XL Group says profit grew to $US759.14 million ($800.19 million) in the nine months to September, up 33% despite a higher catastrophe bill.

The combined ratio was 92.2%, compared with 92.7% in the corresponding period last year.

Gross written premium (GWP) from property and casualty increased 5% to $US5.96 billion ($6.28 billion), with strong new business from North America and favourable pricing and renewals.

The loss ratio was 61.9%, compared with 60.9%. It was affected by $US85 million ($89.6 million) of catastrophe losses last quarter, mostly from hailstorms in Germany and France in July.

GWP from life operations fell 11% to $US236.56 million ($249.35 million). XL’s investment income fell 7% to $US716.94 million ($755.71 million).