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.

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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.

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.

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