485BPOS 1 d485bpos.htm NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL VARIABLE LIFE ACCOUNT II (SVUL) Northwestern Mutual Variable Life Account II (SVUL)
Table of Contents

Registration No. 333-136308

Registration No. 811-21933

 

 

 

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM N-6

 

 

 

  REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933    ¨  
  Pre-Effective Amendment No.         ¨  
  Post-Effective Amendment No. 5    x  
 

and/or

 

  
  REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940    ¨  
  Amendment No. 21    x  
  (Check appropriate box or boxes.)   

 

 

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL VARIABLE LIFE ACCOUNT II

(Exact Name of Registrant)

 

 

THE NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

(Name of Depositor)

 

  720 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin   53202  
  (Address of Depositor’s Principal Executive Offices)   (Zip Code)  

Depositor’s Telephone Number, including Area Code 414-271-1444

RAYMOND J. MANISTA, General Counsel and Secretary

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

720 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202

(Name and Address of Agent for Service)

 

 

Copy to:

Chad E. Fickett, Assistant General Counsel

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

720 East Wisconsin Avenue

Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202

414-665-1209

 

 

Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering Continuous

It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate space)

 

  ¨

immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 485

 

  x

on May 1, 2010 pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 485

 

  ¨

60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485

 

  ¨

on (DATE) pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485

 

  ¨

this post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment.

Title of Securities Being Registered: Interests in the Northwestern Mutual Variable Life Account II under flexible premium variable adjustable survivorship life insurance policies.


Table of Contents

Prospectus

 

May 1, 2010

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life

Issued by The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

and Northwestern Mutual Variable Life Account II

 

 

 

This prospectus describes a flexible premium variable survivorship universal life insurance policy (the “Policy”) issued by The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company. The Policy is a long-term investment designed to provide a Life Insurance Benefit upon the death of the second of the Insureds to die (the “second death”). You should consider the Policy in conjunction with other insurance you own. Replacing your existing life insurance with this Policy may not be to your advantage. In addition, it may not be to your advantage to finance the purchase or maintenance of this Policy through a loan or through withdrawals from another policy. Please consult your Financial Representative.

 

You may choose to invest your Net Premiums in one or more Divisions of the Northwestern Mutual Variable Life Account II (the “Separate Account”). Each Division of the Separate Account invests exclusively in shares of a single series of a Fund (a “Portfolio”). Each Portfolio available as an investment option under the Policy is identified below:

 

Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc.   
Growth Stock Portfolio    Small Cap Growth Stock Portfolio
Focused Appreciation Portfolio    Small Cap Value Portfolio
Large Cap Core Stock Portfolio    International Growth Portfolio
Index 500 Stock Portfolio    International Equity Portfolio
Domestic Equity Portfolio    Money Market Portfolio
Equity Income Portfolio    Select Bond Portfolio
Mid Cap Growth Stock Portfolio    High Yield Bond Portfolio
Index 400 Stock Portfolio    Balanced Portfolio
Mid Cap Value Portfolio    Asset Allocation Portfolio
Fidelity® Variable Insurance Products   
VIP Mid Cap Portfolio   
Russell Investment Funds   
Multi-Style Equity Fund   
Aggressive Equity Fund   
Real Estate Securities Fund   
Non-U.S. Fund   
Core Bond Fund   

 

Please note that the Policy and the Portfolios are not guaranteed to achieve their goals;

are not federally insured; are not bank deposits; are not endorsed by any bank or government agency;

and are subject to risks, including loss of the principal amount invested.

 

This Policy is subject to the laws of the state in which the Policy is issued. Some of the terms of the Policy may differ from the terms of the Policy delivered in another state because of state specific legal requirements. Areas where state specific Policy provisions may apply include, but are not limited to:

 

   

certain investment options and certain Policy features;

   

free look rights, including the length of free look period and refund amounts; and

   

fund transfer rights.

 

Please carefully read this prospectus and the accompanying prospectuses for the corresponding Portfolios and keep them for future reference. These prospectuses provide information that you should know before investing in the Policy. No person is authorized to make any representation in connection with the offering of the Policy other than those contained in these prospectuses.

 

The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) has not approved or disapproved the Policy or passed upon the adequacy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 

 

 

LOGO


Table of Contents

 

Contents of this Prospectus

 

SUMMARY OF POLICY BENEFITS AND RISKS

   1

Benefits of the Policy

   1

Death Benefit

   1

Surrenders, Withdrawals and Loans

   1

Payment Plan Options

   1

Allocation of Premiums and Invested Assets

   1

Right to Return Policy

   1

Tax Considerations

   1

Risks of the Policy

   1

Policy for Long-Term Protection

   1

Investment Risk

   1

Default Risk

   2

Policy Lapse

   2

Policy Loan Risks

   2

Limitations on Access to Your Values

   2

Adverse Tax Consequences

   2

Risk of an Increase in Current Fees and Expenses

   2

FEE AND EXPENSE TABLES

   3

Transaction Fees

   3

Periodic Charges (Other than Portfolio Operating Expenses)

   4

Table 1

   4

Table 2

   6

Annual Portfolio Operating Expenses

   7

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

   9

THE SEPARATE ACCOUNT

   9

THE FUNDS

   10

Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc.

   10

Fidelity® Variable Insurance Products

   11

Russell Investment Funds

   11

Payments We Receive

   11

INFORMATION ABOUT THE POLICY

   12

Purchasing a Policy

   12

Specified Amount

   12

When Insurance Coverage Takes Effect

   12

Right to Return Policy

   13

Ownership Rights

   13

Right to Exchange for a Fixed Benefit Policy

   13

Modifying the Policy

   13

Premium Payments

   13

Allocating Premiums to the Separate Account

   14

Policy Value and Invested Assets

   15

Death Benefit

   15

Life Insurance Benefit

   15

Death Benefit Options

   15

Minimum Death Benefit

   16

Changing Death Benefit Options

   16

Payment Plan Options

   16

Withdrawal

   17

Limitations

   17

Payment Frequency

   17

Increase Of Monthly Income

   17

Surrender and Withdrawals of Policy Value

   18

Surrenders

   18

Withdrawals

   18

Policy Loans

   18

Termination and Reinstatement

   19

Reinvestments after Surrender or Withdrawal

   19

Other Policy Transactions

   20

Transfers

   20

Short-Term and Excessive Trading

   20

Dollar-Cost Averaging

   21

Portfolio Rebalancing

   21

Allocation Models

   22

Charges and Deductions

   22

Premium Expense Charges

   22

Monthly Policy Charges and Service Charges

   22

Surrender Charge

   24

Portfolio Expenses

   24

Other Policy Provisions

   25

Naming a Beneficiary

   25

Incontestability

   25

Suicide

   25

Misstatement of Age or Sex

   25

Policy Split Right

   25

Collateral Assignment

   25

Deferral of Determination and Payment

   25

Dividends

   25

Voting Rights

   26

Reports and Financial Statements

   26

Householding

   26

Legal Proceedings

   26

Owner Inquiries

   26

Illustrations

   26

TAX CONSIDERATIONS

   27

General

   27

Life Insurance Qualification

   27

Tax Treatment of Life Insurance

   27

Modified Endowment Contracts (MEC)

   28

Estate Tax and Generation Skipping Tax Planning

   29

Business-Owned Life Insurance

   29

Policy Split Right

   29

Split Dollar Arrangements

   30

Valuation of Life Insurance

   30

Other Tax Considerations

   30

DISTRIBUTION OF THE POLICY

   30

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

   31

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

   33

APPENDIX A

   34


Table of Contents

Summary of Policy Benefits and Risks

 

The Policy is a flexible premium variable survivorship universal life insurance policy that provides life insurance protection in the event of the death of the second of the Insureds to die (the “second death”). The Life Insurance Benefit payable to the beneficiary may vary and your Policy Value will vary based on the investment performance of the Divisions you choose. You may make withdrawals and loans from your Policy Value subject to certain conditions described in the Policy and this prospectus. You may surrender the Policy at any time. We do not guarantee any minimum Policy Value or Cash Surrender Value. You could lose some or all of your money.

 

This summary describes the Policy’s important benefits and risks. More complete information is included elsewhere in this prospectus, in the Portfolio prospectuses and in the Policy. Unless clear from their context or otherwise appropriate, all of the capitalized terms used in this prospectus are defined at the end of this prospectus in the Glossary of Terms.

 

Benefits of the Policy

 

Death Benefit    The primary benefit of the Policy is the life insurance protection that it provides. The Life Insurance Benefit is payable on the second death while the Policy is in force. The Policy offers three Death Benefit options:

 

Option A—Specified Amount;

Option B—Specified Amount Plus Policy Value; and

Option C—Specified Amount Plus Cumulative Premiums Paid Minus Cumulative Withdrawals.

 

Under each of these options, you select the Specified Amount subject to our limits described in the section “Specified Amount.” The current minimum Specified Amount is $1,000,000 if the older Insured is Issue Age 20-49 and $500,000 if the older Insured is Issue Age 50-85. We increase the Death Benefit, if necessary, in order for the Policy to meet minimum Death Benefit requirements under the Code. After a Policy is issued, you may change your Death Benefit option or increase or decrease the Specified Amount, upon written request, subject to our approval.

 

Surrenders, Withdrawals and Loans    You may surrender your Policy for the Cash Surrender Value, which takes into account a surrender charge during the first ten Policy Years. You may also withdraw part of your Policy Value, subject to certain conditions. In addition, you may borrow up to a maximum of 90% of the excess of your Policy Value over any applicable surrender charge, less any existing Policy Debt on the date of the loan, using the Policy as security. Withdrawals and loans reduce your Cash Surrender Value and Death Benefit, and increase the risk that your Policy will lapse. Surrenders, withdrawals, and loans also may have adverse tax consequences.

 

Payment Plan Options    Life Insurance Benefit and surrender proceeds are payable in a lump sum or under one of several fixed payment plan options we offer. More detailed information concerning these payment plan options is included elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

Allocation of Premiums and Invested Assets    Within limits, you control the amount and timing of Premium Payments. You may direct the allocation of your Premium Payments among the Divisions of the Separate Account, change your investment selections, and transfer Invested Assets among the Divisions subject to certain limitations. You also may make automated transactions using our Dollar Cost Averaging and Portfolio Rebalancing programs.

 

Right to Return Policy    You may return the Policy for a refund within 10 days (or later where required by state law) after you receive it by returning the Policy to us at our Home Office or to your Financial Representative. The amount of your refund will equal the sum of (a) the Invested Assets under the Policy on the date we receive the returned Policy or the written cancellation request at our Home Office plus (b) any previously deducted Premium Expense Charge, Monthly Policy Charges and Service Charges, unless state law requires otherwise. A complete explanation of your right to return the Policy may be found on the face page of your Policy.

 

Tax Considerations    Your Policy is structured to meet the definition of a life insurance contract under the Code. We may need to limit the amount of Premium Payments you make under the Policy to ensure that your Policy continues to meet that definition. Current federal tax law generally excludes all Death Benefits of a life insurance policy from the gross income of the beneficiary. In addition, you generally are not subject to taxation on any increase in the Policy Value until a withdrawal is made or the Policy is surrendered or otherwise terminated, and you will be able to transfer Invested Assets among the Divisions of the Separate Account tax free. Generally, you are taxed at ordinary income rates on surrender and withdrawal proceeds only if those amounts, when added to all previous distributions, exceed the total Premium Payments made.

 

Risks of the Policy

 

Policy for Long-Term Protection    Your Policy is designed to serve your long-term life insurance protection need. It is not suitable for short-term life insurance protection nor for short-term investing.

 

Investment Risk    Your Policy Value will fluctuate with the performance of the Divisions among which you allocate your Invested Assets. Amounts you allocate among the Divisions may grow in value, decline in value, or grow less than you expect depending on the investment performance of the corresponding Portfolios. Your Invested Assets are not guaranteed, and you can lose money. You may be required to pay more premiums than originally planned in order to keep the Policy in force.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

1


Table of Contents

A comprehensive discussion of the investment objectives and risks of each Portfolio may be found in each Portfolio’s prospectus. There is no assurance that any Portfolio will achieve its stated investment objective. The Policy is not designed for frequent or short-term trading.

 

Default Risk    Because certain guarantees under the Policy are guaranteed by the Company’s General Account assets, the ability to make good on these guarantees depends on the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the Company. Therefore, guaranteed benefits in excess of Invested Assets in the Separate Account are subject to the risk of default to the extent the Company is unable to satisfy some or all of these guarantees.

 

Policy Lapse    Insufficient Premium Payments, poor investment results, withdrawals, unpaid loans, or loan interest may cause your Policy to lapse, meaning you will no longer have any life insurance coverage. If, on a Monthly Processing Date, the Cash Surrender Value (taking into account any applicable surrender charge) is not enough to pay the Monthly Policy Charge, your Policy will enter a 61-day grace period. If your Policy enters a grace period, we will notify you that the Policy will lapse (terminate without value) at the end of the grace period unless you make a sufficient payment. Your Policy may be reinstated within three years (or longer if required by state law) after it has lapsed, subject to certain conditions.

 

Policy Loan Risks    A Policy loan, whether or not repaid, will affect your Policy Value over time because the amounts borrowed do not participate in the investment performance of the Divisions; in addition, a charge is deducted from your Policy Value each month while there is Policy Debt. The Life Insurance Benefit is reduced by the amount of any outstanding Policy Debt. If you surrender the Policy or allow it to lapse while Policy Debt is outstanding, the amount of Policy Debt, to the extent it has not previously been taxed, will be considered as an amount you received and taxed accordingly. Policy Debt reduces the Cash Surrender Value, and increases the risk that your Policy will lapse.

 

Limitations on Access to Your Values    We will deduct a surrender charge if you surrender your Policy in the first ten Policy Years. Even if you have Invested Assets, it is possible that you will receive no Cash Surrender Value if you surrender the Policy in the first ten Policy Years. You should purchase the Policy only if you have the financial ability to keep it in force for a substantial period of time. You should not purchase the Policy if you intend to surrender all or part of your Policy in the near future.

 

Even if you do not ask to surrender the Policy, surrender charges may play a role in determining whether the Policy will lapse, because surrender charges affect the Cash Surrender Value, which is a measure we use to determine whether your Policy will enter a grace period (and possibly lapse). See “Policy Lapse” above.

 

You may withdraw a portion of the Cash Surrender Value, subject to limitations on the amount that may be withdrawn. (See “Withdrawals.”) A withdrawal will reduce the Cash Surrender Value and Life Insurance Benefit. The minimum amount of a withdrawal is $250.

 

Adverse Tax Consequences    Our understanding of the principal tax considerations for the Policy under current tax law is set forth in this prospectus. A surrender, loan, or withdrawal may have tax consequences. There are areas of some uncertainty under current law, and we do not address the likelihood of future changes in the law or interpretations thereof. Among other risks, your Policy may become a modified endowment contract (as defined under the Code) if the cumulative Premium Payments exceed a defined limit. If a Policy is treated as a modified endowment contract, surrenders, withdrawals, and Policy loans will be taxable as ordinary income to the extent there are earnings in the Policy, and a 10% penalty tax may apply to these distributions. Excessive Policy loans could cause a Policy to terminate with insufficient value to pay the tax due upon termination. Death Benefit proceeds may be subject to state and/or inheritance taxes.

 

Risk of an Increase in Current Fees and Expenses    Certain insurance charges are currently assessed at less than their maximum levels. We may increase these current charges in the future up to the guaranteed maximum levels, based on the Company’s emerging experience or future expectations, as determined in its sole discretion, with respect to, but not limited to, mortality, expenses, reinsurance costs, taxes, persistency, capital requirements, reserve requirements, and changes in applicable laws. Although some Funds may have expense limitation agreements, the operating expenses of the Portfolios are not guaranteed and may increase or decrease over time. If fees and expenses are increased, you may need to increase the amount and/or frequency of Premium Payments to keep the Policy in force.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

2


Table of Contents

Fee and Expense Tables

 

The following tables describe the fees and expenses that are payable when you buy, own, and surrender the Policy. See “Charges and Expenses” for a more detailed description. Please note that there are two sets of periodic charges tables. If Table 2 currently applies to you, Table 1 fees will apply on and after your 2010 Policy Anniversary.

 

Transaction Fees

 

The first table describes the fees and expenses that are payable at the time that you buy the Policy, make Premium Payments, surrender the Policy, make withdrawals, transfer Invested Assets among the Divisions, or make certain changes to the Policy.

 

Transaction Fees
         Amount Deducted
Charge   When Charge is Deducted   Current Charge   Guaranteed Maximum Charge
Premium Tax Charge   Upon each Premium Payment   2.00% of Premium Payment   No maximum - Charges may increase to reflect actual costs
OBRA Expense Charge (federal deferred acquisition cost charge)1   Upon each Premium Payment  

For Policies purchased after December 31, 2009 or Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary:

 

1.00% of Premium Payments.

 

For Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have not passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary:

 

1.30% of Premium Payments paid prior to the Policy Anniversary in 2010; 1.00% of subsequent Premium Payments.

 
Sales Load   Upon each Premium Payment   6.40% of premium up to Target Premium2 in Policy Years 1-10; 2.40% of premium up to Target Premium in Policy Years 11 and beyond; and 2.40% of premium in excess of Target Premium for each Policy Year   Same as current charge
Surrender Charge   Upon surrender during the first ten Policy Years   50% in Policy Year 1 of the premium paid in the first Policy Year up to the Target Premium, grading down monthly in Policy Years 2-10 to 0% 3   Same as current charge
Withdrawal Fee   Upon withdrawal   Currently waived   $25.00
Transfer Fee   Upon transfer   Currently waived   $25.00
Change in Death Benefit Option Fee   Upon change in Death Benefit option   Currently waived   $25.00
Change in Specified Amount Fee   Upon change in Specified Amount   Currently waived   $25.00 per change after first change in a Policy Year
Expedited Delivery Charge4   When express mail delivery is requested   $15 per delivery (up to $45 for next day, a.m. delivery)   $50 per delivery (up to $75 for next day, a.m. delivery) adjusted for inflation 5
Wire Transfer Fee4   When a wire transfer is requested   $25 per transfer (up to $50 for international wires)   $50 per transfer (up to $100 for international wires) adjusted for inflation5

 

1

Due to a federal tax law change under the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990, as amended, (“OBRA”), insurance companies are generally required to capitalize and amortize certain acquisition expenses rather than currently deduct such expenses. Due to this capitalization and amortization, the corporate income tax burden on insurance companies has been affected. For Policies purchased after December 31, 2009 and for Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary, we currently make a charge of 1.00% against each Premium Payment. For Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have not passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary, we currently make a charge of 1.30% against each Premium Payment paid prior to the Policy Anniversary in 2010, and 1.00% against subsequent Premium Payments to compensate us for corporate income taxes.

2

The Target Premium is a hypothetical annual premium which is based on the Specified Amount, and the Insureds’ Issue Ages, sex, and underwriting classifications.

3

The surrender charge percentage is applied to the premiums actually paid during the first Policy Year or the Target Premium, whichever is less. For more information on the surrender charge, see “Surrender Charges” in this prospectus. Your Policy schedule pages will indicate the maximum charge under your Policy.

4

This fee may increase over time to cover our administrative or other costs but will not exceed the maximum charge. We may discontinue this service at any time, with or without notice.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

3


Table of Contents
5

The maximum charges are subject to a consumer price index adjustment. The maximum charge will equal the maximum charge shown above multiplied by the CPI for the fourth month prior to the time of the charge, divided by the CPI for April, 2009. “CPI” means the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, United States City Average, All Items, as published by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. If the method for determining the CPI is changed, or it is no longer published, it will be replaced by some other index found by the Company to serve the same purpose.

 

Periodic Charges (Other than Portfolio Operating Expenses)

 

The tables below describe the fees and expenses that you will pay periodically during the time that you own the Policy other than the operating expenses for the Portfolios. Table 1 describes your Policy’s periodic fees and expenses if you purchased your Policy after December 31, 2009, or if you purchased your policy prior to January 1, 2010 and your 2010 Policy Anniversary has already passed. Table 2 describes your Policy’s periodic fees and expenses if you purchased your policy prior to January 1, 2010 and your 2010 Policy Anniversary has not yet passed. See “Charges and Expenses” for a more detailed description.

 

Table 1

 

Periodic Charges (Other than Portfolio Operating Expenses)1

Applicable to Policies purchased after December 31, 2009 or

Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary

         Amount Deducted
Charge   When Charge is Deducted   Current Charge   Guaranteed Maximum Charge
Cost of Insurance Charge2   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date        
Maximum Charge3       $83.33 per $1,000 of net amount at risk   Same as current charge
Minimum Charge4       $0.0000169 per $1,000 of net amount at risk   Same as current charge
Charge for Insureds with Issue Ages 45, Premier Non-Tobacco underwriting classification5       $0.000332 per $1,000 of net amount at risk in the first Policy Year (varies by Policy Year)5   Same as current charge in the first Policy Year (varies by Policy Year)6
Mortality and Expense Risk Charge        
Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Invested Assets Component   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date  

0.10% annually (0.00833% monthly rate) of Invested Assets in Policy Years 1-20

 

0.05% annually (0.00417% monthly rate) of Invested Assets in Policy Years 21 and above

  0.90% annually (0.075% monthly rate) of Invested Assets

Mortality and Expense

Risk Charge—Specified

Amount Component7

  Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date during the first ten Policy Years        
Maximum Charge8       $0.14333 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount9   Same as current charge
Minimum Charge10       $0.00333 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount   Same as current charge
Charge for Insureds Issue Ages 45       $0.03417 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount   Same as current charge
Administrative Charge   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date   $6.42   $7.50
Deferred Sales Charge   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date during the first ten Policy Years   7.5% (0.625% monthly rate) of premium paid in the first Policy Year up to Target Premium for Policy Years 1-10   Same as current charge
Policy Debt Expense Charge11   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date when there is Policy Debt  

When the younger Insured is (or would be, if alive) Attained Age 99 and below.

 

0.90% annually (0.075% monthly rate) of Policy Debt for Policy Years 1-10

 

0.35% annually (0.02917% monthly rate) of Policy Debt for Policy Years 11 and above

 

When the younger Insured is (or would be, if alive) Attained Age 100 and above:

 

0.00% annually of Policy Debt

  All Policy Years 2.00% annually (0.16667% monthly rate) of Policy Debt

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

4


Table of Contents

Periodic Charges (Other than Portfolio Operating Expenses)1

Applicable to Policies purchased after December 31, 2009 or

Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary

         Amount Deducted
Charge   When Charge is Deducted   Current Charge   Guaranteed Maximum Charge
Underwriting and Issue Charge1 2   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date during the first ten Policy Years        
Maximum Charge13       $0.035 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount   Same as current charge
Minimum Charge14       $.015 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount   Same as current charge
Charge for Insureds Issue Age 45, Premier Non-Tobacco underwriting classification       $0.015 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount   Same as current charge

 

1

The charges described in this table may vary based upon one or more characteristics of the Policy, such as: Insureds’ Issue Ages, sex, and underwriting classifications, Initial Specified Amount, Target Premium, Policy Date, and Policy Year (see “Charges and Deductions—Monthly Policy Charges and Service Charges” for more details regarding each charge. The charges shown in the table may not be representative of the charges a particular Owner may pay). Your Policy schedule pages will indicate the guaranteed maximum charge for each periodic charge under your Policy. Unless otherwise noted, the charges in the table represent the monthly rate.

2

The Cost of Insurance Charge will vary based on the Insureds’ Issue Ages, sex and underwriting classifications; Policy Date and Policy Year. The Cost of Insurance Charges shown in the table may not be representative of the rates a particular Owner may pay. Request an illustration for personalized information. (See “Illustrations.”) The net amount at risk is approximately equal to the Death Benefit minus the Policy Value.

3

The maximum Cost of Insurance Charge assumes that the Insureds have the following characteristics: one male and one female, Attained Age 120 of the younger Insured, both substandard underwriting classification. The maximum Cost of Insurance Charge shown may also apply to other combinations of Policy Year and Insured characteristics.

4

The minimum Cost of Insurance Charge assumes that the Policy is in the first Policy Year and that the Insureds have the following characteristics: both female, both Issue Age 20, both Premier Non-Tobacco classification. The minimum Cost of Insurance Charge shown may also apply to other combinations of Policy Year and Insured characteristics.

5

Generally, the cost of insurance rate will increase each Policy Year.

6

The guaranteed maximum cost of insurance rate will equal or exceed the current rate in all Policy Years, and generally the rate will increase each Policy Year.

7

The table of rates is included in Appendix A.

8

The maximum Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Specified Amount Component assumes that the Insureds have the following characteristics: one male and one female, Issue Ages 75 and older.

9

The Initial Specified Amount is the Specified Amount of coverage on the Date of Issue of the Policy.

10

The minimum Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Specified Amount Component assumes that the Insureds have the following characteristics: one male and one female, Issue Ages 25 and younger.

11

This charge is in addition to the interest charged on any Policy Loan and is deducted from Invested Assets.

1 2

The charge may not exceed $900-$2,100 ($75-$175 monthly amount) based on the underwriting classification of the Insureds on the Date of Issue. This charge is based on the underwriting classification of the Insureds on the Date of Issue, subject to a maximum amount not to exceed $900-$2,100 ($75-$175 monthly amount), which is based on underwriting classification.

1 3

The maximum Underwriting and Issue Charge assumes that the Insureds have the following characteristic: substandard underwriting classification.

1 4

The minimum Underwriting and Issue Charge assumes that the Insureds have the following characteristic: standard underwriting classification.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

5


Table of Contents

Table 2 below describes the fees and expenses that you will pay periodically during the time that you own the Policy other than the operating expenses for the Portfolios. The following table describes your Policy’s periodic fees and expenses if you purchased your Policy prior to January 1, 2010 and your 2010 Policy Anniversary has not yet passed. If you purchased your Policy after December 31, 2009 or you purchased your Policy prior to January 1, 2010 and your 2010 Policy Anniversary has already passed, please see Table 1 above for a description of your Policy’s periodic fees and expenses. See “Charges and Expenses” for a more detailed description.

 

Table 2

 

Periodic Charges (Other than Portfolio Operating Expenses)1

Applicable to Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have not passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary

         Amount Deducted
Charge   When Charge is Deducted   Current Charge   Guaranteed Maximum Charge
Cost of Insurance Charge2   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date        
Maximum Charge3       $83.33 per $1,000 of net amount at risk   Same as current charge
Minimum Charge4       $0.0000169 per $1,000 of net amount at risk   Same as current charge
Charge for Insureds with Issue Ages 45, Premier Non-Tobacco underwriting classification5       $0.000332 per $1,000 of net amount at risk in the first Policy Year (varies by Policy Year)5   Same as current charge in the first Policy Year (varies by Policy Year)6
Mortality and Expense Risk Charge        
Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Invested Assets Component   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date   0.05% annually (0.00417% monthly rate) of Invested Assets   0.90% annually (0.075% monthly rate) of Invested Assets

Mortality and Expense

Risk Charge—Specified

Amount Component7

  Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date during the first ten Policy Years        
Maximum Charge8       $0.14333 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount9   Same as current charge
Minimum Charge10       $0.00333 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount   Same as current charge
Charge for Insureds Issue Ages 45       $0.03417 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount   Same as current charge
Administrative Charge   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date   $5.00   $7.50
Deferred Sales Charge   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date during the first ten Policy Years   7.5% (0.625% monthly rate) of premium paid in the first Policy Year up to Target Premium for Policy Years 1-10   Same as current charge
Policy Debt Expense Charge11   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date when there is Policy Debt  

When the younger Insured is (or would be, if alive) Attained Age 99 and below.

 

0.90% annually (0.075% monthly rate) of Policy Debt for Policy Years 1-10

 

0.35% annually (0.02917% monthly rate) of Policy Debt for Policy Years 11 and above

 

When the younger Insured is (or would be, if alive) Attained Age 100 and above:

 

0.00% annually of Policy Debt

  All Policy Years 2.00% annually (0.16667% monthly rate) of Policy Debt
Underwriting and Issue Charge1 2   Monthly, on each Monthly Processing Date during the first ten Policy Years        
Maximum Charge1 3       $0.035 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount   Same as current charge
Minimum Charge14       $.015 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount   Same as current charge

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

6


Table of Contents

Periodic Charges (Other than Portfolio Operating Expenses)1

Applicable to Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have not passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary

         Amount Deducted
Charge   When Charge is Deducted   Current Charge   Guaranteed Maximum Charge
Charge for Insureds Issue Age 45, Premier Non-Tobacco underwriting classification       $0.015 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount   Same as current charge

 

1

The charges described in this table may vary based upon one or more characteristics of the Policy, such as: Insureds’ Issue Ages, sex, and underwriting classifications, Initial Specified Amount, Target Premium, Policy Date, and Policy Year (see “Charges and Deductions—Monthly Policy Charges and Service Charges” for more details regarding each charge). The charges shown in the table may not be representative of the charges a particular Owner may pay). Your Policy schedule pages will indicate the guaranteed maximum charge for each periodic charge under your Policy. Unless otherwise noted, the charges in the table represent the monthly rate.

2

The Cost of Insurance Charge will vary based on the Insureds’ Issue Ages, sex and underwriting classifications; Policy Date and Policy Year. The Cost of Insurance Charges shown in the table may not be representative of the rates a particular Owner may pay. Request an illustration for personalized information. (See “Illustrations.”) The net amount at risk is approximately equal to the Death Benefit minus the Policy Value.

3

The maximum Cost of Insurance Charge assumes that the Insureds have the following characteristics: one male and one female, Attained Age 120 of the younger Insured, both substandard underwriting classification. The maximum Cost of Insurance Charge shown may also apply to other combinations of Policy Year and Insured characteristics.

4

The minimum Cost of Insurance Charge assumes that the Policy is in the first Policy Year and that the Insureds have the following characteristics: both female, both Issue Age 20, both Premier Non-Tobacco classification. The minimum Cost of Insurance Charge shown may also apply to other combinations of Policy Year and Insured characteristics.

5

Generally, the cost of insurance rate will increase each Policy Year.

6

The guaranteed maximum cost of insurance rate will equal or exceed the current rate in all Policy Years, and generally, the rate will increase each Policy Year.

7

The table of rates is included in Appendix A.

8

The maximum Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Specified Amount Component assumes that the Insureds have the following characteristics: one male and one female, Issue Ages 75 and older.

9

The Initial Specified Amount is the Specified Amount of coverage on the Date of Issue of the Policy.

10

The minimum Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Specified Amount Component assumes that the Insureds have the following characteristics: one male and one female, Issue Ages 25 and younger.

11

This charge is in addition to the interest charged on any Policy Loan and is deducted from Invested Assets.

12

The charge may not exceed $900-$2,100 ($75-$175 monthly amount) based on the underwriting classification of the Insureds on the Date of Issue. This charge is based on the underwriting classification of the Insureds on the Date of Issue, subject to a maximum amount not to exceed $900-$2,100 ($75-$175 monthly amount), which is based on underwriting classification.

1 3

The maximum Underwriting and Issue Charge assumes that the Insureds have the following characteristic: substandard underwriting classification.

1 4

The minimum Underwriting and Issue Charge assumes that the Insureds have the following characteristic: standard underwriting classification.

 

Annual Portfolio Operating Expenses

 

The table below shows the range (minimum and maximum) of total operating expenses, including investment advisory fees, distribution (12b-1) fees and other expenses of the Portfolios offered by Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc., Fidelity® Variable Insurance Products, and the Russell Investment Funds that are available for investment under the Policy. The first line of this table lists expenses that do not reflect fee waivers or expense limits and reimbursements, nor do they reflect short-term trading redemption fees, if any, charged by the Portfolios. The information is based on operations for the year ended December 31, 2009. More details concerning these fees and expenses are contained in the attached prospectuses for the Funds.

 

     Minimum    Maximum

Range of Total Annual Portfolio Operating Expenses (expenses include investment advisory fees, distribution (12b-1) fees, and other expenses as a percentage of average Portfolio assets)*

   0.21%    1.14%

Range of Total Annual Portfolio Operating Expenses After Contractual Fee Waiver or Reimbursement**

   0.21%    1.08%

 

* For certain Portfolios, certain expenses were reimbursed or fees waived during 2009. It is anticipated that these voluntary expense reimbursement and fee waiver arrangements will continue past the current year, although certain arrangements may be terminated at any time. After taking into account these arrangements and any contractual fee waiver or expense reimbursement arrangements, Annual Portfolio Operating Expenses would have ranged from a minimum of 0.04% to a maximum of 1.08%.
** The “Range of Total Annual Portfolio Operating Expenses After Contractual Fee Waiver or Reimbursement” line in the above table shows the minimum and maximum fees and expenses charged by all of the Portfolios after taking into account contractual fee waiver or reimbursement arrangements in place. Those contractual arrangements are designed to reduce Total Annual Portfolio Operating Expenses for Owners and will continue for at least one year from the date of this prospectus. For more information about which Portfolios currently have such contractual reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements in place, see the prospectuses of the underlying Funds.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

7


Table of Contents

The following table shows total annual operating expenses of each Portfolio available for investment under the Policy. Operating expenses are expressed as a percentage of average net assets for the year ended December 31, 2009, except as otherwise set forth in the notes to the table. The Portfolio expenses used to prepare the table were provided to the Company by the Portfolios. The Company has not independently verified such information. Current or future expenses may be higher or lower than those shown, especially in periods of market volatility. For more information about the Portfolios’ expenses, see the prospectuses of the underlying Funds.

 

Portfolio

   Investment
Advisory
Fees
   12b-1
Fees
   Other
Expenses
   Acquired Fund
Fees and
Expenses
   Total
Operating
Expenses
   Fee Waivers &
Reimbursements
    Total Net
Operating
Expenses

Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc.

                

Growth Stock Portfolio

   0.43%    0.00%    0.02%    0.00%    0.45%    0.00%      0.45%

Focused Appreciation Portfolio(1)

   0.78%    0.00%    0.02%    0.00%    0.80%    0.00%      0.80%

Large Cap Core Stock Portfolio

   0.44%    0.00%    0.02%    0.00%    0.46%    0.00%      0.46%

Index 500 Stock Portfolio

   0.20%    0.00%    0.01%    0.00%    0.21%    0.00%      0.21%

Domestic Equity Portfolio(1)

   0.57%    0.00%    0.02%    0.00%    0.59%    0.00%      0.59%

Equity Income Portfolio(1)

   0.65%    0.00%    0.03%    0.00%    0.68%    0.00%      0.68%

Mid Cap Growth Stock Portfolio

   0.53%    0.00%    0.01%    0.00%    0.54%    0.00%      0.54%

Index 400 Stock Portfolio

   0.25%    0.00%    0.03%    0.00%    0.28%    0.00%      0.28%

Mid Cap Value Portfolio(1)

   0.85%    0.00%    0.11%    0.00%    0.96%    0.00%      0.96%

Small Cap Growth Stock Portfolio

   0.58%    0.00%    0.03%    0.01%    0.62%    0.00%      0.62%

Small Cap Value Portfolio(1)

   0.85%    0.00%    0.02%    0.06%    0.93%    0.00%      0.93%

International Growth Portfolio(1)

   0.70%    0.00%    0.16%    0.00%    0.86%    0.00%      0.86%

International Equity Portfolio(2)

   0.66%    0.00%    0.06%    0.00%    0.72%    (0.06%   0.66%

Money Market Portfolio(3)

   0.30%    0.00%    0.04%    0.00%    0.34%    0.00%      0.34%

Select Bond Portfolio

   0.30%    0.00%    0.00%    0.00%    0.30%    0.00%      0.30%

High Yield Bond Portfolio

   0.46%    0.00%    0.03%    0.00%    0.49%    0.00%      0.49%

Balanced Portfolio

   0.30%    0.00%    0.01%    0.00%    0.31%    0.00%      0.31%

Asset Allocation Portfolio(4)

   0.55%    0.00%    0.07%    0.00%    0.62%    (0.05%   0.57%

Fidelity® Variable Insurance Products

                

Mid Cap Portfolio(5)

   0.56%    0.25%    0.12%    0.00%    0.93%    0.00%      0.93%

Russell Investment Funds

                

Multi-Style Equity Fund

   0.73%    0.00%    0.13%    0.01%    0.87%    0.00%      0.87%

Aggressive Equity Fund(6)

   0.90%    0.00%    0.23%    0.01%    1.14%    (0.06%   1.08%

Real Estate Securities Fund

   0.80%    0.00%    0.17%    0.00%    0.97%    0.00%      0.97%

Non-U.S. Fund(6)

   0.90%    0.00%    0.22%    0.02%    1.14%    (0.06%   1.08%

Core Bond Fund(6)

   0.55%    0.00%    0.18%    0.01%    0.74%    (0.07%   0.67%

 

(1)

Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc.’s investment adviser, Mason Street Advisors, LLC (“MSA”) has contractually agreed to waive the management fee and absorb certain other operating expenses of the below portfolios to the extent necessary so that Total Operating Expenses for such portfolios will not exceed the following annual rates of each portfolio’s respective average net assets. These fee waivers may be terminated at any time after April 30, 2011.

 

Portfolio

   Expense
Limitation

Focused Appreciation Portfolio

   0.90%

Domestic Equity Portfolio

   0.75%

Equity Income Portfolio

   0.75%

Mid Cap Value Portfolio

   1.00%

Small Cap Value Portfolio

   1.00%

International Growth Portfolio

   1.10%

 

(2)

International Equity Portfolio—MSA has agreed to waive its management fee such that its management fee is 0.80% of the portfolio’s first $50 million of assets, 0.60% on portfolio assets from $50 million to $1 billion, 0.58% of assets from $1 billion to $1.5 billion and 0.51% on portfolio assets in excess of $1.5 billion. The fee waiver agreement may be terminated at any time after April 30, 2011.

(3)

Money Market Portfolio—MSA has voluntarily agreed to waive all of its management fee on a temporary basis. This voluntary waiver will be reviewed periodically by MSA in light of market and economic developments and may be revised or discontinued at any time without advance notice.

(4)

Asset Allocation Portfolio—MSA has contractually agreed to waive its management fee such that its management fee is 0.55% on the portfolio’s first $100 million of assets, 0.45% on portfolio assets from $100 million to $250 million and 0.35% on portfolio assets in excess of $250 million. In addition, MSA has contractually agreed to waive the management fee and absorb certain other operating expenses of the portfolio to the extent necessary so that Total Operating Expenses for the portfolio will not exceed an annual rate of 0.75% of the portfolio’s average net assets. These fee waiver agreements may be terminated at any time after April 30, 2011.

(5)

Fidelity Management & Research Company, the adviser to the Fidelity Variable Insurance Products portfolios has voluntarily agreed to reimburse the portfolio’s Service Class 2 to the extent that total operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, certain securities lending costs, brokerage commissions, extraordinary expenses and acquired fund fees and expenses, if any) exceed 1.10% of the class’ average net assets. This arrangement may be discontinued at any time.

(6)

Russell Investment Management Company (“RIMCo”) has contractually agreed, until April 30, 2011, to waive 0.06% of its advisory fee on the Aggressive Equity Fund and Non-U.S. Fund and 0.07% of its advisory fee on the Core Bond Fund. These waivers may not be terminated during the relevant period except with Board approval.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

8


Table of Contents

 

Northwestern Mutual

 

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company is a mutual life insurance company organized by a special act of the Wisconsin Legislature in 1857. It is licensed to conduct a conventional life insurance business in the District of Columbia and in all states of the United States. Its total assets exceeded $166.7 billion as of December 31, 2009. The Home Office of Northwestern Mutual is located at 720 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202.

 

“Northwestern Mutual,” “Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” in this prospectus mean The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company.

 

General Account assets are used to guarantee the payment of certain benefits under the Policy, including death benefits. To the extent that we are required to pay you amounts under these benefits that are in addition to Invested Assets in the Separate Account, such amounts will come from General Account assets. Thus, Owners must look to the strength of the Company and its General Account with regard to guarantees under the Policy. The General Account is exposed to the risks normally associated with the operation of a life insurance company, including insurance pricing, asset liability management and interest rate risk, operational risks, and the investment risks of a portfolio of securities that consists largely, though not exclusively, of fixed-income securities. Some of the risks associated with such a portfolio include interest rate, option, liquidity, and credit risk. The financial statements contained in the Statement of Additional Information include a further discussion of risks inherent within the General Account investments. The assets in the General Account are subject to the claims of the Company’s general creditors.

 

 

The Separate Account

 

We established the Separate Account by action of our Trustees on March 22, 2006, in accordance with the provisions of Wisconsin insurance law. The Separate Account is registered with the SEC as a unit investment trust under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”). We own the assets in the Separate Account and we are obligated to pay all benefits under the Policies. We may use the Separate Account to support other variable life insurance policies we issue. We have divided the Separate Account into Divisions, each of which invests in shares of one Portfolio of the Funds.

 

You may allocate the money you invest under your Policy among the Divisions. Each Division corresponds to one of the Portfolios of the Funds. Under Wisconsin law, Separate Account assets are held separate from our other assets and are not part of our General Account. Income, gains, and losses, whether or not realized, from assets allocated to the Separate Account will be credited to or charged against the Separate Account without regard to our other income, gains, or losses. Income, gains, and losses credited to, or charged against, a Division reflect that Division’s own investment performance and not the investment performance of our other assets. We may not use the Separate Account’s assets to pay any of our liabilities other than those arising from the Policies and any other variable life insurance Policies funded by the Separate Account. We may, however, use all of our assets (except those held in certain other separate accounts) to satisfy our obligations under your Policy.

 

Where permitted by law and subject to any required regulatory approvals or votes by Owners, we reserve the right to:

 

   

operate the Separate Account or a Division either as a unit investment trust or a management investment company under the 1940 Act, or in any other form permitted by law, if deemed by the Company to be in the best interest of Owners;

 

   

invest current and future assets of a Division in securities of another Portfolio as a substitute for shares of a Portfolio already purchased or to be purchased;

 

   

register or deregister the Separate Account under the 1940 Act or change its classification under that Act;

 

   

create new separate accounts;

 

   

combine the Separate Account with any other separate account;

 

   

transfer the assets and liabilities of the Separate Account to another separate account;

 

   

transfer cash from time to time between the General Account and the Separate Account as deemed necessary or appropriate and consistent with the terms of the Policy, including but not limited to transfers for the deduction of charges and in support of payment options;

 

   

transfer assets of the Separate Account in excess of reserve requirements applicable to the Policies supported by the Separate Account to the General Account (Invested Assets remaining in the Separate Account necessary to fulfill its obligations under the Policy are not subject to claims against or losses in the General Account);

 

   

add, delete or make substitutions for the securities and other assets held or purchased by the Separate Account;

 

   

terminate and/or liquidate the Separate Account;

 

   

restrict or eliminate any voting rights of Owners or other persons having voting rights as to the Separate Account; and

 

   

make any changes to the Separate Account to conform with, or required by any change in, federal tax law, the 1940 Act and regulations promulgated thereunder, or any other applicable federal or state laws.

 

In the event that we take any of these actions, we may make an appropriate endorsement of your Policy and take other actions necessary to comply with applicable law.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

9


Table of Contents

The Funds

 

A variety of investment options are offered under the Policy for the allocation of Invested Assets. However, the Company does not endorse or recommend a particular option, nor does it provide asset allocation or investment advice. You are responsible for choosing your investment options and should make your choices based on your individual situation and risk tolerances. After making your initial allocation decisions, you should monitor your allocations and periodically review the options you select and the amounts allocated to each to ensure your selections continue to be appropriate. The amounts you invest in a particular Division are not guaranteed and, because both principal and any return on the investment are subject to market risk, you can lose money.

 

The assets of each Division are invested in a corresponding Portfolio that is a series of one of the following mutual funds: Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc.; Fidelity® Variable Insurance Products; and the Russell Investment Funds. The Separate Account buys shares of the Portfolios at their respective net asset values without sales charge. The Portfolios are available for investment only by separate accounts supporting variable insurance products and are not publicly traded. Their performance can differ substantially from publicly traded mutual funds with similar names. The specific Portfolios available under your Policy may change from time to time, and not all Portfolios in which assets of the Separate Account are invested may be available under your Policy. Your ability to invest in a Portfolio may be affected by the actions of such Portfolio, such as when a Portfolio closes.

 

The investment objectives of each Portfolio are set forth below. There is no assurance that any of the Portfolios will achieve its stated objective(s). You can find more detailed information about the Portfolios, including a description of each Portfolio in the attached Portfolio prospectuses. Read the prospectuses for the Portfolios carefully before investing.

 

Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc.

 

The principal investment adviser for the Portfolios of the Northwestern Mutual Series Fund is Mason Street Advisors, LLC (“MSA”), our wholly-owned company. The investment advisory agreements for the respective Portfolios provide that MSA will provide services and bear certain expenses of the Fund. MSA employs a staff of investment professionals to manage the assets of the Fund and the other advisory clients of MSA. We provide related facilities and personnel, which MSA uses in performing its investment advisory functions. MSA has retained and oversees Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC, Capital Guardian Trust Company, T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc., American Century Investment Management, Inc. and Janus Capital Management LLC under investment sub-advisory agreements to provide day-to-day management of the Portfolios as indicated below. Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC has appointed Franklin Templeton Investments (Asia) Limited as an additional sub-adviser for the International Equity Portfolio. Each such sub-adviser may be replaced without the approval of shareholders. Please see the attached prospectuses for Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc. for more information.

 

Portfolio   Investment Objective   Sub-adviser (if applicable)
Growth Stock Portfolio   Long-term growth of capital; current income is a secondary objective   N/A
Focused Appreciation Portfolio   Long-term growth of capital   Janus Capital Management LLC
Large Cap Core Stock Portfolio   Long-term growth of capital and income   N/A
Index 500 Stock Portfolio   Investment results that approximate the performance of the S&P 500® Index   N/A
Domestic Equity Portfolio   Long-term growth of capital and income   Capital Guardian Trust Company
Equity Income Portfolio   Long-term growth of capital and income   T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc.
Mid Cap Growth Stock Portfolio   Long-term growth of capital   N/A
Index 400 Stock Portfolio   Investment results that approximate the performance of the S&P® MidCap 400 Index   N/A
Mid Cap Value Portfolio   Long-term capital growth; current income is a secondary objective   American Century Investment Management, Inc.
Small Cap Growth Stock Portfolio   Long-term growth of capital   N/A
Small Cap Value Portfolio   Long-term growth of capital   T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc.
International Growth Portfolio   Long-term growth of capital   Janus Capital Management LLC
International Equity Portfolio   Long-term growth of capital   Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC; Franklin Templeton Investments (Asia) Limited

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

10


Table of Contents
Portfolio   Investment Objective   Sub-adviser (if applicable)
Money Market Portfolio   Maximum current income to the extent consistent with liquidity and stability of capital*   N/A
Select Bond Portfolio   To provide as high a level of total return as is consistent with prudent investment risk; a secondary objective is to seek preservation of shareholders’ capital   N/A
High Yield Bond Portfolio   High current income and capital appreciation**   N/A
Balanced Portfolio   To realize as high a level of total return as is consistent with prudent investment risk, through income and capital appreciation   N/A
Asset Allocation Portfolio   To realize as high a level of total return as is consistent with reasonable investment risk   N/A

 

* Although the Money Market Portfolio seeks to preserve its value at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in the Money Market Portfolio. An investment in a money market portfolio is neither insured nor guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any government agency. During extended periods of low interest rates, the yield of a money market portfolio may also become extremely low and possibly negative.
** High yield bonds are commonly referred to as junk bonds.

 

Fidelity® Variable Insurance Products

 

The Fidelity® VIP Mid Cap Portfolio is a series of Variable Insurance Products III. The Separate Account buys Service Class 2 shares of the Fidelity® VIP Mid Cap Portfolio, the investment adviser for which is the Fidelity Management & Research Company.

 

Portfolio   Investment Objective   Sub-adviser
VIP Mid Cap Portfolio   Long-term growth of capital   Fidelity Management & Research Company, Inc. & Fidelity Research & Analysis Company

 

Russell Investment Funds

 

The assets of each of the Portfolios comprising the Russell Investment Funds are invested by one or more investment management organizations researched and recommended by Frank Russell Company (“Russell”), and an affiliate of Russell, Russell Investment Management Company (“RIMCo”). RIMCo is the investment adviser of the Russell Investment Funds. Russell is our majority-owned subsidiary.

 

Portfolio   Investment Objective
Multi-Style Equity Fund   Long-term growth of capital
Aggressive Equity Fund   Long-term growth of capital
Real Estate Securities Fund   Current income and long-term growth of capital
Non-U.S. Fund   Long-term growth of capital
Core Bond Fund   Current income and, as a secondary objective, capital appreciation

 

Payments We Receive

 

We select the Portfolios offered through this Policy based on several criteria, including asset class coverage, the strength of the investment adviser’s or sub-adviser’s reputation and tenure, brand recognition, performance, and the capability and qualification of each investment firm. Another factor we consider during the selection process is whether the Portfolio’s investment adviser or an affiliate will make payments to us or our affiliates. We review the Portfolios periodically and may remove a Portfolio or limit its availability to new premiums and/or transfers of Invested Assets if we determine that the Portfolio no longer meets one or more of the selection criteria, and/or if the Portfolio has not attracted significant allocations from Owners. The Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc. and the Russell Investment Funds have been included in part because they are managed by subsidiaries of the Company.

 

We do not provide any investment advice and do not recommend or endorse any particular Portfolio. You bear the risk of any decline in the Invested Assets of your Policy resulting from the performance of the Portfolios you have chosen.

 

Owners, through their indirect investment in the Portfolios, bear the costs of the investment advisory or management fees that the Portfolios pay to their respective investment advisors (see the Portfolios’ prospectuses for more information). As described above, an investment adviser of a Portfolio, or its affiliates, may make payments to the Company and/or certain of our affiliates. These payments may be derived, in whole or in part, from the advisory fee deducted from Portfolio assets. The amount of the compensation is based on a percentage of assets of the Portfolios attributable to the Policies and certain

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

11


Table of Contents

other variable insurance products that the Company issues. The percentages differ and some investment advisers (or other affiliates) may pay more than others. The percentages currently range up to 0.25%. These payments may be used for any corporate purpose, including payment of expenses that the Company and/or its affiliates incur for services performed on behalf of the Policies and the Portfolios. The Company and its affiliates may profit from these payments.

 

Certain Portfolios have adopted a Distribution (and/or Shareholder Servicing) Plan under Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act, which is described in more detail in the Portfolios’ prospectuses. The payments, which may be up to 0.25%, are deducted from assets of the Portfolios and are paid to our distributor, Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC. These payments decrease the Portfolio’s investment return.

 

Additionally, an investment adviser or sub-adviser of a Portfolio or its affiliates may provide the Company with wholesaling services that assist in the distribution of the Policies and may pay the Company and/or certain of our affiliates amounts to participate in sales meetings. These amounts may be significant and may provide the investment adviser or sub-adviser (or their affiliate) with increased access to persons involved in the distribution of the Policies.

 

 

Information About the Policy

 

Purchasing a Policy

 

When you purchase your Policy, you enter into a contract with us. Your Policy, together with your Application and any amendments, endorsements, riders and optional benefits is the entire contract. To purchase a Policy, you must submit the Application and, in most cases, an initial Premium Payment, to us through a licensed Northwestern Mutual Financial Representative. Generally, the Policy is available for Insureds between Issue Ages 20-85. We must receive evidence of insurability that satisfies our underwriting standards before we will issue a Policy. We reserve the right to reject an Application if it does not meet our underwriting or administrative requirements or for any reason permitted by law.

 

Although we do not anticipate delays in our receipt and processing of Applications or Premium Payments, we may experience such delays to the extent Applications, underwriting information and Premium Payments to our Home Office are not received on a timely basis. Such delays could result in delays in the issuance of Policies and the allocation of Premium Payments under existing Policies.

 

Specified Amount

 

Your Policy’s initial amount of insurance coverage is its Initial Specified Amount. You select the Initial Specified Amount when you apply for the Policy, subject to a minimum and our insurability and other underwriting requirements. The Specified Amount must be at least $1,000,000 if the older Insured is Issue Age 20-49 and $500,000 if the older Insured is Issue Age 50-85. We reserve the right to modify the minimum Specified Amount and underwriting requirements at any time.

 

You may change the Specified Amount while the Policy is in force, upon written request and subject to our approval. We will permit an increase only if, at the time requested, the insurance in force, as increased, is within our issue limits, our insurability requirements are met, and the increase request is received prior to the Policy Anniversary nearest the older Insured’s 85th birthday. We will not permit a decrease if such decrease results in a Specified Amount less than the minimum Specified Amount we would require for issuance of a new Policy at the time of the change. A change in the Specified Amount will be effective on the Monthly Processing Date on which a written request is received at our Home Office. If the written request is not received on a Monthly Processing Date, the change in Specified Amount will be effective on the next Monthly Processing Date. We reserve the right to charge for more than one change to the Specified Amount in a Policy Year. We will deduct any such charge from the Invested Assets. (See “Charges and Expenses.”)

 

When Insurance Coverage Takes Effect

 

Generally, we will accept the Policy Application and issue a Policy if we determine that the Insureds meet our underwriting and administrative requirements. If a Premium Payment is paid with your Application, insurance coverage becomes effective (provided that both Insureds are found to be insurable) on the Date of Issue, which is the later of the date the Application is signed or the date all medical evidence forms required for underwriting are provided. If a Premium Payment is first made at the time of Policy delivery, there is no insurance coverage prior to Policy delivery.

 

Your Policy Date is the date we use to determine the Issue Age of the Insureds, which is used to determine the cost of insurance rates. The Policy Date also is the date used to establish Policy Years. Generally, the Policy Date is the Date of Issue. However, with our approval and subject to state insurance law limitations, we may backdate your Policy Date up to six months or future date it up to 30 days from the Date of Issue under normal circumstances. Backdating may lower your cost of insurance rate, but you will be assessed Monthly Policy Charges retroactive to the Policy Date you select. Future dating is sometimes requested to permit multiple insurance polices to have the same Policy Date to facilitate administration. We may future date your Policy Date up to 120 days if the underwriting classification of either or both Insured(s) is different than requested on the Application. Modifying your Policy Date may require adjustments to your first Premium Payment relating to the Monthly Policy Charges for the period between the Date of Issue and the Policy Date. Both the Date of Issue and the Policy Date may be found in your Policy schedule pages.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

12


Table of Contents

Right to Return Policy

 

You may return the Policy for a refund within 10 days (or later where required by state law) after you receive it by returning the Policy to us at our Home Office or to your Financial Representative. The amount of your refund will equal the sum of (a) Invested Assets under the Policy on the date we receive your returned Policy or a written cancellation request at our Home Office plus (b) any previously deducted Premium Expense Charge, Monthly Policy Charge and Service Charges, unless state law requires otherwise.

 

Ownership Rights

 

As the Owner of the Policy, you make the decisions about the Policy and Policy benefits while it is in force, without the consent of any beneficiary. If the Policy has more than one Owner, decisions with respect to the Policy and its benefits may be exercised only with the consent and authorization of all Owners. Generally, only Owners are entitled to information about the Policy. Other persons, such as beneficiaries or payors, are entitled to only limited information.

 

To transfer ownership of the Policy to another person, the Owner must provide us written notification of the transfer and must supply any required information about the new Owner. We will not be responsible to the new Owner for any payment or other action taken by us until the written notification of the transfer is received by us at our Home Office. The transfer of ownership will then be effective as of the date the transfer form was signed. We may require you to send the Policy to our Home Office for endorsement to reflect the transfer of ownership. If the Owner is not the surviving Insured, the Owner may name or change a successor Owner, who will become the new Owner upon the Owner’s death.

 

Right to Exchange for a Fixed Benefit Policy

 

If required by your state, you may have the right to exchange a Policy for a life insurance policy with benefits that do not vary with the investment experience of the Separate Account (“Fixed Benefit Policy”) as described below.

 

You may elect the exchange at any time within twelve months (or longer if required by state law) after the issue date of the Policy provided premiums are duly paid. We reserve the right to require evidence of insurability. The Fixed Benefit Policy will be on the lives of the same Insureds and will have the same initial Death Benefit, Policy Date and Issue Age. The exchange will be subject to an equitable cash adjustment, which will recognize the investment performance of the Policy through the effective date of the exchange and may have tax consequences. An exchange will be effective when we receive a proper written request, as well as the Policy, and any amount due on the exchange.

 

In addition, you may exchange a Policy for a Fixed Benefit Policy if, at any time, a Fund changes its investment adviser or if there is a material change in the investment policies of a Portfolio that was approved by Owners. You will be given notice of any such change and will have 60 days to make the exchange.

 

Modifying the Policy

 

Any Policy change that you request is subject to our then current insurability and processing requirements. Processing requirements may include, for example, completion of certain forms and satisfying certain evidentiary requirements.

 

If the Policy is changed or modified, we may make appropriate endorsements to the Policy and we may require you to send your Policy to our Home Office for endorsement. Any modification or waiver of our rights or requirements under the Policy must be in writing and signed by an officer of the Company. No agent or other person may bind us by waiving or changing any provision contained in the Policy.

 

Upon notice to you, we may modify the Policy:

 

   

to conform the Policy, our operations, or the Separate Account’s operations to the requirements of any law (including any regulation issued by a government agency) to which the Policy, the Company, or the Separate Account is subject;

 

   

to assure continued qualification of the Policy as a life insurance contract under the federal tax laws; or

 

   

to reflect a change in the Separate Account’s operation.

 

Premium Payments

 

A minimum initial Premium Payment is required to put your Policy in force. No insurance will take effect until the minimum initial Premium Payment is made. The minimum initial Premium Payment is based on the Issue Age, underwriting classification and sex of the Insureds, and the Initial Specified Amount. Although you must make sufficient Premium Payments to keep the Policy in force, after we issue the Policy, there is no required schedule or amount of Premium Payments. The current minimum initial Premium Payment is $2,392.50 for a male and female Insured both age 45 at issue with a premier non-tobacco underwriting classification.

 

You may send Premium Payments to our Home Office or to a payment center designated by us. All payments must be made in U.S. Dollars payable through a U.S. financial institution. Upon your request, we will furnish you a receipt signed by an officer of the Company. We accept Premium Payments by check or electronic funds transfer (“EFT”). We do not accept third-party checks at the Home Office as part of the initial Premium Payment. We generally will not accept cash, money orders, traveler’s checks or “starter” checks; however, in limited circumstances, we may accept some cash equivalents in accord with our anti-money laundering procedures. If you make a Premium Payment with a check or bank draft and, for whatever reason, it is later returned unpaid or uncollected, or if a Premium Payment by EFT is reversed, we reserve the right to reverse the transaction. We also reserve the right to recover any resulting losses incurred by us by withdrawing a sufficient amount of Invested Assets. We may also be required to provide information about you and your account to government regulators.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

13


Table of Contents

You may not make any Premium Payments after the Policy Anniversary nearest the younger Insured’s 121st birthday. You may not make additional Premium Payments of less than $25. A Premium Payment that would either exceed cumulative premiums illustrated in the Application or increase the Policy’s Death Benefit more than it increases the Policy Value will be accepted only if: the insurance in force, as increased, will be within our issue limits; our insurability requirements are met; and the Premium Payment is received prior to the Policy Anniversary nearest the older Insured’s 85th birthday. We have the right to limit or refund a Premium Payment or make distributions from the Policy as necessary to continue to qualify the Policy as life insurance under federal tax law. If mandated under applicable law, we may be required to reject a Premium Payment. We may accept a premium at the direction of an Owner, however, even if it would cause the Policy to be classified as a modified endowment contract. (See “Tax Considerations.”)

 

If there is Policy Debt, payments received at our Home Office, or to a payment center designated by us, will be treated as payments to reduce Policy Debt unless designated as Premium Payments. (See “Policy Loans.”)

 

Allocating Premiums to the Separate Account

 

When you apply for a Policy, you must instruct us in the Application or supplement to the Application to allocate your Net Premium to one or more Divisions of the Separate Account. Net Premiums are premiums less deductions from premiums, such as premium expense charges (see “Charges and Deductions- Premium Expense Charges”).

 

If your initial Premium Payment is submitted with your Application, we will place the Premium Payment in our General Account, and the Net Premium will remain in our General Account until the In Force Date. We may credit the Net Premium with interest while it remains in the General Account. We may change the rate of interest we credit initial Net Premiums held in our General Account at any time and in our sole discretion, but the rate will not be less than 0%. On the In Force Date, we will transfer and credit the initial Net Premium and accrued interest to the Money Market Division of the Separate Account. If the In Force Date is not a Valuation Date, then we will transfer and credit the initial Premium and accrued interest on the next Valuation Date. Short-term premium charges, for any term insurance coverage provided from the Issue Date to the Policy Date, are also deducted from the initial Premium if applicable. If payment is not made with your Application, we will transfer and credit the initial Net Premium to the Money Market Division of the Separate Account on the Valuation Date we receive it in the Home Office, provided all other requirements have been satisfied. If the payment is not received on a Valuation Date, we will transfer and credit the initial Net Premium on the next Valuation Date. Premium Payments received at our Home Office before the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time) on a Valuation Date are deemed to be received and credited on that Valuation Date. If they are received after the close of trading on a Valuation Date, or a day other than a Valuation Date, they are deemed to be received and credited on the next Valuation Date.

 

The date on which we allocate your initial Net Premium among the Divisions in accordance with your instructions is referred to as the Initial Allocation Date. After the In Force Date and prior to the Initial Allocation Date, we transfer and credit Net Premiums to the Money Market Division of the Separate Account. On and after the Initial Allocation Date, we transfer and credit Net Premiums to the Divisions of the Separate Account based on your instructions then in effect. The Initial Allocation Date is shown in the Policy schedule pages.

 

Your Initial Allocation Date is determined by a series of rules.

 

   

First, if you have requested a Policy Date that is later than the date your Policy is approved, your Initial Allocation Date will not be earlier than the future Policy Date you requested.

 

   

Second, in states where the right to return policy law requires us to refund your entire initial Premium Payment, your Initial Allocation Date will be the latest of the day we receive your initial Premium Payment, the day after your right to return the Policy expires and the day we receive notice of delivery of your Policy.

 

   

Third, in states where the right to return policy law permits us to base your refund on the value of Invested Assets, if your initial Premium Payment is submitted with your Application and your Policy is issued as applied for, your Initial Allocation Date will be the In Force Date; if we issue your Policy other than as applied for, your Initial Allocation Date will be the day we receive notification of Policy delivery in the Home Office. If your initial Premium Payment is not submitted with your Application, your Initial Allocation Date will be the later of the day we receive notification of Policy delivery or the day we receive your initial Premium Payment.

 

The initial allocation instructions we receive from you will remain in effect for subsequent Net Premiums until we receive your written request to change them. The change will be effective on the Valuation Date on or next following the date we receive your written instructions at our Home Office. If your written request is not in good order, meaning it does not satisfy our then current requirements to process it, we will continue to credit Net Premiums to your Policy according to the allocation instructions then in effect. If your written request is not in good order, we will notify you by telephone and/or e-mail in an effort to conform your request with our then current requirements. Subject to our administrative procedures, which may include underwriting and MEC limit review, Net Premiums received at our Home Office before the close of trading on the NYSE (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time) on a Valuation Date are deemed to be received and credited on that Valuation Date. If they are received after the

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

14


Table of Contents

close of trading on a Valuation Date, or on a day other than a Valuation Date, they are deemed to be received and credited on the next Valuation Date.

 

You may also submit allocation instructions via the Internet at www.northwesternmutual.com (“Electronic Instructions”) in accordance with our then current Internet procedures provided you have properly authorized us to accept Electronic Instructions in advance. (For information on our current Internet procedures, including our current Internet address, see the “Owner Inquiries” section of the prospectus.) However, we are not required to accept Electronic Instructions, and we will not be responsible for losses resulting from transactions based on unauthorized Electronic Instructions, provided we follow procedures reasonably designed to verify the authenticity of Electronic Instructions. Currently we do not accept allocation instructions by telephone.

 

Investment returns from amounts allocated to the Divisions will vary with the investment performance of the Divisions and will be reduced by Policy charges. You bear the entire investment risk for amounts you allocate to the Divisions. You should periodically review your allocation schedule in light of market conditions and your overall life insurance and financial objectives.

 

Policy Value and Invested Assets

 

The Policy Value is equal to the Invested Assets plus Policy Debt. On the In Force Date, Invested Assets equal the Net Premium (after deduction for short-term premium charges, if applicable) plus any accrued interest on the Net Premium, less the Monthly Policy Charge. After the In Force Date, Invested Assets equal Invested Assets on the immediately preceding Valuation Date, plus any of the following items applicable to the current Valuation Date:

 

   

any increase attributable to the portion of Invested Assets in Divisions that experience a positive rate of return for the current Valuation Period;

 

   

any additional Net Premium;

 

   

any loan repayment and accrued loan interest payment; and

 

   

any dividends directed to increase Policy Value;

 

minus any of the following items applicable to the current Valuation Date:

 

   

any decrease attributable to the portion of Invested Assets in Divisions that experience a negative rate of return for the current Valuation Period;

 

   

the Monthly Policy Charge;

 

   

any Policy loans;

 

   

any withdrawals and withdrawal fees; and

 

   

any fees for changes in Death Benefit option, changes in Specified Amount, or transfers.

 

Death Benefit

 

Life Insurance Benefit    As long as your Policy is in force, we will pay the Life Insurance Benefit to your beneficiary or beneficiaries once we receive at our Home Office satisfactory proof of the second death. No benefit is payable on the death of the first of the Insureds to die. We will pay the Life Insurance Benefit either in a lump sum or, at your option or the option of your beneficiary, by establishing a fixed payment plan in the beneficiary’s name. (See “Payment Plan Options.”) Payments under these plans are from our General Account, and are subject to the claims of our creditors.

 

The amount of the Life Insurance Benefit will be:

 

   

the Death Benefit; minus

 

   

the amount of any Policy Debt; minus

 

   

any Monthly Policy Charges due and unpaid if the second death occurs during the Policy Grace Period.

 

These amounts will be determined as of the date of the second death. Even though the Owner does not have the right to take any Policy loans or withdrawals after the date of the second death, any Policy loans or withdrawals that are taken after the date of the second death will be deducted from the Life Insurance Benefit.

 

We will pay the Life Insurance Benefit to the beneficiary if he or she survives the Insureds and is alive on the date of payment. (See “Other Policy Provisions—Naming a Beneficiary.”) If no payment plan is elected, we will pay interest on the Life Insurance Benefit from the date of the second death based on rates declared by the Company or as required by applicable state law. The investment performance of the Portfolios, as well as the charges and expenses under your Policy, may decrease your Death Benefit.

 

Death Benefit Options    The Death Benefit before the Policy Anniversary nearest the younger Insured’s 121st birthday is determined by the Death Benefit option in effect at the time of the death of the second of the Insureds to die. The Death Benefit on and after the Policy Anniversary nearest the younger Insured’s 121st birthday will be equal to the Policy Value.

 

The Policy provides for three Death Benefit options. The option you choose on your Application will generally depend on whether you prefer an increasing Death Benefit or a larger Policy Value, but in each case the Death Benefit will be at least the Minimum Death Benefit required for your Policy to qualify as life insurance under federal tax law. The three Death Benefit options are:

 

Specified Amount (Option A)

Specified Amount plus Policy Value (Option B)

Specified Amount plus Cumulative Premiums minus Cumulative Withdrawals (Option C)

 

All three death benefit options may not be available in all states. We calculate the amount available under the applicable Death Benefit option as of the date of the second death.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

15


Table of Contents

Minimum Death Benefit    The Minimum Death Benefit is the amount required by federal tax law to maintain the Policy as a life insurance contract. Under any of the Death Benefit options, we will increase the Death Benefit if necessary to satisfy this requirement.

 

A Policy must satisfy one of two testing methods to qualify as life insurance for federal income tax purposes. You may choose either the Guideline Premium/Cash Value Corridor Test or the Cash Value Accumulation Test. Both tests require the Policy’s Death Benefit to equal or exceed a defined relationship to, or multiple of, the Policy Value. The minimum multiple decreases as the age of the younger Insured increases. You make the choice of testing methods when you purchase a Policy and it cannot be changed. For the Guideline Premium/Cash Value Corridor Test the minimum multiples of Death Benefit to the Policy Value are shown in the following table.

 

Guideline Premium/Cash Value—Corridor Test Multiples

 

Attained Age
  of Younger
    Insured*

   Corridor %

£ 40

   250

41

   243

42

   236

43

   229

44

   222

45

   215

46

   209

47

   203

48

   197

49

   191

50

   185

51

   178

52

   171

53

   164

54

   157

55

   150

56

   146

57

   142

58

   138

59

   134

60

   130

61

   128

62

   126

63

   124

64

   122

65

   120

66

   119

67

   118

68

   117

69

   116

70

   115

71

   113

72

   111

73

   109

74

   107

75-90

   105

91

   104

92

   103

93

   102

94

   101

95 or more

   100

 

* Assumes the younger of the Insureds is the last to die whether or not he or she dies first.

 

For the Cash Value Accumulation Test, the minimum multiples of Death Benefit to the Policy Value are calculated using net single premiums based on the Issue Age of both Insureds, the Policy’s underwriting classification, the Policy Year and a 4% interest rate.

 

Generally, the Guideline Premium/Cash Value Corridor Test has lower minimum multiples than the Cash Value Accumulation Test, usually resulting in better Cash Surrender Value accumulation for a given amount of premium and Specified Amount. This is because the Guideline Premium/Cash Value Corridor Test generally requires a lower Death Benefit and therefore a lower corresponding cost of insurance charge. However, the Guideline Premium/Cash Value Corridor Test limits the amount of Premium Payment that may be paid in each Policy Year. Generally, the Cash Value Accumulation Test has no such annual limitation, and allows more Premium Payments to be paid during the early Policy Years.

 

Changing Death Benefit Options    You may change the Death Benefit option at any time while the Policy is in force, upon written request and subject to our approval. Death Benefit option changes are subject to our insurability requirements and issue limits. In addition, we will not permit a change if it is not allowed in your state or if it would result in either (i) your Policy being disqualified as a life insurance contract under federal tax law, or (ii) a Specified Amount less than the minimum Specified Amount we require for issuance of a new Policy at the time of the change. A Death Benefit option change may affect the Policy Value and Specified Amount. The Cost of Insurance Charge will increase if a change results in a larger net amount at risk. (See “Monthly Policy Charges and Surrender Charge.”) A Death Benefit option change results in the same net amount at risk at the time of the change, but may result in a larger net amount at risk over time than had the change not occurred. For example, a change from Death Benefit Option A to Option B should result in moving from a net amount at risk that would decline over time (assuming increasing Policy Value) to a net amount at risk that would remain level over time. Changing the Death Benefit option may have tax consequences. (See “Tax Considerations.”)

 

If the written request is received at our Home Office on a Monthly Processing Date, a change in the Death Benefit option will be effective on that date. If the written request is not received on a Monthly Processing Date, it will be effective on the next Monthly Processing Date. We reserve the right to charge for a Death Benefit option change, and will deduct any such charges from Invested Assets. (See “Charges and Expenses.”) The Cost of Insurance Charge will increase if a change results in a larger net amount at risk. (See “Monthly Policy Charges and Surrender Charge.”)

 

Payment Plan Options

 

Your beneficiary may receive the Life Insurance Benefit as a cash settlement. If the cash settlement amount meets our criteria, the Company will pay the Life Insurance Benefit by establishing an interest-bearing account, called the

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

16


Table of Contents

Northwestern Access Fund account, for the beneficiary in the amount of the Life Insurance Benefit. If our criteria are not met, the cash settlement of the Life Insurance Benefit is paid via a single check. Account information, along with a book of drafts (which will function like a checkbook), will be sent to the beneficiary, and the beneficiary will have access to funds in the account simply by writing a draft for all or part of the amount of the Life Insurance Benefit (or other available balance), and depositing or using the draft as desired. When the draft is paid through the bank that administers the account for Northwestern Mutual, the bank will receive the amount the beneficiary requests as a transfer from the Company's General Account. The Northwestern Access Fund is part of the Company's General Account. Any interest paid within a Northwestern Access Fund may be taxable, so please consult your tax advisor. The Northwestern Access Fund is not a bank account, and it is not insured by the FDIC or any other government agency. As part of our General Account, the Northwestern Access Fund is backed by the financial strength of the Company, although it is subject to the claims of our creditors. The Company may make a profit on all amounts held in the Northwestern Access Fund. We may discontinue the Northwestern Access Fund at any time, with or without notice.

 

Upon the second death, if a payment plan was not previously elected by an Owner and in lieu of a lump sum payment, your beneficiary may elect to receive his or her share of the Life Insurance Benefit by either of the following fixed payment plan options. You may also elect to have surrender proceeds paid by either of these options. Payments under a fixed payment plan option are not affected by the investment performance of the Divisions after the date of surrender or the date of the second death. Payment under fixed payment plan options will be based on rates declared by the Company when the payment plan is entered into after the date of surrender or the date of the second death. Those rates will not be less than the rates shown in the Policy. The monthly income payment rates in the Policy life income plans are based on interest at an annual effective rate of 2.50% and the Annuity 2000 Mortality Table with projected mortality improvements using 125% of Projection Scale G. Ages are adjusted to reflect mortality improvement from the Issue Date of the Policy to the start of the payment plan. The same rate will apply to the Net Premium paid to increase the amount of the monthly payment under a Life Income payment plan. (See “Increase of Monthly Income.”) There is no additional charge for electing a fixed payment plan option. We may offer additional payment plans.

 

   

Single Life Income.    We will make monthly payments for the selected certain period. The options for the certain period are zero years (meaning without a certain period), ten years, twenty years or a refund period which continues until the sum of the payments that have been made is equal to the amount that was originally applied under the payment plan. If the payee lives longer than the certain period, payments will continue for his or her life. If the payee dies before the end of the certain period, the balance of the certain period payments will be paid to the payment plan beneficiaries your beneficiary designates.

 

   

Joint and Survivor Life Income.    We will make monthly payments for a 10-year certain period, and thereafter for as long as either of the individuals upon whose lives income payments are based is living. If both payees die before the end of the certain period, the balance of the certain period payments will be paid to the payment plan beneficiary or beneficiaries your beneficiary designates.

 

In general, the monthly payments under a joint and survivor life income plan will be lower than, but may be payable for a longer period than, a single life income plan.

 

The Owner may elect a payment plan for each beneficiary’s share of the Life Insurance Benefit:

 

   

before the second death; or

 

   

during the first 60 days after the second death, if the second of the Insureds to die is not the Owner at the time of the second death. An election made during that 60 day period may not be revoked.

 

Subject to the Owner’s rights, and upon providing any information that we may require, a direct or contingent beneficiary may elect a payment plan for his or her share of the Life Insurance Benefit and/or name his or her own beneficiary for the payment plan value, if any, remaining on his or her death. If no such payment plan beneficiary is named, then the payment plan beneficiary for the remaining value, if any, shall be the estate of the deceased direct or contingent beneficiary. Payment plan beneficiaries may continue to receive payments of the remaining value under the terms of the payment plan in effect on the death of the direct or contingent beneficiary.

 

Withdrawal    The remaining value, if any, in a payment plan may be withdrawn in a lump sum upon the death of all individuals upon whose lives income payments are based. The withdrawal value will be the present value of any unpaid payments for the remaining certain period. The present value will be based on the rate of interest used to determine the amount of the payments.

 

Limitations    A direct or contingent beneficiary who is a natural person may be paid under a Life Income payment plan only if the payments depend on his or her life. A non-natural person may be paid under a Life Income Payment Plan only if payments depend on the life of the Insured’s spouse or the Insured’s dependent.

 

Payment Frequency    Upon written request, we will make payments once every 3, 6 or 12 months instead of each month.

 

Increase Of Monthly Income    A direct or contingent beneficiary may, at the time the payment plan elected takes effect, increase the amount of the monthly payments under the payment plan by making an annuity premium payment to the Company. We will apply the net annuity premium to the payment plan. The net annuity premium is the amount of the

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

17


Table of Contents

annuity premium payment less a charge of not more than 2% and less any premium tax. The net annuity premium will be applied under the same payment plan and at the same rates as the proceeds. The Company may limit this net annuity premium to an amount that is equal to the direct or contingent beneficiary’s share of the proceeds payable under this Policy. The Company may accept the annuity premium payment when the payment plan goes into effect or for a period thereafter in accordance with the Company’s then-current administrative procedures.

 

Surrender and Withdrawals of Policy Value

 

Surrenders    You may surrender your Policy for the Cash Surrender Value at any time while either Insured is alive and the Policy is in force. The Cash Surrender Value will change daily in response to the investment performance of the Divisions in which you are invested. We determine the Cash Surrender Value on the Valuation Date we receive your written surrender request at our Home Office, except that if we receive your written request after the close of business on a Valuation Date or on a non-Valuation Date, we will determine the Cash Surrender Value as of the close of business on the next Valuation Date.

 

We do not guarantee any minimum Cash Surrender Value. We may require you to return your Policy to our Home Office when you request a surrender of the Policy. We will pay surrender proceeds in a lump sum or under a payment plan option you select. (See “Payment Plan Options.”) A surrender may have tax consequences. (See “Tax Considerations.”)

 

Withdrawals    Upon written request received at our Home Office at any time while either Insured is alive and the Policy is in force, you may make a withdrawal from your Policy Value, subject to the Company’s right to assess a charge deducted from Invested Assets in an amount up to $25 per withdrawal (currently waived). You may make no more than four withdrawals in a Policy Year. Each withdrawal must be at least $250, and you may not withdraw an amount that would:

 

   

reduce the Loan Value (net of any applicable service charge) to less than the Policy Debt;

 

   

reduce the Specified Amount to less than the minimum Specified Amount that the Company would require for issuance of a Policy at the time of withdrawal; or

 

   

reduce the Cash Surrender Value to less than the sum of three times the most recent Monthly Policy Charge and any applicable service charge.

 

A withdrawal of Policy Value decreases Invested Assets and may also have tax consequences. (See “Tax Considerations.”) A withdrawal may also decrease the Specified Amount used to determine the Death Benefit. Specifically, if the Death Benefit Option A is in effect at the time of withdrawal, the Specified Amount will be reduced by the excess, if any, of the Specified Amount over the result of (a) minus (b) where:

 

  (a) is the Death Benefit immediately prior to the withdrawal; and

 

  (b) is the amount of the withdrawal and applicable service charge.

 

If we receive your written request for withdrawal at our Home Office on or before the close of business on a Valuation Date, the withdrawal will be effective as of the close of business on that Valuation Date. If we receive your written request after the close of business on a Valuation Date or on a non-Valuation Date, the withdrawal will be effective as of the close of business on the next Valuation Date. On the Valuation Date on which a withdrawal from the Policy Value is effective, Invested Assets will be reduced by the amount of the withdrawal and any applicable charge. The amount of the withdrawal and any applicable charge will be allocated among the Divisions in proportion to the amount of the Invested Assets in each Division.

 

Policy Loans

 

At any time while either Insured is alive and the Policy is in force, you may submit a request for a loan in an amount that, when added to the existing Policy Debt, is not greater than your Loan Value. You may increase the risk that your Policy will lapse (terminate with no value) if you take a loan. A Policy loan or unpaid interest may have tax consequences. (See “Tax Considerations.”) If we receive your written request for a loan at our Home Office on or before the close of trading on the NYSE on a Valuation Date, the loan will be effective as of the close of trading on that Valuation Date. If we receive your written request after the close of trading on a Valuation Date or on a non-Valuation Date, the loan will be effective as of the close of trading on the next Valuation Date.

 

Interest on a Policy loan accrues on a daily basis at an annual effective, fixed rate of interest of 5%, and is included in Policy Debt as it accrues. Loan interest is credited to the borrowed portion of Policy Value at an annual effective, fixed rate of interest of 5%. Interest is due and payable on each Policy Anniversary. If interest is not paid when due, we will add accrued and unpaid interest to the principal loan balance, which consists of outstanding loans and interest added to principal. Policy Debt reduces the Cash Surrender Value and may cause the Policy to lapse. (See “Termination and Reinstatement.”)

 

We will take an amount equal to the loan from the Separate Account Divisions in proportion to the amounts in the Divisions. Borrowed amounts will not participate in the Separate Account’s investment results while the loan is outstanding. We will also deduct from Invested Assets a Policy Debt Expense Charge on each Monthly Processing Date while there is Policy Debt. The Monthly Policy Debt Expense Charge is included in the Monthly Policy Charge. (See “Charges and Deductions—Monthly Policy Charges and Service Charges.”) A Policy loan, even if you repay it, will have a permanent effect on the Policy Value, the Cash Surrender Value, and the Death Benefit because the loan amounts do not participate in the Separate Account’s investment results while the loan is outstanding. We deduct any Policy Debt from the Policy Value upon surrender and from the Life Insurance Benefit payable on the second death.

 

18

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus


Table of Contents

You may repay a Policy loan, including any accrued interest outstanding, in whole or in part, at any time while either Insured is alive and the Policy is in force. Upon such payment, we will transfer an amount equal to the payment amount from our General Account to the Separate Account Divisions in accordance with the Premium Payment allocation instructions then in effect. We will credit those payments when we receive them in our Home Office. If we receive your payment before the close of trading on the NYSE on a Valuation Date, we will process your payment as of that Valuation Date. If we receive your payment on or after the close of trading on a Valuation Date, or on a day that is not a Valuation Date, we will process your payment as of the next Valuation Date. Loan repayments are not subject to transaction fees.

 

If there is Policy Debt, payments received at our Home Office will be treated as payments to reduce Policy Debt unless designated as Premium Payments.

 

Termination and Reinstatement

 

If the Cash Surrender Value is less than the Monthly Policy Charge on any Monthly Processing Date, your Policy will enter into the Policy Grace Period. At the end of the Policy Grace Period, the Policy will terminate (or lapse) with no value and your life insurance coverage will end, unless you submit a payment to keep the Policy in force. The Policy Grace Period begins on the date that we send you a notice. The notice will indicate the minimum payment amount required to keep the Policy in force and the date by which you must make the payment. Upon receipt of the payment, we will allocate the Net Premium, to the Divisions of the Separate Account, based on your allocation instructions then in effect. We will also deduct any accumulated due and unpaid Monthly Policy Charges from the Invested Assets. Payments received at our Home Office before the close of trading on the NYSE (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time) on a Valuation Date are deemed to be received and credited on that Valuation Date. If they are received after the close of trading on a Valuation Date, or on a day other than a Valuation Date, they are deemed to be received and credited on the next Valuation Date. If the second death occurs during the Policy Grace Period, we will deduct any Monthly Policy Charges due and unpaid from the Life Insurance Benefit.

 

After your Policy has terminated, you may reinstate it within three years (or longer if required under state law) following the termination date, subject to our approval and satisfaction of our underwriting requirements. The Policy may not be reinstated if either of the Insureds dies after the end of the Policy Grace Period. To reinstate the Policy, you must make a payment equal to the amount that will cover all monthly charges that were due and unpaid before the end of the Policy Grace Period and three times the monthly charges due on the effective date of the reinstatement. If we approve the Application for reinstatement, and the Application was received at our Home Office on a Monthly Processing Date, the effective date of the reinstated Policy will be that date. If the Application is not received on a Monthly Processing Date, the reinstated Policy will be effective on the next Monthly Processing Date. Any Policy Debt that was outstanding when the Policy terminated will also be reinstated.

 

On the effective date of the reinstatement, the Policy Value will be equal to the sum of:

 

   

the Net Premium paid upon reinstatement (plus applicable interest credited by the Company, if any); and

 

   

any Policy Debt on the termination date;

 

minus the sum of:

 

   

all Monthly Policy Charges due and unpaid prior to the expiration of the Policy Grace Period; and

 

   

the Monthly Policy Charge due on the reinstatement effective date.

 

Upon reinstatement, your Policy Date will not change. Therefore, fees and charges that vary be Policy year will take into account the period of time your Policy was terminated. If a surrender charge was assessed at the time of lapse, the Policy Value when a Policy is reinstated will include a credit for such surrender charge. The same surrender charge schedule in your Policy will apply upon reinstatement.

 

On the later of the effective date of the reinstatement or the date we approve the Application for reinstatement, we will allocate the Policy Value less any Policy Debt among the Separate Account Divisions based on the allocation instructions then in effect, if such date is a Valuation Date. If such date is not a Valuation Date, then we will allocate this amount on the next Valuation Date.

 

For a discussion of the tax effects associated with termination and reinstatement of a Policy, see “Tax Considerations.”

 

Reinvestments after Surrender or Withdrawal

 

While Owners have no right to reinvestment after a surrender or withdrawal, we may, at our sole discretion, permit such reinvestments as described in this paragraph. In special limited circumstances, we may allow payments into the Policy in the form of returned surrender or withdrawal proceeds in connection with a request to void a surrender or withdrawal if the request is received by the Company within a reasonable time after the surrender or withdrawal proceeds are mailed. These payments may be processed with a refund of any surrender charge or withdrawal fee previously assessed at the time of surrender or withdrawal and without a sales load. The period for which we will accept requests for the return of surrender or withdrawal proceeds may vary in accordance with our administrative procedures. The returned surrender or withdrawal proceeds will be reinvested at the unit value next determined for each Division after our receipt of the reinvestment request in good order at our Home Office, including, among other things, the return of surrender or withdrawal proceeds, satisfactory evidence of insurability and any Premium Payments due. If we receive your request before the close of trading on the NYSE (generally, 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time), your request will receive same-day pricing. If we receive your request on or after the close of trading on the

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

19


Table of Contents

NYSE, we will process the order using the value of the units in the Divisions determined at the close of the next regular trading session of the NYSE. Proceeds will be applied to the same Divisions from which the surrender or withdrawal was made.

 

Depending on the Insureds’ underwriting classification, we may not accept the reinvestment or we may accept the reinvestment with different charges and expenses under the Policy. We may refuse to process reinvestments where it is not administratively feasible. Decisions regarding requests for reinvestment will take into consideration differences in costs and services and will not be unfairly discriminatory. Policies with reinvested surrender or withdrawal proceeds will have the same Death Benefit, Policy Value and surrender charge schedule as if the proceeds had not been surrendered or withdrawn, except that values will reflect the fact that amounts were not invested in the Separate Account during the period of time the surrender or withdrawal proceeds were not in the Policy as well as any changes in charges and expenses due to a change in underwriting classification. We will make any necessary adjustment for any Policy Debt or the debt may be reinstated.

 

Other Policy Transactions

 

Transfers    Subject to the limitations on short-term and excessive trading discussed below, you may make transfers between and among the Divisions of the Separate Account. If we receive your request for transfer before the close of trading on the NYSE (generally, 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time) on a Valuation Date, we will process your request on that Valuation Date. If we receive your request on or after the close of trading on a Valuation Date, or on a day that is not a Valuation Date, we will process your request on the next Valuation Date.

 

In order to take full advantage of these features, you should carefully consider, on a continuing basis, which investment options are best suited to your long-term investment needs. Your Financial Representative may provide us with instructions on your behalf involving the allocation and transfer of Invested Assets among available Divisions, subject to our rules and requirements, including the restrictions on short-term and excessive trading discussed below. See “Owner Inquiries” for more information on how you may change your allocations among Divisions.

 

Although no fee is currently charged, we reserve the right where allowed by state law to charge a transfer fee of $25. We deduct this charge from each Division in proportion to the amounts in each Division after the transfer. In addition, certain Portfolios in which the Divisions invest may impose redemption fees. These fees are described in the Portfolios’ prospectuses. Where allowed by state law, the Company reserves the right to impose a minimum and/or maximum size on transfer amounts.

 

You may request transfers in writing (including via facsimile or, under limited circumstances, by e-mail). The submission of transfer instructions through our website (“Electronic Instructions”) must be made in accordance with our then current procedures for Electronic Instructions. However, we are not required to accept Electronic Instructions, and we will not be responsible for losses resulting from transactions based on unauthorized electronic instructions, provided we follow procedures reasonably designed to verify the authenticity of Electronic Instructions. Please note that the telephone and/or electronic devices may not always be available. Any telephone or electronic device, whether it is yours, your service provider's or your agent’s or ours, can experience outages or slowdowns for a variety of reasons, which may delay or prevent our processing of your request. Although we have taken precautions to limit these problems, we cannot promise complete reliability under all circumstances. If you are experiencing problems, you should make your transfer request by writing to our Home Office. Transfer requests made via e-mail are deemed to be received by us upon receipt at the electronic location designated by us in our procedures. We reserve the right to limit, modify, suspend, or terminate the ability to make transfers via Electronic Instructions. Currently we do not accept transfer instructions by telephone.

 

Short-Term and Excessive Trading    Short-term and excessive trading (sometimes referred to as “market timing”) may present risks to a Portfolio’s long-term investors, such as Owners and other persons who may have material rights under the Policy (e.g., beneficiaries), because it can, among other things, disrupt Portfolio investment strategies, increase Portfolio transaction and administrative costs, require higher than normal levels of cash reserves to fund unusually large or unexpected redemptions, and adversely affect investment performance. These risks may be greater for Portfolios that invest in securities that may be more vulnerable to arbitrage trading, including foreign securities and thinly traded securities, such as small cap stocks and non-investment grade bonds. These types of trading activities also may dilute the value of long-term investors’ interests in a Portfolio if it calculates its net asset value using closing prices that are no longer accurate. Accordingly, we discourage market timing activities.

 

To deter short-term and excessive trading, we have adopted and implemented policies and procedures which are designed to control abusive trading practices. We seek to apply these policies and procedures uniformly to all Owners, except to the extent we are prevented from doing so under applicable state or federal law or regulation. Any exceptions must be either expressly permitted by our policies and procedures or subject to an approval process described in them. Because exceptions are permitted, it is possible that investors may be treated differently and, as a result, some may be allowed to engage in trading activity that might be viewed as market timing.

 

Among the steps we have taken to reduce the frequency and effect of these practices are monitoring trading activity and imposing trading restrictions, including the prohibition of more than twelve transfers among Divisions under a single Policy during a Policy Year. Multiple transfers with the same effective date made by the same Owner will be counted as a single transfer for purposes of applying the twelve transfer limitation. Further, an investor who is identified as having made a transfer in and out of the same Division, excluding the

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

20


Table of Contents

Money Market Division, (“round trip transfer”) in an amount in excess of $10,000 within fourteen calendar days will be restricted from making additional transfers after the third such round trip transfer until the next Policy Anniversary date, and sent a letter informing him or her of the restriction. Thereafter, the same investor will be similarly restricted after the second such round trip transfer. An Owner who is identified as having made one or more round trip transfers within thirty calendar days aggregating more than one percent (1%) of the total assets of the Portfolio underlying a Division, excluding the Money Market Division, will be sent a warning letter after the first such round trip transfer and will be restricted from making additional transfers until the next Policy Anniversary date after the second such round trip transfer. Thereafter, the same investor will be similarly restricted after the first such round trip transfer. These limitations do not apply to automatic asset transfers, scheduled or systematic transactions involving portfolio rebalancing, dollar cost averaging, initial allocations or changes in future allocations. Once a Policy is restricted, we will allow one additional transfer into the Money Market Division until the next Policy Anniversary.

 

Policies such as yours (or other Policies supported by the Separate Account) may be purchased by a corporation or other entity as a means to informally fund the liabilities created by the entity’s employee benefit or similar plan. These Policies may be aggregately managed to match liabilities under such plans. Policies sold under these circumstances may be subject to special transfer restrictions. Namely, transactions involving portfolio rebalancing programs may be exempt from the twelve transfers per Policy year limitation where: (1) the purpose of the portfolio rebalancing program is to match the Policy to the entity’s employee benefit or similar plan; (2) the portfolio rebalancing program adequately protects against short-term or excessive trading; and (3) the portfolio rebalancing program is managed by a third party administrator that meets our requirements. We reserve the right to monitor or limit transactions involving portfolio rebalancing programs where we believe such transactions may be potentially harmful to a Portfolio.

 

We may change these policies and procedures from time to time in our sole discretion without notice; provided, however, Owners will be given advance, written notice if the policies and procedures are revised to accommodate market timing. Additionally, the Funds may have their own policies and procedures described in their prospectuses that are designed to limit or restrict frequent trading. Such policies may be different from our policies and procedures, and may be more or less restrictive. As the Funds may accept purchase payments from other investors, including other insurance company separate accounts on behalf of their variable product customers and retirement plans, we cannot guarantee that the Funds will not be harmed by any abusive market timing activity relating to the retirement plans and/or other insurance companies that may invest in the Funds. The Funds’ policies and procedures may provide for the imposition of a redemption fee and may require us to provide transaction information to the Fund (including an Owner’s tax identification number) and to restrict or prohibit transfers and other transactions that involve the purchase of shares of a Portfolio. In the event a Fund instructs us to restrict or prohibit transfers or other transactions involving shares of a Portfolio, you may not be able to make additional purchases in a Division until the restriction or prohibition ends. If you submit a request that includes a purchase or transfer into such a restricted Division, we will consider the request “not in good order” and it will not be processed. You may, however, submit a new transfer request.

 

If we believe your trading activity is in violation of, or inconsistent with, our policies and procedures or otherwise is potentially disruptive to the interests of other investors, you may be asked to stop such activities and future investments, and allocations or transfers by you may be rejected without notice. Because we retain discretion to determine what action is appropriate in a given situation, investors may be treated differently and some may be allowed to engage in activities that might be viewed as market timing.

 

We intend to monitor events and the effectiveness of our policies and procedures in order to identify whether instances of potentially abusive trading practices are occurring. However, we may not be able to identify all instances of abusive trading practices, nor completely eliminate the possibility of such activities, and there may be technological limitations on our ability to impose restrictions on the trading practices of Owners.

 

Dollar-Cost Averaging    You may elect to participate in a dollar cost averaging (“DCA”) program by making an election to do so in the Application or by completing an election form and sending it to our Home Office. There is no additional charge for DCA. Under our DCA program, while the Policy is in force you may authorize us to transfer monthly a fixed dollar amount or fractional amount from the Money Market Division to other Divisions. The transfers continue until you instruct us otherwise, or until the amount in the Money Market Division is exhausted. Your request to participate in this program is effective when we receive your completed Application or election form at our Home Office. You may elect to increase or decrease the amount of transfer payments under our DCA program. We may modify, suspend, or discontinue the DCA program at any time.

 

DCA does not assure a profit or protect against loss in a declining market. Carefully consider your willingness to continue Premium Payments during periods of both low and high prices.

 

Portfolio Rebalancing    Over time, portfolio rebalancing helps you maintain your allocations among the Divisions you have chosen. If you elect portfolio rebalancing, your Invested Assets are periodically rebalanced in accordance with our procedures, to return your allocation to the percentages you specify. Portfolio rebalancing may reduce the amount of Invested Assets allocated to better performing Divisions.

 

You may choose to rebalance monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually. We do not charge a transfer fee for portfolio rebalancing. You may elect portfolio rebalancing by making an election in the Application. You may also elect

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

21


Table of Contents

portfolio rebalancing and modify or terminate your election at any time by submitting a written request to our Home Office. If you make transfers through our website, your portfolio rebalancing will end and you will need to make a new election if you want portfolio rebalancing to continue. We may modify, limit, suspend, or discontinue this feature at any time.

 

Allocation Models    Allocation models may be offered. Each model is comprised of a combination of Portfolios representing various asset classes. The models are static or fixed allocation models that do not change. We do not provide investment advice regarding whether a model should be revised or whether it remains appropriate to invest in accordance with any particular model due to performance, a change in your investment needs or for other reasons. Please note that investment according to an allocation model may result in an increase in assets allocated to Portfolios managed by an affiliated investment adviser, and therefore a corresponding increase in Portfolio management fees collected by such adviser. We reserve the right to modify, suspend, or terminate the models at any time.

 

Charges and Deductions

 

Premium Expense Charges    We deduct a charge from each Premium Payment for state premium taxes and a portion of our federal corporate taxes. Premium taxes vary from state to state and currently range from 0.0% to 3.5% of life insurance premiums. The tax rate for a particular state may be lower, higher, or equal to the 2.00% deduction, although we charge 2.00% regardless of the state in which you live. We reserve the right to deduct in the future a certain amount or percentage from Premium Payments to cover premium tax paid by the Company. The amount deducted may be more or less than the percentage charged by your state of residence.

 

Due to a federal tax law change under OBRA, insurance companies are generally required to capitalize and amortize certain acquisition expenses rather than currently deduct such expenses. Due to this capitalization and amortization, the corporate income tax burden on insurance companies has been affected. For policies purchased after December 31, 2009 and for policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary, we currently make a charge of 1.00% against each Premium Payment to compensate us for the additional corporate tax burden. For policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have not passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary, we currently make a charge of 1.30% against each Premium Payment paid prior to the Policy Anniversary in 2010, and 1.00% against subsequent Premium Payments. We believe that this charge does not exceed a reasonable estimate of an increase in our federal income taxes resulting from a change in the Internal Revenue Code relating to deferred acquisition costs.

 

For policies purchased after December 31, 2009 and for policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary, the total amount of the current charges attributable to state premium taxes and OBRA, as described above, is 3.00% of each Premium Payment. For policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have not passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary, the total amount of the current charges attributable to state premium taxes and OBRA, as described above, is 3.30% of each Premium Payment prior to the 2010 Policy Anniversary, and 3.00% of each Premium Payment on or after the 2010 Policy Anniversary. Tax charges may increase to reflect changes in tax laws.

 

We deduct a charge, or sales load, of 6.4% for sales costs from premiums paid, up to the Target Premium in Policy Years 1-10 and 2.4% of Premium Payments, up to the Target Premium, in all Policy Years thereafter. For all Policy Years, there is a 2.4% charge on all Premium Payments in excess of the Target Premium.

 

We expect to recover our expenses of selling and advertising (“distribution expenses”) from this amount, over the period while the Policies are in force, and from the Deferred Sales charges and surrender charges described below. The amounts we deduct for distribution expenses in a Policy Year are not specifically related to distribution expenses incurred that year. To the extent that distribution expenses exceed the amounts deducted, we will pay the expenses from our other assets. These assets may include, among other things, any gain realized from the monthly charge against the Invested Assets for the mortality and expense risks we have assumed. (See “Monthly Policy Charges and Service Charges.”) To the extent that the amounts deducted for distribution expenses exceed the amounts needed, we will realize a gain.

 

Monthly Policy Charges and Service Charges

 

SECTION 1—Monthly Policy Charges and Service Charges applicable to Policies purchased after December 31, 2009 or Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary.

 

For Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have not passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary, see Section 2 below.

 

We deduct a Monthly Policy Charge from Invested Assets on each Monthly Processing Date. The Monthly Policy Charge includes 1) the Monthly Cost of Insurance Charge, 2) the Monthly Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Invested Assets Component, 3) the Monthly Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Specified Amount Component, 4) the Monthly Administrative Charge, 5) the Monthly Underwriting and Issue Charge, 6) the Monthly Deferred Sales Charge, and, if applicable, 7) the Monthly Policy Debt Expense Charge. These components of the Monthly Policy Charge are described in the following paragraphs.

 

   

Monthly Cost of Insurance Charge. We determine the amount by multiplying the net amount at risk by the cost of insurance rate, which is based on the Issue Age, sex, and underwriting classifications of the Insured persons as well as the Policy date and Policy Year. The net amount at risk is the difference between the Death Benefit and the Policy Value. The net amount at risk will be affected by investment performance, the amount and timing of

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

22


Table of Contents
 

Premium Payments, and the charges and expenses for the Policy. The maximum costs of insurance rates are included in the Policy. The Cost of Insurance Charge covers the cost of mortality and some expenses. All things being equal, higher Issue Ages and/or worse underwriting classifications will result in higher cost of insurance rates, and men will pay higher rates than women. In addition, cost of insurance rates will generally increase each Policy Year. Our revenues attributable to this charge may exceed our mortality and expense costs covered by this charge.

 

   

Monthly Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Invested Assets Component. The maximum amount of the charge deducted is equal to an annual rate of 0.90% (0.075% monthly rate) of Invested Assets. Currently the charge is equal to an annual rate of 0.10% (0.00833% monthly rate) of Invested Assets in policy years 1-20 and 0.05% (0.00417% monthly rate) of Invested Assets in policy years 21 and later. The mortality risk is the risk that Insureds may not live as long as we estimated. The expense risk includes the risk that expenses of issuing and administering the Policies may exceed the estimated costs. Our revenues attributable to this charge may exceed our mortality and expense costs covered by this charge.

 

   

Monthly Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Specified Amount Component. The Specified Amount Component is based on the Initial Specified Amount and the Issue Ages of the Insureds, and applies during the first ten Policy Years. The range on an annual basis is from $0.04 ($0.00333 monthly) per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount if both Insureds are Issue Age 25 or younger, up to $1.72 ($0.14333 monthly) per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount if both Insureds are Issue Age 75 or older. A table of rates and an example are included in Appendix A. The mortality risk is the risk that Insureds may not live as long as we estimated. The expense risk includes the risk that expenses of issuing and administering the Policies may exceed the estimated costs. Our revenues attributable to this charge may exceed our mortality and expense costs covered by this charge.

 

   

Monthly Administrative Charge. This charge is for administrative expenses, including costs of Premium Payment collection, processing claims, keeping records and communicating with Owners. Currently this charge is $6.42, with a maximum of $7.50.

 

   

Monthly Underwriting and Issue Charge. This charge applies during the first ten Policy Years and is based on the Initial Specified Amount and the underwriting classification of the Insureds. The monthly charge ranges from $0.015 to $0.035 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount, with a maximum monthly charge of $75 to $175 depending on underwriting classification.

 

   

Monthly Deferred Sales Charge. This charge is deducted during the first ten Policy Years. The charge applied in the first Policy Year is 0.625% of cumulative premiums paid to date (up to the Target Premium). The charge applied during Policy Years 2-10 is equal to 0.625% of the premium paid in the first Policy Year (up to the Target Premium). This charge is for sales expenses. Therefore, in all cases your monthly charge is based only on premiums paid in the first Policy Year.

 

   

Monthly Policy Debt Expense Charge. This charge is deducted for the expenses and taxes associated with the Policy Debt, if any. The maximum amount of the charge is equal to an annual rate of 2.0% (0.16667% monthly rate) of Policy Debt. Currently the charge when the younger Insured is (or would be, if alive) Attained Age 99 and below is equal to an annual rate of 0.90% (0.075% monthly rate) of Policy Debt for Policy Years one through ten and 0.35% (0.02917% monthly rate) of Policy Debt for Policy Years 11 and thereafter. The current charge when the younger Insured is (or would be, if alive) Attained Age 100 and above is 0.00% annually of Policy Debt. This charge is in addition to the interest charged on any Policy Loan and is deducted from Invested Assets.

 

SECTION 2—Monthly Policy Charges and Service Charges applicable to Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary.

 

For Policies purchased after December 31, 2009 or Policies purchased prior to January 1, 2010 that have passed their 2010 Policy Anniversary, see Section 1 above.

 

We deduct a Monthly Policy Charge from Invested Assets on each Monthly Processing Date. The Monthly Policy Charge includes 1) the Monthly Cost of Insurance Charge, 2) the Monthly Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Invested Assets Component, 3) the Monthly Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Specified Amount Component, 4) the Monthly Administrative Charge, 5) the Monthly Underwriting and Issue Charge, 6) the Monthly Deferred Sales Charge, and, if applicable, 7) the Monthly Policy Debt Expense Charge. These components of the Monthly Policy Charge are described in the following paragraphs.

 

   

Monthly Cost of Insurance Charge. We determine the amount by multiplying the net amount at risk by the cost of insurance rate, which is based on the Issue Age, sex, and underwriting classifications of the Insured persons as well as the Policy date and Policy Year. The net amount at risk is the difference between the Death Benefit and the Policy Value. The net amount at risk will be affected by investment performance, the amount and timing of Premium Payments, and the charges and expenses for the Policy. The maximum costs of insurance rates are included in the Policy. The Cost of

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

23


Table of Contents
 

Insurance Charge covers the cost of mortality and some expenses. All things being equal, higher Issue Ages and/or worse underwriting classifications will result in higher cost of insurance rates, and men will pay higher rates than women. In addition, cost of insurance rates will generally increase each Policy Year. Our revenues attributable to this charge may exceed our mortality and expense costs covered by this charge.

 

   

Monthly Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Invested Assets Component. The maximum amount of the charge deducted is equal to an annual rate of 0.90% (0.075% monthly rate) of Invested Assets. Currently the charge is equal to an annual rate of 0.05% (0.00417% monthly rate) of Invested Assets The mortality risk is the risk that Insureds may not live as long as we estimated. The expense risk includes the risk that expenses of issuing and administering the Policies may exceed the estimated costs. Our revenues attributable to this charge may exceed our mortality and expense costs covered by this charge.

 

   

Monthly Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Specified Amount Component. The Specified Amount Component is based on the Initial Specified Amount and the Issue Ages of the Insureds, and applies during the first ten Policy Years. The range on an annual basis is from $0.04 ($0.00333 monthly) per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount if both Insureds are Issue Age 25 or younger, up to $1.72 ($0.14333 monthly) per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount if both Insureds are Issue Age 75 or older. A table of rates and an example are included in Appendix A. The mortality risk is the risk that Insureds may not live as long as we estimated. The expense risk includes the risk that expenses of issuing and administering the Policies may exceed the estimated costs. Our revenues attributable to this charge may exceed our mortality and expense costs covered by this charge.

 

   

Monthly Administrative Charge. This charge is for administrative expenses, including costs of Premium Payment collection, processing claims, keeping records and communicating with Owners. Currently this charge is $5.00, with a maximum of $7.50.

 

   

Monthly Underwriting and Issue Charge. This charge applies during the first ten Policy Years and is based on the Initial Specified Amount and the underwriting classification of the Insureds. The monthly charge ranges from $0.015 to $0.035 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount, with a maximum monthly charge of $75 to $175 depending on underwriting classification.

 

   

Monthly Deferred Sales Charge. This charge is deducted during the first ten Policy Years. The charge applied in the first Policy Year is 0.625% of cumulative premiums paid to date (up to the Target Premium). The charge applied during Policy Years 2-10 is equal to 0.625% of the premium paid in the first Policy Year (up to the Target Premium). This charge is for sales expenses. Therefore, in all cases your monthly charge is based only on premiums paid in the first Policy Year.

 

   

Monthly Policy Debt Expense Charge. This charge is deducted for the expenses and taxes associated with the Policy Debt, if any. The maximum amount of the charge is equal to an annual rate of 2.0% (0.16667% monthly rate) of Policy Debt. Currently the charge when the younger Insured is (or would be, if alive) Attained Age 99 and below is equal to an annual rate of 0.90% (0.075% monthly rate) of Policy Debt for Policy Years one through ten and 0.35% (0.02917% monthly rate) of Policy Debt for Policy Years 11 and thereafter. The current charge when the younger Insured is (or would be, if alive) Attained Age 100 and above is 0.00% annually of Policy Debt. This charge is in addition to the interest charged on any Policy Loan and is deducted from Invested Assets.

 

We also charge certain transaction fees or service charges to be deducted from the Invested Assets on the dates on which transactions take place. These service charges are $25 per change if more than one change occurs in Specified Amount in a Policy Year, $25 per withdrawal, $25 per transfer of assets among the Divisions of the Separate Account, and $25 per change of the Death Benefit option. Currently we waive all of these fees.

 

You may have the option of receiving funds via wire transfer or priority mail. Currently, a fee of $25 is charged for wire transfers (up to $50 for international wires) and a $15 fee (up to $45 for next day, a.m. delivery) for priority mail. These fees are to cover our administrative costs or other expenses. We may discontinue the availability of these options at any time, with or without notice.

 

We will apportion deductions from Invested Assets among the Divisions of the Separate Account in proportion to the amounts invested in the Divisions. Unless prohibited by your state, you may elect to have monthly charges deducted from one Division. We reserve the right to determine which Divisions are available for this election. Currently, the Money Market Division is available for this election. If the amount in the specified Division is not sufficient to pay these charges, the remainder of these charges is deducted from each Division in proportion to the amounts invested in the Divisions.

 

Surrender Charge    A surrender charge will be deducted from Invested Assets during the first ten Policy Years if the Policy is surrendered. The surrender charge during the first Policy Year is 50% of the Premium Payments paid up to the Target Premium. After the first Policy Year, the surrender charge grades down monthly in Policy Years two through ten to zero.

 

Portfolio Expenses    The value of the net assets of each Division reflects the management fees and other expenses

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

24


Table of Contents

incurred by the corresponding Portfolio in which the Division invests. For further information, consult the Portfolios’ prospectuses and the Annual Portfolio Operating Expenses table included in the Fee Table of this prospectus.

 

Other Policy Provisions

 

Naming a Beneficiary    You must name a beneficiary on your Application at the time you apply for your Policy, but you may change the beneficiary before the second death and during the first 60 days after the second death if you are not the second of the Insureds to die. Naming or changing a beneficiary will be made after receipt of your written request in our Home Office, effective as of the date you sign your request. Any beneficiary change terminates all rights under previous beneficiary designations. We will not be responsible for any payment or other action we take with respect to your Policy before we receive your written request, and we may require the Policy to be sent to us for endorsement to reflect the beneficiary change.

 

Incontestability    We will not contest a Policy after it has been in force during the lifetime of at least one of the Insureds for two years from the Date of Issue or the date of reinstatement (or earlier, as required by state law). We will not contest a change to the Policy that was subject to insurability requirements after the change has been in force during the lifetime of at least one of the Insureds for two years from the date of the change.

 

Suicide    If either Insured dies by suicide within one year from the Date of Issue (or earlier as required by state law), the amount payable under the Policy will be limited to the Premium Payments, less the amount of any Policy Debt and withdrawals. If either Insured dies by suicide within one year of the date of issuance (or earlier as required by state law) of an increase in the amount of insurance, which was subject to insurability requirements, the amount payable with respect to the increase will be limited to the amounts charged for the cost of insurance and other expenses attributable to the increase. The amount payable may be different in your state. In certain states, the surviving Insured may have the ability to continue with a single life Policy so long as the surviving Insured is insurable.

 

Misstatement of Age or Sex    If the age or sex of either Insured has been misstated, the Policy will be modified by recalculating all values and benefits based on the correct age and sex of the Insureds.

 

Policy Split Right    The Policy permits the Owner to exchange the Policy for two policies, one on the life of each Insured, without evidence of insurability, if there are certain changes in the federal estate tax law. (See “Tax Considerations—Policy Split Right.”) The exchange must be made while both Insureds are alive and the written request must be received at our Home Office no more than 180 days after the change in federal tax law is enacted. The amount of the Death Benefit of each new Policy will be one-half the amount of the Policy.

 

Collateral Assignment    You may assign a Policy as collateral security. We are not responsible for the validity or effect of a collateral assignment and we will not be deemed to know of an assignment before receipt of the assignment in writing at our Home Office. The interests of any beneficiary will be subject to any collateral assignment made either before or after any beneficiary is named. The collateral assignee is not an Owner. A collateral assignment is not a transfer of ownership. (See “Ownership Rights.”)

 

Deferral of Determination and Payment    We will ordinarily pay Policy Benefits (i.e., Policy loans, Cash Surrender Value, and withdrawals) within seven days after we receive all required documents at our Home Office. However, we may defer determination and payment of benefits if:

 

   

the NYSE is closed, other than customary weekend and holiday closings, or trading on the NYSE is restricted as determined by the SEC; or

 

   

the SEC permits, by an order, the postponement of any payment for the protection of Owners; or

 

   

the SEC determines that an emergency exists that would make the disposal of securities held in the Separate Account or the determination of their value not reasonably practicable; or

 

   

such suspension or postponement is otherwise permitted by the 1940 Act.

 

If you have submitted a check or draft to our Home Office, we have the right to defer payment of Life Insurance Benefit, surrender, withdrawal, loan, or payment plan proceeds until the check or draft has been honored.

 

If mandated under applicable law, we may be required to freeze an Owner’s Policy Value and thereby refuse to pay any requests for transfer, withdrawal, surrender, loan, or Life Insurance Benefit, until instructions are received from the appropriate regulatory or other lawful authority. We may also be required to provide additional information about you, your Policy, and your trading activities to government regulators.

 

Dividends    This Policy is eligible to share in the divisible surplus, if any, of the Company. Each year we determine, in our sole discretion, the amount and appropriate allocation of divisible surplus. Divisible surplus added to your Policy is referred to as a “dividend.” The Policy’s share, if any, will be credited as a dividend on the Policy Anniversary. There is no guaranteed method or formula for the determination or allocation of divisible surplus. The Company’s approach is subject to change. There is no guarantee of a divisible surplus. Even if there is a divisible surplus, the payment of a dividend on the Policy is not guaranteed. It is not expected that any dividends will be payable on the Policy.

 

We will credit annual dividends, if any, in cash or you may use them to increase the Policy Value. If you do not provide direction as to the use of dividends, we will use them to increase the Policy Value. Dividends used to increase the Policy Value will be allocated to the Divisions of the Separate Account according to the allocation of Net Premiums then in effect.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

25


Table of Contents

Voting Rights

 

As long as the Separate Account continues to be registered as a unit investment trust under the 1940 Act, and as long as Separate Account assets of a particular Division are invested in shares of a given Portfolio, we will vote the shares of that Portfolio held in the Separate Account in accordance with instructions we receive from Owners. Periodic reports relating to the Portfolios, proxy material and a form on which one can give instructions with respect to the proportion of shares of the Portfolio held in the Separate Account corresponding to the Owner’s Policy Value, will be made available to the Owners. We will vote shares for which no instructions have been received and shares held in our General Account in the same proportion as the shares for which instructions have been received from Owners. The effect of such proportional voting is that a small number of Owners may control the outcome of a particular vote.

 

Reports and Financial Statements

 

For each Policy Year, we will send you a statement showing the Death Benefit, Policy Value and any Policy Debt (including interest charged) as of the Policy Anniversary. We will also send you a confirmation statement when you make a Premium Payment, transfer among Divisions, make a withdrawal of Policy Value, take a Policy loan, or surrender the Policy. The annual statement and confirmation statements will show your apportioned amounts of Invested Assets among the Divisions.

 

Annually, we will send you a report containing financial statements of the Separate Account and, semi-annually, we will send you reports containing financial information and schedules of investments for the Portfolios underlying the Divisions to which your Invested Assets are allocated. The financial statements of the Company are contained in the Statement of Additional Information. To receive a copy of the Annual Report, Semi-Annual Report and/or Statement of Additional Information, call 1-866-464-3800.

 

Householding

 

To reduce costs, we may send only a single copy of the same disclosure document(s) (such as prospectuses, prospectus supplements, reports, announcements, proxy statements, notices, and information statements) to each consenting household (rather than sending copies to each Owner residing in a household). If you are or become a member of such a household, you can revoke your consent to “householding” at any time, and can begin receiving your own copy of such disclosure documents by calling us at 1-866-424-2609.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

Northwestern Mutual, like other life insurance companies, is generally involved in litigation at any given time. Although the outcome of any litigation cannot be predicted with certainty, we believe that, as of the date of this prospectus, there are no pending or threatened lawsuits that will have a materially adverse impact on the ability of Northwestern Mutual to meet its obligations under the Policy, on the Separate Account, or on NMIS and its ability to perform its duties as underwriter for the Separate Account.

 

Owner Inquiries

 

If eligible, you may get up-to-date information about your Policy at your convenience with your User ID and password at our website (www.northwesternmutual.com) where you can access performance information, forms for routine service, and daily values for Policies you own. Eligible Owners may also set up certain electronic payments, make transfers among Divisions (including as applicable Dollar-Cost Averaging and/or Portfolio Rebalancing) and change the allocation of future Premium Payments online, subject to our administrative procedures. For enrollment information, please visit our website (www.northwesternmutual.com). If you have questions about making a surrender, please contact your Financial Representative or call the Advanced Business Services Center at 1-866-464-3800. To file a claim, please call your Financial Representative or Life Benefits at 1-800-635-8855.

 

Illustrations

 

Your Financial Representative will provide you an illustration for your Policy upon your request when you apply for a Policy and while your Policy is in force. When you apply for a Policy, the illustrations will be based on the information you give us about the proposed Insureds and will reflect such factors as the Specified Amount, Death Benefit option and Premium Payments that you select. While the Policy is in force, the illustrations will reflect the performance of your Policy to date. Illustrations show how the Death Benefit and Policy Value for a Policy would vary based on hypothetical future investment results. These should be based upon realistic expectations given your own individual situation.

 

Illustrations for variable life insurance policies do not project or predict investment results. The illustrated values assume that non-guaranteed elements such as dividends, Policy charges and level investment returns will not change. Given the volatility of the securities markets over time, the illustrated scenario is unlikely to occur and actual Policy Value, Death Benefit, Cash Surrender Value, and certain expenses (which will vary with the investment performance of the Portfolios) will be more or less than those illustrated. In addition, the actual timing and amounts of payments, deductions, expenses and any values removed from the Policy will also impact product performance. Due to these variations, even a Portfolio that averaged the same return as illustrated will produce values which will be more or less than those which were originally illustrated.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

26


Table of Contents

Tax Considerations

 

General    The following discussion provides a general description of federal income tax considerations relating to the Policy. The discussion is based on current provisions of the Code as currently interpreted by the Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”). The discussion is not exhaustive, it does not address the likelihood of future changes in federal income tax law or interpretations thereof, and it does not address state or local tax considerations, which may be significant in the purchase and ownership of a Policy.

 

This tax discussion is intended to describe the tax consequences associated with your Policy. It does not constitute legal or tax advice, and is not intended to be used and cannot be used to avoid any penalties that may be imposed on a taxpayer. Taxpayers should seek advice based on their particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor.

 

Life Insurance Qualification    Section 7702 of the Code defines life insurance for federal income tax purposes. Under Section 7702, a Policy will generally be treated as life insurance for federal tax purposes if at all times it meets either a guideline premium test (“GLPT”) or a cash value accumulation test (“CVAT”). You must choose either the GLPT or the CVAT before the Policy is issued. Once the Policy is issued, you may not change to a different test. The Death Benefit will vary depending on which test is used. The GLPT has two components, a premium limit component and a corridor component. The premium limit restricts the amount of premium that can be paid into the Policy. The corridor requires that the Death Benefit be at least a certain percentage (varying each year by age of the Insured, or younger Insured in the case of survivorship life policies) of the Policy Value. The CVAT does not have a premium limit, but does have a corridor that requires that the Death Benefit be at least a certain percentage of the Policy Value, with the percentage varying based on the age, sex and underwriting classification of the Insured, or in the case of survivorship life insurance, of the younger Insured. The corridor under the CVAT is different from the corridor under the GLPT. Specifically, the CVAT corridor requires more Death Benefit in relation to Policy Value than is required by the GLPT corridor. Therefore, as your Policy Value increases your Death Benefit may increase more rapidly in the Policy’s earlier years under CVAT than it would under GLPT. For certain Policies issued with a Surrender of Policy Endorsement on or after April 23, 2008 (or later, depending on the date the Endorsement was approved by a state), the corridor percentages for both the GLPT and CVAT corridors are applied to the sum of Policy Value and the Endorsement Amount during the period of Endorsement. In deciding whether or not to choose the CVAT, you should consider that the CVAT generally permits more premiums to be contributed to a Policy, but may require the Policy to have a higher Death Benefit, which may increase the Cost of Insurance charges, especially in the Policy’s later years. We have designed the Policy to comply with these rules. We will return premiums that would cause a Policy to be disqualified as life insurance, or we may take any other action that may be necessary for the Policy to qualify as life insurance for tax purposes.

 

As provided by Section 817(h) of the Code, the Secretary of the Treasury has set standards for diversification of the investments underlying variable life insurance policies. Failure to meet the diversification requirements would disqualify the Policies as life insurance for purposes of Section 7702 of the Code. We believe that your Policy complies with the provisions of Section 7702 and 817(h) of the Code, but the application of these rules is not entirely clear. We may make changes to your Policy if necessary for the Policy to qualify as life insurance for tax purposes.

 

IRS Rev. Ruls. 2003-91 and 2003-92 provide guidance on when an Owner’s control of Separate Account assets will cause the Owner, and not the life insurance company, to be treated as the owner of those assets. Important indicators of investor control are the ability of the Owner to select the investment advisor, the investment strategy or the particular investments of the Separate Account. If the Owner of a Policy were treated as the owner of the mutual fund shares held in the Separate Account, the income and gains related to those shares would be included in the Owner’s gross income for federal income tax purposes. We believe that we own the assets of the Separate Account under current federal income tax law.

 

Tax Treatment of Life Insurance    While a Policy is in force, increases in the Policy Value as a result of investment experience are not subject to federal income tax until there is a distribution as defined by the Code. The Death Benefit received by a beneficiary will generally not be subject to federal income tax.

 

Unless the Policy is a MEC, as described below, a loan received under a Policy will not be treated as a distribution subject to current federal income tax. Interest paid by individual Owners of the Policies will ordinarily not be deductible. You should consult a qualified tax advisor as to the deductibility of interest paid or accrued by business Owners of a Policy. (See “Business-Owned Life Insurance.”)

 

So long as your Policy is not classified as a MEC (See “Modified Endowment Contract”), the proceeds from a surrender or withdrawal will generally be taxable only to the extent that the proceeds exceed the basis of the Policy. The basis of the Policy is generally equal to the Premium Payments less any amounts previously received as tax-free distributions. Dividends, if any, whether paid in cash or applied to increase Policy Value, are taxed as withdrawals. However, the reduction in the basis of the Policy is offset by a corresponding increase in basis when the dividend is applied to increase Policy Value or to pay premiums. In certain circumstances, a withdrawal of Policy Value during the first 15 Policy Years may be taxable to the extent that the Policy Value exceeds the basis of the Policy. This means that the amount withdrawn may be taxable even if that amount is less than the basis of the Policy.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

27


Table of Contents

Caution must be used when taking cash out of a Policy through Policy loans. If interest is not paid, it is added to the Policy Debt and the total amount will continue to accrue interest for as long as the loan is maintained on the Policy. The Policy loan, increased by accrued interest, reduces the Cash Surrender Value of the Policy. If the Policy remains in force until the death of the Insured or, in the case of survivorship life insurance, the second death, the loan will be repaid from the tax-free Death Benefit. However, if the Policy lapses or is surrendered, the loan (which includes the total amount of the loan plus accrued interest) will be repaid from the Policy, and the Policy Value will be taxable to the extent it exceeds the basis of the Policy. If the Policy has an option to change the coverage to fixed paid-up insurance, and the Policy is changed to fixed paid-up insurance, the loan will continue in force and interest will continue to accrue. In extreme situations, Owners can face what is called the “surrender squeeze.” The surrender squeeze occurs when the unborrowed Policy Value, less the applicable surrender charge, is insufficient to cover the Monthly Policy Charges or to cover the tax due if the Policy terminates. If the unborrowed Policy Value, less the applicable surrender charge, is insufficient to cover the Monthly Policy Charges, then either additional Premium Payments and/or loan repayments would have to be made or else the Policy would terminate and any income tax due would be payable with other assets of the Owner.

 

Subject to the agreement of the Company, and the Owner meeting any conditions set by the Company, a Policy may be exchanged tax-free for another life insurance policy or an annuity contract covering the same Insured (or, in the case of survivorship life insurance, covering the Insureds or a surviving Insured). The Code also allows certain policies to be exchanged for stand-alone and combination long-term care policies on a tax-free basis. Any cash received or loan repaid in an exchange will be taxed to the extent of the gain in the Policy (i.e., on a gain-first basis).

 

Ownership of a Policy may be transferred to a new owner and is taxable to the extent the sales proceeds exceed the basis of the Policy. In Rev. Rul. 2009-13, the IRS ruled that, when a life insurance policy is sold to a person with no insurable interest in the insured, the taxable gain is calculated by reducing the basis of the policy by the annual cost of the insurance protection provided by the policy. The death benefit of a policy in excess of the basis also may become taxable as a result of a transfer, unless the new owner is the insured, a partner of the insured, a partnership in which the insured is a partner or a corporation in which the insured is a shareholder or officer. You should seek qualified tax advice if you plan a transfer of ownership.

 

For taxable years beginning in 2013, part or all of the taxable benefits from and sales of the Policies may be subject to an additional 3.8% Medicare tax. The tax will be assessed on the Owner’s net investment income for the year to the extent that the Owner’s adjusted gross income (with slight modifications) exceeds $250,000 (married filing jointly or surviving spouse), $125,000 (married filing separately) or $200,000 (other filers) (not indexed). Although the term ‘net investment income’ does not specifically refer to life insurance, there is a possibility it could be construed to include transfers of and/or distributions from life insurance, to the extent they are taxable.

 

Modified Endowment Contracts (MEC)    A Policy will be classified as a MEC if the cumulative Premium Payments paid at any time during the first seven Policy Years exceed a defined “seven-pay” limit. The seven-pay limit is the sum of the Premium Payments (net of expense and administrative charges) that would have to be paid in order for the Policy to be fully paid for after seven level annual payments based on defined interest and mortality assumptions. A Policy will be treated as a MEC unless any excess premiums are withdrawn from the Policy with interest within 60 days after the end of the Policy Year in which they are paid.

 

Whenever there is a “material change” under a Policy, it will generally be treated as a new contract for purposes of determining whether the Policy is a MEC, and it will be subjected to a new seven-pay period and a new seven-pay limit. The new seven-pay limit would be determined by taking into account the Policy Value of the Policy at the time of such change. A materially changed Policy would be considered a MEC if it failed to satisfy the new seven-pay limit. A material change could occur, for example, as a result of an increase in the Death Benefit, the addition of an optional benefit or the payment of a Premium Payment after the seven-pay period, which could be considered “unnecessary” under the Code.

 

If the Death Benefit under the Policy is reduced during the first seven Policy Years after issuing the Policy (or within seven years after a material change) or, in the case of survivorship life Policies, the lifetime of either Insured, for example, by making a withdrawal of Policy Value or by requesting a decrease in the Specified Amount or by converting to fixed paid-up insurance, if available, or, in some cases, by lapsing the Policy, the seven-pay Premium Payment limit will be redetermined based on the reduced level of benefits and applied retroactively for purposes of the seven-pay test. If the premiums previously paid are greater than the recalculated seven-pay limit, the Policy will become a MEC. A life insurance policy which is received in exchange for a MEC will also be considered a MEC.

 

If a Policy is a MEC, any distribution from the Policy will be taxed on a gain-first basis. Distributions for this purpose include a loan (including any increase in the loan amount to pay interest on an existing loan or an assignment or a pledge to secure a loan), a withdrawal of Policy Value, a surrender of the Policy, and dividends paid in cash but not dividends retained by the Company to increase Policy Value. Distributions taken within the two-year period prior to a Policy becoming a MEC may also be taxed under the MEC tax rules. If a Policy terminates while there is a Policy loan, the cancellation of the loan and accrued loan interest also will be treated as a distribution to the extent not previously treated as such. Any such distributions will be considered taxable income to the extent the Policy Value exceeds the basis in the Policy. For MECs, the basis would be increased by the amount of any prior loan under the Policy that was considered taxable income. For purposes of determining the taxable portion of

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

28


Table of Contents

any distribution, all MECs issued by Northwestern Mutual to the same Owner (excluding certain qualified plans) during any calendar year are to be aggregated. The Secretary of the Treasury has authority to prescribe additional rules to prevent avoidance of gain-first taxation on distributions from MECs.

 

A 10% penalty tax will apply to the taxable portion of a distribution from a MEC. The penalty tax will not, however, apply to distributions (i) to taxpayers 59 1/2 years of age or older, (ii) in the case of a disability (as defined in the Code) or (iii) received as part of a series of substantially equal periodic annuity payments for the life (or life expectancy) of the taxpayer or the survivorship lives (or survivorship life expectancies) of the taxpayer and the taxpayer’s beneficiaries. The exceptions generally do not apply to life insurance policies owned by corporations or other entities.

 

Estate Tax and Generation Skipping Tax Planning    The amount of the Life Insurance Benefit will generally be includible in the Owner’s estate for purposes of the federal estate tax and any applicable state inheritance tax. If your Policy is a survivorship life Policy, the Life Insurance Benefit will be includible in the Owner’s estate if the second of the Insureds to die owns the Policy, and the fair market value of the Policy will be includible in the Owner’s estate if the Owner is not the last surviving Insured. An unlimited marital deduction permits deferral of federal estate and gift taxes until the death of the Owner’s surviving spouse.

 

If ownership of the Policy is transferred, either directly or in trust, to a person two or more generations younger than the Owner, the value of the Policy may be subject to a generation skipping transfer tax.

 

During 2010, the estate tax and generation skipping transfer tax are repealed and the gift tax is subject to a $1 million exemption amount and a 35% maximum rate. Unless these amounts are extended or made permanent, they will be sunsetted or repealed in 2011 and the rules in effect in 2001 ($1 million exemption amount and 50% maximum tax rate) will be reinstated.

 

Business-Owned Life Insurance    Business-owned life insurance may be subject to certain additional rules. Section 101(j) of the Code provides that the Death Benefit payable under business-owned life insurance in which the business is also the beneficiary will be taxable unless (i) the insured is an eligible employee and (ii) the employee is given notice of the insurance and the maximum face amount and consents to be insured and to the continuation of the insurance after the employee terminates service with the employer. Generally, an eligible employee is an officer, a director, a person who owns more than 5% of the business, an employee earning more than $100,000 annually (increased for cost of living after 2006) or an employee who is among the highest paid 35% of employees. The law also imposes an annual reporting and record-keeping obligation on the employer.

 

Section 264(a)(1) of the Code generally disallows a deduction for Premium Payments on Policies by anyone who is directly or indirectly a beneficiary under the Policy. Increases in Policy Value may also be subject to tax under the corporation alternative minimum tax provisions. Section 264(a)(4) of the Code disallows an interest deduction on loans taken against business-owned life insurance policies unless the policies cover key persons and then only to the extent the aggregate amount of the loans on any key person does not exceed $50,000. Generally, a key person means an officer or a 20% owner. However, the number of key persons will be limited to the greater of (a) five individuals, or (b) the lesser of 5% of the total officers and employees of the taxpayer or 20 individuals. Deductible interest for these Policies will be subject to limits based on current market rates.

 

In addition, Section 264(f) disallows a proportionate amount of a business’s interest deduction on non-life insurance indebtedness based on the amount of unborrowed Policy Value of non-exempt life insurance policies held in relation to other business assets. Exempt policies include policies held by natural persons unless the business is a direct or indirect beneficiary under the policy and policies owned by a business and insuring employees, directors, officers and 20% owners (as well as survivorship life policies insuring 20% owners and their spouses).

 

Section 101(j) of the Code provides that the Death Benefit payable under business-owned life insurance in which the business is also the beneficiary will be taxable unless (i) the Insured is an eligible employee and (ii) the employee is given notice of the insurance and the maximum face amount and consents to be insured and to the continuation of the insurance after the employee terminates service with the employer. Generally, an eligible employee is an officer, a director, a person who owns more than 5% of the business, an employee earning more than $100,000 annually (increased for cost of living after 2006) or an employee who is among the highest paid 35% of employees. The law also imposes an annual reporting and record-keeping obligation on the employer.

 

The IRS ruled privately in 2009 that losses in business-owned life insurance could be deducted upon the surrender of the policy if there was no reasonable prospect of recovery, but that the losses would be calculated by reducing the basis of the policy by the annual cost of the insurance protection provided by the policy. Private rulings apply only to the taxpayer who receives the ruling but may be indicative of the IRS’s thinking on an issue.

 

IRS Notice 2007-61 has established a safe harbor under which the annual increase in the cash value of life insurance policies owned by life insurance companies is not taxable provided the policies cover no more than 35% of the company’s employees, directors, officers and 20% owners. The Notice adds that there is an unresolved issue whether cash value increases of other policies owned by life insurance companies may be taxable.

 

Policy Split Right    If your Policy is a survivorship life Policy, the Policy permits the Owner to exchange the Policy for two policies, one on the life of each Insured, without evidence of insurability, if a change in the federal estate tax law results in the permanent repeal of the unlimited marital deduction or the estate tax, a 50% or greater reduction in the

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

29


Table of Contents

estate tax rate or a permanent increase in the applicable exclusion amount to $4 million or more. The exchange must be made while both Insureds are alive and the written request for exchange must be received no later than 180 days after the enactment of a law containing any of the tax law changes described above.

 

The IRS has ruled with respect to one taxpayer that such a transaction would be treated as a non-taxable exchange. If not so treated, such a split of the Policy could result in the recognition of taxable income.

 

Split Dollar Arrangements    Life insurance purchased under a split dollar arrangement is subject to special tax rules. Treasury regulations regarding the taxation of split dollar arrangements provide that split dollar arrangements must be taxed under one of two mutually exclusive tax regimes depending on the ownership of the underlying life insurance policy. Collateral assignment split dollar arrangements, in which the employee owns the policy, must be taxed under a loan regime. Where such an arrangement imposes a below market interest rate or no interest rate, the employee is taxed on the imputed interest under Section 7872 of the Code. Endorsement split dollar arrangements, in which the employer owns the policy, must be taxed under an economic benefit regime. Under this regime, the employee is taxed each year on (i) the value of the current life insurance protection provided to the employee, (ii) the amount of policy Cash Surrender Value to which the employee has current access, and (iii) the value of any other economic benefits provided to the employee during the taxable year.

 

Under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, it is a criminal offense for an employer with publicly traded stock to extend or arrange a personal loan to a director or executive officer. One issue that has not been clarified is whether each Premium Payment paid by such an employer under a split dollar arrangement with a director or executive officer is a personal loan subject to the new law.

 

Section 409A of the Code imposes requirements for nonqualified deferred compensation plans with regard to the timing of deferrals, distribution triggers, funding mechanisms and reporting requirements. Nonqualified deferred compensation plans that fail to meet these conditions are taxed currently on all compensation previously deferred and interest earned thereon and are assessed an additional 20% penalty. The law does not limit the use of life insurance as an informal funding mechanism for nonqualified deferred compensation plans, but Notice 2007-34 treats certain split dollar arrangements as nonqualified deferred compensation plans that must comply with the new rules. These rules became effective December 31, 2008. Congress is also considering limiting an individual’s annual aggregate deferrals to a nonqualified deferred compensation plan to $1,000,000.

 

Valuation of Life Insurance    Special valuation rules apply to Policies distributed from a qualified plan to a participant or transferred by an employer to an employee. IRS Notice 2005-25 provides a safe harbor formula for valuing variable life insurance under which the value is the greater of the interpolated terminal reserve or the cash value (adjusted by a surrender factor for policies distributed from qualified plans), both increased by a pro rata portion of the estimated dividends for the Policy Year.

 

Other Tax Considerations    Taxpayers are required to annually report all “reportable transactions” as defined in the regulations. “Reportable transactions” include transactions that are offered under conditions of confidentiality as to tax treatment and involve an advisor who receives a fee of $250,000 or more, or transactions that include a tax indemnity. Rev. Proc. 2003-25 further held that the purchase of life insurance policies by a business does not, by itself, constitute a “reportable transaction”.

 

Depending on the circumstances, the exchange of a Policy, a Policy loan (including the addition of unpaid loan interest added to a Policy loan) or a change in ownership or an assignment of the Policy may have federal income tax consequences. In addition, federal, state and local transfer, estate, inheritance, and other tax consequences of Policy ownership, Premium Payments and receipt of Policy proceeds depend on the circumstances of each Owner or beneficiary. If you contemplate any such transaction you should consult a qualified tax adviser. In addition, a Death Benefit under the Policy may be subject to federal estate tax and state inheritance taxes.

 

 

Distribution of the Policy

 

We sell the Policy through our Financial Representatives who also are registered representatives of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (“NMIS”). NMIS, our wholly-owned company, was organized under Wisconsin law in 1998 and is located at 611 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202. NMIS is a registered broker-dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. NMIS is the principal underwriter and distributor of the Policy and has entered into a Distribution Agreement with us.

 

Northwestern Mutual variable insurance and annuity products are available exclusively through NMIS and its registered representatives and cannot be held with or transferred to an unaffiliated broker-dealer. Except in limited circumstances, NMIS registered representatives are required to offer Northwestern Mutual variable insurance and annuity products. The amount and timing of sales compensation paid by insurance companies varies. The commissions, benefits, and other sales compensation that NMIS and its registered representatives receive for the sale of a Northwestern Mutual variable insurance or annuity product might be more or less than that received for the sale of a comparable product from another company.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

30


Table of Contents

The maximum commission payable to the registered representative who sells the Policy is 40% of Target Premium and 2.75% of Premium Payments in excess of that amount during the first Policy Year; 6% of Target Premium and 2.75% of Premium Payments in excess of that amount paid in Policy Years 2-10; and 2% of Premium Payments thereafter. We may pay new registered representatives differently during a training period. In addition, a commission of 0.10% of Invested Assets is paid at the end of Policy Years 2-10; and 0.07% of Invested Assets at the end of Policy Years 11 and later. The entire amount of the sales commissions is passed through NMIS to the registered representative who sold the Policy and to his or her managers. The Company pays compensation and bonuses for the management team of NMIS, and other expenses of distributing the Policies.

 

Because registered representatives of NMIS are also our appointed agents, they may be eligible for various cash benefits, such as bonuses, insurance benefits, retirement benefits, and non-cash compensation programs that we offer, such as conferences, achievement recognition, prizes, and awards. In addition, registered representatives of NMIS who meet certain productivity, persistency, and length of service standards and/or their managers may be eligible for additional compensation. For example, registered representatives who meet certain annual sales production requirements with respect to their sales of Northwestern Mutual insurance and annuity products may qualify to receive additional cash compensation for their other sales of investment products and services. Sales of the Policies may help registered representatives and/or their managers qualify for such compensation and benefits. Certain registered representatives of NMIS may receive other payments from us for the recruitment, training, development, and supervision of financial representatives, production of promotional literature and similar services.

 

Commissions and other incentives and payments described above are not charged directly to Owners or to the Separate Account. We intend to recoup commissions and other sales expenses through fees and charges deducted under the Policy.

 

 

Glossary of Terms

 

APPLICATION

The form completed by the applicant when applying for coverage under the Policy. This includes any:

 

1. amendments or endorsements;

2. supplemental Applications;

3. reinstatement Applications; and

4. Policy change Applications.

 

CASH SURRENDER VALUE

The amount we pay you when you surrender your Policy, which is equal to the Policy Value minus the sum of Policy Debt and any surrender charge that would be imposed.

 

CODE

The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

DATE OF ISSUE

The date on which insurance coverage takes effect and the date on which the suicide and contestable periods begin. The date is shown in the Policy.

 

DEATH BENEFIT

The gross amount payable to the beneficiary upon the second death, before the deduction of Policy Debt and other adjustments. (See “Life Insurance Benefit.”)

 

DIVISION

A subdivision of the Separate Account. We invest each Division’s assets exclusively in shares of one Portfolio.

 

FINANCIAL REPRESENTATIVE

An individual who is authorized to sell you the Policy and who is both licensed as a Northwestern Mutual insurance agent and registered as a representative of our affiliate, Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC, the principal underwriter of the Policy.

 

FUND

Each Fund is registered under the 1940 Act as an open-end management investment company or as a unit investment trust, or is not required to be registered under the Act. Each Fund is available as an investment option under the Policy. The assets of each of the Divisions of the Separate Account are used to purchase shares of the corresponding Portfolio of a Fund.

 

GENERAL ACCOUNT

All assets of the Company, other than those held in the Separate Account or in other separate accounts that have been or may be established by the Company.

 

HOME OFFICE

Our office at 720 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-4797.

 

IN FORCE DATE

The date on which the initial net Premium Payment is transferred from the General Account to the Separate Account after you have met all the conditions necessary for us to proceed with the final issuance of your Policy, such as determination of underwriting classification, receipt of minimum premiums and receipt of all paperwork in good order.

 

INITIAL ALLOCATION DATE

The date identified in the Policy schedule pages on which we allocate Net Premium or Invested Assets to the Divisions of the Separate Account according to the Owner’s instructions.

 

INITIAL SPECIFIED AMOUNT

The Specified Amount of coverage on the Date of Issue of the Policy.

 

INSURED

Each of the persons named as an Insured on the Application and in the Policy.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

31


Table of Contents

INVESTED ASSETS

The sum of all amounts in the Divisions of the Separate Account.

 

ISSUE AGE

The age of an Insured on his/her birthday nearest the Policy Date.

 

LIFE INSURANCE BENEFIT

The net amount payable upon the second death. The Life Insurance Benefit equals the Death Benefit reduced by any outstanding Policy Debt and other adjustments if the second death occurs during the Policy Grace Period.

 

LOAN VALUE

An amount equal to 90% of the excess of the Policy Value on the date of the loan over the surrender charge that would be applicable to a surrender on the date of the loan.

 

MEC

Modified endowment contract as described in section 7702A of the Internal Revenue Code.

 

MONTHLY POLICY CHARGE

The amount equal to the sum of:

 

1. the monthly Cost of Insurance Charge;

2. the monthly Mortality and Expense Risk Charge-Invested Assets Component;

3. the monthly Mortality and Expense Risk Charge-Specified Amount Component;

4. the monthly Administrative Charge;

5. the monthly Underwriting and Issue Charge;

6. the monthly Deferred Sales Charge; and

7. the monthly Policy Debt Expense Charge, if applicable.

 

MONTHLY PROCESSING DATE

The first Monthly Processing Date is the Policy Date; thereafter, the Monthly Processing Date is the same day of each month as the Policy Date. If the Monthly Processing Date would otherwise fall on the 29th, 30th or 31st of the month, monthly processing will occur on that day or on the last day of the month if the month does not have that day.

 

NET PREMIUM(S)

The amount of Premium Payment remaining after the Premium Expense Charge has been deducted.

 

OWNER (You, Your)

The person named in the Application as the Owner, or the person who becomes Owner by transfer or succession.

 

POLICY ANNIVERSARY

The same day and month as the Policy Date in each year following the first Policy Year.

 

POLICY DATE

The date shown on the Policy Schedule Page from which the following are computed:

 

1. Policy Year;

2. Policy Anniversary;

3. Monthly Processing Date; and

4. the Issue Age of each Insured.

 

POLICY DEBT

The total amount of all outstanding Policy loans, including both principal and accrued interest.

 

POLICY GRACE PERIOD

A 61-day period after which a Policy will lapse if you do not make a sufficient payment.

 

POLICY VALUE

The sum of Invested Assets and Policy Debt.

 

POLICY YEAR

A year that starts on the Policy Date or on a Policy Anniversary.

 

PORTFOLIO

A series of a Fund available for investment under the Policy which corresponds to a particular Division of the Separate Account.

 

PREMIUM PAYMENTS

All payments you make under the Policy other than loan repayments and transaction fees.

 

SEPARATE ACCOUNT

Northwestern Mutual Variable Life Account II.

 

SPECIFIED AMOUNT

The amount you select, subject to minimums and underwriting requirements we establish, used in determining the insurance coverage on the Insureds’ lives.

 

TARGET PREMIUM

A hypothetical annual premium, which is based on the Specified Amount, and the Insureds’ Issue Ages, sex, and underwriting classifications, used to compute part of the Premium Expense Charge, the Deferred Sales Charge, the Surrender Charge and the sales commission.

 

VALUATION DATE

Any day the NYSE is open for trading, except for any days specified in the Policy’s prospectus and any day that a Division’s corresponding investment option does not value its shares. A Valuation Date ends when the NYSE closes.

 

VALUATION PERIOD

The time between the close of trading on the NYSE on a Valuation Date and the close of trading on the next Valuation Date.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

32


Table of Contents

Additional Information

 

More information about the Separate Account is included in a Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”), which is dated the same day as this prospectus, is incorporated by reference in this prospectus, and is available free of charge from The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company. To request a free copy of the Separate Account’s SAI, or current annual report, call us toll-free at 1-866-464-3800. Under certain circumstances you or your financial representative may be able to obtain these documents online at www.northwesternmutual.com. Information about the Separate Account (including the SAI) can be reviewed and copied at the Public Reference Room of the SEC in Washington, DC. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-202-551-8090. Reports and other information about the Separate Account are available on the SEC’s Internet site at http://www.sec.gov, or they may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by writing the Public Reference Section of the SEC, 100 F St., NE, Washington, DC 20549-0102.

 

Your Financial Representative will provide you with illustrations for a Survivorship Variable Universal Life Policy free of charge upon your request. The illustrations show how the Death Benefit, Invested Assets and Cash Surrender Value for a Policy would vary based on hypothetical investment results. Your Financial Representative will also respond to other inquiries you may have regarding the Policy, or you may contact the Advanced Business Services Center at 1-866-464-3800.

 

Investment Company Act File No. 811- 21933

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

33


Table of Contents

APPENDIX A

 

Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Specified Amount Component

 

Table of Charges Per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount

 

Issue Age*

   Annual
Charge

20-25

   $ 0.04

26

     0.05

27

     0.06

28

     0.07

29

     0.08

30

     0.09

31

     0.10

32

     0.11

33

     0.12

34

     0.13

35

     0.14

36

     0.17

37

     0.19

38

     0.22

39

     0.25

40

     0.28

41

     0.30

42

     0.33

43

     0.36

44

     0.38

45

     0.41

46

     0.44

47

     0.47

48

     0.50

49

     0.53

50

     0.57

51

     0.60

52

     0.63

53

     0.66

54

     0.69

55

     0.72

56

     0.77

57

     0.83

58

     0.88

59

     0.94

60

     0.99

61

     1.04

62

     1.10

63

     1.15

64

     1.21

65

     1.26

66

     1.31

67

     1.35

68

     1.40

69

     1.44

70

     1.49

71

     1.54

72

     1.58

73

     1.63

74

     1.67

75-85

     1.72

 

* The Issue Age used in this calculation equals the younger Insured Issue Age plus an age adjustment. The age adjustment is based on the age difference (older Issue Age minus younger Issue Age) and this schedule:

 

Age Difference
(years)

   Age Adjustment
(years)

0-1

   0

2-4

   1

5-8

   2

9-14

   3

15-24

   4

25-34

   5

35-44

   6

45-54

   7

55-65

   8

 

Example: For a Policy at Issue Ages 65 and 60 and an Initial Specified Amount of $1,000,000, the age adjustment is 2 and the Issue Age is 62. The annual charge per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount is $1.10. The Monthly Policy Charge—Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Specified Amount component will be $91.67 monthly, or $1,100.04 annually for this Policy.

 

Note: In no event will the sum of the Monthly Policy Charge—Mortality and Expense Risk Charge—Specified Amount component annual charge and the Monthly Policy Charge—Underwriting and Issue Charge annual charge exceed $1.90 per $1,000 of Initial Specified Amount. The Monthly Policy Charge—Underwriting and Issue Charge will be reduced to meet this constraint if necessary.

 

Survivorship Variable Universal Life Prospectus

 

34


Table of Contents

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL VARIABLE LIFE ACCOUNT II

(Account)

THE NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

(Depositor)

720 EAST WISCONSIN AVENUE

MILWAUKEE, WI 53202

1-866-464-3800

STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Survivorship Variable Universal Life

 

 

This Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”) contains additional information regarding the Survivorship Variable Universal Life insurance policy (the “Policy”) offered by The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (“Northwestern Mutual”). This SAI is not a prospectus, and should be read together with the prospectus for the Policy dated May 1, 2010. You may obtain a copy of the prospectus by writing or calling Northwestern Mutual at the address or phone number shown above, or by visiting the Northwestern Mutual website at www.northwesternmutual.com. Capitalized terms in this SAI have the same meanings as in the prospectus for the Policy.

The (i) statement of assets and liabilities as of the end of the most recent fiscal year, (ii) the statement of operations for the most recent fiscal year, and (iii) the changes in net assets for the two most recent fiscal years from the audited financial statements of the Northwestern Mutual Variable Life Account II (“the Account”), and the related notes to the financial statements and the report of the independent registered public accounting firm thereon from the Account’s Annual Report to Policy Owners for the year ended December 31, 2009, are incorporated by reference into this SAI. See “Financial Statements of the Account.” No other information is incorporated by reference.

The date of this Statement of Additional Information is May 1, 2010.

 

 

 

B-1


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

      Page

DISTRIBUTION OF THE POLICY

   B-3
EXPERTS    B-3

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE ACCOUNT

   B-3

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

   F-1

 

B-2


Table of Contents

DISTRIBUTION OF THE POLICY

Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (“NMIS”), our wholly company, is the principal underwriter and distributor of the Policy. NMIS is located at 611 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202. The Policy is offered on a continuous basis exclusively through our Financial Representatives, who are also registered representatives of NMIS. We do not anticipate discontinuing the offering of the Policy but we reserve the right to do so at any time.

NMIS is the principal underwriter of the Policies for purposes of the federal securities laws. We paid the following amounts to NMIS with respect to sales of variable life insurance policies issued in connection with the Account during each of the last fiscal year representing commission payments NMIS made to our agents and related benefits. None of these amounts was retained by NMIS and no amounts were paid to other underwriters or broker-dealers. We also paid additional amounts to NMIS in reimbursement for other expenses related to the distribution of variable life insurance policies.

 

Year

   Amount

2009

   $ 4,658,699

2008

   $
4,563,438

2007*

   $ 2,198,549
  * The Account commenced operations on January 31, 2007.

NMIS also provides certain services related to the administration of payment plans under the Policy pursuant to an administrative services contract with Northwestern Mutual. In exchange for these services, NMIS receives compensation to cover the actual costs incurred by NMIS in performing these services.

EXPERTS

The financial statements of the Account, and the related notes and report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, and independent registered public accounting firm, contained in the Annual Report to Policy Owners for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009, that are incorporated by reference into this Statement of Additional Information, and the consolidated financial statements of Northwestern Mutual, and the related notes and report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, for the fiscal year ended on the same date that have been included in this Statement of Additional Information are so included in reliance on the reports of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, given on the authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP provides audit services for the Account. The address of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP is 100 East Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1800, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE ACCOUNT

The financial statements of the Account, related notes and the related report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, contained in the Annual Report to Policy Owners as of December 31, 2009, and for the year then ended are hereby incorporated by reference to Form N-30B-2 for the Account, File No. 811-21933, filed on March 11, 2010. Copies of the Account’s Annual Report may be obtained, without charge, by writing to The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, 720 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202, by calling 1-866-424-2609, or by visiting the website www.northwesternmutual.com.

 

B-3


Table of Contents

The following consolidated financial statements of Northwestern Mutual should be considered only as bearing upon the ability of Northwestern Mutual to meet its obligations under the Policy.

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

(in millions)

 

 

     December 31,
     2009    2008

Assets:

     

Bonds

   $ 91,004    $ 79,314

Mortgage loans

     21,024      21,677

Policy loans

     13,717      12,884

Common and preferred stocks

     5,918      5,744

Real estate

     1,582      1,528

Other investments

     8,587      9,185

Cash and temporary investments

     2,610      4,807
             

Total investments

     144,442      135,139

Due and accrued investment income

     1,632      1,498

Income taxes recoverable

     —        73

Net deferred tax assets

     2,359      2,696

Deferred premium and other assets

     2,403      2,361

Separate account assets

     16,344      13,387
             

Total assets

   $ 167,180    $ 155,154
             

Liabilities and Surplus:

  

Reserves for policy benefits

   $ 125,025    $ 117,954

Policyowner dividends payable

     4,730      4,555

Interest maintenance reserve

     519      192

Asset valuation reserve

     1,843      1,023

Income taxes payable

     288      —  

Other liabilities

     6,028      5,642

Separate account liabilities

     16,344      13,387
             

Total liabilities

     154,777      142,753

Surplus

     12,403      12,401
             

Total liabilities and surplus

   $ 167,180    $ 155,154
             

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

F-1


Table of Contents

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Consolidated Statement of Operations

(in millions)

 

 

     For the year ended
December 31,
     2009     2008     2007

Revenue:

      

Premiums

   $ 13,062      $ 13,551      $ 13,242

Net investment income

     7,772        7,835        7,568

Other income

     532        537        545
                      

Total revenue

     21,366        21,923        21,355
                      

Benefits and expenses:

      

Benefit payments to policyowners and beneficiaries

     6,807        6,071        5,544

Net additions to policy benefit reserves

     7,178        8,491        7,904

Net transfers to (from) separate accounts

     (40     (102     484
                      

Total benefits

     13,945        14,460        13,932

Commissions and operating expenses

     2,189        2,070        2,009
                      

Total benefits and expenses

     16,134        16,530        15,941
                      

Gain from operations before dividends and taxes

     5,232        5,393        5,414

Policyowner dividends

     4,715        4,547        5,012
                      

Gain from operations before taxes

     517        846        402

Income tax expense (benefit)

     42        (304     21
                      

Net gain from operations

     475        1,150        381

Net realized capital gains (losses)

     (154     (667     619
                      

Net income

   $ 321      $ 483      $ 1,000
                      

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

F-2


Table of Contents

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Surplus

(in millions)

 

 

     For the year ended
December 31,
 
     2009     2008     2007  

Beginning of year balance

   $ 12,401      $ 12,106      $ 11,684   

Net income

     321        483        1,000   

Change in net unrealized capital gains (losses)

     503        (3,483     (12

Change in net deferred tax assets

     (204     (20     165   

Change in nonadmitted assets and other

     141        (178     (137

Change in asset valuation reserve

     (820     2,664        (594

Change in accounting principle

     61        829        —     
                        

Net increase in surplus

     2        295        422   
                        

End of year balance

   $ 12,403      $ 12,401      $ 12,106   
                        

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

F-3


Table of Contents

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

(in millions)

 

 

     For the year ended
December 31,
 
     2009     2008     2007  

Cash flows from operating activities:

      

Premiums and other income received

   $ 9,264      $ 9,379      $ 9,495   

Investment income received

     7,779        7,838        7,424   

Benefit payments to policyowners and beneficiaries

     (7,122     (6,442     (5,904

Net transfers from (to) separate accounts

     66        121        (474

Commissions, expenses and taxes paid

     (1,644     (2,115     (2,148
                        

Net cash provided by operating activities

     8,343        8,781        8,393   
                        

Cash flows from investing activities:

      

Proceeds from investments sold or matured:

      

Bonds

     41,409        42,698        64,980   

Common and preferred stocks

     9,057        5,527        6,099   

Mortgage loans

     2,058        1,811        2,940   

Real estate

     460        199        177   

Other investments

     825        1,669        1,175   
                        
     53,809        51,904        75,371   
                        

Cost of investments acquired:

      

Bonds

     53,306        46,592        70,890   

Common and preferred stocks

     7,408        5,121        5,594   

Mortgage loans

     1,411        2,659        4,422   

Real estate

     250        118        151   

Other investments

     1,658        2,712        2,401   
                        
     64,033        57,202        83,458   
                        

Disbursement of policy loans, net of repayments

     834        1,087        802   
                        

Net cash applied to investing activities

     (11,058     (6,385     (8,889
                        

Cash flows from financing and miscellaneous sources:

      

Net inflows (outflows) on deposit-type contracts

     (20     (84     235   

Other cash provided (applied)

     538        (52     (77
                        

Net cash provided by (applied to) financing and miscellaneous sources:

     518        (136     158   
                        

Net increase (decrease) in cash and temporary investments

     (2,197     2,260        (338

Cash and temporary investments, beginning of year

     4,807        2,547        2,885   
                        

Cash and temporary investments, end of year

   $ 2,610      $ 4,807      $ 2,547   
                        

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

F-4


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

1.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated statutory financial statements include the accounts of The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company and its wholly owned subsidiary, Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company (together, “the Company”). All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. The Company offers life, annuity, disability and long-term care insurance products to the personal, business and estate markets.

The consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance of the State of Wisconsin (“statutory basis of accounting”), which are based on the Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”). Financial statements prepared on the statutory basis of accounting differ from financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), primarily because on a GAAP basis: (1) certain policy acquisition costs are deferred and amortized, (2) most bond and preferred stock investments are reported at fair value, (3) policy benefit reserves are established using different actuarial methods and assumptions, (4) deposit-type contracts, for which premiums, benefits and reserve changes are not included in revenue or benefits as reported in the statement of operations, are defined differently, (5) majority-owned, non-insurance subsidiaries are consolidated, (6) changes in deferred taxes are reported as a component of net income and (7) no deferral of realized investment gains and losses is permitted. The effects on the Company’s financial statements attributable to the differences between the statutory basis of accounting and GAAP are material.

Certain accounting practices used by the Company vary from the Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual of the NAIC with the permission of the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance of the State of Wisconsin (“permitted practices”). Permitted practices are used in situations where the NAIC does not provide accounting guidance specific to a transaction entered into by the Company or where the Company and the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (“OCI”) agree that an alternative accounting practice would be more appropriate based on the Company’s circumstances.

During 2008, the Company adopted permitted practices regarding valuation of net deferred tax assets (see Note 10) and equity method accounting for the Company’s investment in Frank Russell Company common stock (see Note 11). Additionally, the Company was previously granted a permitted practice by the OCI regarding valuation of its oil and gas investments (see Note 3).

 

2.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with the statutory basis of accounting requires management to make estimates or assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the annual periods presented. Actual future results could differ from these estimates and assumptions.

Investments

See Notes 3, 4 and 14 regarding the statement value and fair value of the Company’s investments in bonds, mortgage loans, common and preferred stocks, real estate and other investments, including derivative instruments.

 

F-5


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Policy Loans

Policy loans represent amounts borrowed from the Company by life insurance policyowners, secured by the cash value of the related policies, and are reported at unpaid principal balance. Policy loans earn interest at either a fixed rate established at the time the loan is requested by the policyowner or at a variable rate which is reset annually, with annual interest rates ranging from 5.00% to 8.00% for loans outstanding at December 31, 2009. Policy loans have no stated maturity date, with repayment of principal made at the discretion of the policyowner. Policyowner dividends available on the portion of life insurance cash values that serve as collateral for policy loans are generally determined with reference to the interest rate charged on the policy loan (“direct recognition method”). As a result, the Company considers the unpaid principal balance to approximate fair value for policy loans.

Temporary Investments

Temporary investments represent securities that had maturities of one year or less at purchase, primarily money market funds and short-term commercial paper. These investments are reported at amortized cost, which approximates fair value.

Separate Accounts

Separate account assets and related reserve liabilities represent the segregation of balances attributable to variable life insurance and variable annuity products, including a group annuity separate account used to fund certain of the Company’s employee and financial representative benefit plan obligations. Policyowners bear the investment performance risk associated with variable products. Separate account assets are invested at the direction of the policyowner in a variety of mutual fund options. Variable annuity policyowners also have the option to invest in fixed rate investment options, which are supported by the assets held in the Company’s general account. Separate account assets are reported at fair value based primarily on quoted market prices. See Note 7 for more information about the Company’s separate accounts and Note 8 for more information about the Company’s employee and financial representative benefit plans.

Reserves for Policy Benefits

Reserves for policy benefits represent the net present value of future policy benefits less future policy premiums, calculated using actuarial methods, mortality and morbidity experience tables and valuation interest rates prescribed or permitted by the OCI. These actuarial tables and methods include assumptions regarding future mortality and morbidity experience. Actual future experience could differ from the assumptions used to make these reserve estimates. See Note 5 for more information about the Company’s reserves for policy benefits.

Policyowner Dividends

All life, disability and long-term care insurance policies and certain annuity policies issued by the Company are participating. Annually, the Company’s Board of Trustees approves dividends payable on participating policies during the subsequent fiscal year, which are accrued and charged to operations when approved. Participating policyowners generally have the option to direct their dividends to be paid in cash, used to reduce future premiums due, used to purchase additional insurance benefits or left on deposit with the Company to accumulate interest. Dividends used by policyowners to purchase additional insurance benefits are reported as premiums in the consolidated statement of operations, but are not included in premiums received or benefit payments in the consolidated statement of cash flows. The Company’s annual declaration of policyowner dividends includes a guarantee of a minimum aggregate amount of

 

F-6


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

dividends to be paid to policyowners as a group in the subsequent fiscal year. If this guaranteed amount is greater than the aggregate of actual dividends paid to policyowners in the subsequent year, the difference is paid in the immediately succeeding calendar year.

Interest Maintenance Reserve

The Company is required to maintain an interest maintenance reserve (“IMR”). The IMR is used to defer realized capital gains and losses, net of income tax, on fixed income investments and derivatives that are attributable to changes in market interest rates, including both changes in risk-free market interest rates and market credit spreads. Net realized capital gains and losses deferred to the IMR are amortized into investment income over the estimated remaining term to maturity of the investment sold or the asset/liability hedged by an interest rate-related derivative instrument.

Asset Valuation Reserve

The Company is required to maintain an asset valuation reserve (“AVR”). The AVR represents a reserve for invested asset valuation using a formula prescribed by the NAIC. The AVR is intended to protect surplus against potential declines in the value of the Company’s investments that are not related to changes in interest rates. Increases or decreases in the AVR are reported as direct adjustments to surplus in the consolidated statement of changes in surplus.

Premium Revenue

Most life insurance premiums are recognized as revenue at the beginning of each respective policy year. Universal life insurance and annuity premiums are recognized as revenue when received. Considerations received on supplementary annuity contracts without life contingencies are deposit-type transactions and excluded from revenue in the consolidated statement of operations. Disability and long-term care insurance premiums are recognized as revenue when due. Premium revenue is reported net of ceded reinsurance. See Note 9 for more information about the Company’s use of reinsurance.

Net Investment Income

Net investment income primarily represents interest and dividends received or accrued on bonds, mortgage loans, common and preferred stocks, policy loans and other investments. Accrued investment income more than 90 days past due is a nonadmitted asset and reported as a direct reduction of surplus in the consolidated statement of changes in surplus. Accruals of investment income for securities that have been determined to be other-than-temporarily impaired are generally suspended. Accrued investment income that is ultimately deemed uncollectible is included as a reduction of net investment income in the period that such determination is made. Net investment income also includes dividends and distributions paid to the Company from accumulated earnings of joint ventures, partnerships and unconsolidated non-insurance subsidiaries and prepayment fees on bonds and mortgage loans. Net investment income is reduced by investment management expenses, real estate depreciation, depletion related to oil and natural gas investments and interest costs associated with securities lending. See Note 3 for more information regarding net investment income.

Other Income

Other income primarily represents ceded reinsurance expense allowances and various insurance policy charges. See Note 9 for more information about the Company’s use of reinsurance.

 

F-7


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Benefit Payments to Policyowners and Beneficiaries

Benefit payments to policyowners and beneficiaries include death, surrender, disability and long-term care benefits, as well as matured endowments and payments on supplementary annuity contracts that include life contingencies. Benefit payments on supplementary annuity contracts without life contingencies are deposit-type transactions and excluded from benefits in the consolidated statement of operations. Benefit payments are reported net of ceded reinsurance recoveries. See Note 9 for more information about the Company’s use of reinsurance.

Commissions and Operating Expenses

Commissions and other operating costs, including costs of acquiring new insurance policies, are generally charged to expense as incurred.

Information Technology Equipment and Software

The cost of information technology (“IT”) equipment and operating system software is generally capitalized and depreciated over three years using the straight-line method. Non-operating system software is generally capitalized and depreciated over a maximum of five years. IT equipment and operating software assets of $44 million and $43 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, are included in other assets in the consolidated statement of financial position and are net of accumulated depreciation of $171 million and $143 million, respectively. Non-operating software costs, net of accumulated depreciation, are nonadmitted assets and thereby excluded from assets and surplus in the consolidated statement of financial position. Depreciation expense for IT equipment and software totaled $83 million, $79 million and $79 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment

The cost of furniture, fixtures and equipment, including leasehold improvements, is generally capitalized and depreciated over the useful life of the assets using the straight-line method. The cost of furniture, fixtures and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation, are nonadmitted assets and thereby excluded from assets and surplus in the consolidated statement of financial position. Depreciation expense for furniture, fixtures and equipment totaled $7 million, $6 million and $6 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

Investment Capital Gains and Losses

Realized capital gains and losses are recognized based upon specific identification of investment assets sold. Realized capital losses also include valuation adjustments for impairment of bonds, mortgage loans, common and preferred stocks, real estate and other investments that have experienced a decline in fair value that management considers to be other-than-temporary. Realized capital gains and losses as reported in the consolidated statement of operations exclude any IMR deferrals. See Note 3 for more information regarding realized capital gains and losses, including other-than-temporary investment impairments.

Unrealized capital gains and losses primarily represent changes in the fair value of common stocks and other equity investments and changes in valuation adjustments made for bonds in or near default. Changes in the Company’s equity method share of undistributed earnings of joint ventures, partnerships and unconsolidated non-insurance subsidiaries are also included in changes in unrealized capital gains and losses. See Note 3 for more information regarding unrealized capital gains and losses.

 

F-8


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Nonadmitted Assets

Certain assets are designated as nonadmitted on the statutory basis of accounting. Such assets, principally related to pension funding, amounts advanced to or due from the Company’s financial representatives, furniture, fixtures, equipment and non-operating software (net of accumulated depreciation), deferred tax assets in excess of statutory limits and certain investments are excluded from assets and surplus in the consolidated statement of financial position. Changes in nonadmitted assets are reported as a direct adjustment to surplus in the consolidated statement of changes in surplus.

Subsequent Events

The Company has evaluated events subsequent to December 31, 2009 through February 15, 2010, the date these consolidated financial statements were available to be issued. Based on this evaluation, certain events subsequent to December 31, 2009 have been disclosed (see Note 9 and Note 11). None of these subsequent events required adjustment to the consolidated financial statements at December 31, 2009 or for the periods then ended.

Reclassifications

Certain amounts in prior year footnote disclosures have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

 

3.

Investments

Bonds

Investments in bonds rated “1” (highest quality), “2” (high quality), “3” (medium quality), “4” (low quality) or “5” (lower quality) by the Securities Valuation Office (“SVO”) of the NAIC are reported at amortized cost, less any valuation adjustment. Bonds rated “6” (lowest quality) by the SVO are reported at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. The interest method is used to amortize any purchase premium or discount, including estimates of future prepayments obtained from independent sources. Prepayment assumptions are updated at least annually, using the retrospective method to adjust net investment income for changes in the estimated yield to maturity.

The statutory basis of accounting permits fair value disclosures for bonds to be based on values published by the SVO, quoted market prices, independent pricing services or internally developed pricing models. Disclosure of fair value for bonds at December 31, 2009 is primarily based on independent pricing services or internally developed pricing models utilizing observable market data. At December 31, 2008 the fair value of bonds was based primarily on values published by the SVO. In the absence of SVO-published values at December 31, 2008, fair value was based on independent pricing services or internally developed pricing models utilizing observable market data. See Note 14 for more information regarding the fair value of the Company’s investments in bonds.

Statement value and fair value of bonds at December 31, 2009 and 2008, summarized by asset categories required in the NAIC Annual Statement, were as follows:

 

F-9


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

December 31, 2009

   Reconciliation to Fair Value
     Statement
Value
   Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    Fair
Value
     (in millions)

U.S. Government

   $ 8,667    $ 178    $ (411   $ 8,434

States, territories and possessions

     1,019      33      (65     987

Special revenue and assessments

     14,786      611      (39     15,358

All foreign governments

     1,219      123      (2     1,340

Hybrid securities

     383      22      (28     377

Industrial and miscellaneous

     64,930      3,017      (1,875     66,072
                            

Total bonds

   $ 91,004    $ 3,984    $ (2,420   $ 92,568
                            

December 31, 2008

   Reconciliation to Fair Value
     Statement
Value
   Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    Fair
Value
     (in millions)

U.S. Government

   $ 7,795    $ 1,555    $ (4   $ 9,346

States, territories and possessions

     463      61      (7     517

Special revenue and assessments

     13,084      454      (44     13,494

All foreign governments

     1,313      319      —          1,632

Hybrid securities

     442      4      (122     324

Industrial and miscellaneous

     56,217      656      (7,450     49,423
                            

Total bonds

   $ 79,314    $ 3,049    $ (7,627   $ 74,736
                            

As of December 31, 2009, U.S. Government securities were in a net unrealized loss position of $233 million, compared to a net unrealized gain of $1.5 billion at December 31, 2008. The fair value of these securities reflects the relationship between the stated interest rate on the bonds held by the Company and current market yields. This relationship was impacted by rising market yields on U.S. Government securities during 2009, as well as sales by the Company of certain holdings with above market interest rates and purchases of new bonds with lower market yields. Industrial and miscellaneous corporate bonds were in a net unrealized gain position of $1.1 billion as of December 31, 2009 compared to a net unrealized loss of $6.8 billion as of December 31, 2008, primarily the result of historically high market credit spreads as of December 31, 2008, and the significant narrowing of those spreads during 2009.

Based on statement value, 90% and 89% of the Company’s bond portfolio was rated as investment-grade (i.e., rated “1” or “2” by the SVO) at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. As of December 31, 2009, the Company held below investment grade bonds with a statement value of $2.0 billion that were previously classified as investment grade as of December 31, 2008 (“downgrades”). During 2009, the aggregate fair value of these bonds increased by $174 million. At December 31, 2009, the Company held bonds with an aggregate statement value of $199 million that were re-rated as investment grade at that date, but had been rated as below investment grade at December 31, 2008 (“upgrades”). During 2009, the aggregate fair value of these bonds increased by $48 million. These changes in fair value included both changes in the credit circumstances of the individual issuer as well as the general narrowing of credit spreads during 2009.

 

F-10


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Statement value of bonds by NAIC rating category at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

December 31, 2009

   NAIC Rating
     1    2    3    4    5    6    Total
     (in millions)

U.S. Government

   $ 8,667    $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —      $ 8,667

States, territories and possessions

     935      84      —        —        —        —        1,019

Special revenue and assessments

     14,786      —        —        —        —        —        14,786

All foreign governments

     1,146      73      —        —        —        —        1,219

Hybrid securities

     249      93      26      10      —        5      383

Industrial and miscellaneous

     30,525      25,465      3,821      2,849      2,093      177      64,930
                                                

Total bonds

   $ 56,308    $ 25,715    $ 3,847    $ 2,859    $ 2,093    $ 182    $ 91,004
                                                

December 31, 2008

   NAIC Rating
     1    2    3    4    5    6    Total
     (in millions)

U.S. Government

   $ 7,795    $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —      $ 7,795

States, territories and possessions

     363      100      —        —        —        —        463

Special revenue and assessments

     12,904      180      —        —        —        —        13,084

All foreign governments

     1,224      89      —        —        —        —        1,313

Hybrid securities

     372      65      5      —        —        —        442

Industrial and miscellaneous

     26,059      21,211      3,820      3,308      1,684      135      56,217
                                                

Total bonds

   $ 48,717    $ 21,645    $ 3,825    $ 3,308    $ 1,684    $ 135    $ 79,314
                                                

Statement value and fair value of bonds by contractual maturity at December 31, 2009 are summarized below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain borrowers have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment premiums.

 

     Statement
Value
   Fair
Value
     (in millions)

Due in one year or less

   $ 2,249    $ 2,291

Due after one year through five years

     16,916      17,498

Due after five years through ten years

     28,145      29,147

Due after ten years

     17,498      17,798
             
     64,808      66,734

Mortgage-backed and structured securities

     26,196      25,834
             

Total

   $ 91,004    $ 92,568
             

 

F-11


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

The tables below summarize the composition of the Company’s investments in public and private mortgage-backed and other structured securities at December 31, 2009 and 2008. The investment grade designation is based on an NAIC rating of “1” or “2”. These ratings are subject to change based upon subsequent evaluations of credit quality by the SVO or other rating agencies. On a statement value basis, 96% and 98% of the Company’s investments in these securities were rated as investment grade as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, with a significant concentration in residential mortgage-backed securities issued by government agencies. The decrease in the investment grade percentage is primarily attributable to downgrades of certain CMBS holdings during 2009.

 

December 31, 2009

   Investment Grade    Below Investment Grade    Total
     Statement
Value
   Fair Value    Statement
Value
   Fair Value    Statement
Value
   Fair Value
     (in millions)    (in millions)    (in millions)

Residential Mortgage-Backed:

                 

Government Agencies

   $ 15,835    $ 16,455    $ 1    $ 1    $ 15,836    $ 16,456

Other Prime

     1,730      1,711      22      20      1,752      1,731

Other Below-prime

     495      442      147      111      642      553

Commercial Mortgage-Backed:

                 

Government Agencies

     491      480      —        —        491      480

Conduit

     2,447      2,251      328      143      2,775      2,394

Re-REMIC

     304      208      142      20      446      228

Collateralized Debt Obligations

     118      60      161      24      279      84

Other Commercial Mortgage-Backed

     61      62      9      7      70      69

Other Asset-Backed

     3,682      3,760      223      79      3,905      3,839
                                         

Total Structured Securities

   $ 25,163    $ 25,429    $ 1,033    $ 405    $ 26,196    $ 25,834
                                         

December 31, 2008

   Investment Grade    Below Investment Grade    Total
     Statement
Value
   Fair Value    Statement
Value
   Fair Value    Statement
Value
   Fair Value
     (in millions)    (in millions)    (in millions)

Residential Mortgage-Backed:

                 

Government Agencies

   $ 13,280    $ 13,750    $ —      $ —      $ 13,280    $ 13,750

Other Prime

     1,806      1,650      —        —        1,806      1,650

Other Below-prime

     641      532      198      118      839      650

Commercial Mortgage-Backed:

                 

Government Agencies

     323      329      —        —        323      329

Conduit

     2,316      1,625      33      14      2,349      1,639

Re-REMIC

     280      77      61      5      341      82

Collateralized Debt Obligations

     272      89      40      6      312      95

Other Commercial Mortgage-Backed

     238      146      18      3      256      149

Other Asset-Backed

     3,767      3,391      70      33      3,837      3,424
                                         

Total Structured Securities

   $ 22,923    $ 21,589    $ 420    $ 179    $ 23,343    $ 21,768
                                         

Mortgage-backed securities issued by government agencies experienced favorable movements in fair value relative to statement value during 2009 and 2008 due to declining market yields for such securities. Narrower credit spreads during 2009 on securities not backed by the U.S. government resulted in a recovery of a portion of the market value declines for other mortgage-backed and structured securities that had occurred in 2008. Other asset-backed securities shown above are primarily backed by credit card and automobile loans.

 

F-12


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Sub-prime and other Below-prime Mortgage Risk

Sub-prime mortgages are residential loans to borrowers with weak credit profiles. Alt-A mortgages are residential loans to borrowers who generally have credit profiles above sub-prime but do not conform to traditional (“prime”) mortgage underwriting guidelines. The Company has invested in certain mortgage-backed and structured securities that include exposure to sub-prime and other below-prime mortgage loans. These investments are included in bonds in the consolidated statement of financial position and generally reported at amortized cost, less any valuation adjustments. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, the statement value of sub-prime investments was $1 million and $8 million, respectively, and the statement value of Alt-A and other below-prime investments was $641 million and $831 million, respectively. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, the fair value of sub-prime investments was $1 million and $2 million, respectively, and the fair value of Alt-A and other below-prime investments was $552 million and $648 million, respectively. Of the Alt-A and other below-prime investments held by the Company at December 31, 2009 and 2008, 77% and 76%, respectively, were rated as investment-grade.

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, 84% and 96%, respectively, of the Company’s commercial mortgage-backed securities were rated as investment grade. Statement values of these securities by NAIC rating category and year of origination at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

December 31, 2009

   NAIC Rating
     1    2    3    4    5    6    Total
     (in millions)

2009

   $ 360    $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —      $ 360

2008

     10      —        —        —        —        —        10

2007

     297      147      106      90      26      2      668

2006

     611      54      53      87      12      —        817

2005

     445      79      48      44      20      1      637

2004 & prior

     1,250      168      100      43      8      —        1,569
                                                

Total

   $ 2,973    $ 448    $ 307    $ 264    $ 66    $ 3    $ 4,061
                                                

December 31, 2008

   NAIC Rating
     1    2    3    4    5    6    Total
     (in millions)

2007

   $ 677    $ 58    $ 14    $ —      $ —      $ —      $ 749

2006

     849      44      10      18      2      —        923

2005

     434      119      7      21      19      —        600

2004

     197      70      4      19      —        —        290

2003 & prior

     804      177      14      24      —        —        1,019
                                                

Total

   $ 2,961    $ 468    $ 49    $ 82    $ 21    $ —      $ 3,581
                                                

Mortgage Loans

Mortgage loans consist solely of commercial mortgage loans underwritten and originated by the Company and are reported at unpaid principal balance, less any valuation adjustments or unamortized commitment or origination fees. Such fees are generally deferred upon receipt and amortized into net investment income using the interest method. See Note 14 for more

 

F-13


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

information regarding the fair value of the Company’s investments in mortgage loans.

The maximum and minimum interest rates for mortgage loans originated during 2009 were 8.5% and 5.2%, respectively, while these rates during 2008 were 7.0% and 4.8%, respectively. The aggregate ratio of amounts loaned to the fair value of collateral for mortgage loans originated during 2009 and 2008 was 58% and 63%, respectively, with a maximum of 100% for any single loan during each of 2009 and 2008. Loans with a 100% loan-to-value are made on a very limited basis and represent construction loans on build-to-suit properties, structured to be refinanced upon completion with a loan-to-value between 50% to 70%. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the aggregate weighted-average loan-to-value ratio for the mortgage loan portfolio was 72% and 66%, respectively. The increase in the aggregate loan-to-value ratio during 2009, as shown in the table following, is primarily the result of declining fair values for the underlying collateral, based on current appraisals performed by the Company.

Fair value of the collateral securing the Company’s commercial mortgage loan portfolio is evaluated at least annually by the Company’s real estate professionals. More frequent evaluations are performed as necessary in the event of changes in the market capitalization rates, borrower financial strength and/or property performance. Fair value of the collateral is estimated using the income capitalization approach based on stabilized property income and market capitalization rates. Stabilized property income is derived from actual property financial statements, adjusted for non-recurring items, normalized market vacancy and lease rollover, among other factors. Other collateral, such as excess land and additional capital required to maintain property income, are also factored into fair value estimates. Private market transactions and public market alternatives are considered in determining market capitalization rates.

The aggregate ratios of amounts loaned to fair value of collateral for mortgage loans by property type as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

December 31, 2009

   < 50%    51%-70%    71%-90%    > 90%    Total
     (statement value, in millions)

Apartment

   $ 633    $ 1,353    $ 3,448    $ 1,008    $ 6,442

Office

     733      2,303      1,901      531      5,468

Retail

     387      2,173      2,496      249      5,305

Warehouse/Industrial

     97      754      1,130      787      2,768

Other

     101      246      602      92      1,041
                                  

Total

   $ 1,951    $ 6,829    $ 9,577    $ 2,667    $ 21,024
                                  

December 31, 2008

   < 50%    51%-70%    71%-90%    > 90%    Total
     (statement value, in millions)

Apartment

   $ 818    $ 2,841    $ 2,662    $ 993    $ 7,314

Office

     1,622      2,124      1,615      207      5,568

Retail

     775      2,730      1,100      297      4,902

Warehouse/Industrial

     296      868      1,205      400      2,769

Other

     183      649      180      112      1,124
                                  

Total

   $ 3,694    $ 9,212    $ 6,762    $ 2,009    $ 21,677
                                  

 

F-14


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

The statement value of mortgage loans by contractual maturity at December 31, 2009 is summarized below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain borrowers have the right to prepay obligations with or without prepayment premiums.

 

     Statement
Value

Due in one year or less

   $ 1,291

Due after one year through two years

     1,429

Due after two years through five years

     6,752

Due after five years through eight years

     6,325

Due after eight years

     5,227
      
   $ 21,024
      

The geographic diversification of the Company’s mortgage loans by property type as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

December 31, 2009

   East    Midwest    South    West    Canada    Total
     (statement value, in millions)

Apartment

   $ 2,068    $ 364    $ 1,520    $ 2,490    $ —      $ 6,442

Office

     1,932      623      1,089      1,824      —        5,468

Retail

     1,635      670      1,270      1,688      42      5,305

Warehouse/Industrial

     467      491      528      1,282      —        2,768

Other

     154      244      400      243      —        1,041
                                         

Total

   $ 6,256    $ 2,392    $ 4,807    $ 7,527    $ 42    $ 21,024
                                         

December 31, 2008

   East    Midwest    South    West    Canada    Total
     (statement value, in millions)

Apartment

   $ 2,547    $ 546    $ 1,620    $ 2,601    $ —      $ 7,314

Office

     1,892      653      1,109      1,914      —        5,568

Retail

     1,440      437      1,258      1,723      44      4,902

Warehouse/Industrial

     461      479      511      1,318      —        2,769

Other

     141      244      486      253      —        1,124
                                         

Total

   $ 6,481    $ 2,359    $ 4,984    $ 7,809    $ 44    $ 21,677
                                         

Common and Preferred Stocks

Common stocks are generally reported at fair value. The statutory basis of accounting permits fair value for common stocks to be based on values published by the SVO, quoted market prices, independent pricing services or internally developed pricing models. At December 31, 2009, fair value was based primarily on quoted market prices. For private common stocks without quoted market prices, fair value at December 31, 2009 is based upon internally developed pricing models that utilize observable market data (public comparables), external pricing sources (sponsor valuations) and cash flow modeling. At December 31, 2008, the fair value of common stocks was primarily based on values published by the SVO and quoted market prices. When SVO-published values or quoted market prices were not used at December 31, 2008, fair value was based on internally developed pricing models. The equity method is generally used to report investments in common stock of unconsolidated non-insurance subsidiaries. See Note 11 regarding statement value of the Company’s investment in Frank Russell Company common stock. See Note 14 for more information regarding the fair value of the Company’s investments in common stock.

 

F-15


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Preferred stocks rated “1” (highest quality), “2” (high quality) or “3” (medium quality) by the SVO are reported at amortized cost. Preferred stocks rated “4” (low quality), “5” (lower quality) or “6” (lowest quality) by the SVO are reported at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. The statutory basis of accounting permits fair value for preferred stocks to be based on values published by the SVO, quoted market prices, independent pricing services or internally developed pricing models. At December 31, 2009, fair value was based primarily on internally developed pricing models. At December 31, 2008, the fair value of preferred stocks was based primarily upon values published by the SVO. In the absence of SVO-published values at December 31, 2008, fair value was based primarily upon internally developed pricing models. See Note 11 regarding statement value of the Company’s investments in Frank Russell Company preferred stock. See Note 14 for more information regarding the fair value of the Company’s investments in preferred stock.

When necessary, valuation adjustments are made for preferred stocks with SVO ratings of “4”, “5” or “6” and for common and preferred stocks with a decline in fair value that management considers to be other-than-temporary. If the impairment is considered to be temporary, the valuation adjustment is reported as an unrealized capital loss. Valuation adjustments for declines in value considered to be other-than-temporary are reported as realized capital losses.

Real Estate

Real estate investments are reported at cost, less any valuation adjustment, encumbrances and accumulated depreciation of buildings and other improvements, using a straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the improvements. Fair value of real estate is based primarily on the present value of estimated future cash flow (for commercial properties) or the capitalization of stabilized net operating income (for multi-family residential properties).

The geographic diversification of the Company’s investments in real estate by property type as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

December 31, 2009

   East    Midwest    South    West    Total
     (statement value, in millions)

Apartment

   $ 255    $ 94    $ 35    $ 160    $ 544

Office

     83      414      127      140      764

Warehouse/Industrial

     12      —        49      170      231

Other

     27      —        16      —        43
                                  

Total

   $ 377    $ 508    $ 227    $ 470    $ 1,582
                                  

December 31, 2008

   East    Midwest    South    West    Total
     (statement value, in millions)

Apartment

   $ 277    $ 40    $ 27    $ 294    $ 638

Office

     72      402      136      26      636

Warehouse/Industrial

     12      —        54      172      238

Other

     —        —        16      —        16
                                  

Total

   $ 361    $ 442    $ 233    $ 492    $ 1,528
                                  

 

F-16


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

The Company’s home office properties are included in Midwest Office investments in the table above, and have an aggregate statement value of $263 million and $245 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Other Investments

Other investments consist primarily of partnership investments (including real estate, venture capital and leveraged buyout fund limited partnerships), real estate joint ventures and unconsolidated non-insurance subsidiaries organized as limited liability companies. The partnerships, real estate joint ventures and limited liability companies are reported using the statutory equity method of accounting. The unconsolidated non-insurance subsidiaries are recorded based on their audited GAAP equity. These subsidiaries primarily invest in public and private equity securities, investment grade municipal bonds and real estate joint ventures.

Statement value of other investments as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     For the year ended December 31,

Asset type

   2009    2008
     (in millions)

Unconsolidated non-insurance subsidiaries

   $ 4,721    $ 4,673

Partnerships and LLCs

     2,800      3,116

Low income housing tax credit properties

     545      576

Leveraged leases

     318      331

Derivative instruments

     14      80

Due on sale of securities

     53      162

Oil and gas investments

     74      107

Other

     62      140
             

Total

   $ 8,587    $ 9,185
             

Oil and gas investments are reported using the full cost method, under which all exploration and development costs, whether successful or not, are capitalized and amortized as a reduction of net investment income as oil and natural gas reserves are produced. This method is permitted by the OCI. The Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual of the NAIC does not provide accounting guidance for oil and gas investments.

See Note 4 regarding the Company’s use of derivatives.

Net Investment Income

The components of net investment income for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 were as follows:

 

     For the year ended December 31,
     2009    2008    2007
     (in millions)

Bonds

   $ 4,932    $ 4,821    $ 4,535

Mortgage loans

     1,356      1,334      1,306

Policy loans

     976      876      821

Common and preferred stocks

     178      214      331

Real estate

     231      263      270

Derivative instruments

     19      —        —  

 

F-17


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Other investments

     432      770      898

Amortization of IMR

     39      35      29
                    

Gross investment income

     8,163      8,313      8,190

Less: investment expenses

     391      478      622
                    

Net investment income

   $ 7,772    $ 7,835    $ 7,568
                    

 

F-18


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Capital Gains and Losses

Realized capital gains and losses for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 were as follows:

 

     For the year ended
December 31, 2009
    For the year ended
December 31, 2008
    For the year ended
December 31, 2007
 
     Realized
Gains
   Realized
Losses
    Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    Realized
Gains
   Realized
Losses
    Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
    Realized
Gains
   Realized
Losses
    Net
Realized
Gains
(Losses)
 
     (in millions)     (in millions)     (in millions)  

Bonds

   $ 1,397    $ (1,412   $ (15   $ 518    $ (1,757   $ (1,239   $ 465    $ (327   $ 138   

Common and preferred stocks

     1,101      (695     406        773      (1,342     (569     1,415      (246     1,169   

Mortgage loans

     —        (8     (8     —        (2     (2     —        (10     (10

Real estate

     232      (17     215        82      (4     78        65      —          65   

Other investments

     897      (1,402     (505     1,416      (1,205     211        306      (568     (262
                                                                     

Subtotal

   $ 3,627    $ (3,534     93      $ 2,789    $ (4,310     (1,521   $ 2,251    $ (1,151     1,100   
                                                   

Less: IMR gains (losses)

          563             (705          144   

Less: Capital gains taxes (benefit)

       (316          (149          337   
                                       

Net realized capital gains (losses)

     $ (154        $ (667        $ 619   
                                       

Realized gains and losses on bonds and common and preferred stock are the result of normal trading activity undertaken to execute the Company’s overall portfolio management strategy including asset/liability duration management, sector exposure, total return and tax optimization, as well as valuation adjustments resulting from the Company’s determination of other-than-temporary-impairments, as discussed below. Realized gains and losses for other investments are primarily due to derivative transactions, predominantly from foreign currency futures and equity futures (see Note 4). During 2009, 2008 and 2007, realized losses of $175 million, $156 million and $5 million, respectively, were attributable to the sale of bonds with significant declines in credit quality. Proceeds from the sale of bond investments totaled $32 billion, $34 billion and $56 billion for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

Changes in net unrealized capital gains and losses for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 were as follows:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  
     (in millions)  

Bonds

   $ 117      $ (356   $ 98   

Common and preferred stocks

     903        (3,604     (367

Other investments

     (316     (831     178   
                        
     704        (4,791     (91

Change in deferred taxes

     (201     1,308        79   
                        

Change in net unrealized capital gains (losses)

   $ 503      $ (3,483   $ (12
                        

The fluctuations in net unrealized capital gains/(losses) during 2009 and 2008 were due primarily to the declines in the fair value of common stocks and other investments during 2008 that

 

F-19


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

management considered to be temporary, some of which have since recovered value with the market rebound during 2009. Net unrealized capital losses included unrealized losses of ($311) million, ($460) million and ($386) million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, related to distributions made to the Company from unconsolidated non-insurance subsidiaries. The Company’s share of the earnings or losses of these subsidiaries are reported as unrealized under the equity method of accounting until distributed to the Company, at which time net investment income is recognized and the previously unrealized net gains are reversed.

Changes in net unrealized capital gains (losses) also included valuation adjustments for declines in the fair value of investments held by unconsolidated non-insurance subsidiaries that were considered to be other-than-temporary.

The amortized cost and fair value of bonds and common and preferred stocks for which fair value had temporarily declined and remained below cost as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     December 31, 2009  
     Decline For Less Than 12 Months     Decline For Greater Than 12 Months  
     Amortized
Cost
   Fair
Value
   Difference     Amortized
Cost
   Fair
Value
   Difference  
     (in millions)  

Bonds

   $ 16,596    $ 15,854    $ (742   $ 9,415    $ 7,550    $ (1,865

Common and preferred stocks

     1,396      1,249      (147     1,109      813      (296
                                            

Total

   $ 17,992    $ 17,103    $ (889   $ 10,524    $ 8,363    $ (2,161
                                            
     December 31, 2008  
     Decline For Less Than 12 Months     Decline For Greater Than 12 Months  
     Amortized
Cost
   Fair
Value
   Difference     Amortized
Cost
   Fair
Value
   Difference  
     (in millions)  

Bonds

   $ 29,909    $ 26,205    $ (3,704   $ 16,589    $ 12,454    $ (4,135

Common and preferred stocks

     3,326      2,391      (935     1,048      610      (438
                                            

Total

   $ 33,235    $ 28,596    $ (4,639   $ 17,637    $ 13,064    $ (4,573
                                            

At December 31, 2009 and 2008, $1.2 billion and $1.6 billion, respectively, of the unrealized loss related to declines for greater than 12 months were related to structured securities, primarily CMBS. At December 31, 2009, the unrealized loss on bonds for which fair value had temporarily declined and remained below cost, decreased due primarily to market credit spreads narrowing from the historically high levels at December 31, 2008. These bonds are current on interest and principal payments and are otherwise performing according to their contractual terms. Based on the review process described below, management considers these declines in fair value, as well as the declines in fair value of common and preferred stocks, to be temporary based on existing facts and circumstances. Changes in the fair value of common stocks are reflected in surplus through unrealized gains/losses as a result of being reported at fair value in the financial statements.

 

F-20


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Impairments

On a quarterly basis, the Company performs a review of bonds, mortgage loans, common and preferred stocks, real estate and other investments to identify those that have experienced a decline in fair value that management considers to be other-than-temporary. Factors considered in evaluating whether a decline in fair value is other-than-temporary include: (1) the duration and extent to which fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and near-term financial prospects of the issuer and (3) the Company’s ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for an anticipated recovery in value.

For fixed income securities, emphasis is placed on evaluating the issuer’s ability to service all contractual interest and principal payments and the Company’s ability and intent to hold the security until the earlier of a recovery in value or maturity. The Company’s intent and ability to hold a security considers broad portfolio management objectives such as asset/liability duration management and issuer and industry segment exposures.

For equity securities, greater weight and consideration is given to the duration and extent of a decline in fair value and the likelihood that the fair value of the security will recover. An investment in real estate is evaluated for an-other-than temporary impairment when the fair value of the property is lower than its depreciated cost. Fixed income securities (excluding structured securities, as described below), real estate and other investments that are determined to have an other-than-temporary impairment are written down to fair value. Mortgage loans determined to have an other-than-temporary impairment are written down to net realizable value based on appraisal of the collateral property.

Effective January 1, 2008, the Company adopted Statement of Statutory Accounting Principle No. 98, Treatment of Cash Flows When Quantifying Changes in Valuation and Impairments, An Amendment to SSAP No. 43 – Loan Backed and Structured Securities (“SSAP 98”). SSAP 98 required that valuation adjustments for other-than-temporary impairment of loan-backed and structured securities be based on fair value. Previous statutory accounting guidance required that such valuation adjustments be based on undiscounted future cash flows. SSAP 98 was adopted prospectively at January 1, 2008 and resulted in $90 million of additional realized capital losses during 2008 than would have been required under previous accounting guidance.

During 2009, the Company adopted Statement of Statutory Accounting Principle No. 43R, Loan Backed and Structured Securities (“SSAP 43R”). SSAP 43R superceded SSAP 98 and requires that valuation adjustments for other-than-temporary impairments of loan-backed and structured securities be based on fair value only if the Company intends to sell or cannot assert the intent and ability to hold the investment until its anticipated recovery. However, if the Company can assert the intent and ability to hold the investment until its anticipated recovery, the valuation adjustment is based on the discounted expected future cash flows of the security. The discount rate used would generally be either the effective yield at purchase or the effective yield immediately prior to the valuation adjustment. The adoption of SSAP 43R was effective September 30, 2009 and resulted in a cumulative increase to surplus of $61 million, representing the difference between other-than-temporary valuation adjustments measured using the discounted cash flow method required by SSAP 43R and the fair value measurement previously required by SSAP 98. This increase to surplus is reported as a change in accounting principle in the consolidated statement of changes in surplus for the year ended December 31, 2009.

Realized capital losses recognized due to declines in fair value of investments that were

 

F-21


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

considered to be other-than-temporary for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 were $749 million, $960 million and $156 million, respectively, with details by asset class and sector as follows:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  
     (in millions)  

Bonds, common and preferred stocks:

  

Financial services

   $ (69   $ (366   $ (26

Structured securities

     (166     (157     (1

Energy

     (25     (98     (31

Consumer discretionary

     (133     (82     (3

Health care

     —          (41     (14

Industrials

     (48     (30     (6

Technology

     (7     (25     (1

Other

     (74     (53     (2
                        

Subtotal

     (522     (852     (84

Other investments:

      

Real estate and RE funds

     (151     (88     (46

Energy holdings

     (12     (10     —     

Security partnerships

     (52     (10     (26

Derivatives

     (4     —          —     

Mortgage loans

     (8     —          —     
                        

Subtotal

     (227     (108     (72
                        

Total

   $ (749   $ (960   $ (156
                        

The $522 million in total valuation adjustments for bonds and stocks during 2009 was comprised of $449 million for bonds, $62 million for common stocks and $11 million for preferred stocks. The $166 million of structured securities valuation adjustments recorded during 2009 included $79 million of other collateralized debt obligations (“CDOs”), primarily backed by bank securities, and $62 million of commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBSs”), including CMBS CDOs.

During 2008 these valuation adjustments included $445 million for bonds, $231 million for common stocks, and $176 million for preferred stocks. The $157 million of valuation adjustments recorded against structured securities during 2008 was comprised of $63 million of CDOs and $94 million for CMBS, including CMBS CDOs.

Other-than-temporary valuation adjustments on loan-backed and structured securities for the year ended December 31, 2009, including the basis for the adjustment, were as follows:

 

F-22


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

     Amortized Cost Basis
Before Other-than-
Temporary-Impairment
   Other-than-
Temporary
Impairment
Recognized in Loss
    Fair Value
          (in millions)      

Aggregate Intent to Sell

   $ —      $ —        $ —  

Aggregate Intent & Ability to Hold

     221      (86     46
                     

Total

   $ 221    $ (86   $ 46
                     

Loan-backed and structured securities for which the present value of expected cash flows was less than the amortized cost basis, thereby resulting in an other-than-temporary valuation adjustment at December 31, 2009, were as follows:

 

CUSIP

  

Book/Adj

Carrying Value
Amortized cost

before current

period OTTI

  

Present Value of
Projected Cash

Flows

  

Recognized

other-than-

temporary

impairment

  

Amortized cost

after other-than-

temporary
impairment

  

Fair Value

          (in millions)

09774XBM3

   $    2    $    3    $    —      $    3    $    1

20846QDV7

      7       7       —         7       7

61746WKA7

      —         —         —         —         —  

38373MAQ3

      —         —         —         —         —  

38374J7C4

      3       3       —         3       2

46625M3T4

      1       —         —         1       —  

38373VMQ0

      1       1       —         1       1

38374BSY0

      5       4       —         5       2

74436JEH6

      —         1       —         —         1

11777LAK7

      1       2       —         1       —  

15188RAE2

      1       —         —         1       —  

3622MSAH5

      1       —         (1)       —         —  

3622MSAJ1

      —         —         —         —         —  

47631WAE7

      1       —         (1)       —         1

50177AAZ2

      4       1       (3)       1       1

50179AAU1

      1       1       (1)       1       2

61751XAP5

      1       —         (1)       —         —  

65105LAG5

      2       —         (2)       —         —  

65105YAF9

      1       —         (1)       —         —  

78466MAK0

      1       —         (1)       —         —  

83586WAL1

      1       —         (1)       —         1

036510AD7

      10       1       (9)       1       1

62475FAQ5

      1       —         (1)       —         —  

62475FAR3

      1       —         (1)       —         —  

62745FAU6

      1       —         (1)       —         —  

65106CAD1

      3       —         (3)       —         —  

894127AQ2

      15       13       —         15       3

55291MAA1

      28       20       (4)       23       6

55291MAB9

      12       7       (3)       9       4

74042JAJ2

      25       18       (5)       19       1

74042MAQ9

      27       19       (3)       24       2

98885YAE9

      10       1       (9)       1       —  

61750WAF0

      7       1       (6)       —         1

62475FAP7

      2       —         (2)       —         —  

62475FAN2

      2       —         (2)       —         —  

62475FAM4

      4       —         (4)       —         —  

36170UBB6

      3       —         (3)       —         —  

36170VAJ8

      10       —         (10)       —         —  

05951FAA2

      13       10       (4)       10       8

74043AAL5

      13       9       (4)       9       1

36170UBH3

      —         —         —         —         —  

 

F-23


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

36170UBK6

      —         —         —         —         —  

36170UBM2

      —         —         —         —         —  

36170UBP5

      —         —         —         —         —  

36170UBR1

      —         —         —         —         —  

36170UBT7

      —         —         —         —         —  

36170UBD2

      —         —         —         —         —  

36170UBF7

      —         —         —         —         —  
                        

Total

   $    221    $    122    $    (86)    $    135    $    46
                        

In addition to the realized losses above, $40 million, $77 million and $53 million of other-than-temporary valuation adjustments were recognized by the Company’s unconsolidated non-insurance subsidiaries for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The decline in equity of these subsidiaries resulting from these valuation adjustments is included in changes in net unrealized capital gains (losses) in the consolidated statement of changes in surplus.

Securities Lending

The Company has entered into securities lending agreements whereby certain general account investment securities are loaned to third parties, primarily major brokerage firms. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, the aggregate statement value of loaned securities was $2.9 billion and $2.5 billion, respectively, while the aggregate fair value of these loaned securities was $2.7 billion and $3.0 billion, respectively. The Company’s policy requires a minimum of 102% of the fair value of the loaned securities, calculated on a daily basis, as collateral in the form of either cash or securities to be held by the Company or a trustee.

At each of December 31, 2009 and 2008, securities lending collateral held by the Company of $2.9 billion, which is reported in the consolidated statement of financial position at amortized cost and included in cash and temporary investments, with the offsetting collateral liability of $2.9 billion included in other liabilities. These collateral assets included $2.3 billion and $2.8 billion, respectively, of collateral positions with open terms (i.e., positions for which the borrower may return the loaned security and request return of the collateral at any time), $400 million and $10 million, respectively, for collateral positions with terms of less than 30 days, $90 million and $0, respectively, for collateral positions with terms of less than 60 days and $100 million and $90 million, respectively, for collateral positions with terms exceeding 90 days. At each of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the aggregate fair value of all collateral positions was $2.9 billion.

In addition to the collateral held by the Company, additional non-cash collateral was held on the Company’s behalf by a trustee at December 31, 2009 and 2008 with initial loan values of $73 million and $219 million, respectively, and current fair values of $70 million and $208 million, respectively, and is not included in the consolidated statement of financial position.

The Company has also entered into securities lending arrangements for separate account investment securities, utilizing similar procedures and collateral requirements as those for general account loaned securities. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, the aggregate statement value of loaned securities held by the separate accounts was $85 million and $67 million, respectively.

Secured Funding Transaction

During 2009, the Company entered into a secured funding transaction, whereby certain mortgage-backed securities owned by the Company have been deposited in a trust and pledged under an indenture as part of a borrowing arrangement with an unrelated third party. At December 31,

 

F-24


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

2009, the aggregate statement value of the pledged securities was $2.1 billion while the aggregate fair value of those securities was $1.4 billion. During the duration of the indenture, these assets are restricted from being sold, substituted or otherwise accessed by the Company. This transaction is reported as a secured funding under Statement of Statutory Accounting Principles No. 91R, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities (“SSAP 91R”), and as such these securities remain reported as bonds in the consolidated statement of financial position.

The proceeds to the Company of the funding transaction were $600 million, which is included in other liabilities in the consolidated statement of financial position at December 31, 2009. The related indenture requires substantially all cash flows from the pledged securities to be used to pay interest and principal on the funded balance. Interest on the outstanding principal balance accrues at an annual rate of 1-month LIBOR + 1.75%. Interest expense incurred during 2009 was less than $100,000.

As part of the transaction, the Company entered into an unconditional agreement to repurchase the pledged securities from the trust at market value on December 29, 2011. In the unlikely event that the outstanding principal, interest and other obligations on the secured borrowing transaction exceed the market value of the pledged securities, the repurchase will not be completed on that date. Instead, the market value will be recalculated and compared to the outstanding principal, interest and other obligations on the borrowing arrangement on the last monthly payment date of each quarter thereafter and the repurchase will be completed at market value on the first such payment date when the market value exceeds such obligations. If the repurchase has not been completed by the payment date for December 2013, it will be completed at the market value on that date. In any event, the proceeds of the repurchase will be applied to the borrowing obligations and upon satisfaction of such obligations the trust will be liquidated.

 

4.

Derivative Financial Instruments

In the normal course of business, the Company enters into derivative transactions, generally to mitigate (or “hedge”) the risk to its assets, liabilities and surplus from fluctuations in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and other market risks. Derivatives used in hedging transactions are designated as either “cash flow” hedges, which mitigate the risk of variability in future cash flows associated with the asset or liability being hedged, or “fair value” hedges, which mitigate the risk of changes in fair value of the asset or liability being hedged. Derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting are reported on a basis consistent with the asset or liability being hedged (e.g., at amortized cost or fair value). Derivatives used as hedges that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported at fair value.

To qualify for hedge accounting, the hedge relationship must be designated and formally documented at inception. This documentation details the risk management objective and strategy for the hedge, including the risk being hedged, the derivative used in the hedge and the methodology for assessing hedge effectiveness, which must be measured on an ongoing basis over the life of the hedge. To qualify for hedge accounting, the hedge must be “highly effective,” meaning that the changes in the fair value of cash flows of the hedging instrument must be between 80-125% of the inverse of the corresponding changes in fair value or cash flows of the hedged risk.

Fair value is the amount that the Company would expect to receive or pay in an arms-length

 

F-25


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

settlement of the derivative contract as of the reporting date. The fair value of derivative instruments is based on quoted market prices, when available. In the absence of quoted market prices, fair value is estimated using third-party or internal pricing models. For derivatives reported at fair value, changes in fair value on open derivative positions are reported as an unrealized capital gain or loss. Upon maturity or termination of the derivative contract, a realized capital gain or loss is recognized.

Additionally, the Company uses derivatives for the purpose of investment “replication.” A replication is a derivative transaction that, when entered into in conjunction with other cash market investments, replicates the risk and reward characteristics of otherwise permissible investment positions. Derivatives used as part of a replication are reported on a basis consistent with the investment position being replicated (e.g., at amortized cost or fair value).

The Company also uses derivatives for income generation purposes. Derivatives used for income generation purposes are reported on a basis consistent with the accounting treatment that would be used for the covering asset or underlying interest to which the derivative relates (e.g., at amortized cost or fair value). The cash premium received by the Company at the inception of the contract is deferred for accounting purposes until maturity of the contract or its exercise by the counterparty (if the term of the derivative is less than one year) or amortized over the life of the contract (if the term of the derivative is greater than one year).

Over-the-counter derivative transactions expose the Company to the risk that a counterparty may not be able to fulfill its obligations under the contract. The Company manages this risk by dealing only with counterparties that maintain a minimum credit rating, by performing ongoing review of counterparties’ credit standing and by adhering to established limits for credit exposure to any single counterparty. The Company also utilizes collateral support agreements that require the daily exchange of collateral assets if credit exposure exceeds certain limits. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company held $97 million and $118 million, respectively, of cash collateral under these agreements. The cash collateral is included in other assets in the consolidated statement of financial position, with a corresponding liability reflecting the Company’s obligation to return the collateral included in other liabilities.

Following are descriptions of the types of derivative instruments used by the Company:

Cash Flow Hedges:

Interest rate floors are used to mitigate the asset/liability management risk of a significant and sustained decrease in interest rates for certain of the Company’s insurance products. Interest rate floors entitle the Company to receive payments from a counterparty if market interest rates decline below a specified level. The Company’s use of interest rate floors qualifies for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at amortized cost.

Interest rate swaps are used to mitigate interest rate risk for investments in variable interest rate and fixed interest rate bonds. Interest rate swaps obligate the Company and a counterparty to exchange amounts based on the difference between a variable interest rate index and a specified fixed rate of interest applied to the notional amount of the contract. The Company’s use of interest rate swaps qualifies for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at amortized cost.

Swaptions are used to mitigate the asset/liability management risk of a significant and sustained

 

F-26


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

increase in interest rates for certain of the Company’s insurance products. Swaptions provide the Company an option to enter into an interest rate swap with a counterparty on predefined terms. Prior to 2009, the Company’s use of swaptions qualified for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at amortized cost. During 2009, the Company elected to discontinue hedge accounting for these instruments, and as a result, these instruments are reported at fair value as of December 31, 2009. This change resulted in an unrealized capital gain of $26 million for the year ended December 31, 2009.

Foreign currency swaps are used to mitigate the foreign exchange risk for investments in bonds denominated in foreign currencies. Foreign currency swaps obligate the Company and a counterparty to exchange the currencies of two different countries at a specified exchange rate. The Company’s use of foreign currency swaps qualifies for hedge accounting. These instruments are reported at amortized cost, with the exception of changes in fair value due to fluctuations in market currency exchange rates. Foreign currency translation gain or loss is reported as an unrealized capital gain or loss until the maturity or termination of the contract, at which time a realized capital gain or loss is recognized.

Foreign currency covers are used to mitigate foreign exchange risk pending settlement of executed trades for investments denominated in foreign currencies. Foreign currency covers obligate the Company to pay to or receive from a counterparty a specified amount of a foreign currency at a specified exchange rate at a future date. The Company’s use of foreign currency covers qualifies for hedge accounting, with foreign currency translation gain or loss recorded as an adjustment to the cost basis of the hedged security. The Company held no positions in these instruments at December 31, 2009.

Commodity swaps are used to mitigate market risk for the anticipated sale of future oil or natural gas production. Commodity swaps obligate the Company and a counterparty to exchange amounts based on the difference between a variable energy commodity price and a specified fixed energy commodity price applied to the notional amount of the contract. The Company’s use of commodity swaps does not qualify for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at fair value. No unrealized gains or losses were recognized during 2009 on these contracts. Unrealized capital gains of $1 million were recognized during 2008 on these contracts. The Company held no positions in these instruments at December 31, 2009.

Interest rate basis swaps are used to mitigate the basis risk for investments in variable interest rate preferred stocks. Interest rate basis swaps obligate the Company and a counterparty to exchange amounts based on the difference between the rates of return on two different reference indices applied to the notional amount of the contract. The Company’s use of interest rate basis swaps does not qualify for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at fair value. No unrealized gains or losses were recognized during 2009 on these contracts. Unrealized capital losses were less than $1 million during 2008 on these contracts. The Company held no positions in these instruments at December 31, 2009 or 2008.

Fair Value Hedges:

Short fixed income futures are used to mitigate interest rate risk for investment in portfolios of fixed income securities. Short fixed income futures obligate the Company to sell to a counterparty a specified bond at a specified price at a future date. The Company’s use of short fixed income futures contracts does not qualify for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at fair value. Unrealized capital gains of $239 million and unrealized capital losses of

 

F-27


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

$239 million were recognized during 2009 and 2008, respectively, on these contracts. The Company held no positions in these instruments at December 31, 2009.

Foreign currency forwards are used to mitigate the foreign exchange risk for investments in bonds denominated in foreign currencies or common stock or other equity investments in companies operating in foreign countries. Foreign currency forwards obligate the Company to pay to or receive from a counterparty a specified amount of a foreign currency at a future date. The Company’s use of foreign currency forwards does not qualify for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at fair value. Unrealized capital gains of $19 million and unrealized capital losses of $13 million were recognized during 2009 and 2008, respectively, on these contracts.

Foreign currency futures are used to mitigate the foreign exchange risk for investments in bonds denominated in foreign currencies or common stock or other equity investments in companies operating in foreign countries. Foreign currency futures obligate the Company to exchange a specified amount of a foreign currency with a counterparty at a specified exchange rate at a future date. The Company’s use of foreign currency futures does not qualify for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at fair value. Unrealized capital gains of $73 million and unrealized capital losses of $73 million were recognized during 2009 and 2008, respectively, on these contracts. The Company held no direct positions in these instruments at December 31, 2009.

Short total return swaps are used to mitigate market risk for investment in portfolios of common stocks and other equity securities. Total return swaps obligate the Company and a counterparty to exchange amounts based on the difference between a variable equity index return and a specified fixed rate of return applied to the notional amount of the contract. The Company’s use of total return swaps does not qualify for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at fair value. Unrealized capital gains of $8 million and unrealized capital losses of $9 million were recognized during 2009 and 2008, respectively, on these contracts.

Short equity index futures are used to mitigate market risk for investments in portfolios of common stock. Short equity index futures obligate the Company to pay to or receive from a counterparty an amount based on a specified equity market index as of a future date applied to the notional amount of the contract. The Company’s use of short equity index futures does not qualify for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at fair value. Unrealized capital gains of $17 million and unrealized capital losses of $17 million were recognized during 2009 and 2008, respectively, on these contracts. The Company held no positions in these instruments at December 31, 2009.

Purchased put options are used to mitigate credit and market risk for investments in debt and equity securities issued by specific entities. Purchased put options provide the Company an option to put a specific security to a counterparty at a specified price at a future date. The Company’s use of purchased put options does not qualify for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at fair value. No unrealized capital gains or losses were recognized during 2009 or 2008 on these contracts. The Company held no positions in these instruments at December 31, 2009.

Equity collars are used to mitigate market risk for investments in specific common stocks or other equity securities. Equity collars consist of both a purchased put option and a written call option on a specific equity security owned by the Company. The Company’s use of equity collars does

 

F-28


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

not qualify for hedge accounting, with these instruments reported at fair value. Unrealized capital losses of less than $1 million and unrealized capital gains of $1 million were recognized during 2009 and 2008, respectively, on these contracts. The Company held no positions in these instruments at December 31, 2009.

Purchased credit default swaps are used to mitigate the credit risk for investments in bonds issued by specific debtors. Credit default swaps provide the Company an option to put a specific bond to a counterparty at par in the event of a “credit event” encountered by the bond issuer. A credit event is generally defined as a bankruptcy, failure to make required payments or acceleration of issuer obligations under the terms of the bond. In some cases the Company’s use of credit default swaps qualifies for hedge accounting, while in other cases it does not. Credit default swaps that qualify for hedge accounting are reported at amortized cost. Swaps that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported at fair value. Unrealized capital losses of $22 million and unrealized capital gains of $14 million were recognized during 2009 and 2008, respectively, on contracts that did not qualify for hedge accounting.

Replications:

Long fixed income futures replications are used in conjunction with cash market instruments to manage the duration of investment in portfolios of fixed income securities and to mitigate interest rate risk for such portfolios. Long fixed income futures replications are reported at fair value, with changes in fair value reported as an unrealized capital gain or loss until the contracts mature or are terminated, at which time a realized capital gain or loss is recognized. The average fair value of open contracts was $1.7 billion and $3.5 billion during 2009 and 2008, respectively. Realized capital gains of $73 million and $274 million were recognized during 2009 and 2008, respectively, upon termination of these contracts. The Company held no positions in these instruments at December 31, 2009.

Long total return swap replications are used in conjunction with the purchase of cash market instruments to replicate investment in portfolios of common stocks and other equity securities. Total return swaps obligate the Company and a counterparty to exchange amounts based on the difference between a variable equity index return and a specified fixed rate of return applied to the notional amount of the contract. Total return swaps are reported at fair value, with changes in fair value reported as an unrealized capital gain or loss until the contracts mature or are terminated, at which time a realized capital gain or loss is recognized. The average fair value of open contracts was $7 million and ($10) million during 2009 and 2008, respectively. Realized capital gains of $72 million and realized capital losses of $143 million were recognized during 2009 and 2008, respectively, on these contracts.

Long equity index futures replications are used in conjunction with the purchase of cash market instruments to replicate investment in portfolios of common stocks and other equity securities. Long equity index futures replications are reported at fair value, with changes in fair value reported as an unrealized capital gain or loss until the contracts mature or are terminated, at which time a realized capital gain or loss is recognized. The average fair value of open contracts was $0 and $248 million during 2009 and 2008, respectively. No realized gains or losses were recognized during 2009 on these contracts. Realized capital losses of $87 million were recognized during 2008 upon termination of these contracts. The Company held no positions in these instruments at December 31, 2009.

Fixed income replications are used to replicate a bond investment through the use of cash market

 

F-29


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

instruments combined with written credit derivatives (single-name default swaps or index credit default swaps) and/or interest rate swaps. Fixed income replications, including the derivative components, are reported at amortized cost. The average fair value of open contracts was $2 million during both 2009 and 2008. Realized capital gains of $11 million and realized capital losses of $39 million were recognized during 2009 and 2008, respectively, upon termination of these contracts.

The Company writes credit derivatives only for replication purposes and not as a participant in the credit insurance market. Single-name credit default swap (“CDS”) contracts replicate credit exposure to a specific entity and debt issue with terms to maturity of five to ten years. Upon the occurrence of a defined credit event, the Company would be required to purchase a notional amount of the reference obligation from the counterparty at par value. The Company is not aware of any credit events on outstanding CDS contracts at December 31, 2009. The maximum amounts that the Company could potentially be required to pay on CDS contracts as of both December 31, 2009 and 2008 was $10 million. The fair value of CDS contracts outstanding as of both December 31, 2009 and 2008 was less than $1 million. Index credit default swap (“CDX”) contracts replicate general corporate credit exposure in either investment-grade or high-yield markets with terms to maturity of five to ten years. Upon the occurrence of a defined credit event, the Company would be required to pay to the counterparty an amount equal to the affected entity’s proportion to the overall index applied to the notional amount of the contract. The Company did not have any open positions in CDX contracts as of December 31, 2009 and 2008.

Income Generation Transactions:

Written equity call options (covered) are used to generate income in exchange for potential future gains on a specific common stock owned by the Company. The Company receives a cash premium at the inception of the contract, and the counterparty has the right (but not the obligation) to purchase the underlying security from the Company at a predetermined price at any time during the term of the contract. Written equity call options are reported at fair value, with changes in fair value reported as an unrealized capital gain or loss until the contracts mature or are exercised by the counterparty, at which time a realized capital gain or loss is recognized. The average fair value of open contracts was ($11) million and ($1) million during 2009 and 2008, respectively. Realized capital losses of $3 million and realized capital gains of $2 million were recognized during 2009 and 2008, respectively, upon termination of these contracts. The Company held no positions in these instruments at December 31, 2009.

 

F-30


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Effect on Financial Statements:

The Company’s use of derivatives impacts both the consolidated statement of financial position and the consolidated statement of operations. The effects on the consolidated statement of financial position at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     December 31, 2009     December 31, 2008  
     Notional
Amount
   Statement
Value
    Fair
Value
    Notional
Amount
   Statement
Value
    Fair
Value
 
     (in millions)  

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:

              

Interest rate contracts

              

Interest rate floors

   $ 1,025    $ 13      $ 69      $ 1,175    $ 17      $ 130   

Interest rate swaps

     52      —          11        52      —          17   

Swaptions

     —        —          —          1,742      53        21   

Foreign exchange contracts

              

Cross currency swaps

     807      (86     (55     863      9        101   

Foreign currency covers

     —        —          —          2      —          2   

Credit contracts

              

Credit default swaps

     52      —          —          52      —          —     
                                              

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments

   $ 1,936    $ (73   $ 25      $ 3,886    $ 79      $ 271   
                                              

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:

              

Interest rate contracts

              

Interest rate swaps

   $ 150    $ —        $ (1   $ —      $ —        $ —     

Swaptions

     1,871      83        83        —        —          —     

Fixed futures

     —        —          —          7,274      —          —     

Foreign exchange contracts

              

Foreign currency forwards

     595      10        10        92      (8     (8

Foreign currency futures

     —        —          —          1,299      —          —     

Equity contracts

              

Equity total return swaps

     71      1        1        586      (7     (7

Equity futures

     —        —          —          552      —          —     

Equity options

     —        —          —          11      1        1   

Credit contracts

              

Credit default swaps

     224      (7     (7     264      15        15   
                                              

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

   $ 2,911    $ 87      $ 86      $ 10,078    $ 1      $ 1   
                                              

Total derivatives

   $ 4,847    $ 14      $ 111      $ 13,964    $ 80      $ 272   
                                              

The notional amounts shown above are used to denominate the derivative contracts and do not represent amounts exchanged between the Company and the derivative counterparties, but do provide information regarding the volume of the Company’s derivative activity. The statement value of derivatives is included in other investments in the consolidated statement of financial position.

 

F-31


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

The effects on the consolidated statement of operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 were as follows:

 

     Location of Gain/(Loss)
Recognized
   Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized  
        2009     2008     2007  
          (in millions)  

Derivatives in fair value hedging relationships:

         

Credit contracts

         

Credit default swaps

  

Net realized capital gains (losses)

   $ —        $ —        $ —     
                           

Total derivatives in fair value hedging relationships

      $ —        $ —        $ —     
                           
     Location of Gain/(Loss)
Recognized
   Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized  
        2009     2008     2007  
          (in millions)  

Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships:

         

Interest rate contracts

         

Interest rate floors

   Net realized capital gains (losses)    $ —        $ —        $ —     

Interest rate swaps

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      —          2        —     

Swaptions

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      —          —          —     

Foreign exchange contracts

         

Cross currency swaps

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      (3     —          (8

Foreign currency covers

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      —          —          —     
                           

Total derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships

      $ (3   $ 2      $ (8
                           
     Location of Gain/(Loss)
Recognized
   Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized  
        2009     2008     2007  
          (in millions)  

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:

         

Interest rate contracts

         

Interest rate swaps

   Net realized capital gains (losses)    $ 10      $ (35   $ (3

Swaptions

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      —          —          —     

Fixed futures

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      50        137        (3

Foreign exchange contracts

         

Foreign currency forwards

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      (9     131        (180

Foreign currency futures

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      (171     194        —     

Equity contracts

         

Equity total return swaps

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      51        (36     (28

Equity futures

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      (321     (58     (5

Equity options

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      (2     2        —     

Commodity Contracts

         

Natural gas/crude oil swaps

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      —          4        1   

Credit contracts

         

Credit default swaps

   Net realized capital gains (losses)      10        11        2   
                           

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

      $ (382   $ 350      $ (216
                           

 

F-32


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

5.

Reserves for Policy Benefits

General account reserves for policy benefits at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     December 31,
     2009    2008
     (in millions)

Life insurance reserves

   $ 111,534    $ 105,453

Annuity reserves and deposit liabilities

     7,130      6,432

Disability and long-term care unpaid claims and claim reserves

     3,938      3,744

Disability and long-term care active life reserves

     2,423      2,325
             

Total reserves for policy benefits

   $ 125,025    $ 117,954
             

Life insurance reserves on substantially all policies issued since 1978 are based on the Commissioner’s Reserve Valuation Method (“CRVM”) using the 1958, 1980 or 2001 CSO mortality tables with valuation interest rates ranging from 3.5% to 5.5%. Other life insurance reserves are based primarily on the net level premium method, using various mortality tables at interest rates ranging from 2.0% to 4.5%. As of December 31, 2009, the Company had $1.2 trillion of total life insurance in-force, including $4 billion of life insurance in-force for which gross premiums were less than net premiums according to the standard valuation methods and assumptions prescribed by the OCI.

As of January 1, 2009, the Company changed the valuation basis for waiver reserves on life insurance. This change decreased the policy benefit reserve for the waiver benefit by $67 million, which was reported as a direct increase to surplus in the consolidated statement of changes in surplus for the year ended December 31, 2009. In addition, the Company implemented the preferred mortality tables associated with the 2001 CSO mortality table for the calculation of life insurance deficiency reserves for term life policies issued in 2008 and 2007, resulting in an $8 million decrease in reserves that is reported as a direct increase to surplus in the consolidated statement of changes in surplus for the year ended December 31, 2009.

Tabular cost has been determined from the basic data for the calculation of policy reserves. Tabular cost less actual reserves released has been determined from the basic data for the calculation of reserves and reserves released. Tabular interest has been determined from the basic data for the calculation of policy reserves. Tabular interest on funds not involving life contingencies is calculated as the product of the valuation interest rate times the mean of the amount of funds subject to such rate held at the beginning and end of the year of valuation.

Additional premiums are charged for substandard lives on policies issued after January 1, 1956. Net level premium or CRVM mean reserves are based on multiples of mortality tables or one-half the net flat or other extra mortality charge. The Company waives deduction of fractional premiums upon death of an insured and returns any portion of the final premium beyond the date of death. Cash values are not promised in excess of the legally computed reserves.

 

F-33


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Deferred annuity reserves on policies issued since 1985 are based primarily on the Commissioner’s Annuity Reserve Valuation Method (“CARVM”) with valuation interest rates ranging from 3.5% to 6.25%. Other deferred annuity reserves are based on policy value, with additional reserves held to reflect guarantees under these contracts. Immediate annuity reserves are based on the present value of expected benefit payments with valuation interest rates ranging from 3.5% to 7.5%. Changes in future policy benefit reserves on supplementary contracts without life contingencies are deposit-type transactions and thereby excluded from net additions to policy benefit reserves in the consolidated statement of operations.

At December 31, 2009 and 2008, the withdrawal characteristics of the Company’s general account annuity reserves and deposit liabilities were as follows:

 

     December 31,
     2009    2008
     (in millions)

Subject to discretionary withdrawal

     

- with market value adjustment

   $ 990    $ 801

- at book value less surrender charge of 5% or more

     420      208

- at book value without adjustment

     3,692      3,583

Not subject to discretionary withdrawal

     2,028      1,840
             

Total

   $ 7,130    $ 6,432
             

Unpaid claims and claim reserves for disability policies are based on the present value of expected benefit payments, primarily using the 1985 Commissioner’s Individual Disability Table A (“CIDA”), modified for Company experience, with valuation interest rates ranging from 3.0% to 5.5%. Unpaid claims and claim reserves for long-term care policies are based on the present value of expected benefit payments using industry-based long-term care experience with valuation interest rates ranging from 4.0% to 4.5%.

Reserves for unpaid claims, losses and loss adjustment expenses on disability and long-term care policies were $3.9 billion and $3.7 billion at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Changes in these reserves for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     For the year ended
December 31,
 
     2009     2008  
     (in millions)  

Balance at January 1

   $ 3,744      $ 3,612   

Incurred related to:

    

Current year

     551        472   

Prior years

     130        112   
                

Total incurred

     681        584   

Paid related to:

    

Current year

     (20     (18

 

F-34


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Prior years

     (467     (434
                

Total paid

     (487     (452
                

Balance at December 31

   $ 3,938      $ 3,744   
                

Changes in reserves for incurred claims related to prior years are generally the result of differences between actual and assumed claim experience.

Active life reserves for disability policies issued since 1987 are based primarily on the two-year preliminary term method using the 1985 CIDA for morbidity with a 4.0% valuation interest rate. Active life reserves for prior disability policies are based on the net level premium method, using the 1964 Commissioner’s Disability Table for morbidity with valuation interest rates ranging from 3.0% to 4.0%.

Active life reserves for long-term care policies consist of mid-terminal reserves and unearned premiums. Mid-terminal reserves are based on the one-year preliminary term method and industry-based morbidity experience. For policies issued prior to March, 2002, reserves are based on a 4.0% valuation interest rate and total terminations based on the 1983 Individual Annuitant Mortality table without lapses. For policies issued March, 2002 and later, minimum reserves are based on valuation interest rates of 4.0% or 4.5% and total terminations based on either the 1983 Group Annuity Mortality table or the 1994 Group Annuity Mortality table with lapses. A separate calculation is performed using valuation interest rates ranging from 5.2% to 6.0% and assuming no lapses. Reserves from the separate calculation are compared in the aggregate to the minimum reserves as calculated above and the greater of the two is reported.

 

6.

Premium and Annuity Considerations Deferred and Uncollected

Gross deferred and uncollected insurance premiums represent life insurance premiums due to be received from policyowners through the next respective policy anniversary dates. Net deferred and uncollected premiums represent only the portion of gross premiums related to mortality charges and interest and are reported as an asset in the consolidated statement of financial position.

Deferred and uncollected premiums at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     December 31, 2009    December 31, 2008
     Gross    Net    Gross    Net
     (in millions)

Ordinary new business

   $ 185    $ 70    $ 171    $ 72

Ordinary renewal

     1,850      1,539      1,836      1,547
                           

Total deferred and uncollected premiums

   $ 2,035    $ 1,609    $ 2,007    $ 1,619
                           

 

7.

Separate Accounts

Following is a summary of separate account liabilities by withdrawal characteristic at December 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

F-35


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

     December 31,
     2009    2008
     (in millions)

Subject to discretionary withdrawal

   $ 13,524    $ 11,047

Not subject to discretionary withdrawal

     2,609      2,160

Non-policy liabilities

     211      180
             

Total separate account liabilities

   $ 16,344    $ 13,387
             

While separate account liability values are not guaranteed by the Company, variable annuity and variable life insurance products do include guaranteed minimum death benefits (“GMDB”) underwritten by the Company. General account reserves for policy benefits included $18 million and $29 million attributable to GMDB at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Premiums and other considerations received from variable annuity and variable life insurance policyowners were $1.2 billion, $1.4 billion and $1.7 billion during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. These amounts are reported as premiums in the consolidated statement of operations. The subsequent transfer of these receipts to the separate accounts is reported as transfers to separate accounts in the consolidated statement of operations, net of amounts received from the separate accounts to provide for policy benefit payments to variable product policyowners.

Following are amounts reported as transfers to and from separate accounts in the summary of operations of the Company’s NAIC Separate Account Annual Statement, which agree with the amounts reported as net transfers to separate accounts in the consolidated statement of operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  
     (in millions)  

From Separate Account Annual Statement:

      

Transfers to separate accounts

   $ 1,319      $ 1,619      $ 1,866   

Transfers from separate accounts

     (1,359     (1,721     (1,382
                        

Net transfers to (from) separate accounts

   $ (40   $ (102   $ 484   
                        

 

8.

Employee and Financial Representative Benefit Plans

The Company sponsors noncontributory defined benefit retirement plans (“plans”) for all eligible employees and financial representatives. In addition to these tax-qualified plans, the Company sponsors nonqualified plans, including plans that provide benefits to certain participants in excess of limits set by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (“ERISA”) for the qualified plans. The Company’s funding policy for the tax qualified plans is to make annual contributions that are no less than the minimum amount needed to comply with the requirements of ERISA and no greater than the maximum amount deductible for federal income tax purposes. The Company contributed $70 million and $35 million to the qualified employee retirement plan during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and expects to contribute $75 million in 2010.

 

F-36


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

In addition to defined pension benefits, the Company provides certain health care and life insurance benefits (“postretirement benefits”) to retired employees, financial representatives and eligible dependents. The Company pays the entire cost of retiree life insurance coverage, while retirees contribute a portion of the cost of the health plan. Substantially all employees and financial representatives will become eligible for these benefits if they reach retirement age while working for the Company.

During 2009, the employee retirement health plan was amended to increase the participant portion of the cost of benefits. The effect of this amendment reduced the December 31, 2009 plan obligation by $5 million and reduced the 2009 expense by $3 million.

 

F-37


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Aggregate assets and projected benefit obligations of the defined benefit plans and postretirement benefit plans at December 31, 2009 and 2008, and changes in assets and obligations for the years then ended, were as follows:

 

     Defined Benefit Plans     Postretirement Benefit Plans  
     2009     2008     2009     2008  
     (in millions)  

Fair value of plan assets at January 1

   $ 1,992      $ 2,741      $ 62      $ 89   

Changes in plan assets:

        

Actual return on plan assets

     419        (728     13        (24

Company contributions

     70        35        —          —     

Actual plan benefits paid

     (63     (56     (6     (3
                                

Fair value of plan assets at December 31

   $ 2,418      $ 1,992      $ 69      $ 62   
                                

Projected benefit obligation at January 1

   $ 2,368      $ 2,455      $ 269      $ 244   

Changes in benefit obligation:

        

Service cost of benefits earned

     83        90        25        29   

Interest cost on projected obligations

     147        147        16        14   

Projected gross plan benefits paid

     (73     (65     (16     (14

Projected Medicare Part D reimbursement

     —          —          1        2   

Experience losses (gains)

     19        (259     —          (6

Plan amendments

     —          —          (5     —     
                                

Projected benefit obligation at December 31

   $ 2,544      $ 2,368      $ 290      $ 269   
                                

Plan assets consist of a share of a group annuity separate account (“GASA”) issued by the Company, which invests primarily in public common stocks and a diversified mix of corporate, government and mortgage-backed debt securities. The investment objective of the plans is to maximize long-term total rate of return, consistent with prudent investment risk management and in accordance with ERISA requirements. Plan investments are managed for the sole benefit of the plans’ participants. See Note 14 for information about the fair values of benefit plan assets within GASA.

While significant exposure to public equity securities is warranted by the long-term duration of expected benefit payments, diversification across asset classes is maintained to provide a risk/reward profile consistent with the objectives of the plans’ participants. Diversified equity investments are subject to an aggregate maximum exposure of 75% of total assets, with holdings in any one corporate issuer not to exceed 3% of total assets. Asset mix is rebalanced regularly to maintain holdings within target asset allocation ranges. The measurement date for plan assets is December 31, with the fair value of plan assets based primarily on quoted market values.

The plans’ target asset allocations and the actual allocation of the fair value of the plans’ ratable share of the GASA by asset class at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

F-38


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

     Target
Allocation
    Defined Benefit
Plans
    Postretirement
Benefit Plans
 
       2009     2008     2009     2008  

Bonds

   40   38   36   38   36

Equity securities

   58   59   58   59   58

Other investments

   2   3   6   3   6
                              

Total assets

   100   100   100   100   100
                              

The projected benefit obligation (“PBO”) represents the actuarial net present value of estimated future benefit obligations. For defined benefit plans, PBO includes assumptions for future salary increases. This method is consistent with the going concern assumption and is prescribed for measurement of pension obligations. The accumulated benefit obligation (“ABO”) is similar to the PBO, but is based only on current salaries with no assumption of future salary increases. The aggregate ABO for the defined benefit plans was $2.2 billion and $2.0 billion at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

The PBO and ABO amounts above represent the estimated obligations for benefits to vested participants only, as required by the statutory basis of accounting. The additional obligations estimated for participants that have not yet vested in the defined pension plans and the postretirement plans at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     Defined Benefit
Plans
   Postretirement
Benefit Plans
    
     2009    2008    2009    2008
     (in millions)

PBO

   $ 73    $ 60    $ 231    $ 228

ABO

     43      35      —        —  

The assumptions used in estimating the projected benefit obligations and the net benefit cost at December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 and for the years then ended were as follows:

 

     Defined Benefit Plans     Postretirement Benefit
Plans
 
     2009     2008     2007     2009     2008     2007  

Projected benefit obligation:

            

Discount rate

   6.25   6.25   6.00   6.25   6.25   6.00

Annual increase in compensation

   3.75   3.75   4.50   3.75   3.75   4.50

Net periodic benefit cost:

            

Discount rate

   6.25   6.00   6.00   6.25   6.00   6.00

Annual increase in compensation

   3.75   4.50   4.50   3.75   4.50   4.50

Long-term rate of return on plan assets

   8.00   8.00   8.00   8.00   8.00   8.00

The long-term rate of return on plan assets is estimated assuming a target allocation of plan assets among asset classes, with expected returns by asset class based on long-term historical returns for each asset class. Risk is assessed by evaluating long-term historical standard deviations and correlations between asset classes.

 

F-39


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

The PBO for postretirement benefits at December 31, 2009 assumed an annual increase in future retiree medical costs of 6.5%, grading down to 5% over three years and remaining level thereafter. At December 31, 2008 the comparable assumption was for an annual increase in future retiree medical costs of 7.0% grading down to 5% over four years and remaining level thereafter. A further increase in the assumed health care cost trend of 1% in each year would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at December 31, 2009 by $32 million and net periodic postretirement benefit expense for the year ended December 31, 2009 by $6 million. A decrease in the assumed health care cost trend of 1% in each year would reduce the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 2009 and net periodic postretirement benefit expense for the year ended December 31, 2009 by the same amounts.

 

F-40


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Following is an aggregate reconciliation of the funded status of the plans to the related financial statement liability reported by the Company at December 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

     Defined Benefit
Plans
    Postretirement
Benefit Plans
 
     2009     2008     2009     2008  
     (in millions)  

Fair value of plan assets

   $ 2,418      $ 1,992      $ 69      $ 62   

Projected benefit obligation

     2,544        2,368        290        269   
                                

Funded status

     (126     (376     (221     (207

Unrecognized net experience losses

     691        986        42        49   

Unrecognized prior service cost

     —          —          (5     —     

Unrecognized initial net asset

     (516     (544     —          —     

Additional minimum liability

     (10     (9     —          —     

Nonadmitted asset

     (493     (485     —          —     
                                

Net pension liability

   $ (454   $ (428   $ (184   $ (158
                                

Unrecognized net experience gains or losses represent cumulative amounts by which plan experience for return on plan assets or growth in estimated benefit obligations have varied from related assumptions. These differences accumulate without recognition in the Company’s financial statements unless they exceed 10% of plan assets or 10% of the projected benefit obligation, whichever is greater. If they exceed this limit, they are amortized into net periodic benefit cost over the remaining average years of service until retirement of the plan participants, which is currently fourteen years for employee plans and twelve years for financial representative plans.

Unrecognized initial asset represents the amount by which the fair value of plan assets exceeded the projected benefit obligation for funded pension plans upon the adoption of new statutory accounting guidance for defined benefit plans as of January 1, 2001. The Company has elected not to record a direct credit to surplus for this excess, electing instead to amortize this unrecognized initial asset as a credit to net periodic benefit cost until exhausted.

An additional minimum liability is required if a plan’s ABO exceeds plan assets or accrued pension liabilities. This additional liability was $10 million, $9 million and $13 million at December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Changes in the additional minimum liability are reported as a direct adjustment to surplus in the consolidated statement of changes in surplus.

Any net pension assets for funded plans are nonadmitted and are thereby excluded from assets and surplus in the consolidated statement of financial position.

The components of net periodic benefit cost for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 were as follows:

 

F-41


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

     Defined Benefit
Plans
    Postretirement
Benefit Plans
 
     2009     2008     2007     2009     2008     2007  
     (in millions)  

Components of net periodic benefit cost:

            

Service cost of benefits earned

   $ 83      $ 90      $ 85      $ 25      $ 29      $ 27   

Interest cost on projected obligations

     147        147        136        16        15        12   

Amortization of experience gains and losses

     61        4        4        2        —          1   

Amortization of initial net asset

     (28     —          —          —          —          —     

Expected return on plan assets

     (160     (218     (202     (5     (7     (7
                                                

Net periodic benefit cost

   $ 103      $ 23      $ 23      $ 38      $ 37      $ 33   
                                                

The expected benefit payments by the defined benefit plans and the postretirement plans for the years 2010 through 2019 are as follows:

 

     Defined Benefit
Plans
   Postretirement
Benefit Plans
     (in millions)

2010

   $ 88    $ 17

2011

     97      19

2012

     107      22

2013

     119      23

2014

     131      26

2015-2019

     896      174
             

Total

   $ 1,438    $ 281
             

The Company also sponsors a contributory 401(k) plan for eligible employees, for which the Company provides a matching contribution, and a noncontributory defined contribution plan for financial representatives. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 the Company expensed total contributions to these plans of $30 million, $29 million and $28 million, respectively. The Company also sponsors nonqualified plans that provide benefits to certain participants in excess of limits set by ERISA for qualified defined contribution plans.

 

9.

Reinsurance

The Company limits its exposure to life insurance death benefits by ceding insurance coverage to various reinsurers. The Company retains a maximum of $35 million of individual life coverage and a maximum of $50 million of joint life coverage. The Company also participates in a life insurance catastrophic risk sharing pool.

The Company cedes 60% of the morbidity risk on group disability plans. The Company ceased reinsuring new individual disability policies in 1999 and new long-term care policies in 2002, but has maintained the reinsurance ceded on policies issued prior to those dates.

Amounts in the consolidated financial statements are reported net of the impact of reinsurance. Reserves for policy benefits at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were reported net of ceded reserves of $1.7 billion and $1.6 billion, respectively.

 

F-42


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

The effects of reinsurance on premium revenue and benefit expense for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 were as follows:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  
     (in millions)  

Direct premium revenue

   $ 13,910      $ 14,356      $ 14,007   

Premiums ceded

     (848     (805     (765
                        

Net premium revenue

   $ 13,062      $ 13,551      $ 13,242   
                        

Direct benefit expense

   $ 14,458      $ 15,027      $ 14,518   

Benefits ceded

     (513     (567     (586
                        

Net benefit expense

   $ 13,945      $ 14,460      $ 13,932   
                        

In addition, the Company received $194 million, $184 million and $182 million in allowances from reinsurers for reimbursement of commissions and other expenses on ceded business for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. These amounts are included in other income in the consolidated statement of operations.

Reinsurance contracts do not relieve the Company from its obligations to policyowners. Failure of reinsurers to honor their obligations could result in losses to the Company. The Company mitigates this risk by dealing only with reinsurers that meet its financial strength standards, while adhering to concentration limits that would limit losses in the event of one or more reinsurer failures. Most significant reinsurance treaties contain financial protection provisions should a reinsurer’s credit rating fall below a prescribed level. There were no reinsurance recoverables at December 31, 2009 and 2008 that were considered by management to be uncollectible.

Subsequent to December 31, 2009, the Company agreed to recapture previously ceded long-term care insurance business from two unaffiliated reinsurers. The expected impact on the Company’s 2010 financial statements from these recapture transactions will be to increase investments and policy benefit reserves by $68 million and $100 million, respectively, with a resulting decrease in net income and surplus of $32 million at December 31, 2010 and for the year then ended. This financial statement impact represents the net compensation paid to these reinsurers upon recapture to forego expected future profits on the related long-term care insurance business.

 

10.

Income Taxes

The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return including the following subsidiaries:

 

Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC

 

Frank Russell Company and subsidiaries

NML Real Estate Holdings, LLC and subsidiaries

 

Bradford, Inc.

NML Securities Holdings, LLC and subsidiaries

 

Mason Street Advisors, LLC

Northwestern Investment Management Company, LLC

 

NML – CBO, LLC

Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company

 

JYD Assets, LLC

NM Pebble Valley, LLC

 

NM GP Holdings, LLC

The Company collects from or refunds to these subsidiaries their share of consolidated federal income taxes determined under written tax-sharing agreements.

 

F-43


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

The major components of current income tax expense in the consolidated statement of operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 were as follows:

 

     For the year ended
December 31,
 
     2009     2008     2007  
     (in millions)  

Tax payable on ordinary income

   $ 52      $ 97      $ 50   

Tax credits

     (43     (122     (110

Increase (decrease) in contingent tax liabilities

     33        (279     81   
                        

Total current tax expense (benefit)

   $ 42      $ (304   $ 21   
                        

The Company’s taxable income can vary significantly from gain from operations before taxes reported in the consolidated statement of operations due to temporary and permanent differences in revenue recognition and expense deduction between tax and financial statement bases of reporting. The Company’s financial statement effective tax rates were 9%, 91% and 16% for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

The effective tax rate is not the rate of tax applied to the Company’s federal taxable income or loss by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”). It is a financial statement relationship that represents the ratio between the sum of total tax expense or benefit incurred, including current tax expense or benefit on realized capital gains and losses and changes in deferred taxes not related to unrealized gains and losses on investments, to the sum of gain from operations before taxes and pretax net realized capital gains or losses. These financial statement effective rates were different than the applicable federal income tax rate of 35% due primarily to net investment income eligible for dividends received deduction, changes in non-admitted deferred tax assets, certain investment transactions, amortization of the IMR, leveraged leases, tax credits, pension contributions, tax losses of subsidiaries not eligible for refunds under intercompany tax-sharing agreements, interest accrued or released on contingent tax liabilities and adjustments to estimated current tax liabilities upon subsequent filing of tax returns.

The Company received federal tax refunds from the IRS of $454 million during the year ended December 31, 2009 and made payments to the IRS for federal income taxes of $72 million and $252 million during the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Income taxes paid in 2009 and prior years of $989 million are available at December 31, 2009 for refund claims in the event of future tax losses. Due to limitations on the utilization of tax credits a significant portion of the tax credits available in 2009 were not utilized. Tax credit carryforwards at December 31, 2009 were $79 million.

Federal income tax returns for 2005 and prior years are closed as to further assessment of tax. Income taxes recoverable or payable in the consolidated statement of financial position represents taxes recoverable or payable at the respective reporting date, adjusted for an estimate of additional taxes that may become due with respect to tax years that remained open to examination by the IRS at the respective reporting date (“contingent tax liabilities”).

Changes in the amount of contingent tax liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2009 were as follows (in millions):

 

F-44


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Balance at January 1, 2009

   $ 385

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

     —  

Additions for tax positions of prior years

     33

Reductions for tax positions of prior years

     —  
      

Balance at December 31, 2009

   $ 418
      

Included in the balance at December 31, 2009 are $364 million of tax positions for which the ultimate deductibility is highly certain but for which there is uncertainty about the timing of the deductions. Because of the impact of deferred tax accounting for amounts other than interest, the timing of the ultimate deduction would not affect the effective tax rate in future periods.

The Company recognizes interest accrued or released related to contingent tax liabilities in current income tax expense (benefit). During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the Company recognized $19 million, $(38) million and $34 million, respectively, in interest-related expense (benefit). The Company had $55 million and $35 million accrued for the payment of interest at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

F-45


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

The Company accounts for deferred tax assets and liabilities, which represent the financial statement impact of cumulative temporary differences between the tax and financial statement bases of assets and liabilities. The significant components of the net deferred tax asset at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     December 31,        
     2009    2008     Change  
     (in millions)        

Deferred tax assets:

       

Policy acquisition costs

   $ 955    $ 925      $ 30   

Investments

     226      440        (214

Policy benefit liabilities

     1,645      1,645        —     

Benefit plan obligations

     495      444        51   

Guaranty fund assessments

     11      11        —     

Nonadmitted assets

     69      75        (6

Other

     159      111        48   

Valuation adjustment

     —        —          —     
                       

Adjusted gross deferred tax assets:

     3,560      3,651        (91

Nonadmitted deferred tax assets:

     —        (74     74   
                       

Admitted adjusted deferred tax assets

     3,560      3,577        (17
                       

Deferred tax liabilities:

       

Premiums and other receivables

     603      591        12   

Investments

     590      284        306   

Other

     8      6        2   
                       

Gross deferred tax liabilities

     1,201      881        320   
                       

Net admitted adjusted gross deferred tax assets

   $ 2,359    $ 2,696      $ (337
                       

Adjusted gross deferred tax assets at December 31, 2009 included $3.4 billion of temporary differences that were ordinary in nature and $0.2 billion of temporary differences that were capital in nature. Gross deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2009 included $0.9 billion of temporary differences that were ordinary in nature and $0.3 billion of temporary differences that were capital in nature.

Changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities related to unrealized gains and losses on investments are included in changes in unrealized capital gains and losses in the consolidated statement of changes in surplus. Other net changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities are direct adjustments to surplus and separately reported in the consolidated statement of changes in surplus.

The statutory basis of accounting limits the amount of gross deferred tax assets that can be included in Company surplus. This limit is based on a formula that takes into consideration available loss carryback and carryforward capacity, expected timing of reversal for existing temporary differences, gross deferred tax liabilities and the level of Company surplus.

On December 7, 2009, the NAIC adopted Statement of Statutory Accounting Principles No. 10R, Income Taxes- Revised, A Temporary Replacement of SSAP No. 10 (“SSAP 10R”) effective for

 

F-46


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

the years ending December 31, 2009 and 2010. SSAP 10R amends the calculation of admitted deferred tax assets (“DTA”) by extending the reversal period for carryforward of temporary differences from one year to three years and increasing the level of surplus limitation from 10% to 15%, provided the entity meets a minimum risk-based capital (“RBC”) level of 250%. Entities that do not meet that minimum RBC level must calculate their admitted DTA using the statutory guidance previously in effect. At December 31, 2009, the Company exceeded the minimum RBC level required to use the SSAP 10R DTA admissibility methodology.

SSAP 10R further requires that gross DTAs be reduced by a statutory valuation allowance adjustment if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the DTAs will not be realized. In management’s judgment, the Company’s gross deferred tax assets will likely be realized. Accordingly, no statutory valuation allowance has been recorded. At December 31, 2009, the Company’s gross deferred tax assets did not exceed the limit allowed under SSAP 10R. If the Company had not qualified to use the SSAP 10R DTA admissibility methodology, the Company’s gross deferred tax assets at December 31, 2009 would have exceeded the previous SSAP 10 limit by $544 million, which would have reduced surplus in the consolidated statement of financial position by $544 million at December 31, 2009, compared to the result under SSAP 10R. Of this amount, $544 million is ordinary in nature.

At December 31, 2008, the Company adopted a permitted practice related to the valuation of its net deferred tax assets. This permitted practice, which was effective through September 30, 2009, differed from the NAIC Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual in that it extended the reversal period for carryforward of temporary differences in Statement of Statutory Accounting Principles No. 10, Accounting for Income Taxes (“SSAP 10”), from one year to three years and increased the level of surplus limitation from 10% to 15%.

At December 31, 2008, the Company’s gross deferred tax assets exceeded this permitted practice limit by $74 million. If the Company had not received permission for this alternative accounting treatment, the Company’s gross deferred tax assets at December 31, 2008 would have exceeded the SSAP 10 limit by $844 million, which would have reduced surplus in the consolidated statement of financial position by $770 million at December 31, 2008 compared to the result under the permitted practice.

 

F-47


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Significant components of the calculation of admitted deferred tax assets under SSAP 10R at December 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

     Ordinary    Capital    Total
     (in millions)

One year Reversal and 10% Surplus Limit:

        

Federal taxes recoverable from taxes paid in prior years

   $ 894    $ 71    $ 965

DTA’s expected to be realized within one year

     —        849      849

Remaining DTA’s to be offset against DTL’s

     146      1,054      1,200

Three Year Reversal and 15% Surplus Limit:

        

Federal taxes recoverable from taxes paid in prior years

     819      146      965

DTA’s expected to be realized within three years

     —        1,466      1,466

Remaining DTA’s to be offset against DTL’s

     71      1,058      1,129

Increased Amounts From Use of Three year Reversal and 15% Surplus Limit:

        

Deferred tax assets

     —        —        —  

Admitted assets

     544      —        544

Surplus

     544      —        544

Stautory Capital and Surplus:

        

10 percent of statutory capital and surplus

           977

15 percent of statutory capital and surplus

           1,466

Risk based Capital levels:

        

Total adjusted capital

           16,611

Authorized control level

           1,810

 

11.

Frank Russell Company

The Company acquired Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) effective January 1, 1999. Russell, a global leader in multi-manager investment services, provides investment products and services in over 40 countries. The initial purchase price of approximately $1.0 billion was funded with a combination of cash, senior notes issued by Russell and bank debt. The purchase agreement also called for additional contingent consideration to be paid to the former owners of Russell based upon its financial performance during the five year period ended December 31, 2003.

At the time of acquisition, the Company received permission from the OCI for a permitted practice regarding the valuation of its equity investment in Russell, whereby all GAAP acquisition goodwill, including any subsequent additions to goodwill resulting from payment of contingent purchase consideration, was charged off from the statutory cost basis of the acquisition as a direct reduction of Company surplus. During 2008, the Company received permission from the OCI to amend the original permitted practice to be in accordance with Statement of Statutory Accounting Principle No. 97, Investments in Subsidiary, Controlled and Affiliated Entities, A Replacement of SSAP No. 88 (“SSAP 97”), using the statutory equity method based on Russell’s audited GAAP book equity, exclusive of any adjustment for Russell’s GAAP goodwill as would otherwise be required by SSAP 97. This new permitted practice was adopted as a change in accounting principle effective January 1, 2008 and resulted in an $829 million direct increase to surplus during the year ended December 31, 2008. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company’s investment in Russell common stock was reported in common and preferred stocks in

 

F-48


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

the consolidated statement of financial position at $154 million and $67 million, respectively, compared with a fair value estimated by the Company of approximately $1.7 billion and $1 billion, respectively.

If the Company had not received permission for this alternative accounting treatment, surplus as reported in the consolidated statement of financial position would have been lower by $746 million and $730 million at December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, and net income as reported in the consolidated statement of operations would have been lower by $16 million, $63 million and $63 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

During 2007, the Company received common stock dividends from Russell in the amount of $56 million, which was included in net investment income in the consolidated statement of operations. No common stock dividends were received from Russell during 2009 or 2008.

In July 2008, a subsidiary of the Company sold common stock representing a 5% ownership interest in Russell to a third party, resulting in an after-tax gain that was reported as an unrealized capital gain in 2008 pending distribution of the net proceeds to the Company by the subsidiary. Those proceeds were received by the Company in 2009, and are reported in net investment income in the consolidated statement of operations for the year then ended.

In conjunction with the financing of the Russell acquisition in 1999, the Company guaranteed the repayment of $350 million of senior notes issued to third parties by Russell. During December 2008, the Company purchased, at par, perpetual senior preferred stock issued by Russell in the amount of $350 million. Russell used the proceeds of the senior preferred stock issuance to retire the senior notes upon their maturity on January 15, 2009. The senior preferred stock is callable under certain conditions and pays preferred dividends at a rate of 8.0%, payable semi-annually. The Company earned $27 million in dividends on senior preferred stock during 2009.

During 2008, Russell entered into capital support agreements with money market funds it sponsors in order to assure the realizable value of $764 million of Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. securities held by the funds. The Company guaranteed Russell’s obligations under those agreements. The Company subsequently entered into a loan agreement with Russell under which Russell could borrow up to $764 million to purchase the Lehman securities or to otherwise meet its obligations to the funds under the capital support agreements. The loan bore interest at prime plus 2% and had a term of three years. At December 31, 2008, there was no outstanding balance under this loan agreement. On January 12, 2009, the loan agreement was terminated, and the Company entered into an agreement to purchase, at par, up to $764 million of perpetual junior preferred stock and warrants issued by Russell. The junior preferred stock is callable under certain conditions and pays preferred dividends at a rate of 10.0%, payable semi-annually. The Company purchased $519 million of junior preferred stock and warrants under this agreement during 2009, with the proceeds used by Russell to fulfill obligations to its sponsored funds under the capital support agreements.

During 2009, Russell redeemed $24 million of junior preferred stock and cancelled related warrants under this agreement leaving $495 million of junior preferred stock and warrants outstanding at December 31, 2009. As of December 31, 2009, the Company held 39 million warrants which are subject to cancellation upon the redemption of junior preferred stock under certain circumstances. The warrants, which have exercise prices ranging from $5.33 to $6.43,

 

F-49


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

would increase the Company’s ownership interest in Russell from approximately 93% to 94% if exercised prior to potential cancellation or further dilution as a result of outstanding options related to Russell’s incentive compensation plans. The Company utilized the Black-Scholes model to value warrants held at December 31, 2009. Russell continues to support the value of up to $245 million of Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. securities held by its sponsored funds, and the Company remains committed to purchase up to that amount of junior preferred stock and warrants issued by Russell to fund this obligation. The Company earned $17 million in dividends on junior preferred stock during 2009.

During 2008, the Company purchased $654 million of short-term notes issued by third parties from money market funds sponsored by Russell. These notes were purchased at amortized cost, which approximated fair value, and had varying interest rates and maturity dates. The securities have all reached maturity during 2009 and have been repaid. The Company held $342 million of these notes at December 31, 2008, which were reported at amortized cost and included in cash and temporary investments in the consolidated statement of financial position.

The Company also invested in other notes issued by Russell, which bear interest at rates from 6.1% to 7.0% and mature in 2014. The Company held $180 million at each of December 31, 2009 and 2008, of other notes issued by Russell, which are reported at amortized cost and included in bonds in the consolidated statement of financial position.

During 2009, Russell entered into a revolving line of credit of up to $250 million, which was guaranteed by the Company. This line of credit replaced a similar agreement that had expired on April 30, 2009. During 2009, the Company received a payment of $2.5 million from Russell related to the guarantee of this credit facility. Russell’s borrowings under these facilities were $180 million and $233 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

The statement value of the Company’s various investments in securities issued by Russell at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     December 31,
     2009    2008
     (in millions)

Common stock

   $ 154    $ 67

Fixed income notes

     180      180

Senior preferred stock

     350      350

Junior preferred stock

     425      —  

Warrants

     70      —  
             

Total

   $ 1,179    $ 597
             

On February 10, 2010, Russell and the Company entered into an agreement to sell Russell’s private equity business, which is expected to result in an after tax gain to Russell of approximately $365 million which will be reported as an unrealized gain in the Company’s 2010 consolidated statement of changes in surplus. The after tax proceeds of the sale are expected to be used by Russell to retire the fixed income notes issued by Russell to the Company with the remainder being used to retire junior preferred stock and warrants.

 

F-50


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

12.

Contingencies and Guarantees

In the normal course of business, the Company has guaranteed certain obligations of other affiliates and made guarantees of operating leases or future minimum compensation payments on behalf of its financial representatives. The terms of these guarantees range from less than one year to 39 years at December 31, 2009. If these affiliates or financial representatives are not able to meet their obligations, the Company would be required to make payments to fulfill its guarantees. The maximum aggregate exposure under these guarantees was $491 million at December 31, 2009. The Company believes that the likelihood is remote that payments will be required under these guarantees and therefore has not accrued a contingent liability in the consolidated statement of financial position. In addition, the Company makes commitments to fund private equity investments, real estate, mortgage loans or other investments in the normal course of business. These commitments aggregated to $3.1 billion at December 31, 2009 and were extended at market rates and terms.

The Company is engaged in various legal actions in the course of its investment and insurance operations. The status of these legal actions is actively monitored by management. If management believed, based on available information, that an adverse outcome upon resolution of a given legal action was probable and the amount of that adverse outcome was reasonably estimable, a loss would be recognized and a related liability recorded. No such liabilities were recorded by the Company at December 31, 2009 and 2008.

Legal actions are subject to inherent uncertainties, and future events could change management’s assessment of the probability or estimated amount of potential losses from pending or threatened legal actions. Based on available information, it is the opinion of management that the ultimate resolution of pending or threatened legal actions, both individually and in the aggregate, will not result in losses having a material effect on the Company’s financial position at December 31, 2009.

 

13.

Related Party Transactions

During each of 2009 and 2008, the Company transferred certain investments from its general account to unconsolidated subsidiaries as capital contributions. The aggregate statement value and fair value of investments transferred during 2009 was $135 million and $139 million, respectively. The aggregate statement value and fair value of investments transferred during 2008 was $102 million and $449 million, respectively. These capital contributions were accounted for at statement value, and no capital gain or loss was reported by the Company or its subsidiaries as a result of these transfers.

During March 2006, the Company completed a reorganization transaction whereby the Mason Street Funds, a family of mutual funds sponsored and managed by a subsidiary of the Company, were combined with new or existing mutual funds sponsored by two unaffiliated third parties (“successor funds”). Under the terms of the reorganization transaction, the remaining Mason Street Fund shares owned by the Company and its subsidiaries, with an aggregate fair value of $970 million, were exchanged for mutual fund shares in the successor funds of equal fair value. In connection with the reorganization, the Company and its subsidiaries agreed not to redeem their investment in the successor funds for a period of up to three years after the reorganization transaction. During 2009 the Company and its subsidiaries redeemed all of the remaining mutual fund shares in the successor funds with realized capital losses of $83 million and unrealized

 

F-51


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

capital losses of $100 million, respectively, reported by the Company on these redemptions. During 2008 the Company and its subsidiaries redeemed $258 million and $40 million, respectively, of mutual fund shares in the successor funds with net realized capital gains of $27 million and unrealized capital losses of $14 million reported by the Company on these redemptions. The Company held shares in the successor funds with aggregate fair values of $376 million at December 31, 2008, which were included in common stocks in the consolidated statement of financial position. At December 31, 2008, the Company’s unconsolidated subsidiaries held additional shares in the successor funds with aggregate fair values of $162 million.

 

14.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The fair value of an asset or liability is the amount at which the asset or liability could be purchased or sold in a current transaction between willing parties, other than in a forced sale or liquidation situation.

 

F-52


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

The fair value of investment assets and certain policy liabilities at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     December 31, 2009    December 31, 2008
     Statement
Value
   Fair
Value
   Statement
Value
   Fair
Value

Assets:

           

Bonds

   $ 91,004    $ 92,568    $ 79,314    $ 74,736

Mortgage loans

     21,024      19,847      21,677      18,620

Policy loans

     13,717      13,717      12,884      12,884

Common and preferred stocks

     5,918      7,499      5,744      6,646

Real estate

     1,582      1,893      1,528      2,402

Other investments

     8,587      9,320      9,185      10,624

Cash and temporary investments

     2,610      2,610      4,807      4,807
                           

Total investments

   $ 144,442    $ 147,454    $ 135,139    $ 130,719

Liabilities:

           

Investment-type insurance reserves

   $ 5,078    $ 4,714    $ 4,563    $ 4,226

The statutory basis of accounting allows for the fair value disclosures for bonds and certain preferred stocks, as well as statement value for common stocks and certain preferred stocks, be based on values published by the SVO, quoted market prices, independent pricing services or internally developed pricing models.

At December 31, 2009, the fair value of bonds were generally based on independent pricing services or internally developed pricing models based on observable market data, the fair value of public common and preferred stocks were generally based on quoted market prices and the fair value of private equity securities were generally based on internally developed pricing models utilizing inputs such as public company comparables, sponsor values, and discounted cash flows. At December 31, 2008, the fair value of bonds, common and preferred stocks and other equity securities were generally based on values published by the SVO or quoted market prices of identical or similar securities when no SVO value is available. When SVO-published values or quoted market prices were not used, fair value was estimated using independent pricing services or internally developed pricing models. The fair value of the Company’s investment in Russell common stock is estimated using a multiple, reflective of comparable public companies, of Russell’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, adjusted for debt and the Company’s holdings in Russell preferred stock. See Note 11 regarding the statement value of the Company’s investment in Russell common stock. The fair value of mortgage loans is based on estimated future cash flows discounted using market interest rates for debt with comparable credit risk and maturities. The fair value of real estate is based primarily on estimated future cash flows discounted using market interest or capitalization rates. The fair value of policy loans is based on unpaid principal balance, which approximates fair value. Other investments include: real estate joint ventures, for which fair value is based on estimated future cash flows discounted using market interest rates; other joint ventures and partnerships, for which statement value approximates fair value; investments in low income housing tax credits, for which fair value is based on estimated future tax benefits discounted using market interest rates, and derivatives, for which fair value is based on quoted market prices, where available, or third party and internally developed pricing models.

 

F-53


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

Investment-type insurance reserves only include individual fixed annuity policies, supplementary contracts without life contingencies and amounts left on deposit with the Company. The fair value of investment-type insurance reserves is based on estimated future cash flows discounted at market interest rates for similar instruments with comparable maturities.

The statutory basis of accounting requires that certain bonds and preferred stocks, most common stocks, certain derivative instruments and most separate account assets be reported at fair value. Estimates of fair value can be categorized into three levels based on the nature of the inputs to the valuation estimates:

Level 1 – Fair value is based on quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that are accessible to the Company.

Level 2 – Fair value is based on observable market data such as quoted prices for similar assets in active markets or quoted prices for identical or similar assets in non-active markets.

Level 3 – Fair value is estimated by the Company using one or more significant unobservable inputs.

The table below presents the common stocks and separate account assets reported at fair value in the consolidated statement of financial position, in aggregate, as of December 31, 2009. The statement value of bonds rated “6” by the NAIC and preferred stocks rated “4”, “5” and “6” by the NAIC, which are reported at the lower of amortized cost or fair value, and the statement value of derivatives reported at fair value as of December 31, 2009 are considered immaterial for the purpose of this disclosure and are thereby not included below.

Investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries are excluded from common stocks reported at fair value, as they are reported using the equity method.

 

     December 31, 2009
     Level
1
    Level
2
    Level
3
   Total
     (in millions)

General account common stocks

   $ 3,960      $ —        $ 664    $ 4,624

Separate accounts:

         

Mutual fund investments

     13,774        —          —        13,774

Other benefit plan assets

     11        8        1      20

Pension and postretirement assets:

         

Bonds

     4        951        11      966

Public and private equities

     1,184        —          13      1,197

Preferred stock

     —          3        2      5

Cash and Short term securities

     192        —          —        192

Other asset/liabilities

     (18     (11     156      127
                             

Subtotal pension and postretirement assets

     1,362        943        182      2,487
                             

Total

   $ 19,107      $ 951      $ 847    $ 20,905
                             

 

F-54


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

 

 

The following table summarizes the changes in fair value of assets utilizing Level 3 inputs for the year ended December 31, 2009.

 

     For the year ended December 31, 2009
     Fair value,
beginning
of period
   Realized
investment
gains/(losses)
    Unrealized
gains/(losses)
    Purchases,
sales,
settlements
    Transfers
into/out
of Level 3
    Fair value,
end of
period
     (in millions)

General account common stocks

   $ 1,064    $ (22   $ 86      $ (73   $ (391   $ 664

Separate accounts:

             

Other benefit plan assets

     1      —          —          —          —          1

Pension and postretirement assets:

             

Bonds

     3      —          —          (5     13        11

Public and private equities

     14      1        (1     —          (1     13

Preferred stock

     2      —          —          —          —          2

Other asset/liabilities

     153      (4     (4     11        —          156
                                             

Subtotal pension and postretirement assets

     172      (3     (5     6        12        182
                                             

Total

   $ 1,237    $ (25   $ 81      $ (67   $ (379   $ 847
                                             

 

F-55


Table of Contents

PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS

 

 

       

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

100 E. Wisconsin Ave., Suite 1800

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Telephone (414) 212 1600

Facsimile (414) 212 1880

Report of Independent Auditors

To the Board of Trustees and Policyowners of

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company

We have audited the accompanying statutory consolidated statements of financial position of The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company and its subsidiary (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statutory statements of operations, of changes in surplus, and of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

As described in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company prepared these consolidated financial statements using accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance of the State of Wisconsin (statutory basis of accounting), which practices differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The effects on the financial statements of the variances between the statutory basis of accounting and accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, although not reasonably determinable, are presumed to be material.

In our opinion, because of the effects of the matter discussed in the preceding paragraph, the financial statements referred to above do not present fairly, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 or the results of its operations or its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009, on the basis of accounting described in Note 1.

/s/PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP

February 15, 2010

 

F-56


Table of Contents

PART C

OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 26. Exhibits

 

Exhibit   Description   

Filed Herewith/Incorporated Herein By

Reference To

(a)  

Resolution of Board of Trustees of The

Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance

Company establishing the Account,

dated March 22, 2006

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (a)

to Form N-6 initial Registration Statement, File

No. 333-136124, filed July 28, 2006

     
(b)   Not Applicable     
     
(c)  

Distribution Agreement Between The

Northwestern Life Insurance Company

and Northwestern Mutual Investment

Services, LLC, dated May 1, 2006

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (c)

to Form N-6 initial Registration Statement, File

No. 333-136124, filed July 28, 2006

     
(d)1  

Northwestern Mutual Flexible Premium

Variable Adjustable Survivorship Life

Insurance Policy, TT.SVUL. (0107) with

Policy Split Provision,

TT.SUL.PS.(0805)

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(d)1 to Form N-6 initial Registration

Statement, File No. 333-136308, filed August

4, 2006

     
(d)2  

Endorsement Regarding Qualification Of

Variable Life Policy As A Life

Insurance Contract, AMDT.FLSF.(0199)

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(d)2 to Form N-6 initial Registration

Statement, File No. 333-136308, filed August

4, 2006

     
(e)  

Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance

Application, 90-1 L.I.(0198) with

Application Supplement, (90-

1.SVUL.Supp.(0107)

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)

to Form N-6 initial Registration Statement, File

No. 333-136308, filed August 4, 2006

     
(f)1  

Restated Articles of Incorporation of

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance

Company (adopted July 26, 1972)

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

A(6)(a) to Form S-6 Post-Effective

Amendment No. 18, File No. 2-89972, filed

April 26, 1996

     
(f)2  

Amended By-Laws of The Northwestern

Mutual Life Insurance Company dated

December 4, 2002

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (f)

to Form N-6 Post-Effective Amendment No. 8,

File No. 333-36865, filed February 28, 2003

     
(h)(a)(1)  

Participation Agreement dated March

16, 1999 Among Russell Insurance

Funds, Russell Fund Distributors, Inc.

and The Northwestern Mutual Life

Insurance Company

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(b)(8)(a) to Form N-4 Post-Effective

Amendment No. 66, File No. 2-29240, filed

on April 28, 2005

     
(h)(a)(2)  

Amendment No. 1 dated August 7, 2000

to the Participation Agreement dated

March 16, 1999 Among Russell

Insurance Funds, Russell Fund

Distributors, Inc. and The Northwestern

Mutual Life Insurance Company

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(h)1(a)(2) to Form N-6 Registration Statement,

File No. 333-136124, filed on July 28, 2006

     
(h)(a)(3)  

Amendment No. 2 dated October 13,

2006 to Participation Agreements dated

March 16, 1999 and August 7, 2000,

respectively, by and among The

Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance

Company, Russell Investment Funds,

f/k/a “Russell Insurance Funds,” and

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(h)1(a)(3) to Form N-6 Pre-Effective

Amendment No. 1, File No. 333-136124, filed

December 13, 2006

 

C-1


Table of Contents
     
    Russell Fund Distributors, Inc.     
     
(h)(b)(1)  

Participation Agreement dated May 1,

2003 among Variable Insurance Products

Funds, Fidelity Distributors Corporation

and The Northwestern Mutual Life

Insurance Company

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(b)(8)(b) to Form N-4 Post-Effective

Amendment No. 66, File No. 2-29240, filed on

April 28, 2005

     
(h)(b)(2)  

Amendment No. 1 dated October 18,

2006 to Participation Agreement dated

May 1, 2003, by and among The

Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance

Company, Fidelity Distributors

Corporation, and each of Variable

Insurance Products Fund, Variable

Insurance Products Fund II, and Variable

Insurance Products Fund III

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(h)1(b)(2) to Form N-6 Pre-Effective

Amendment No. 1, File No. 333-136124, filed

December 13, 2006

     
(h)(c)(1)  

Administrative Service Fee Agreement

dated February 28, 1999 between The

Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance

Company and Frank Russell Company

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(b)(8)(c) to Form N-4 Post-Effective

Amendment No. 66, File No. 2-29240, filed on

April 28, 2005

     
(h)(c)(2)  

Form of Administrative Services

Agreement

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(b)(8)(f) to Form N-4 Post-Effective

Amendment No. 17, File No. 333-72913, filed

on April 20, 2007

     
(h)(d)(1)  

Service Agreement dated May 1, 2003

between Fidelity Investments

Institutional Operations Company, Inc.

and The Northwestern Mutual Life

Insurance Company

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(b)(8)(c)(2) to Form N-4 Pre-Effective

Amendment No. 1, File No. 333-133380, filed

on August 8, 2006

     
(h)(d)(2)  

Amendment dated August 1, 2004 to the

Service Agreement dated May 1, 2003

between Fidelity Investments

Institutional Operations Company, Inc.

and The Northwestern Mutual Life

Insurance Company

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(b)(8)(c)(3) to Form N-4 Pre-Effective

Amendment No. 1, File No. 333-133380, filed

on August 8, 2006

     
(i)   Not Applicable     
     
(j)(a)  

Form of Distribution Services

Agreement

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(b)(8)(g) to Form N-4 Post-Effective

Amendment No. 17, File No. 333-72913, filed

on April 20, 2007

     
(j)(b)  

Form of Shareholder Information

Agreement

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit

(b)(8)(h) to Form N-4 Post-Effective

Amendment No. 17, File No. 333-72913, filed

on April 20, 2007

     
(j)(c)   Power of Attorney    Filed herewith.
     
(j)(d)  

NMIS/NM Annuity Operations Admin

Agreement

  

Exhibit (b)(8)(i) to Form N-4 Post-Effective

Amendment No. 19 for NML Variable

Annuity Account A, File No. 333-72913, filed

on April 22, 2008

     
(k)  

Opinion and Consent of Raymond J.

Manista, Esq. dated April 27, 2010

   Filed herewith.
     
(l)   Not Applicable     

 

C-2


Table of Contents
     
(m)    Not Applicable     
     
(n)   

Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers

LLP dated 27, 2010

   Filed herewith.
     
(o)    Not Applicable     
     
(p)    Not Applicable     
     
(q)   

Memorandum describing Issuance,

Transfer and Redemption Procedures

  

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (q)

to Form N-6 Post-Effective Amendment

No. 5, File No. 333-136124, filed April 27,

2010

 

Item 27. Directors and Officers of the Depositor

The following lists include all of the Trustees, executive officers and other officers of The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company without regard to their activities relating to variable life insurance policies or their authority to act or their status as “officers” as that term is used for certain purposes of the federal securities laws and rules thereunder.

TRUSTEES – As of April 1, 2010

 

Name    Business Address

Facundo L. Bacardi

  

Chairman

Bacardi Limited

c/o Apache Capital

133 Sevilla

Coral Gables, FL 33134

   

John N. Balboni

  

Senior Vice President & CIO

International Paper

6400 Poplar Avenue

Memphis, TN 38197

   

Robert C. Buchanan

  

Retired Chairman

Fox Valley Corporation

P. O. Box 727

Appleton, WI 54912-0727

   

David J. Drury

  

President

Poblocki Sign Company LLC

922 South 70th Street

Milwaukee, WI 53214

   

Connie K. Duckworth

  

Founder & CEO

Arzu

77 Stone Gate Lane

Lake Forest, IL 60045

 

C-3


Table of Contents
   

David A. Erne

  

Attorney

Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, sc

1000 North Water Street

Suite 2100

Milwaukee, WI 53202

   

James P. Hackett

  

President and CEO

Steelcase, Inc.

901 - 44th Street

Grand Rapids, MI 49508

   

Hans Helmerich

  

President & CEO

Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

1437 S. Boulder

Tulsa, OK 74119

   

Dale E. Jones

  

Vice Chairman

Heidrick & Struggles

2001 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Suite 925

Washington, DC 20006

   

Margery Kraus

  

President & CEO

APCO Worldwide

700 12th Street, NW

Suite 800

Washington, DC 20005

   

David J. Lubar

  

President & CEO

Lubar & Co.

700 N. Water Street

Suite 1200

Milwaukee, WI 53202

   

Ulice Payne, Jr.

  

President & CEO

Addison-Clifton, LLC

13555 Bishops Court

Suite 245

Brookfield, WI 53005

   

Gary A. Poliner

  

Executive Vice President

Northwestern Mutual

720 E. Wisconsin Avenue

Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

C-4


Table of Contents
   

John E. Schlifske

  

President

Northwestern Mutual

720 E. Wisconsin Avenue

Milwaukee, WI 53202

   

H. Mason Sizemore, Jr.

  

2054 N.W. Blue Ridge Drive

Seattle, WA 98177

   

Peter M. Sommerhauser

  

Attorney

Godfrey & Kahn, SC

780 North Water Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202-3590

   

Mary Ellen Stanek

  

Managing Director &

Chief Investment Officer

Baird Advisors

Robert W. Baird & Co.

President-Baird Funds Inc.

777 E. Wisconsin Avenue

21st Floor

Milwaukee, WI 53202

   

John J. Stollenwerk

  

10941 North Range Line Road

Mequon, WI 53092

   

Timothy W. Sullivan

  

President & CEO

Bucyrus International

1100 Milwaukee Avenue

South Milwaukee, WI 53172

   

S. Scott Voynich

  

Managing Partner

Robinson, Grimes & Company, PC

5637 Whitesville Road (31904)

P. O. Box 4299 (31914)

Columbus, GA

   

Barry L. Williams

  

Retired Managing General Partner

Williams Pacific Ventures, Inc.

4 Embarcadero Center, Suite 3700

San Francisco, CA 94111

   

Edward J. Zore

  

Chairman and CEO

Northwestern Mutual

720 E. Wisconsin Avenue

Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

C-5


Table of Contents

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS – As of April 1, 2010

 

Name    Title

Edward J. Zore

   Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

John E. Schlifske

   President

Sandra L. Botcher

   Vice President (Enterprise Risk Assurance)

Michael G. Carter

   Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

Eric P. Christophersen

   Vice President (Compliance/Best Practices)

David D. Clark

   Senior Vice President (Real Estate)

Jefferson V. DeAngelis

   Senior Vice President (Public Markets)

Mark G. Doll

   Executive Vice President & Chief Investment Officer

Christina H. Fiasca

   Senior Vice President (Agency Services)

Timothy J. Gerend

   Vice President (Field Compensation and Planning)

Kimberley Goode

   Vice President (Communications & Corporate Affairs)

Karl G. Gouverneur

   Vice President (Information Systems)

John M. Grogan

   Vice President (Wealth Management)

Thomas G. Guay

   Vice President (New Business)

Gary M. Hewitt

   Vice President & Treasurer (Treasury & Investment Operations)

J. Chris Kelly

   Vice President and Controller

John L. Kordsmeier

   Vice President (Disability Income)

Susan A. Lueger

   Vice President (Human Resources)

Jeffrey J. Lueken

   Senior Vice President (Securities)

Jean M. Maier

   Executive Vice President (Enterprise Operations and Technology)

Raymond J. Manista

   General Counsel & Secretary

Meridee J. Maynard

   Senior Vice President (Product Distribution)

Gregory C. Oberland

   Executive Vice President (Insurance and Investment Products)

Kathleen A. Oman

   Vice President (Policyowner Services)

Gary A. Poliner

   Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer

David R. Remstad

   Vice President and Chief Actuary

Marcia Rimai

   Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer

Bethany M. Rodenhuis

   Vice President (Corporate Planning)

Timothy G. Schaefer

   Chief Information Officer

Calvin R. Schmidt

   Vice President (Investment Product Operations)

Todd M. Schoon

   Executive Vice President (Agencies)

David W. Simbro

   Vice President (Life Product)

Paul J. Steffen

   Vice President (Agencies)

Martha M. Valerio

   Vice President

Conrad C. York

   Vice President (Marketing)

Michael L. Youngman

   Vice President (Government Relations)

OTHER OFFICERS – As of December 1, 2009

 

Employee    Title

Gregory A. Gurlik

   Senior Actuary

Donald C. Kiefer

   VP Actuary

Kenneth M. Latus

   Actuary

James Lodermeier

   Senior Actuary

Robert G. Meilander

   VP Corporate Actuary

Ted A. Matchulat

   Director Product Compliance

Jon K. Magalska

   Senior Actuary

Arthur V. Panighetti

   VP Actuary

P. Andrew Ware

   VP Actuary

 

C-6


Table of Contents
Employee    Title

Mark S. Bishop

   Regional VP Field Supv

Jennifer L. Brase

   VP Agency Dev

Somayajulu Durvasula

   Regional VP Field Supv

Michael S. Ertz

   VP Field Administration

Mark J. Gmach

   Regional VP Field Supv

David D. Kiecker

   Regional VP Field Supv

Steven C. Mannebach

   VP Agency Dev

Daniel J. O’Meara

   Regional VP Field Supv

Charles J. Pendley

   VP Agency Dev
   

Robert J. Johnson

   Director Compliance Oversight and Review

James M. Makowski

   Asst. Director—Marketing Materials Compliance

Timothy Nelson

   Director Market Conduct
   

Jason T. Anderson

   Assistant Director Tax

Gwen C. Canady

   Director Corporate Reporting

Barbara E. Courtney

   Director Mutual Fund Accounting

Walter M. Givler

   VP Accounting Policy

David K. Nunley

   VP—Tax

Stephen R. Stone

   Director Investment Accounting
   

John M. Abbott

   Director—Field Investigations

Carl E. Amick

   VP—Risk Management Operations

Maryann Bialo

   Asst. Director DI Benefits

Pamela C. Bzdawka

   Assistant Director—SIU

Stephen J. Frankl

   Director—Sales Strategy and Support

Sharon A. Hyde

   Asst. Director DI Benefits

Cynthia Lubbert

   Asst. Director—DI Underwriting

Steven J. Stribling

   Director—DI Benefits

Cheryl L. Svehlek

   Director—Administration
   

Laila V. Hick

   Director of Field Supervision

Karla D. Hill

   Asst. Director of Distribution Operations

Joanne M. Migliaccio

   Director of Distribution Operations

Daniel A. Riedl

   VP Distribution Policies and Operations
   

Sandra L. Botcher

   VP Enterprise Risk Assurance
   

Linda A. Schaefer

   Director Operations Strategy

Anne C. Wills

   Director BCP

Todd O. Zinkgraf

   VP Enterprise Solutions
   

Christen L. Partleton

   VP Facility Operations
   

Robyn S. Cornelius

   Director Dist Planning

David J. Dorshorst

   Director of Field Comp

Allen M. Kluz

   Director of Field Benefits

Kim M. Althaus

   Director of FCP Systems

Richard P. Snyder

   Director Distribution Planning

William H. Taylor

   Vice President Financial Security Planning
   

Troy M. Burbach

   Director—Field Development Systems

Pency P. Byhardt

   VP—Field Development

Sharen L. King

   Director—Practice Management and Field Training

 

C-7


Table of Contents
Employee    Title

Douglas P. Bates

   VP Federal Relations

Steven M. Radke

   VP Leg & Reg Relations
   

Blaise C. Beaulier

   VP Information Systems

Robert J. Kowalsky

   VP Information Systems

Rachel L. Taknint

   VP Information Risk Management
   

David A. Eurich

   Director—IPS Training, Marketing & Communications

Martha M. Kendler

   Director—IPS Annuity Products

Arleen J. Llewellyn

   Director—Business Integration

Mac McAuliffe

   National Sales Director—IPS—Sales

Michael J. Mihm

   Director—IPS Business Development

Ronald C. Nelson

   Director—IPS Research & Product Support

Jeffrey J. Niehaus

   Director—IPS Business Retirement Markets

David G. Stoeffel

   VP IPS Investment Product Lines

Kellen A. Thiel

   Director—IPS Advisory Products

Brian D. Wilson

   Director—IPS Marketing & Sales

Robert J. Wright

   Director—IPS Strategic Partnerships Product Support
   

Meg E. Jansky

   Director—Annuity Operations

Lisa A. Myklebust

   Director—Business Systems Team
   

Mark J. Backe

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Beth M. Berger

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Frederick W. Bessette

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Melissa J. Bleidorn

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Anne T. Brower

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Michael S. Bula

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

M. Christine Cowles

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Domingo G. Cruz

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Mark S. Diestelmeier

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

John E. Dunn

   VP & Investment Products & Services Counsel

James R. Eben

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Marcia E. Facey

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Chad E. Fickett

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Gerald E. Fradin

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

James C. Frasher

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Matthew E. Gabrys

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

John K. Garofani

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Sheila M. Gavin

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Kevin M. Gleason

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

C. Claibourne Greene

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Elizabeth S. Idleman

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Gregory Johnson

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

James A. Koelbl

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Abimbola O. Kolawole

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary
   

Carol L. Kracht

   VP & Deputy General Counsel & Board Relations

Elizabeth J. Lentini

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

George R. Loxton

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Stephanie Lyons

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Dean E. Mabie

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Steve Martinie

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Michael J. Mazza

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

James L. McFarland

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Lesli H. McLinden

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

 

C-8


Table of Contents
Employee    Title

Larry S. Meihsner

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Christopher J. Menting

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Richard E. Meyers

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Scott J. Morris

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Jennifer W. Murphy

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

David K. Nelson

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Mary S. Nelson

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Michelle Nelson

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Timothy A. Otto

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Randy M. Pavlick

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

David W. Perez

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Judith L. Perkins

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

William C. Pickering

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Nora M. Platt

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Harvey W. Pogoriler

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Zhibin Ren

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Peter K. Richardson

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Tammy M. Roou

   VP & Ins & Distr Counsel

Thomas F. Scheer

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Kathleen H. Schluter

   VP & Tax Counsel

Rodd Schneider

   VP & Litigation Counsel

Sarah E. Schott

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Catherine L. Shaw

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

David Silber

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Mark W. Smith

   Assoc. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Karen J. Stevens

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Brenda J. Stugelmeyer

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

John M. Thompson

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Douglas D. Timmer

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Andrew T. Vedder

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Warren, John W.

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Catherine A. Wilbert

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Catherine M. Young

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary

Terry R. Young

   Asst. General Counsel & Asst. Secretary
   

Jason R. Handal

   Director—Speciality Markets

Todd L. Laszewski

   Director Life Product Development

Jane Ann Schiltz

   VP Business Markets
   

Terese J. Capizzi

   Director Long Term Care Administration

Julie K. Flaa

   Director Long Term Care Product Development

Mollie A. Kenny

   Regulatory Consultant

Steve P. Sperka

   VP Long Term Care

John K. Wilson

   Director Long Term Care Sales Support
   

Carrie L. Bleck

   Director Policyowner Services

Sherri L. Schickert

   Director Policyowner Services

Diane P. Smith

   Asst. Director Policyowner Services

Natalie J. Versnik

   Director Policyowner Services

Michael D. Zelinski

   Director Policyowner Services
   

Donna L. Lemanczyk

   Asst. Secretary

Warren L. Smith

   Asst. Secretary
   

Karla J. Adams

   Director Investment Risk Management

James A. Brewer

   Director Investment Planning

 

C-9


Table of Contents
Employee    Title

Donald Forecki

   Director Investment Operations, Asst. Secretary

Karen A. Molloy

   Director Banking & Cash Management, Asst. Treasurer

Patricia A. Zimmermann

   Director Investment Technology & Development, Asst. Secretary
   

Shanklin B. Cannon

   Medical Director

Kurt P. Carbon

   Director Life Lay Standards

Wayne F. Heidenreich

   Medical Director

Paul W. Skalecki

   VP Underwriting Standards

The business addresses for all of the executive officers and other officers is 720 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202.

 

Item 28. Persons Controlled By or Under Common Control with the Depositor or Registrant

The subsidiaries of The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (“Northwestern Mutual”), as of March 31, 2010 are set forth on pages C-11 through C-12. In addition to the subsidiaries set forth on pages C-11 through C-12, the following separate investment accounts (which include the Registrant) may be deemed to be either controlled by, or under common control with, Northwestern Mutual:

 

  1.

NML Variable Annuity Account A

 

  2.

NML Variable Annuity Account B

 

  3.

NML Variable Annuity Account C

 

  4.

Northwestern Mutual Variable Life Account

 

  5.

Northwestern Mutual Variable Life Account II

Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc. and Russell Investment Funds (the “Funds”), shown below as subsidiaries of Northwestern Mutual, are investment companies, registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, offering their shares to the separate accounts identified above; and the shares of the Funds held in connection with certain of the accounts are voted by Northwestern Mutual in accordance with voting instructions obtained from the persons who own, or are receiving payments under, variable annuity contracts or variable life insurance policies issued in connection with the separate accounts, or in the same proportions as the shares which are so voted.

 

C-10


Table of Contents

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL CORPORATE STRUCTURE1

(as of April 1, 2010)

 

Name of Subsidiary

 

Jurisdiction of Incorporation

Amber, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

AMLI at Cambridge Square, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Baraboo, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Bayridge, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Bradford, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Brendan International Sales, Inc.—100% ownership

 

U.S. Virgin Islands

Burgundy, LLC- 100% ownership

 

Delaware

Carlisle Ventures, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Chateau, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Coral, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Cortona Holdings, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Fairfield West Deer Park LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Frank Russell Company—92.86% ownership

 

Washington

Foxkirk, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Group Liquidation Corp.—100% ownership

 

New Mexico

Hazel, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Health Invest, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Higgins, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Highbrook International Sales, Inc.—100% ownership

 

U.S. Virgin Islands

Hobby, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Hollenberg 1, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Hollenberg 2, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Jerusalem Avenue Property, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Justin International FSC, Inc.—100% ownership

 

U.S. Virgin Islands

JYD Assets LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Klode, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Kristiana International Sales, Inc.—100% ownership

 

U.S. Virgin Islands

Ladak, Inc.—100% ownership

 

California

Lake Bluff, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Logan, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Lydell, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Maroon, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Mason & Marshall, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Mason Street Advisors, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Mitchell, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

Model Portfolios, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

N.M. Albuquerque, Inc.—100% ownership

 

New Mexico

New Arcade, LLC—100% ownership

 

Wisconsin

Nicolet, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Delaware

NM DFW Lewisville, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

NM F/X, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

NM GP Holdings, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

NM Harrisburg, Inc.—100% ownership

 

Pennsylvania

NM Imperial, LLC—100% ownership

 

Delaware

 

C-11


Table of Contents

NM Lion, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

NM Majestic Holdings, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

NM Pebble Valley LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

NM RE Funds, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

NM Regal, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

NM-Exchange Three, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

NM-Exchange, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

NML Clubs Associated, Inc.—100% ownership

  

Wisconsin

NML Development Corporation—100% ownership

  

Delaware

NML Real Estate Holdings, LLC—100% ownership

  

Wisconsin

NML Securities Holdings, LLC—100% ownership

  

Wisconsin

NML-CBO, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

NMRM Holdings, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

North Van Buren, Inc.—100% ownership

  

Delaware

Northwestern Investment Management Company, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company—100% ownership

  

Wisconsin

Northwestern Mutual Capital GP II, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

Northwestern Mutual Capital GP, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

Northwestern Mutual Capital Limited—100% ownership

  

United Kingdom

Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC—100% ownership

  

Wisconsin

Northwestern Mutual Life International, Inc.—100% ownership

  

Delaware

Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc.—100% ownership

  

Maryland

Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company—100% ownership

  

NW Pipeline, Inc.—100% ownership

  

Texas

Olive, Inc.—100% ownership

  

Delaware

PPF AMLI 460 SW Longview Boulevard, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

RE Corp.—100% ownership

  

Delaware

Regina International Sales, Inc.—100% ownership

  

U.S. Virgin Islands

Russet, Inc.—100% ownership

  

Delaware

Scotty, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

Solar Resources, Inc.—100% ownership

  

Wisconsin

Stadium and Arena Management, Inc.—100% ownership

  

Delaware

Travers International Sales, Inc.—100% ownership

  

U.S. Virgin Islands

Tupelo, Inc.—100% ownership

  

Delaware

Walden OC, LLC—100% ownership

  

Delaware

White Oaks, Inc.—100% ownership

  

Delaware

 

(1)

Certain subsidiaries are omitted on the basis that, considered in the aggregate at year end 2006, they did not constitute a significant subsidiary as defined by Regulation S-X. Except for certain Real Estate Partnerships/LLCs/Equity Interests, includes general account NM investments where NM’s ownership interest is greater than 50%. Excluded is the entire corporate structure under Frank Russell Company.

(2)

Growth Stock Portfolio, Focused Appreciation Portfolio, Large Cap Core Stock Portfolio, Large Cap Blend Portfolio, Index 500 Stock Portfolio, Large Company Value Portfolio, Domestic Equity Portfolio, Equity Income Portfolio, Mid Cap Growth Stock Portfolio, Index 400 Stock Portfolio, Mid Cap Value Portfolio, Small Cap Growth Stock Portfolio, Index 600 Stock Portfolio, Small Cap Value Portfolio, International Growth Portfolio, Research International Core Portfolio, International Equity Portfolio, Emerging Markets Equity Portfolio, Money Market Portfolio, Short-Term Bond Portfolio, Select Bond Portfolio, Long-Term U.S. Government Bond Portfolio, Inflation Protection Portfolio, High Yield Bond Portfolio, Multi-Sector Bond Portfolio, Balanced Portfolio, Asset Allocation Portfolio.

 

Item 29. Indemnification

 

C-12


Table of Contents

(a) That portion of the By-laws of the Depositor, Northwestern Mutual, relating to indemnification of Trustees and officers is set forth in full in Article VII of the By-laws of Northwestern Mutual, amended by resolution and previously filed as Exhibit A(6)(b) to the registration statement of Northwestern Mutual Variable Life Account (File No. 333-59103) on July 15, 1998.

(b) Section 10 of the Distribution Agreement dated May 1, 2006 between Northwestern Mutual and Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (“NMIS”) provides substantially as follows:

B. Indemnification by Company. The Company agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless NMIS, its successors and assigns, and their respective officers, directors, and employees (together referred to as “NMIS Related Persons”), from any and all joint or several losses, claims, damages or liabilities (including any reasonable investigative, legal and other expenses incurred in connection with, and any amounts paid in settlement of, any action, suit or proceeding or any claim asserted), to which NMIS and/or any NMIS Related Persons may become subject, under any law, regulation or NASD rule, at common law or otherwise, that arises out of or are based upon (i) any breach of this Agreement by the Company and (ii) any untrue statement of or omission to state a material fact (except for information supplied by or on behalf of NMIS or for which NMIS is responsible) contained in any Registration Statement, Contract prospectus, SAI or supplement thereto or in any Marketing Material.

This indemnification shall be in addition to any liability that the Company may otherwise have; provided, however, that no person shall be entitled to indemnification pursuant to this provision for any loss, claim, damage or liability due to the willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence or reckless disregard of duty by the person seeking indemnification.

C. Indemnification by NMIS. NMIS agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Company, its successors and assigns, and their respective officers, trustees or directors, and employees (together referred to as “ Company Related Persons”), from any and all joint or several losses, claims, damages or liabilities (including any reasonable investigative, legal and other expenses incurred in connection with, and any amounts paid in settlement of, any action, suit or proceeding or any claim asserted), to which the Company and/or any Company Related Persons may become subject, under any law, regulation or NASD rule, at common law or otherwise, that arises out of or are based upon (i) any breach of this Agreement by NMIS and (ii) any untrue statement of or omission to state a material fact (except for information supplied by or on behalf of the Company or for which the Company is responsible) contained in any Registration Statement, Contract prospectus, SAI or supplement thereto or in any Marketing Material, in each case to the extent, but only to the extent, that such untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission was made in reliance upon information furnished in writing by NMIS to the Company specifically for use in the preparation of the aforesaid material.

This indemnification shall be in addition to any liability that NMIS may otherwise have; provided however, that no person shall be entitled to indemnification pursuant to this provision for any loss, claim, damage or liability due to the willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence or reckless disregard of duty by the person seeking indemnification.

D. Indemnification Generally. Any person seeking indemnification under this section shall promptly notify the indemnifying party in writing after receiving notice of the commencement of any action as to which a claim for indemnification will be made; provided, however, that failure to so notify the indemnifying party shall not relieve such

 

C-13


Table of Contents

party from any liability which it may have to such person otherwise than on account of this section.

The indemnifying party shall be entitled to participate in the defense of the indemnified person but such participation will not relieve such indemnifying party of the obligation to reimburse the indemnified party for reasonable legal and other expenses incurred by such party in defending himself, herself or itself.

 

Item 30. Principal Underwriters

(a) NMIS is the principal underwriter of the securities of the Registrant. NMIS also acts as the principal underwriter for the NML Variable Annuity Account A (811-21887), the NML Variable Annuity Account B (811-1668), the NML Variable Annuity Account C (811-21886), and the Northwestern Mutual Variable Life Account (811-3989).

(b) As of April 1, 2010, the directors and officers of NMIS are as follows:

 

Name

  

Position

Jason T. Anderson

  

Assistant Treasurer

Mark S. Bishop

  

Regional Vice President, Field Supervision

Christine Szafranski

  

Assistant Director, Market Conduct

Pency Byhardt

  

Vice President, Field Development

Michael G. Carter

  

Director

Eric P. Christophersen

  

Vice President, Compliance/Best Practices

Somayajulu V. Durvasula

  

Regional Vice President, Field Supervision

Michael S. Ertz

  

Vice President, Agency Administration

David A. Eurich

  

Director, Field Training

Christina H. Fiasca

  

Senior Vice President, Field Compensation, Training & Development

Anne A. Frigo

  

Director, Insurance Products Compliance

Don P. Gehrke

  

Director, Retail Investment Operations

Timothy J. Gerend

  

Vice President, Field Compensation & Planning

Mark J. Gmach

  

Regional Vice President, Field Supervision

David A. Granger

  

Assistant Director, Human Resources

Mark A. Gregory

  

Assistant Director, NMIS Compliance

Thomas C. Guay

  

Vice President, Variable Underwriting & Issue

Rhonda K. Haight

  

Assistant Director, IPS Platforms

David P. Harley

  

Director, Retail Investment Operations

Laila V. Hick

  

Director, Field Supervision Standards

Karla D. Hill

  

Assistant Director, Contract, License and Registration Operations

Patricia J. Hillman

  

Director, Annuity Customer Services

Dean M. Hopp

  

Assistant Director, IPS Product Lines and Municipal Funds Securities Limited

Principal

Diane B. Horn

  

NMIS Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Officer

Robert J. Johnson

  

Director, Compliance/Best Practices

Todd M. Jones

  

Treasurer, Financial and Operations Principal

Martha M. Kendler

  

Director, Annuity Products

Sharen L. King

  

Director, Practice Management & Field Training

Steven J. LaFore

  

Assistant Secretary

Dwight Larkin

  

Assistant Director—Retail Investment Services & ROSFP, Municipal Securities

Principal, MSRB Contact

Arleen J. Llewellyn

  

Director, IPS Business Integration

Jean M. Maier

  

Director; Senior Vice President, Insurance Operations

James M. Makowski

  

Assistant Director, Marketing Materials Compliance

Steven C. Mannebach

  

Vice President, Recruiting & Leadership Development

Jeffrey S. Marks

  

Director, Sales Development

Meridee J. Maynard

  

Senior Vice President, Life Product

 

C-14


Table of Contents

Mac McAuliffe

  

National Sales Director

Allan J. McDonell

  

Assistant Director, Annuity Operations and Municipal Securities Principal

Mark E. McNulty

  

Assistant Director, Compliance Assurance

Joanne M. Migliaccio

  

Director, Contract, License and Registration

Michael J. Mihm

  

Director, Business Development

Benjamin N. Moen

  

Regional Vice President, Sales

Jennifer W. Murphy

  

Secretary

Timothy D. Nelson

  

Director, Compliance/Best Practices

Jeffrey J. Niehaus

  

Director, Business Markets

Jennifer O’Leary

  

Assistant Treasurer

Kathleen A. Oman

  

Vice President, Variable Life Servicing

Michael J. Patkunas

  

Regional Vice President, Sales

John J. Piazza

  

Regional Vice President, Sales

Georganne K. Prom

  

New Business Variable Life Compliance Coordinator

Michael A. Reis

  

Assistant Treasurer

Daniel A. Riedl

  

Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

Marcia Rimai

  

Director

Robin E. Rogers

  

Assistant Director, Contract, License & Registration

Russell R. Romberger

  

Regional Vice President, Sales

Jeffrey P. Schloemer

  

Assistant Director, Compliance Oversight & Review

Calvin R. Schmidt

  

Director, President and CEO

Alexander D. Schneble

  

Director, NMIS Administration

Todd M. Schoon

  

Director, Senior Vice President, Agencies

Todd W. Smasal

  

Director, Human Resources

Richard P. Snyder

  

Field Education Consultant

Michael C. Soyka

  

Regional Vice President, Sales

Paul J. Steffen

  

Vice President, Agencies

Steven H. Steidinger

  

Director, Variable Life Products

Carol A. Stilwell

  

POS Variable Life Compliance Coordinator

David G. Stoeffel

  

Vice President—Product Line

William H. Taylor

  

Vice President, Advanced Financial Security Planning

Kellen A. Thiel

  

Director, Personal Investment Markets

Gwendolyn K. Weithaus

  

Assistant Director, NMIS Compliance

Alan M. Werth

  

Third Party Sales Consultant

Jeffrey B. Williams

  

Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer, NMIS Compliance, FINRA

Executive Representative

Brian D. Wilson

  

Director, Marketing and Sales

Robert J. Wright

  

Director, Strategic Partnerships and Product Support

The address for each director and officer of NMIS is 611 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202.

(c) NMIS, the principal underwriter, received $4,658,699 of commissions and other compensation, directly or indirectly, from Registrant during the last fiscal year.

 

Item 31. Location of Accounts and Records

All accounts, books or other documents required to be maintained in connection with the Registrant’s operations are maintained in the physical possession of Northwestern Mutual at 720 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202.

 

Item 32. Management Services

There are no management-related service contracts, other than those referred to in Part A or Part B of this Registration Statement, under which management-related services are provided to the Registrant and pursuant to which total payments of $5,000 or more were made during any of the last three fiscal years.

 

C-15


Table of Contents
Item 33. Fee Representation

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company hereby represents that the fees and charges deducted under the variable adjustable life insurance policies which are the subject of this registration statement, in the aggregate, are reasonable in relation to the services rendered, the expenses expected to be incurred, and the risks assumed by the insurance company under the policies.

 

C-16


Table of Contents

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant, Northwestern Mutual Variable Life Account II, certifies that it meets all of the requirements for effectiveness of this Amended Registration Statement pursuant to Rule 485(b) under the Securities Act of 1933 and has duly caused this Amended Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf, in the City of Milwaukee, and State of Wisconsin, on the 27th day of April, 2010.

 

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL VARIABLE LIFE

        ACCOUNT II (Registrant)

 

      By  

THE NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL LIFE

INSURANCE COMPANY (Depositor)

Attest:  

/s/ RAYMOND J. MANISTA

    By:  

/s/ EDWARD J. ZORE

 

Raymond J. Manista,

General Counsel and Secretary

      Edward J. Zore, Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Amended Registration Statement has been signed by the Depositor on the 27th day of April, 2010.

 

     

THE NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL LIFE

INSURANCE COMPANY (Depositor)

Attest:  

/s/ RAYMOND J. MANISTA

    By:  

/s/ EDWARD J. ZORE

 

Raymond J. Manista,

General Counsel and Secretary

      Edward J. Zore, Chief Executive Officer
       

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Amended Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities with the Depositor and on the dates indicated:

 

Signature

  

Title

    

/s/ EDWARD J. ZORE

   Chairman, Trustee and Chief Executive Officer;  
Edward J. Zore    Principal Executive Officer  

/s/ MICHAEL G. CARTER

   Chief Financial Officer and  
Michael G. Carter    Principal Financial Officer  

/s/ JOHN C. KELLY

   Vice President and Controller and  
John C. Kelly    Principal Accounting Officer  

 

C-17


Table of Contents

 

   Trustee  
Facundo L. Bacardi     

/s/ John N. Balboni*

   Trustee  
John N. Balboni     

/s/ Robert C. Buchanan*

   Trustee  
Robert C. Buchanan     

/s/ David J. Drury*

   Trustee  
David J. Drury     

/s/ Connie K. Duckworth*

   Trustee  
Connie K. Duckworth     

/s/ David A. Erne*

   Trustee  
David A. Erne     

/s/ James P. Hackett*

   Trustee  
James P. Hackett     

/s/ Hans Helmerich*

   Trustee  
Hans Helmerich     

/s/ Dale E. Jones*

   Trustee  
Dale E. Jones     

/s/ Margery Kraus*

   Trustee  
Margery Kraus     

/s/ David J. Lubar*

   Trustee  
David J. Lubar     

/s/ Ulice Payne, Jr.*

   Trustee  
Ulice Payne, Jr.     

/s/ Gary A. Poliner

   Trustee  
Gary A. Poliner     

/s/ John E. Schlifske

   Trustee  
John E. Schlifske     

 

C-18


Table of Contents

/s/ H. Mason Sizemore, Jr.*

  

Trustee

 
H. Mason Sizemore, Jr.     

/s/ Peter M. Sommerhauser*

  

Trustee

 
Peter M. Sommerhauser     

/s/ Mary Ellen Stanek*

  

Trustee

 
Mary Ellen Stanek     

/s/ John J. Stollenwerk*

  

Trustee

 
John J. Stollenwerk     

/s/ S. Scott Voynich

  

Trustee

 
S. Scott Voynich     

/s/ Barry L. Williams

  

Trustee

 
Barry L. Williams     

 

*By:  

/s/ Edward J. Zore

  Edward J. Zore, Attorney in fact,
  pursuant to the Power of Attorney filed herewith.

Each of the signatures is affixed as of April 27, 2010

 

C-19


Table of Contents

EXHIBIT INDEX

EXHIBITS FILED WITH FORM N-6

POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 5 TO

REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

FOR

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL VARIABLE LIFE ACCOUNT II

 

Exhibit    Description      
(j)(c)    Power of Attorney    Filed herewith
(k)    Opinion and Consent of Raymond J. Manista, Esq. dated April 27, 2010    Filed herewith
(n)    Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP dated April 27, 2010    Filed herewith

 

C-20