Raymond James reiterates Strong Buy on Skyward Specialty stock

Jefferies increased its price target for Skyward Specialty Insurance (NASDAQ:SKWD) to $64, maintaining a Hold rating. The firm cited the company's diversification and attractive valuation, but noted rising competition. Skyward reported Q3 2026 earnings of $1.28 per share, exceeding estimates, with revenue of $501.77 million. The stock declined due to competitive pressures and lack of 2027 guidance.

Skyward (SKWD) reported Q3 2026 earnings with operating income of $58M ($1.28 per diluted share) and 9M operating income of $175M. Gross written premiums rose 9% to $803M, with fee-generating premiums up 18% to $517M. Combined ratio was 89.9%, and operating return on equity exceeded 20%. Skyward Specialty saw 10% premium growth, while Apollo's premiums increased 3%, with fee income up 18%.

Skyward Specialty reported 3Q 2026 revenue of $455.34M, up 19% YoY, and net income of $49.8M, up 8.5%. EPS was $1.09, down 0.9%. Growth was driven by the Apollo acquisition and higher investment income, though net investment gains declined. Underwriting income rose, and premiums increased across several segments.

Skyward Specialty Insurance Group reported a 13% rise in net earned premiums for the first nine months, with Q3 combined ratio at 88.3. Lower dairy and livestock coverage uptake and treaty year adjustments affected growth. Apollo's gross written premiums increased 3%, with fee-generating premiums up 18%. The company launched new initiatives and expects to provide 2027 guidance in Q4. Book value per share rose 15% to $28.74, with net investment income up 54%.

Skyward Specialty Insurance Group (SKWD) reported Q3 profit of $49.8M, or $1.09 per share, beating analyst estimates of $1.22 per share. Adjusted earnings were $1.28 per share. Revenue was $455.3M, missing expectations of $507.3M.

Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc. (SKWD) filed an SEC Form 8-K — Results of Operations and Financial Condition. Exhibit 99.1 Skyward Group Reports Third Quarter 2026 Results Houston, TX – November 5, 2026 – Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SKWD) (“Skyward Group” or the “Company”) today reported third quarter 2026 results. Summary Financial Data ($ in thousands, except per s