Could investors in this ASX 200 share be in for more payment windfalls?

Insurer IAG is holding onto millions of dollars it may not need.

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Key points
  • ASX 200 insurance giant IAG declared a $350 million on-market share buyback on Monday
  • The buyback will be funded by a reduction in the company's business interruption provision after the High Court rejected further appeals against COVID-19-related claims
  • The company is still holding $615 million up its sleeves in case of further litigation, but much of that could end up being returned to shareholders as well

Those invested in Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) shares likely jumped for joy earlier this week when the company revealed a $350 million on-market share buyback.

And there's potentially more good news on the horizon, with the company hinting more cash could be returned in the future.

Right now, the IAG share price is $4.89, the same as its previous closing price. Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has gained 1.59%.

Let's take a closer look at the mountain of gold that could be distributed to shareholders.

Four investors stand in a line holding cash fanned in their hands with thoughtful looks on their faces.

Image source: Getty Images

Could this ASX 200 share offer more windfalls?

The IAG share price leapt 1.5% on Monday after the company announced a $350 million buyback. The buyback will be funded by a reduction in its business interruption provision.  

The company lowered the provision after the High Court denied appeals against COVID-19-related claims.

But the company has a healthy stash under its sleeves in case of further litigation, to the tune of $615 million.

Now, there's no reason to think the company might not need that cash. However, some experts reportedly believe most of it will ultimately end up in the hands of investors.

Morgan Stanley analyst Andrei Stadnik is said to believe IAG could hand the funds to shareholders in three parcels. The second is tipped to be released in the middle of 2023, the Australian Financial Review reports.

Meanwhile, the ASX 200 insurance share, responsible for brands including NRMA Insurance, CGU, and WFI, is being inundated with claims as parts of Victoria, NSW, and Tasmania experience severe flooding.

IAG today revealed it's received 1,470 claims due to heavy rains and floods since last Wednesday. That figure is expected to grow further over the coming weeks as impacted Aussies return to their homes.

Motley Fool contributor Brooke Cooper has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Insurance Australia Group Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Financial Shares

asx share price resignation represented by man kicking miniature man through the air
Financial Shares

Australian Ethical just dumped 1.6 million shares of this ASX 200 company. Here's why

Australian Ethical has made a major ESG call on this large business.

Read more »

two dogs, a golden one and a black one, together carry a stick in their mouths as the run side by side with contented, happy looks on their faces.
Broker Notes

2 ASX 200 shares to rocket from same booming industry: expert

Most sectors will struggle when the economy slows down, but maybe not this one.

Read more »

Woman looking at her smartphone and analysing share price.
Financial Shares

AMP shares drop then pop amid ex-dividend and delay of $225 million sale

The sale of Collimate Capital's domestic leg looks to be split in two amid regulatory delays.

Read more »

A man holds his hand under his chin as he concentrates on his laptop screen and reads about the ANZ share price
Dividend Investing

Why is the AMP share price sinking today?

In announcing its full year financial results, the AMP board declared a dividend payout for the first time since 2020.

Read more »

A woman shows her phone screen and points up.
Financial Shares

Hub24 share price up 9% on record half-year results and turbocharged dividend

The financial services provider is flying high today on the back of stellar results.

Read more »

Woman relaxing and using her Apple device
Financial Shares

For $1,000 in monthly passive income, buy 1,770 shares of this ASX 200 stock

This ASX blue chip could unlock enormous passive income for investors.

Read more »

Woman on her laptop thinking to herself.
Financial Shares

Are AMP shares finally cheap enough to buy following Thursday's 13% crash?

A return to dividend hasn't convinced this top broker.

Read more »

Man pointing at a blue rising share price graph.
Earnings Results

QBE share price leaps 10% amid explosive dividend growth

QBE boosted its final dividend payout by a whopping 58% from the prior year.

Read more »