American International Group Inc (AIG) shares surged 6.02% in early trading following the release of better-than-expected first-quarter results that showed significant improvement in profitability and premium growth.

The insurer reported operating earnings per share of $2.11 for the quarter, representing an 80% year-over-year increase and exceeding the average analyst estimate of $1.87. Net premiums written in AIG's general insurance business jumped 24% to $5.6 billion, driven by recent strategic transactions including the acquisition of renewal rights to a $2 billion premium retail insurance portfolio from Everest Group.

CEO Peter Zaffino expressed confidence that AIG can continue to achieve disciplined, profitable growth while navigating a complex global risk landscape. The company's core operating return on equity improved to 12.2% from 7.7% in the same period last year, signaling stronger operational performance ahead of Zaffino's transition to Executive Chairman on June 1.