex exposures.
In addition to primary specialty insurance, Markel operates reinsurance and alternative risk-transfer activities and manages invested assets derived from underwriting float.
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, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel, the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), announced today a strategic collaboration with Midwest General Insurance Agency, LLC ("Midwest"), a subsidiary of Acrisure, to expand its workers compensation insurance offerings in California. Midwest is a full-service general insurance agency specializing in the small workers compensation sector and offers online quoting that is fast, simple, and easy for its trusted agency partners.
This initiative follows Markel's disciplined approach to growth in the workers compensation space. Markel identified Midwest as a strong fit, recognizing its deep experience in the California workers compensation insurance market, with more than 20 years of experience operating in a managing general agency (MGA) structure.
"Midwest's data-driven approach to account selection aligns perfectly with Markel and our commitment to growing the book profitably," said Mike Muma, Managing Director, Workers Compensation and Small Commercial Product at Markel. "We have long been impressed not only by how they have managed long-term successful carrier relationships but also by their fundamental understanding of the California workers compensation insurance market. This collaboration represents a carefully considered step to expand our reach in California."
As a full-service MGA, Midwest has established turnkey capabilities across marketing, underwriting, policy issuance, claims, and loss control.
"We have long admired Markel in the California workers compensation market and are excited to collaborate," said Max Carney, CEO and Founder, Midwest. "Between their deep knowledge of the California marketplace and our shared vision for risk selection and client service, we anticipate a strong and successful collaboration."
Markel has long recognized the critical role that America's small businesses play in supporting the nation's economy. This collaboration underscores Markel's respect for these businesses, their employees, and their families by reflecting a shared commitment to the communities where they operate.
About Markel
We are Markel, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people—and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients—that differentiates us worldwide.
About Midwest General Insurance Agency, LLC
Midwest General Insurance Agency, LLC ("Midwest"), also known as Illinois Midwest Insurance Agency, LLC (IMIA), operates as a full-service general insurance agency and has utilized and sustained quality carrier partnerships since 2005. IMIA delivers outstanding performance and believes in service beyond expectation. We succeed through a constant desire to anticipate and fulfill evolving Agency Partner and Policyholder needs. The honesty, intelligence, and commitment of our people are vital to our mission. We take great pride in the company and respect everyone's contribution at every level. Exemplary Agency Partner relationships drive our growth and prosperity. Learn more at www.midins.com.
Broad Run Investment Management LLC acquired a new stake in Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor acquired 20,578 shares of the insurance provider’s stock, valued at approximately $40,189,000. Markel Group comprises approximately 6.2% of Broad Run Investment Management LLC’s investment portfolio, making the stock its 5th biggest position. Broad Run Investment Management LLC owned about 0.17% of Markel Group as of its most recent SEC filing.
Several other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. BlackRock Inc. bought a new position in shares of Markel Group during the second quarter worth $1,362,880,000. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in shares of Markel Group during the fourth quarter worth about $317,583,000. Select Equity Group L.P. lifted its holdings in shares of Markel Group by 75.9% during the 2nd quarter. Select Equity Group L.P. now owns 336,369 shares of the insurance provider’s stock valued at $671,850,000 after purchasing an additional 145,146 shares in the last quarter. Davis Asset Management L.P. bought a new position in shares of Markel Group during the 2nd quarter valued at about $179,882,000. Finally, Davis Selected Advisers grew its position in shares of Markel Group by 11.1% in the 4th quarter. Davis Selected Advisers now owns 415,160 shares of the insurance provider’s stock valued at $892,496,000 after purchasing an additional 41,632 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 77.12% of the company’s stock.
Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities research analysts recently commented on the stock. Weiss Ratings upgraded shares of Markel Group from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “buy (b-)” rating in a report on Monday, August 17th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Markel Group from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Saturday, August 1st. Truist Financial lowered their target price on Markel Group from $2,100.00 to $1,950.00 and set a “hold” rating for the company in a report on Thursday, April 30th. Finally, Wolfe Research assumed coverage on Markel Group in a report on Wednesday, July 1st. They issued an “underperform” rating on the stock. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Markel Group presently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and an average target price of $2,025.00.
Check Out Our Latest Analysis on MKL Markel Group Trading Up 1.2% Markel Group stock opened at $1,817.76 on Tuesday. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $1,907.04 and a 200-day moving average of $1,919.36. Markel Group Inc. has a one year low of $1,719.41 and a one year high of $2,207.59. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a current ratio of 0.63 and a quick ratio of 0.63. The company has a market cap of $22.52 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.00 and a beta of 0.66.
About Markel Group (Free Report)
Markel Group (NYSE: MKL) is a diversified insurance holding company best known for underwriting specialty insurance products. Founded in 1930 and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the company provides a wide range of commercial property and casualty coverages tailored to niche and hard-to-place risks. Its underwriting operations focus on specialty lines across multiple industries, delivering customized policy structures, program administration, and claims management services for complex exposures.
In addition to primary specialty insurance, Markel operates reinsurance and alternative risk-transfer activities and manages invested assets derived from underwriting float.
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A month has gone by since the last earnings report for Markel Group (MKL - Free Report) . Shares have lost about 4.3% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500.
Will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Markel Group due for a breakout? Well, first let's take a quick look at the most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent drivers for Markel Group Inc. before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.
MKL Q2 Earnings Miss Estimates on Weak Industrial, Financial Units
Markel Group Inc. reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted operating income of $19.5 per share, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 34.84%. The bottom line deteriorated 25% year over year. Markel’s second-quarter results reflected improved insurance underwriting performance and higher net investment income, which were offset by lower adjusted operating income in the Industrial and Financial segments.
MKL’s Quarterly Operational UpdateTotal operating revenues were $4.01 billion in Q2 2026, a decline of about 0.1% year over year, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 8.6%. Earned premiums decreased 3% year over year to $2 billion in the second quarter. The figure was lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.1 billion.
Net investment income increased 11.4% year over year to $256.1 million in the second quarter, driven by higher interest income from fixed maturity securities and higher dividend income from equity securities. The figure was lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $262 million. Total operating expenses of Total operating expenses of Markel Group increased 3.7% year over year to $3.6 billion due to higher product expenses, services and other expenses.
MKL’s Q2 Segment UpdateMarkel Insurance: Operating revenues decreased 2% year over year to $2.2 billion. Adjusted operating income rose 40% year over year to $376.5 million. The combined ratio improved 400 bps year over year to 93%.
Industrial: Operating revenues rose 2% year over year to $1 billion. Adjusted operating income decreased 27% year over year to $75.4 million.
Financial: Operating revenues decreased 1% year over year to $171.3 million. The segment reported an adjusted operating loss of $148.9 million against the adjusted operating income of $78.4 million in the year-ago quarter.
Consumer and Other: Operating revenues increased 4% year over year to $552 million. Adjusted operating income rose 20% year over year to $122.1 million.
MKL’s Financial UpdateMarkel Group exited the second quarter with investments, cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents of $37.6 billion as of June 30, 2026, up 0.4% from the year-end 2025 level. The increase in invested assets was primarily driven by higher investment balances, partially offset by lower cash and cash equivalents. Senior long-term debt and other debt balance increased 1.5% to $4.4 billion as of June 30, 2026, from the year-end 2025 level. Shareholders' equity was $19 billion at the end of the second quarter of 2026, up 2.2% from the 2025-end level. During the first half of 2026, MKL repurchased common shares worth $370.7 million.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?It turns out, fresh estimates have trended downward during the past month.
VGM ScoresAt this time, Markel Group has a poor Growth Score of F, however its Momentum Score is doing a bit better with a D. However, the stock has a score of B on the value side, putting it in the top 40% for value investors.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of D. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.
OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending downward for the stock, and the magnitude of this revision indicates a downward shift. Notably, Markel Group has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.
Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec purchased a new position in Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Free Report) during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 4,513 shares of the insurance provider’s stock, valued at approximately $8,814,000.
Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Man Group plc acquired a new stake in Markel Group during the second quarter valued at $3,312,000. Western Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in Markel Group in the 2nd quarter worth about $373,000. Roberts Glore & Co. Inc. IL acquired a new position in Markel Group in the 2nd quarter worth about $268,000. Jupiter Topco LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Markel Group during the 2nd quarter worth about $36,444,000. Finally, Hsbc Holdings PLC purchased a new stake in shares of Markel Group during the 2nd quarter worth about $66,423,000. 77.12% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.
Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several equities research analysts recently commented on MKL shares. Wolfe Research assumed coverage on Markel Group in a research note on Wednesday, July 1st. They issued an “underperform” rating for the company. Weiss Ratings raised shares of Markel Group from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “buy (b-)” rating in a research report on Monday, August 17th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Markel Group from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Saturday, August 1st. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $2,025.00.
Read Our Latest Analysis on MKL Markel Group Stock Performance MKL opened at $1,821.21 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $22.56 billion, a PE ratio of 10.01 and a beta of 0.66. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $1,902.99 and a 200-day moving average of $1,912.97. Markel Group Inc. has a 52-week low of $1,719.41 and a 52-week high of $2,207.59. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a current ratio of 0.63.
About Markel Group (Free Report)
Markel Group (NYSE: MKL) is a diversified insurance holding company best known for underwriting specialty insurance products. Founded in 1930 and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the company provides a wide range of commercial property and casualty coverages tailored to niche and hard-to-place risks. Its underwriting operations focus on specialty lines across multiple industries, delivering customized policy structures, program administration, and claims management services for complex exposures.
In addition to primary specialty insurance, Markel operates reinsurance and alternative risk-transfer activities and manages invested assets derived from underwriting float.
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Advisors Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm bought 348 shares of the insurance provider’s stock, valued at approximately $680,000.
Several other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in MKL. Fideuram Asset Management Ireland dac acquired a new stake in shares of Markel Group during the 4th quarter worth approximately $26,000. Reflection Asset Management bought a new stake in shares of Markel Group during the 4th quarter worth about $26,000. Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLC bought a new stake in Markel Group during the third quarter worth approximately $29,000. Basepoint Wealth LLC acquired a new stake in Markel Group in the fourth quarter worth approximately $32,000. Finally, Kelleher Financial Advisors acquired a new stake in Markel Group in the third quarter worth approximately $38,000. 77.12% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.
Analysts Set New Price Targets Several brokerages recently weighed in on MKL. Truist Financial decreased their target price on Markel Group from $2,100.00 to $1,950.00 and set a “hold” rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, April 30th. Wolfe Research assumed coverage on shares of Markel Group in a research note on Wednesday, July 1st. They set an “underperform” rating for the company. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Markel Group from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a report on Saturday, August 1st. Finally, Weiss Ratings upgraded shares of Markel Group from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “buy (b-)” rating in a research report on Monday. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company’s stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Markel Group has an average rating of “Hold” and a consensus price target of $2,025.00.
Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Markel Group Markel Group Price Performance NYSE:MKL opened at $1,791.88 on Friday. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $1,907.86 and a 200 day moving average price of $1,921.68. Markel Group Inc. has a one year low of $1,719.41 and a one year high of $2,207.59. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a current ratio of 0.63 and a quick ratio of 0.63. The stock has a market cap of $22.20 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.85 and a beta of 0.66.
About Markel Group (Free Report)
Markel Group (NYSE: MKL) is a diversified insurance holding company best known for underwriting specialty insurance products. Founded in 1930 and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the company provides a wide range of commercial property and casualty coverages tailored to niche and hard-to-place risks. Its underwriting operations focus on specialty lines across multiple industries, delivering customized policy structures, program administration, and claims management services for complex exposures.
In addition to primary specialty insurance, Markel operates reinsurance and alternative risk-transfer activities and manages invested assets derived from underwriting float.
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Key Takeaways MKL missed Q2 earnings estimates despite improved underwriting and higher investment income. Insurance segment profit rose as the combined ratio improved to 93. Industrial and Financial segment weakness offset gains from insurance operations. Markel Group Inc. (MKL - Free Report) reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted operating income of $19.5 per share, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 10.4%. The bottom line deteriorated 25% year over year.
Markel’s second-quarter results reflected improved insurance underwriting performance and higher net investment income, which were offset by lower adjusted operating income in the Industrial and Financial segments.
MKL’s Quarterly Operational Update Total operating revenues were $4 billion, up 0.1% year over year, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 8.6%.
Earned premiums decreased 3% year over year to $2 billion in the second quarter. The figure was lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.1 billion.
Net investment income increased 11.4% year over year to $256.1 million in the second quarter, driven by higher interest income from fixed maturity securities and higher dividend income from equity securities. The figure was lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $262 million.
Total operating expenses of Markel Group increased 3.7% year over year to $3.6 billion due to higher product expenses, services and other expenses.
MKL’s Q2 Segment UpdateMarkel Insurance: Operating revenues decreased 2% year over year to $2.2 billion. Adjusted operating income rose 40% year over year to $376.5 million. The combined ratio improved 400 bps year over year to 93.
Industrial: Operating revenues rose 2% year over year to $1 billion. Adjusted operating income decreased 27% year over year to $75.4 million.
Financial: Operating revenues decreased 1% year over year to $171.3 million. The segment reported an adjusted operating loss of $148.9 million against the adjusted operating income of $78.4 million in the year-ago quarter.
Consumer and Other: Operating revenues increased 4% year over year to $552 million. Adjusted operating income rose 20% year over year to $122.1 million.
MKL’s Financial UpdateMarkel Group exited the second quarter with investments, cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash and cash equivalents of $37.6 billion as of June 30, 2026, up 0.4% from the 2025-end level. The increase in invested assets was primarily driven by higher investment balances, partially offset by lower cash and cash equivalents.
Senior long-term debt and other debt balance increased 1.5% to $4.4 billion as of June 30, 2026, from the 2025-end level.
Shareholders' equity was $19 billion at the second quarter of 2026-end, up 2.2% from the 2025-end level.
During the first half of 2026, MKL repurchased common shares worth $370.7 million.
MKL’s Zacks RankMarkel Group currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Performance of Some Other InsurersSelective Insurance Group, Inc. (SIGI - Free Report) reported second-quarter 2026 operating earnings of $1.95 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 13.4%. The bottom line increased 48.9% year over year. Revenues of $1.37 billion rose 4.5% from the year-ago quarter and topped the consensus estimate by 0.7%.
Net premiums written declined 5% year over year to $1.22 billion due to a 6% decrease in Standard Commercial Lines, an 8% fall in Standard Personal Lines and a 2% decline in Excess and Surplus Lines. Our estimate was $1.33 billion. Net premiums earned increased 2.3%. Direct new business plunged to $206.1 million from $248.1 million. Renewal pure price increases averaged 6.5%, down from 9.9% in the prior-year quarter.
Chubb Limited (CB - Free Report) reported second-quarter 2026 core operating earnings of $7.26 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $6.63 by 9.5%. The bottom line increased 18.2% year over year. Revenues rose 2.7% year over year to $15.77 billion but missed the consensus mark of $15.90 billion by 0.8%.
Net premiums earned increased 5.8% to $13.89 billion. P&C underwriting income increased 18.8% year over year to $1.94 billion. The combined ratio improved 180 basis points to 83.8%, reflecting a lower share of premiums consumed by claims and expenses. Our estimate was $1.15 billion.
Cincinnati Financial Corporation (CINF - Free Report) reported second-quarter 2026 operating income of $1.43 per share, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 21.4%. The bottom line declined 27.4% from the year-ago quarter. Total operating revenues for the second quarter were $3 billion, reflecting a 6.8% year-over-year increase. The figure, however, missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.4%.
Earned premiums climbed 6.3% year over year to $2.6 billion. The figure marginally missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.5%. Net investment income, net of expenses, increased 12% year over year to $319 million, primarily due to a 14% rise in interest income from fixed-maturity securities and a 3% jump in equity portfolio dividends. The figure marginally beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.8%.
Update! What Is Congress Trading So Far In 2025? Markel Group NYSE: MKL reported second-quarter adjusted operating income of $436 million, down from $578 million a year earlier, while net income to common shareholders rose to $1.2 billion, or $93 per diluted share, from $631 million, or $50 per diluted share. The company said quarterly net income was aided by $1.2 billion of net investment gains, which more than offset investment losses recorded in the first quarter.
Operating revenue, excluding net investment gains, was flat at $4 billion in the quarter. For the first half of 2026, adjusted operating income totaled $934 million, compared with $1.1 billion in the prior-year period, while net income to common shareholders increased to $957 million from $753 million.
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Buffett's latest portfolio additions, trims and cuts in Q3Chief Executive Officer Tom Gayner said the company evaluates near-term progress using adjusted operating income, which excludes public-equity market swings and amortization expense, while using a longer time horizon to assess operating performance and capital allocation.
For the five years ended June 2026, Gayner said average annual operating income was $2.5 billion, up from $1.2 billion in the prior five-year period, representing a 15% compound annual growth rate. Average operating income per share rose at a 16% compound annual rate to $188.94, while the company reduced its outstanding share count by just under 10% over the period.
Insurance underwriting improved, despite catastrophe losses Don't Overlook Hidden Gem Kinsale As Rallies To New HighsMarkel Insurance reported a 93% combined ratio for the fourth consecutive quarter, improving from 97% in the second quarter of 2025. The result reflected favorable prior-year reserve development and a slightly lower expense ratio, partly offset by $41 million, or 2 points on the combined ratio, of catastrophe losses tied to the Middle East conflict.
Underwriting gross written premiums declined to $2.4 billion from $2.8 billion. However, premiums grew 10% excluding the company’s exit from Global Reinsurance and the transition of its Hagerty program to a fronting model. Adjusted operating income in the insurance operation rose to $376 million from $270 million, supported by improved underwriting profitability and higher net investment income.
International gross written premiums rose 31% to $890 million, led by marine and energy, general liability, and professional liability. Its combined ratio was 82%, including 6 points of Middle East-related losses. U.S. wholesale and specialty premiums fell 4% to $799 million amid intentional reductions in binding contractors and casualty lines and softer property pricing. Its combined ratio improved to 97% from 102%. Programs and solutions premiums fell 27% to $717 million due primarily to the Hagerty shift. Excluding that effect, premiums grew 6%. The combined ratio increased to 94% from 91%, reflecting a higher accident-year loss ratio in personal umbrella and certain delegated programs. Markel Insurance CEO Simon Wilson said the company has prioritized “the sanity of bottom-line profit over the vanity of top-line growth.” He said the insurer has reorganized into three divisions and 14 business units, each with assigned leadership and financial and strategic plans.
Wilson also described a series of technology initiatives, including the launch of Cortex, a new business unit focused on hard-to-place U.S. casualty risks. Markel partnered with Bain & Co. on the initiative. The insurer also said it has applied agentic AI to six classes of business totaling more than $500 million of existing gross written premiums, with initial risk-assessment time declining by 50% to 90%, depending on the line of business.
State National charge weighs on financial segment The financial segment recorded an adjusted operating loss of $149 million in the quarter, compared with adjusted operating income of $78 million a year earlier. The decline stemmed primarily from a $205 million bad-debt charge at State National, related to a collateral shortfall associated with a capacity provider in bankruptcy.
Gayner said the affected business began in 2012 and Markel stopped writing on the programs in 2021. He described the event as State National’s first substantial credit loss in more than 40 years and said Markel’s reserve estimate was intended to be conservative.
During the question-and-answer session, Chief Financial Officer Brian Costanzo said the company obtained more granular program data, completed an internal actuarial review and engaged an outside third party. The business was primarily primary habitational casualty, with a smaller excess-casualty component concentrated in a handful of states.
Gayner said the collateral itself was sound, but loss estimates had developed faster than the collateral level. Executive Vice President Andrew Crowley added that the company’s review would result in collateral increases from other financially healthy reinsurers for similar lines of business.
Investments, consumer operations and capital allocation Net investment income increased 11% to $256 million, reflecting a higher average book yield and larger average fixed-maturity balances. The fair value of Markel’s public-equity portfolio rose to $13.5 billion at quarter-end from $12.3 billion at the end of the first quarter. The company reported cumulative pretax unrealized gains of $9.3 billion on its equity holdings.
Industrial revenue increased 2% to $1 billion, supported by a December 2025 bolt-on acquisition, while adjusted operating income declined to $75 million from $105 million. Costanzo cited tighter margins and softer demand in the car-hauling equipment business. Crowley said the segment was also affected by cyclical declines in car hauling and industrial bakery equipment, as well as long-term selling, general and administrative investments at some businesses.
Consumer and other segment revenue rose 4% to $552 million, driven by ornamental plants during its seasonally strongest period. Adjusted operating income increased to $122 million from $102 million, primarily due to higher sales volume.
Markel repurchased $237 million of its shares during the quarter and $371 million year to date, reducing shares outstanding to 12.4 million. Gayner said the company has repurchased more than $2 billion of stock since the start of 2022 and funded the buybacks through earnings rather than borrowing.
About Markel Group (NYSE:MKL)Markel Group NYSE: MKL is a diversified insurance holding company best known for underwriting specialty insurance products. Founded in 1930 and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the company provides a wide range of commercial property and casualty coverages tailored to niche and hard-to-place risks. Its underwriting operations focus on specialty lines across multiple industries, delivering customized policy structures, program administration, and claims management services for complex exposures.
In addition to primary specialty insurance, Markel operates reinsurance and alternative risk-transfer activities and manages invested assets derived from underwriting float.
This instant news alert was generated by narrative science technology and financial data from MarketBeat in order to provide readers with the fastest reporting and unbiased coverage. Please send any questions or comments about this story to [email protected].
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Markel Group (NYSE:MKL – Get Free Report) and Great Elm Group (NASDAQ:GEG – Get Free Report) are both multi-sector conglomerates companies, but which is the superior business? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, institutional ownership, earnings, analyst recommendations, risk, dividends and valuation.
Profitability This table compares Markel Group and Great Elm Group’s net margins, return on equity and return on assets.
Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Markel Group 10.85% 7.90% 2.10% Great Elm Group -100.48% -54.63% -25.87% Volatility & Risk Markel Group has a beta of 0.66, meaning that its stock price is 34% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Great Elm Group has a beta of 0.57, meaning that its stock price is 43% less volatile than the S&P 500.
Analyst Ratings This is a summary of current ratings and target prices for Markel Group and Great Elm Group, as reported by MarketBeat.
Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Markel Group 1 5 0 0 1.83 Great Elm Group 1 0 0 0 1.00 Markel Group presently has a consensus target price of $2,025.00, suggesting a potential upside of 0.22%. Given Markel Group’s stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, equities research analysts plainly believe Markel Group is more favorable than Great Elm Group.
Insider & Institutional Ownership 77.1% of Markel Group shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 52.8% of Great Elm Group shares are owned by institutional investors. 1.1% of Markel Group shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 49.7% of Great Elm Group shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company is poised for long-term growth.
Earnings and Valuation This table compares Markel Group and Great Elm Group”s top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.
Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Markel Group $15.51 billion 1.63 $2.11 billion $138.77 14.56 Great Elm Group $16.32 million 4.21 $12.89 million ($0.82) -2.67 Markel Group has higher revenue and earnings than Great Elm Group. Great Elm Group is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Markel Group, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.
Summary Markel Group beats Great Elm Group on 11 of the 13 factors compared between the two stocks.
About Markel Group (Get Free Report)
Markel Group Inc., a diverse holding company, engages in marketing and underwriting specialty insurance products in the United States, Bermuda, the United Kingdom, and Germany. The company offers general and professional liability, personal lines, marine and energy, specialty programs, and workers' compensation insurance products; and property coverages that include fire, allied lines, and other specialized property coverages, including catastrophe-exposed property risks, such as earthquake and wind. It also offers credit and surety products, and collateral protection insurance products. In addition, the company offers transaction, directors and officers, and healthcare liability reinsurance; and specialty treaty reinsurance products comprising credit and surety, workers' compensation, marine and energy, public entity, mortgage default, aviation and space, agriculture, and discrete political violence and national terror pools. Further, it provides construction services, consumer and building products, transportation-related products, consulting services, and equipment manufacturing products, as well as healthcare, leasing, and investment services. Additionally, the company operates as an insurance and investment fund manager offering a range of investment products, including insurance-linked securities, catastrophe bonds, insurance swaps, traditional reinsurance contracts, industry loss warranties and other financial instruments; and program services. It also manages funds with third parties. The company was formerly known as Markel Corporation and changed its name to Markel Group Inc. in May 2023. Markel Group Inc. was founded in 1930 and is based in Glen Allen, Virginia.
About Great Elm Group (Get Free Report)
Great Elm Group, Inc. operates as a asset management company. The company engages in credit, real estate, and finance businesses. It is also involved in business development related activities and offers investment management services. The company was formerly known as Great Elm Capital Group, Inc. and changed its name to Great Elm Group, Inc. in December 2020. Great Elm Group, Inc. was incorporated in 1994 and is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts.
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Markel Group (MKL - Free Report) came out with quarterly earnings of $19.51 per share, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $29.94 per share. This compares to earnings of $25.46 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of -34.84%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this insurer would post earnings of $26.38 per share when it actually produced earnings of $21.61, delivering a surprise of -18.08%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times.
Markel Group, which belongs to the Zacks Insurance - Multi line industry, posted revenues of $4.02 billion for the quarter ended June 2026, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 8.61%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $4.02 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates two times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
Markel Group shares have lost about 5.1% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 8.5%.
What's Next for Markel Group?While Markel Group has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Markel Group was favorable. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to outperform the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $28.60 on $4.3 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $114.11 on $16.23 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Insurance - Multi line is currently in the bottom 32% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Another stock from the same industry, Equitable Holdings, Inc. (EQH - Free Report) , has yet to report results for the quarter ended June 2026. The results are expected to be released on August 4.
This company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $1.66 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +50.9%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 2.2% higher over the last 30 days to the current level.
Equitable Holdings, Inc.'s revenues are expected to be $3.8 billion, down 0% from the year-ago quarter.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) today reported its financial results for the second quarter of 2026. The Company also announced today it filed its Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
"In the first half of 2026, our insurance underwriting improved, our businesses generated strong cash flow, and we continued to allocate capital with discipline, including ongoing share repurchases funded from net earnings," said Tom Gayner, Chief Executive Officer. "Also, our diversified array of businesses generated nearly $1 billion of adjusted operating income. For the balance of 2026, the improvement of our insurance operations should continue."
Highlights of our 2026 second quarter and six-months results:
Operating revenues were $4.0 billion in the quarter and $7.6 billion year to date, both of which are consistent with the comparable periods of 2025. Operating income, which includes market movements in our equity portfolio, was $1.6 billion in the quarter and $1.3 billion year to date. Adjusted operating income, which excludes market movements in our equity portfolio, was $436 million for the quarter compared to $578 million in the second quarter of 2025. Adjusted operating income was $934 million year to date compared to $1.1 billion in the first half of 2025. Share repurchases were $237 million in the quarter and $371 million year to date. For Markel Insurance, our cornerstone business:
Underwriting gross premium volume increased by 10% for both the quarter and year to date when excluding the impact of the sale of the renewal rights of our Global Reinsurance division in 2025 and the transition of our Hagerty business to a fronting arrangement in 2026. Adjusted operating income increased 40% for the quarter to $376 million, due to improved underwriting profitability and higher net investment income, reflecting the continued progress on our reorganization and refocused strategy, which began last year. The combined ratio for the quarter was 93%, which includes two points of losses related to the Middle East conflict and a two point unfavorable impact from our exited Global Reinsurance division. The following table presents summary consolidated financial data.
Quarter Ended June 30,
Six Months Ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)
2026
2025
2026
2025
Operating revenues
$ 4,018,437
$ 4,022,543
$ 7,569,042
$ 7,570,719
Operating income
$ 1,560,345
$ 1,107,340
$ 1,287,016
$ 1,389,864
Add: Amortization of acquired intangible assets
43,301
51,213
86,814
98,155
Less: Net investment gains
1,167,525
580,223
439,963
431,152
Adjusted operating income (1)
$ 436,121
$ 578,330
$ 933,867
$ 1,056,867
Comprehensive income to shareholders
$ 1,101,325
$ 867,511
$ 760,895
$ 1,215,181
(1) See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for additional information on this non-GAAP measure.
Markel Insurance Segment
Quarter Ended June 30,
Six Months Ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)
2026
2025
% Change
2026
2025
% Change
Gross premium volume:
Underwriting
$ 2,387,090
$ 2,808,823
(15) %
$ 4,602,663
$ 5,602,229
(18) %
Adjusted underwriting (1)
$ 2,402,318
$ 2,183,041
10 %
$ 4,595,311
$ 4,179,593
10 %
Fronting
$ 1,282,026
$ 1,293,649
(1) %
$ 1,869,448
$ 1,671,794
12 %
Operating revenues:
Earned premiums
$ 1,992,361
$ 2,063,622
(3) %
$ 3,961,700
$ 4,080,161
(3) %
Net investment income
231,223
207,728
11 %
460,842
415,245
11 %
Services and other revenues
10,330
8,283
25 %
13,057
10,903
20 %
Operating revenues
$ 2,233,914
$ 2,279,633
(2) %
$ 4,435,599
$ 4,506,309
(2) %
Adjusted operating income:
Underwriting profit
$ 142,119
$ 63,200
125 %
$ 284,368
$ 143,362
98 %
Net investment income
231,223
207,728
11 %
460,842
415,245
11 %
Services and other income
3,148
(1,173)
NM (2)
770
(6,737)
NM (2)
Adjusted operating income
$ 376,490
$ 269,755
40 %
$ 745,980
$ 551,870
35 %
Combined ratio
93 %
97 %
93 %
96 %
(1) See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for additional information on this non-GAAP measure.
(2) NM - Not meaningful.
Industrial Segment
Quarter Ended June 30,
Six Months Ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)
2026
2025
% Change
2026
2025
% Change
Operating revenues
$ 1,038,068
$ 1,015,715
2 %
$ 1,921,126
$ 1,845,289
4 %
Adjusted operating income
$ 75,434
$ 103,513
(27) %
$ 124,720
$ 162,277
(23) %
Financial Segment
Quarter Ended June 30,
Six Months Ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)
2026
2025
% Change
2026
2025
% Change
Operating revenues
$ 171,348
$ 172,852
(1) %
$ 332,878
$ 351,333
(5) %
Adjusted operating income (loss)
$ (148,940)
$ 78,422
NM (1)
$ (112,735)
$ 158,033
NM (1)
(1) NM - Not meaningful.
Consumer and Other Segment
Quarter Ended June 30,
Six Months Ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)
2026
2025
% Change
2026
2025
% Change
Operating revenues
$ 551,974
$ 529,226
4 %
$ 832,471
$ 817,012
2 %
Adjusted operating income
$ 122,146
$ 101,523
20 %
$ 161,901
$ 133,911
21 %
* * * * * * * *
A copy of our Form 10-Q is available on our website at mklgroup.com, under Investor Relations-Financials, or on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Readers are urged to review the Form 10-Q for a more complete discussion of our financial performance. Our quarterly conference call, which will involve discussion of our financial results and business developments and may include forward-looking information, will be held Thursday, July 30, 2026, beginning at 9:30 a.m. (Eastern Time). Investors, analysts, and the general public may listen to the call via live webcast at ir.mklgroup.com. The call may be accessed telephonically by dialing +1 (833) 461-5787 in the U.S., or +44 808 196 8935 internationally, and providing Meeting ID: 332 635 047. A replay of the call will be available on our website approximately one hour after the conclusion of the call. Any person needing additional information can contact Markel Group's Investor Relations Department at [email protected].
Supplemental Financial Information
Markel Group manages the business and assesses performance using a variety of performance metrics, each reflecting a different time horizon and serving a different purpose, rather than relying upon a single metric.
Short-term Performance Metrics
In analyzing our current period performance, we believe adjusted operating income is the best metric to assess the performance of our operating businesses. Adjusted operating income excludes the market value movement in our equity portfolio and amortization of acquired intangible assets.
The following table summarizes adjusted operating income by segment.
Quarter Ended June 30,
Six Months Ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)
2026
2025
% Change
2026
2025
% Change
Markel Insurance
$ 376,490
$ 269,755
40 %
$ 745,980
$ 551,870
35 %
Industrial
75,434
103,513
(27) %
124,720
162,277
(23) %
Financial
(148,940)
78,422
NM (1)
(112,735)
158,033
NM (1)
Consumer and Other
122,146
101,523
20 %
161,901
133,911
21 %
Corporate and eliminations
10,991
25,117
(56) %
14,001
50,776
(72) %
Adjusted operating income (2)
$ 436,121
$ 578,330
(25) %
$ 933,867
$ 1,056,867
(12) %
(1) NM - Not meaningful.
(2) See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for additional information on this non-GAAP measure.
Long-term Performance Metrics
We believe our financial performance is most meaningfully measured over longer periods of time, which helps mitigate the effects of short-term volatility and better aligns with the long-term perspective we apply to operating our businesses, making capital allocation decisions, and determining executive compensation.
The following tables present a long-term view of our performance over multiple time periods. These metrics drive the growth in intrinsic value per share.
Twelve Months Ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)
2026
2025
2024
2023
2022
Operating revenues
$ 15,511,556
$ 14,988,029
$ 14,746,975
$ 13,888,418
$ 11,980,034
Operating income
$ 3,092,004
$ 3,356,660
$ 2,950,634
$ 2,847,678
$ 201,819
Add: Amortization of acquired intangible assets
173,666
191,105
180,314
176,028
172,829
Add: Impairment of goodwill
—
—
—
80,000
—
Less: Net investment gains (losses)
1,084,892
1,466,107
1,439,228
1,174,399
(1,136,132)
Adjusted operating income (1)
$ 2,180,778
$ 2,081,658
$ 1,691,720
$ 1,929,307
$ 1,510,780
(1) See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for additional information on this non-GAAP measure.
Five-Year Period From
Five-Year
Compound Annual
Growth Rate
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Q3 2021 -
Q2 2026
Q3 2016 -
Q2 2021
Average operating income (1)
$ 2,489,759
$ 1,239,056
15 %
Average operating income per share (2)
$ 188.94
$ 88.99
16 %
Average adjusted operating income (1) (3)
$ 1,878,849
$ 805,208
18 %
Average shareholders' equity (4)
$ 15,585,105
$ 10,275,658
9 %
Average debt (4)
$ 4,204,538
$ 3,195,020
6 %
(in thousands)
June 30, 2026
June 30, 2021
% Change
Shares outstanding
12,409
13,734
(10) %
(1) Represents the average of the five trailing-twelve-month periods.
(2) Represents average operating income divided by the average of the quarterly weighted average diluted shares outstanding.
(3) See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for additional information on this non-GAAP measure.
(4) Represents the average of quarter-end balances in the trailing five-year period.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Markel Group utilizes certain non-GAAP measures that we believe enhance the understanding of our performance. These measures should not be viewed as a substitute for measures determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Consolidated Adjusted Operating Income
Consolidated adjusted operating income, which excludes net investment gains and losses, amortization of acquired intangible assets, and impairment of goodwill, is a non-GAAP financial measure. We believe adjusted operating income is generally an accurate representation of the operating performance of our businesses in our periodic results. Net investment gains and losses are predominantly derived from our investments in publicly traded equity securities and typically include significant unrealized gains and losses from market value movements. We believe that net investment gains and losses, whether realized from sales or unrealized from market value movements, are distortive in understanding the short-term operating performance of our businesses. We do not view amortization of intangible assets and impairment of goodwill, which arise from purchase accounting for acquisitions, as ongoing costs of operating our businesses, and therefore exclude those amounts from our adjusted operating income metric.
The following table reconciles average operating income to average adjusted operating income for the last two trailing-five-year periods.
Five-Year Period From
(dollars in thousands)
Q3 2021 -
Q2 2026
Q3 2016 -
Q2 2021
Average operating income
$ 2,489,759
$ 1,239,056
Add: Average amortization of acquired intangible assets
178,788
123,598
Add: Average impairment of goodwill and acquired intangible assets
16,000
43,584
Less: Average net investment gains
805,699
601,031
Average adjusted operating income
$ 1,878,848
$ 805,208
Adjusted Underwriting Gross Premium Volume
Adjusted underwriting gross premium volume is a non-GAAP measure that excludes underwriting gross premium volume from the Global Reinsurance division and our business with Hagerty for both periods. In August 2025, Markel Insurance sold the renewal rights for contracts written through its Global Reinsurance division, and the division entered into run-off, which resulted in a significant decline in underwriting gross premium volume. Beginning on January 1, 2026, Markel Insurance's business written on behalf of Hagerty transitioned from being an underwriting product to a fronting arrangement, which resulted in a change in the presentation of the related gross premium volume and therefore, a significant decline in underwriting gross premium volume. We believe adjusted underwriting gross premium volume is a meaningful measure when comparing underwriting gross premium volume from period-to-period as it adjusts for the impact of these significant contractual restructuring changes within the Markel Insurance segment.
The following table reconciles underwriting gross premium volume to adjusted underwriting gross premium volume.
Quarter Ended June 30,
Six Months Ended June 30,
(dollars in thousands)
2026
2025
% Change
2026
2025
% Change
Underwriting gross premium volume
$ 2,387,090
$ 2,808,823
(15) %
$ 4,602,663
$ 5,602,229
(18) %
Less: Global Reinsurance division
underwriting gross premium volume
(15,228)
321,676
7,352
898,603
Less: Hagerty underwriting gross premium
volume
—
304,106
—
524,033
Adjusted underwriting gross premium volume
$ 2,402,318
$ 2,183,041
10 %
$ 4,595,311
$ 4,179,593
10 %
About Markel Group
Markel Group Inc. is a diverse family of companies that includes everything from insurance to bakery equipment, building supplies, houseplants, and more. The leadership teams of these businesses operate with a high degree of independence, while at the same time living the values that we call the Markel Style. Our specialty insurance business sits at the core of our company. Through decades of sound underwriting, the Markel Insurance team has provided the capital base from which we built a system of businesses and investments that collectively increase Markel Group's durability and adaptability. It's a system that provides diverse income streams, access to a wide range of investment opportunities, and the ability to efficiently move capital to the best ideas across the company. Most importantly though, this system enables each of our businesses to advance our shared goal of helping our customers, associates, and shareholders win over the long term. Visit mklgroup.com to learn more.
Cautionary Statement
Certain of the statements in this release may be considered forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs, plans or expectations, are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on our current plans, estimates, and expectations. There are risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by such statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ are often presented with the forward-looking statements themselves. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ from those predicted are set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, including under "Business Overview," "Risk Factors," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," "Safe Harbor and Cautionary Statement," and "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk," and in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, including under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," "Safe Harbor and Cautionary Statement," "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk," and "Risk Factors." We assume no obligation to update this release (including any forward-looking statements) as a result of new information, developments, or otherwise. This release speaks only as of the date issued.
Caxton Associates LLP acquired a new stake in shares of Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Free Report) in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm acquired 306 shares of the insurance provider’s stock, valued at approximately $586,000.
Other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Davis Selected Advisers raised its stake in shares of Markel Group by 11.1% in the fourth quarter. Davis Selected Advisers now owns 415,160 shares of the insurance provider’s stock worth $892,496,000 after purchasing an additional 41,632 shares during the last quarter. Select Equity Group L.P. increased its holdings in Markel Group by 75.9% during the second quarter. Select Equity Group L.P. now owns 336,369 shares of the insurance provider’s stock valued at $671,850,000 after buying an additional 145,146 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp increased its stake in shares of Markel Group by 2.1% in the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 304,400 shares of the insurance provider’s stock worth $581,818,000 after purchasing an additional 6,160 shares in the last quarter. Van Lanschot Kempen Investment Management N.V. raised its stake in shares of Markel Group by 13.0% in the fourth quarter. Van Lanschot Kempen Investment Management N.V. now owns 204,861 shares of the insurance provider’s stock worth $440,379,000 after buying an additional 23,631 shares during the period. Finally, Bank of America Corp DE raised its stake in Markel Group by 5.9% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 153,099 shares of the insurance provider’s stock worth $292,627,000 after acquiring an additional 8,539 shares during the period. 77.12% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.
Insider Activity In related news, Director Greta J. Harris sold 76 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, May 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $1,847.31, for a total value of $140,395.56. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 645 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $1,191,514.95. This trade represents a 10.54% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, Director Diane Leopold acquired 50 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, May 7th. The shares were purchased at an average price of $1,789.19 per share, with a total value of $89,459.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 550 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $984,054.50. The trade was a 10.00% increase in their position. The disclosure for this purchase is available in the SEC filing. 1.08% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.
Analyst Ratings Changes A number of brokerages recently weighed in on MKL. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Markel Group from a “buy” rating to a “sell” rating in a research report on Saturday, May 2nd. Truist Financial reduced their target price on shares of Markel Group from $2,100.00 to $1,950.00 and set a “hold” rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, April 30th. Wolfe Research assumed coverage on Markel Group in a research note on Wednesday, July 1st. They set an “underperform” rating for the company. Finally, Weiss Ratings cut shares of Markel Group from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “hold (c)” rating in a research report on Thursday, June 11th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of “Reduce” and an average target price of $2,025.00.
View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Markel Group
Markel Group Price Performance NYSE:MKL opened at $2,016.25 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of $25.22 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.53 and a beta of 0.66. Markel Group Inc. has a one year low of $1,719.41 and a one year high of $2,207.59. The firm’s fifty day moving average is $1,894.27 and its two-hundred day moving average is $1,947.99. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a current ratio of 0.63.
Markel Group (NYSE:MKL – Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 28th. The insurance provider reported ($18.90) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts’ consensus estimates of $26.38 by ($45.28). The firm had revenue of $3.55 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.66 billion. Markel Group had a return on equity of 7.90% and a net margin of 10.85%. Research analysts expect that Markel Group Inc. will post 114.11 EPS for the current year.
About Markel Group (Free Report)
Markel Group (NYSE: MKL) is a diversified insurance holding company best known for underwriting specialty insurance products. Founded in 1930 and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the company provides a wide range of commercial property and casualty coverages tailored to niche and hard-to-place risks. Its underwriting operations focus on specialty lines across multiple industries, delivering customized policy structures, program administration, and claims management services for complex exposures.
In addition to primary specialty insurance, Markel operates reinsurance and alternative risk-transfer activities and manages invested assets derived from underwriting float.
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, /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) ha anunciado hoy que celebrará una conferencia telefónica el jueves 30 de julio de 2026 a partir de las 9:30 h (hora del este) para analizar los resultados trimestrales y la evolución del negocio.
Los inversores, los analistas y el público en general pueden seguir la conferencia a través de la retransmisión en directo en ir.mklgroup.com. Para participar en la conferencia, marque (833) 461-5787 desde EE. UU. o +44 808 196 8935 desde el extranjero, e indique el ID de la reunión 322 635 047. La grabación de la conferencia estará disponible en nuestra página web aproximadamente una hora después de que finalice.
La retransmisión por Internet, la conferencia telefónica, así como su contenido y las repeticiones o retransmisiones autorizadas de estos, son propiedad exclusiva de Markel Group Inc., están protegidos por derechos de autor y no pueden copiarse, grabarse, retransmitirse ni publicarse, ni en su totalidad ni en parte, sin el consentimiento expreso por escrito de Markel Group Inc.
Acerca de Markel Group
Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) es un grupo de compañías muy variado que abarca desde seguros hasta equipamiento para panaderías, materiales de construcción, plantas de interior y mucho más. Los equipos directivos de estas empresas o compañías operan con un alto grado de independencia, al tiempo que ponen en práctica los valores que denominamos el Markel Style. Nuestro negocio de seguros especializados constituye el núcleo de nuestra compañía. Gracias a décadas de una sólida gestión de riesgos, el equipo de Markel Insurance ha proporcionado la base de capital a partir de la cual hemos construido un sistema de negocios e inversiones que, en su conjunto, refuerzan la solidez y la capacidad de adaptación de Markel Group. Se trata de un sistema que ofrece diversas fuentes de ingresos, acceso a una amplia gama de oportunidades de inversión y la capacidad de destinar capital de forma eficiente a las mejores ideas de toda la empresa. Pero lo más importante es que este sistema permite a cada una de nuestras empresas o compañías avanzar hacia nuestro objetivo común de ayudar a nuestros clientes, empleados y accionistas a alcanzar el éxito a largo plazo. Visite mklgroup.com para obtener más información.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) announced today it will hold a conference call on Thursday, July 30, 2026 beginning at 9:30 a.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss quarterly results and business developments.
Investors, analysts and the general public may listen to the call via live webcast at ir.mklgroup.com. The call may be accessed telephonically by dialing (833) 461-5787 in the U.S., or +44 808 196 8935 internationally, and providing Meeting ID: 322 635 047. A replay of the call will be available on our website approximately one hour after the conclusion of the call.
The webcast, the conference call and the content and permitted replays or rebroadcasts thereof are the exclusive copyrighted property of Markel Group Inc. and may not be copied, taped, rebroadcast, or published in whole or in part without the express written consent of Markel Group Inc.
About Markel Group
Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) is a diverse family of companies that includes everything from insurance to bakery equipment, building supplies, houseplants, and more. The leadership teams of these businesses operate with a high degree of independence, while at the same time living the values that we call the Markel Style. Our specialty insurance business sits at the core of our company. Through decades of sound underwriting, the Markel Insurance team has provided the capital base from which we built a system of businesses and investments that collectively increase Markel Group's durability and adaptability. It's a system that provides diverse income streams, access to a wide range of investment opportunities, and the ability to efficiently move capital to the best ideas across the company. Most importantly though, this system enables each of our businesses to advance our shared goal of helping our customers, associates, and shareholders win over the long term. Visit mklgroup.com to learn more.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) announced today it will hold a conference call on Thursday, July 30, 2026 beginning at 9:30 a.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss quarterly results and business developments.
Investors, analysts and the general public may listen to the call via live webcast at ir.mklgroup.com. The call may be accessed telephonically by dialing (833) 461-5787 in the U.S., or +44 808 196 8935 internationally, and providing Meeting ID: 322 635 047. A replay of the call will be available on our website approximately one hour after the conclusion of the call.
The webcast, the conference call and the content and permitted replays or rebroadcasts thereof are the exclusive copyrighted property of Markel Group Inc. and may not be copied, taped, rebroadcast, or published in whole or in part without the express written consent of Markel Group Inc.
About Markel Group
Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL) is a diverse family of companies that includes everything from insurance to bakery equipment, building supplies, houseplants, and more. The leadership teams of these businesses operate with a high degree of independence, while at the same time living the values that we call the Markel Style. Our specialty insurance business sits at the core of our company. Through decades of sound underwriting, the Markel Insurance team has provided the capital base from which we built a system of businesses and investments that collectively increase Markel Group's durability and adaptability. It's a system that provides diverse income streams, access to a wide range of investment opportunities, and the ability to efficiently move capital to the best ideas across the company. Most importantly though, this system enables each of our businesses to advance our shared goal of helping our customers, associates, and shareholders win over the long term. Visit mklgroup.com to learn more.
Bessemer Group Inc. trimmed its stake in Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Free Report) by 21.7% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 1,352 shares of the insurance provider’s stock after selling 374 shares during the period. Bessemer Group Inc.’s holdings in Markel Group were worth $2,588,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.
Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Valley National Advisers Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Markel Group during the fourth quarter valued at about $25,000. Fideuram Asset Management Ireland dac acquired a new stake in Markel Group during the fourth quarter worth about $26,000. Reflection Asset Management acquired a new stake in Markel Group during the fourth quarter worth about $26,000. Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLC bought a new position in Markel Group during the third quarter valued at about $29,000. Finally, V Square Quantitative Management LLC bought a new position in Markel Group during the fourth quarter valued at about $32,000. Institutional investors own 77.12% of the company’s stock.
Wall Street Analyst Weigh In MKL has been the subject of a number of research reports. Wall Street Zen downgraded Markel Group from a “buy” rating to a “sell” rating in a research report on Saturday, May 2nd. Weiss Ratings cut Markel Group from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “hold (c)” rating in a research report on Thursday, June 11th. Truist Financial reduced their target price on Markel Group from $2,100.00 to $1,950.00 and set a “hold” rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 30th. Wolfe Research initiated coverage on shares of Markel Group in a report on Wednesday, July 1st. They issued an “underperform” rating on the stock. Finally, Brean Capital began coverage on shares of Markel Group in a research note on Tuesday, March 24th. They issued a “neutral” rating and a $2,100.00 price objective for the company. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of “Reduce” and a consensus target price of $2,025.00.
Check Out Our Latest Research Report on MKL
Insider Activity In other Markel Group news, Director Greta J. Harris sold 76 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $1,847.31, for a total value of $140,395.56. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 645 shares in the company, valued at $1,191,514.95. The trade was a 10.54% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, Director Diane Leopold acquired 50 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 7th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $1,789.19 per share, for a total transaction of $89,459.50. Following the completion of the purchase, the director directly owned 550 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $984,054.50. The trade was a 10.00% increase in their position. Additional details regarding this purchase are available in the official SEC disclosure. 1.08% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.
Markel Group Price Performance Markel Group stock opened at $1,960.62 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24, a current ratio of 0.63 and a quick ratio of 0.63. The company has a market capitalization of $24.53 billion, a PE ratio of 14.13 and a beta of 0.66. Markel Group Inc. has a one year low of $1,719.41 and a one year high of $2,207.59. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $1,883.55 and a 200 day simple moving average of $1,952.53.
Markel Group (NYSE:MKL – Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 28th. The insurance provider reported ($18.90) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts’ consensus estimates of $26.38 by ($45.28). The company had revenue of $3.55 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.66 billion. Markel Group had a net margin of 10.85% and a return on equity of 7.90%. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Markel Group Inc. will post 114.11 EPS for the current fiscal year.
Markel Group Profile (Free Report)
Markel Group (NYSE: MKL) is a diversified insurance holding company best known for underwriting specialty insurance products. Founded in 1930 and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the company provides a wide range of commercial property and casualty coverages tailored to niche and hard-to-place risks. Its underwriting operations focus on specialty lines across multiple industries, delivering customized policy structures, program administration, and claims management services for complex exposures.
In addition to primary specialty insurance, Markel operates reinsurance and alternative risk-transfer activities and manages invested assets derived from underwriting float.
Featured Stories Five stocks we like better than Markel Group Confidence Is Back, But Earnings Show the Consumer Is Being Picky AeroVironment’s Stock Is Down, But Drone Demand Is Taking Off 3M’s Redemption Arc: Can Q2 Earnings Change the Narrative? 3 Photonics Companies Making Quantum Tech Possible Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MKL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Free Report).
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California Public Employees Retirement System cut its holdings in Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL – Free Report) by 7.7% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 30,920 shares of the insurance provider’s stock after selling 2,589 shares during the quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System owned 0.25% of Markel Group worth $59,183,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.
A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in Markel Group in the fourth quarter valued at $317,583,000. Select Equity Group L.P. boosted its position in shares of Markel Group by 75.9% during the 2nd quarter. Select Equity Group L.P. now owns 336,369 shares of the insurance provider’s stock worth $671,850,000 after purchasing an additional 145,146 shares in the last quarter. Davis Selected Advisers grew its stake in shares of Markel Group by 11.1% during the 4th quarter. Davis Selected Advisers now owns 415,160 shares of the insurance provider’s stock worth $892,496,000 after purchasing an additional 41,632 shares during the period. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. increased its holdings in shares of Markel Group by 3,235.4% in the 4th quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 25,316 shares of the insurance provider’s stock valued at $54,421,000 after purchasing an additional 24,557 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Van Lanschot Kempen Investment Management N.V. increased its holdings in shares of Markel Group by 13.0% in the 4th quarter. Van Lanschot Kempen Investment Management N.V. now owns 204,861 shares of the insurance provider’s stock valued at $440,379,000 after purchasing an additional 23,631 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 77.12% of the company’s stock.
Insider Buying and Selling In other news, Director Greta J. Harris sold 76 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, May 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $1,847.31, for a total transaction of $140,395.56. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 645 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $1,191,514.95. This trade represents a 10.54% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, Director Diane Leopold acquired 100 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, May 6th. The shares were bought at an average price of $1,792.61 per share, with a total value of $179,261.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 2,190 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,925,815.90. The trade was a 4.78% increase in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this purchase provides additional information. Company insiders own 1.08% of the company’s stock.
Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts recently commented on the stock. Truist Financial decreased their price objective on shares of Markel Group from $2,100.00 to $1,950.00 and set a “hold” rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, April 30th. Wolfe Research assumed coverage on shares of Markel Group in a research report on Wednesday, July 1st. They set an “underperform” rating for the company. Weiss Ratings downgraded shares of Markel Group from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “hold (c)” rating in a research report on Thursday, June 11th. Brean Capital began coverage on Markel Group in a research note on Tuesday, March 24th. They set a “neutral” rating and a $2,100.00 price target on the stock. Finally, Wall Street Zen cut Markel Group from a “buy” rating to a “sell” rating in a report on Saturday, May 2nd. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Markel Group presently has an average rating of “Reduce” and an average price target of $2,025.00.
View Our Latest Analysis on Markel Group
Markel Group Price Performance Shares of NYSE MKL opened at $1,970.12 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 0.63, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24. The company’s 50-day moving average price is $1,878.19 and its 200 day moving average price is $1,955.23. Markel Group Inc. has a 52 week low of $1,719.41 and a 52 week high of $2,207.59. The stock has a market cap of $24.65 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.20 and a beta of 0.66.
Markel Group (NYSE:MKL – Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, April 28th. The insurance provider reported ($18.90) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts’ consensus estimates of $26.38 by ($45.28). Markel Group had a return on equity of 7.90% and a net margin of 10.85%.The business had revenue of $3.55 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.66 billion. As a group, research analysts forecast that Markel Group Inc. will post 114.11 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.
About Markel Group (Free Report)
Markel Group (NYSE: MKL) is a diversified insurance holding company best known for underwriting specialty insurance products. Founded in 1930 and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the company provides a wide range of commercial property and casualty coverages tailored to niche and hard-to-place risks. Its underwriting operations focus on specialty lines across multiple industries, delivering customized policy structures, program administration, and claims management services for complex exposures.
In addition to primary specialty insurance, Markel operates reinsurance and alternative risk-transfer activities and manages invested assets derived from underwriting float.
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Markel Insurance, the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced the appointment of Marc Copland as Vice President, Product Line
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Markel Insurance, the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL), today announced the appointment of Marc Copland as Vice President, Product Line Leader – Property, effective immediately. Copland steps into the newly dedicated Property Product Line Leadership role focused on shaping and scaling Markel Canada's Property portfolio. Partnering closely with technical specialists and underwriting teams, his priority will be delivering quality Property products.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced the appointment of Grant Smith as Director of Marine Transportation at Markel International.
Grant Smith, Director of Marine Transportation at Markel International Smith will lead the development of the new Marine Transportation business, bringing together Markel International's Hull & Hull War, MECO, Marine & Energy Liabilities, and Transport & Logistics classes under a single leadership structure. The move reflects the increasingly interconnected nature of marine and transportation risks and is designed to provide brokers and clients with more coordinated access to expertise across the portfolio.
In his new role, Smith will be responsible for shaping strategy across multiple classes and geographies while leading initiatives to strengthen underwriting capabilities, improve processes and support the delivery of tailored solutions for brokers and insureds. He will also serve as a senior point of contact for brokers, clients and industry bodies, working closely with Claims and Actuarial teams to strengthen underwriting discipline and risk selection as risk exposures continue to evolve.
Based in London, Smith will report to Dan McCarthy, Managing Director – Marine, Energy & Construction.
Smith joined Markel in 2024 as Director – Marine & Energy Liabilities, before assuming responsibility for Transport & Logistics in 2025. He has more than 17 years' experience across marine specialty lines and underwriting leadership roles.
McCarthy commented: "The marine transportation industry is facing heightened risk exposures, from increasing supply chain disruptions to rising thefts at ports as geopolitical tensions escalate worldwide.
"As these risks become more interconnected, it's increasingly important that brokers and clients can access expertise across the full spectrum of marine and transportation exposures. Bringing these capabilities together under a single leadership structure will help us provide deeper insight, more coordinated solutions and a stronger experience for our trading partners.
"Grant has made a significant contribution since joining Markel in 2024. His experience across marine specialty lines makes him exceptionally well placed to lead this business and support our clients and brokers navigate a rapidly evolving operating environment."
Smith added: "I'm delighted to be taking on the role of Director of Marine Transportation at Markel International. By bringing our marine and transportation capabilities closer together, we have an opportunity to offer clients and brokers more connected expertise across increasingly complex risks, while continuing to build on Markel's long-standing reputation for disciplined underwriting and strong service."
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced the appointment of Grant Smith as Director of Marine Transportation at Markel International.
Grant Smith, Director of Marine Transportation at Markel International Smith will lead the development of the new Marine Transportation business, bringing together Markel International's Hull & Hull War, MECO, Marine & Energy Liabilities, and Transport & Logistics classes under a single leadership structure. The move reflects the increasingly interconnected nature of marine and transportation risks and is designed to provide brokers and clients with more coordinated access to expertise across the portfolio.
In his new role, Smith will be responsible for shaping strategy across multiple classes and geographies while leading initiatives to strengthen underwriting capabilities, improve processes and support the delivery of tailored solutions for brokers and insureds. He will also serve as a senior point of contact for brokers, clients and industry bodies, working closely with Claims and Actuarial teams to strengthen underwriting discipline and risk selection as risk exposures continue to evolve.
Based in London, Smith will report to Dan McCarthy, Managing Director – Marine, Energy & Construction.
Smith joined Markel in 2024 as Director – Marine & Energy Liabilities, before assuming responsibility for Transport & Logistics in 2025. He has more than 17 years' experience across marine specialty lines and underwriting leadership roles.
McCarthy commented: "The marine transportation industry is facing heightened risk exposures, from increasing supply chain disruptions to rising thefts at ports as geopolitical tensions escalate worldwide.
"As these risks become more interconnected, it's increasingly important that brokers and clients can access expertise across the full spectrum of marine and transportation exposures. Bringing these capabilities together under a single leadership structure will help us provide deeper insight, more coordinated solutions and a stronger experience for our trading partners.
"Grant has made a significant contribution since joining Markel in 2024. His experience across marine specialty lines makes him exceptionally well placed to lead this business and support our clients and brokers navigate a rapidly evolving operating environment."
Smith added: "I'm delighted to be taking on the role of Director of Marine Transportation at Markel International. By bringing our marine and transportation capabilities closer together, we have an opportunity to offer clients and brokers more connected expertise across increasingly complex risks, while continuing to build on Markel's long-standing reputation for disciplined underwriting and strong service."
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE:MKL), today announced the appointment of Bhavik Desai as Managing Director – PFR & Cyber within its London Market business.
In his new role, Desai will lead underwriting strategy, portfolio performance and broker and client engagement across PFR & Cyber, supporting Markel's continued focus on disciplined underwriting, technical excellence and sustainable growth across complex specialty classes.
Bhavik Desai, Managing Director of PFR & Cyber at Markel International. Desai succeeds David Sawyer, who remains with the business until his planned retirement at the end of 2026.
Since joining Markel in 2013, Desai has held a series of senior underwriting roles, including Head of Professional Indemnity and Director of Professional Indemnity, Media & Entertainment. He has extensive experience across Professional Indemnity, Media & Entertainment and related specialist lines.
Before joining Markel, Desai held underwriting leadership roles at AIG, including responsibility for London-placed Professional Indemnity business and the UK & Ireland Construction Professional Indemnity portfolio.
At Markel, Desai has helped develop the Professional Indemnity and Media portfolios, with a focus on underwriting discipline, portfolio management, broker engagement and renewal consistency.
As Managing Director, PFR & Cyber, Desai will focus on disciplined portfolio performance, developing underwriting talent and strengthening Markel's position across professional, financial and cyber-related risks. He'll also work closely with colleagues across underwriting, claims, actuarial, distribution and operations to support insight-led decision-making and modern underwriting practices.
Rohan Davies, Managing Director – London Market, commented: "Bhavik is a highly respected underwriting leader with deep technical expertise, strong broker relationships and a clear understanding of the markets in which our PFR & Cyber teams operate. His appointment provides leadership continuity for the division and supports our focus on disciplined underwriting, portfolio performance and sustainable growth.
"PFR & Cyber operate in areas where risk profiles and client needs continue to evolve quickly. Bhavik's experience, judgement and collaborative leadership style make him well placed to lead the division as we continue to develop our proposition for brokers and clients."
Desai added: "I'm proud to take on this role and to lead a division with such strong specialist expertise, and market relationships. PFR & Cyber brings together areas that are increasingly important to our brokers and clients, and our focus will remain on disciplined underwriting, responsive service and long-term portfolio performance.
"We have talented people across the division and strong relationships across the market. My priority is to build on those foundations, support our teams and continue developing a business that delivers consistent value for brokers, clients and Markel."
About Markel Insurance
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
Key Takeaways MKL acquired The MECO Group to strengthen its marine insurance footprint and global distribution. Acquisitions across insurance and non-insurance businesses help diversify earnings and growth drivers. Management uses underwriting profits and generated capital to fund deals that build long-term value. Markel Group Inc. (MKL - Free Report) uses acquisitions as a key component of its long-term capital allocation strategy. The acquisition strategy is designed to expand specialty insurance capabilities and distribution, enter attractive niche markets with strong underwriting expertise, deploy excess capital into businesses that can compound value over long periods and acquire founder-led businesses that can continue operating independently under a decentralized structure.
Markel Insurance, the company's core specialty insurance business, completed its acquisition of the London-based independent specialist marine managing general agent (MGA), The MECO Group, in June 2025. This strategic integration expands Markel Group's marine insurance footprint, strengthens its presence in the Asia-Pacific and European marine markets, and enhances its distribution relationships and product breadth.
In 2024, Markel Group acquired a majority interest in Valor Environmental and related operating companies, thereby expanding Markel Ventures' industrial and infrastructure operations.
The addition of such companies shows that Markel continues to pursue both insurance and non-insurance acquisitions to strengthen these engines and reduce dependence on any single market cycle.
Markel Group generally funds acquisitions through Insurance underwriting profits, internally generated capital and occasional debt issuance for larger transactions. The company's diversified business model provides multiple sources of cash that can be deployed toward acquisitions.
Acquisitions are a critical pillar of Markel Group's long-term growth strategy. They help the company expand its insurance franchise, diversify earnings, deploy capital efficiently and increase intrinsic value per share.
Markel Group's acquisition strategy differs from many other insurers because it is not focused solely on growing insurance premiums. Management aims to create a diversified collection of high-quality businesses that can compound intrinsic value over decades.
What About Its Peers?Assurant, Inc. (AIZ - Free Report) remains focused on acquisitions to expand its footprint in the connected living, automotive and device repair sectors. Strategic buyouts (such as RL Circular Operations, OptoFidelity, HYLA Mobile and The Warranty Group) fuel its growth by providing proprietary diagnostic technology, scaling circular supply chains and expanding into high-growth international markets. Acquisitions have played a pivotal role in transforming Assurant into a global, technology-driven leader in risk management, beyond its traditional insurance roots.
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (AJG - Free Report) is growing through mergers and acquisitions. During 2025, AJG completed 31 new mergers, representing around $3.5 billion of estimated annualized revenues. Looking at the pipeline, AJG has around 40 term sheets signed or being prepared, representing around $350 million of annualized revenues. AJG’s current cash position and strong expected free cash flow position it well for its pipeline of M&A opportunities. Over the next couple of years, AJG expects to have $10 billion to fund M&A, before utilizing any stock.
MKL’s Price PerformanceShares of MKL have lost 5.8% in the past year against the industry’s growth of 1.7%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
MKL’s UndervaluationThe stock is undervalued compared with its industry. Its forward price-to-book value of 1.28X is lower than the industry average of 2.61X. It carries a Value Score of B.
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Estimate Movement for MKLThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for MKL’s second-quarter and third-quarter 2026 EPS has both moved down 0.2% and 3.5%, respectively, in the past 60 days. The same for full-year 2026 and 2027 EPS has moved down 3.4% and 3.1%, respectively, in the past 60 days.
The consensus estimate for MKL’s 2026 and 2027 EPS and revenues indicates a year-over-year increase.
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MKL stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Key Takeaways Berkshire and Markel are expected to maintain strength amid steady rates and solid equity markets.Berkshire benefits from diversified operations, insurance float and over $370B in cash and Treasuries.Markel targets $10B in annual premiums and $1B in underwriting profit over the next five years. The Federal Reserve has kept interest rates steady at 3.50%–3.75%. Inflation, global tensions and a rise in oil prices have likely pushed a rate cut off the table in 2026. Meanwhile, equity markets continue to perform satisfactorily due to economic growth.
Against this backdrop, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.B - Free Report) and Markel Group (MKL - Free Report) — two insurance-driven companies — are expected to maintain their strength.
With digital innovation accelerating across the industry, merger and acquisition (M&A) activity is likely to pick up, especially in technology-driven transactions that further strengthen companies’ expertise and market positions.
But for long-term investors, which stock offers the more compelling opportunity? Let’s take a closer look at both companies' fundamentals.
Factors to Consider for BRK.BBerkshire Hathaway is a highly diversified conglomerate with more than 90 subsidiaries spanning insurance, utilities, railroads, manufacturing, retail and consumer products. This diverse business portfolio helps mitigate concentration risk and supports stable performance across economic cycles, enhancing resilience during periods of market uncertainty.
Insurance remains the cornerstone of Berkshire’s operations, accounting for approximately one-fourth of total revenues. The segment benefits from disciplined underwriting, consistent premium growth and favorable pricing trends. A key strength of the business is its sizable insurance float — premiums collected before claims are paid — which serves as a low-cost source of capital for investments and acquisitions. This unique advantage has been instrumental in driving long-term earnings growth and capital allocation flexibility.
Berkshire also continues to refine its investment portfolio to improve income stability and broaden geographic exposure. The company has increased investments in Japanese trading houses, trimmed positions in certain payment companies and expanded its focus on airline-related investments. Its planned $6.8 billion acquisition of Taylor Morrison Home Corp. reflects a strategic commitment to the U.S. housing market and its favorable long-term fundamentals.
Financially, Berkshire remains exceptionally well positioned, supported by more than $370 billion in cash and U.S. Treasury holdings, conservative leverage and a strong balance sheet.
Berkshire’s return on equity of 6.6% lags the industry average of 7.4%, but the company has improved its returns over time. BRK.B shares have lost 1.6% year to date, outperforming the industry.
Factors to Consider for MKLMarkel Group, much like Berkshire Hathaway, operates as a diversified holding company built on three core pillars: Insurance, Investments and Markel Ventures. At the heart of its business is Markel Insurance, which serves as the foundation for the company’s broader growth strategy and financial strength.
The insurance segment has delivered strong results by focusing on complex, specialized, and underserved markets. Disciplined underwriting, favorable pricing and new business generation have supported its performance, while a combined ratio consistently below 100% reflects sustained underwriting profitability. Markel aims to double the size of its insurance operations over the next five years, targeting $10 billion in annual premiums and approximately $1 billion in underwriting profit. The company expects to achieve this primarily through organic expansion of its profitable businesses. It has exited operations that do not meet its profitability standards.
Markel’s investment portfolio manages capital generated by its insurance operations as well as funds held at the holding company level. The portfolio is diversified across equities and fixed-income securities, seeking attractive long-term risk-adjusted returns.
Markel Ventures further strengthens the business model through ownership stakes in high-quality companies spanning manufacturing, services, transportation and consumer products. These businesses generate steady cash flows that are largely independent of insurance market cycles, enhancing diversification and resilience while contributing meaningfully to revenues, earnings and book value growth.
Supported by a strong balance sheet and growing liquidity, Markel has the capacity to repurchase shares. However, management currently prioritizes reinvesting capital into organic growth opportunities within its insurance operations.
Markel’s return on equity of 7.9% lags the industry average of 16.2%. MKL shares have lost 13.7% year to date and underperformed the industry.
Estimates for BRK.B and MKLThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for BRK.B’s 2026 revenues implies a year-over-year increase of 3.8%, while that for EPS implies a year-over-year increase of 1%. EPS estimates have moved 2.8% north in the past 30 days.
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The Zacks Consensus Estimate for MKL’s 2026 revenues implies a year-over-year increase of 6.1% and that for EPS implies a year-over-year increase of 17.4%. However, EPS estimates have moved 0.2% south in the past 30 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Are BRK.B and MKL Shares Expensive?Berkshire is trading at a price-to-book value multiple of 1.47, below its median of 1.53 over the last three years. MKL’s price-to-book value multiple sits at 1.28, lower than its median of 1.37 over the past three years.
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ConclusionHolding Berkshire Hathaway stock offers investors exposure to a highly diversified portfolio built through Warren Buffett’s exceptional capital allocation and value-creation skills over nearly six decades. As Greg Abel leads the company, investors are closely watching Berkshire’s next chapter.
Meanwhile, Markel distinguishes itself through its focus on specialized insurance markets and disciplined risk management. Supported by strong underwriting and investment operations, the company is well-positioned for long-term growth. Markel continues to pursue both acquisitions and organic expansion to diversify its business mix and strengthen its global presence.
Berkshire carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), while Markel carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Given positive analyst sentiment and price performance, Berkshire has an edge over Markel.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Markel International, the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced the appointment of Alisha Everett as Assistant Vice President, Contractors, Trades and Construction Services, and Nicholas Doy as Manager within the CTCS team, effective immediately.
In this role, Everett will lead Markel’s CTCS strategy across Canada, overseeing underwriting execution and driving profitable growth within the Contractors and Trades segment. She will work closely with national underwriting and distribution teams to strengthen market engagement, refine risk appetite, and enhance Markel’s value proposition for brokers and clients.
Everett brings deep expertise in construction and casualty underwriting, with a proven ability to build profitable, sustainable portfolios. She will be instrumental in aligning product strategy with broker and field execution as Markel continues to expand in this space.
Doy joins the CTCS team as Manager, supporting underwriting performance, portfolio development, and broker engagement across key regions in Canada. His appointment strengthens Markel’s ability to deliver responsive, specialist underwriting solutions tailored to the evolving needs of contractors and trades clients.
These hires reflect Markel Canada's continued investment in its Contractors and Trades capabilities, with a focus on disciplined underwriting, strategic growth, and strengthening broker relationships across the Canadian construction market.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Alisha and Nicholas to the team at a pivotal point in the expansion of our CTCS offering,” says Andrew Poulton, Vice President, Sectors at Markel Canada. “Their combined experience and market insights will be instrumental in strengthening our underwriting capabilities and accelerating profitable growth in the Contractors and Trades sector.”
Everett and Doy will be based in Markel’s Toronto office.
About Markel
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260615946257/en/
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Markel International, the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced the appointment of Alisha Everett as Assistant Vice President, Contractors, Trades and Construction Services, and Nicholas Doy as Manager within the CTCS team, effective immediately. In this role, Everett will lead Markel's CTCS strategy across Canada, overseeing underwriting execution and driving profitable growth within the Contractors and Trades segment. She will wor.
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Markel Insurance, the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), today announced the launch of PlayMicro in Canada, a special events portal offering short-term coverage for sporting events, meetings, cultural and social gatherings, now available through its digital platform, Markel Connect. This launch strengthens the capabilities of Markel Connect and reflects Markel’s ongoing commitment to digital innovation and delivering efficient access to specialty solutions for brokers.
PlayMicro supports a broad range of organized sport and fitness activities, including competitions, seasonal teams, tournaments, practices, camps, and related programs. The portal also provides short‑term coverage for meetings, cultural gatherings, tradeshows, festivals, parades, theatre productions, fairs, fundraisers, private functions, and other events. Coverage is available for events where alcohol is served on premises.
With minimum premiums starting at CAD$150, the product offers comprehensive general liability including participant and participant-to-participant liability (excluding products and completed operations).
“Integrating PlayMicro within Markel Connect reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Canadian brokers and event organizers,” said Brenda McClung, Assistant Vice President, Markel Play. “Our goal was to create a user-friendly portal, giving clients fast, reliable access to coverage for the sporting activities and short‑term events they rely on us to protect.”
Available through Markel Connect in Canada (excluding Quebec at this time), brokers can quote, bind, and issue policies on a 24/7 basis, with instant decline notifications and rapid referral turnaround. The platform offers flexible limits, competitive pricing, no policy fees, and a 20% commission structure.
“PlayMicro represents meaningful progress in our digital strategy,” said Sachin Rustagi, Head of Digital. “Markel Connect is designed to simplify the quoting experience for brokers across various micro-SME errors & omissions, directors & officers and office package risks. Adding PlayMicro to our primary portal extends that one-stop experience and single-login access for event and sports organizers who need quick, dependable coverage 24/7.”
The addition of PlayMicro to Markel Connect reflects Markel Canada’s ongoing investment in digital solutions that support broker workflows. The company continues to expand the platform’s capabilities, introduce new tools, and bring additional products online to improve efficiency and deliver value to broker partners.
Brokers registered with Markel Connect can access PlayMicro immediately at https://connect.markel.ca.
About Markel
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Cogitate, one of the leading providers of intelligent core insurance technology, is proud to announce the launch of Bridge Specialty Group's new personal lines digital marketplace. The digital platform is designed to streamline agent quoting, enhance underwriting efficiency, and support scalable expansion of carrier access across its personal lines portfolio.
As one of the largest personal lines wholesalers in the U.S., Bridge Specialty Group is uniquely positioned to scale carrier access and simplify distribution for agents nationwide. This new platform enables agents to complete one common application and receive eligibility and premium indications across participating carriers within a unified digital experience.
Built on Cogitate's DigitalEdge platform, the marketplace supports API-enabled carrier integrations and structured workflows for markets without direct APIs. This allows agents to see multiple carrier options side-by-side, without compromising each carrier's underwriting approach. Agents gain faster visibility into available markets, and underwriters benefit from structured workflows and improved submission quality.
Among its early carriers, Bridge Specialty Group worked with Markel to make its E&S homeowners product available in the marketplace.
"Markel is excited to support initiatives that leverage API technology to enhance underwriting efficiency and customer outcomes," said Virginia Mathurin, Managing Director, Underwriting & Business Development for Personal Lines at Markel.
At launch, the marketplace supports more than 18,000 users across 5,000 agencies, providing immediate scale across Bridge Specialty Group's distribution network. The implementation transitioned Bridge Specialty Group from a complex permissions model to a streamlined, templatized framework, enhancing scalability while maintaining operational stability.
"The personal lines marketplace reflects our commitment to delivering a modern, transparent, and scalable digital experience for our agents and carrier partners," said Joe Failla, Chief Operating Officer of Bridge Specialty Group. "By consolidating systems and enabling comparative rating within a single marketplace, we are improving speed, clarity, and operational efficiency across our organization."
"This launch represents what's possible when deep insurance experience meets modern, cloud-native technology. At Cogitate, we believe digital marketplaces should not only accelerate quote-to-bind, but also create meaningful connectivity between carriers, underwriters, and distribution partners. Bridge Specialty Group has embraced a bold vision for scalable growth, and we are proud to provide the DigitalEdge foundation that empowers their teams to innovate faster, operate smarter, and deliver a truly unified experience to their agents," said Arvind Kaushal, CEO & Co-founder of Cogitate.
About Bridge Specialty Group
Bridge Specialty Group is a leading global insurance wholesaler comprised of more than 28 niche-focused specialty brands with a presence in over 55 locations throughout the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. The organization connects the diverse needs of retail partners with the market access and expertise of its wholesale entities, drawing on deep specialization in areas including construction, casualty, environmental liability, professional liability, healthcare, public entity, workers' compensation, property, and personal lines. With access to more than 300 standard and excess & surplus lines carriers and a premium volume book in the multibillion-dollar range, Bridge Specialty Group's mission is to bring the power of collective size and specialty to the wholesale brokerage marketplace by delivering innovative solutions and tailored risk placement for its partners. Learn more at https://bridgespecialtygroup.com/ .
About Markel
We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients – that differentiates us worldwide. Learn more at www.markel.com.
About Cogitate
The Cogitate DigitalEdge Insurance Platform digitalizes insurance across the value chain, offering insurance carriers, MGAs, and program administrators a smooth transition to cloud-native, data-driven core underwriting, policy, billing, and claim applications. The AI-powered, unified insurance platform unlocks the value of first-party data and advances the power of third-party data for profitable growth, superior risk selection, and a streamlined, modern user experience. Backed by more than 100 combined years of comprehensive experience and domain knowledge, our products are uniquely designed to meet the needs of insurance businesses of every size. Learn more at www.cogitate.com .
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