After suffering a difficult 2011, J.S. Johnson's consolidated net income declined once again, this time by 42.49 percent in the first quarter compared to the same period last year.
Falling from $2.61 million to $1.506 million, consolidated net income fell partly due to a declining revenues stemming from a rough economy.
"The business is not making as much commission as last year, as a result of tough economic times. Insurance is often a business that suffers," said Jamaal Stubbs, senior analyst at CFAL.
"Insurance is called a valued expense, but it is often undervalued. When you trying to make ends meet, sometimes it gets cut."
Although premium income remained steady, net commissions and fees fell 28 percent in the first quarter, according to the BISX-listed company's report.
"Net claims incurred is trending back to normalcy and is down by 59 percent. This was partly offset by an increase in net unrealized losses on investments in securities; however, total expenses were down by 7 percent, a step in the right direction," the report added.
The "normalcy" in claims was returned, management said, chiefly due to last year's unusual high claims from Hurricane Irene and major fires.
The company said "good news" could be found in that all major classes of business recorded underwriting profits in the first quarter.
J.S. Johnson expressed hope the second quarter would yield better results, and that the BISX-listed firm can still achieve budge projections for the year.
Total assets as of March fell by nearly $9 million, spurred by declines in reinsurance recoveries and reinsurance premiums. Liabilities shrunk by 17.45 percent to $42.97 million.
Despite recent difficulties, J.S. Johnson is known for high dividend yields.
The BISX-listed firm is paying 313 basis points above the current market average. J.S. Johnson managed to maintain 2011 dividend levels despite recording a 25 percent net income drop that year. Its experience last year was not abnormal. Hurricane Irene caused widespread losses across the sector.
An almost $1.7 million increase in net claims accounted for J.S. Johnson's $2.4 million net income drop.

Also of note for the company is the retirement of Marvin V. Bethell, the long-standing managing director. He will remain on the board of directors.

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