UNM

Unum Group projects 4-7% premium growth and adjusted operating EPS of $8.60-$8.90 in 2026, supported by strong persistency, higher sales, and digital investments. The company plans $1 billion in buybacks but faces headwinds from rising claims costs and declining investment income. Comparable industry players NMI Holdings, Palomar Holdings, and Arch Capital also show positive earnings momentum.

Unum Group's Colonial Life segment demonstrated solid performance in Q2 2026 with adjusted operating income rising 11.9% and premium income increasing 3.3% to $477.4M. The segment benefited from favorable claims experience, higher investment income (up 17.6%), and a strong 19.4% ROE. However, persistency showed a slight decline and modest premium growth suggests the need for sustained sales momentum. Peers Aflac and MetLife also showed strength in their group benefits segments.