Swiss Re nine-month profit rises 3%, helped by low claims

Swiss Re Nine-Month Profits Rise 3% on Lower Claims and Strong Investments

Swiss Re Reports Strong Financial Results for First Nine Months

Profit Growth and Analyst Expectations

FRANKFURT, Nov 5 (Reuters) - Reinsurance company Swiss Re said on Thursday that net profit for the first nine months of the year rose a better-than-expected 3%, helped by low claims from natural disasters.

• Net profit of $4.17 billion in the period compares with a profit of $4.04 billion a year earlier. Analysts had expected a profit of $3.98 billion for the nine months, according to a consensus forecast.

Outlook and Performance Drivers

Progress Toward Full-Year Targets

• The reinsurer said it was "well on track" to meet its full-year targets.

Impact of Natural Catastrophes

• Losses from natural catastrophes have been lower than expected so far this year, the company said.

Investment Results

Solid Returns

• Swiss Re also said its investment result, with a return of 4.0%, was "solid".

Reporting Credits

(Reporting by Tom Sims and Marleen KaesebierEditing by Linda Pasquini)