National Interstate Corporation Sees Q4 EPS of $0.58-0.64 vs $0.28 Year Ago

National Interstate Corporation NATL today reported anticipated earnings per share and gross premiums written for the 2011 fourth quarter and full year. The Company's estimated earnings from operations improved significantly in the 2011 fourth quarter contributing to an expected 11% to 13% increase in 2011 full year after–tax earnings from operations per share when compared to the 2010 full year. Both underwriting income and net investment income improved during the 2011 fourth quarter contributing to the estimated increase in operating earnings. Gross premiums written increased 8.6% for the 2011 fourth quarter and 20.0% for the 2011 full year compared to the same 2010 periods reflecting the favorable impact of growth in existing businesses as well as the Vanliner Insurance Company acquisition in 2010. Three months: Net income per share, diluted $ 0.58 to $ 0.64 Full year: Net income per share, diluted $ 1.79 to $ 1.85