Regulatory restrictions on net assets

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Regulatory Capital Requirements [Abstract]

Regulatory restrictions on net assets

14·Regulatory restrictions on net assets

As of December 31, 2015, the Utilities could not transfer approximately $711 million of net assets to HEI in the form of dividends, loans or advances without PUC approval.

ASB is required to notify the FRB and OCC prior to making any capital distribution (including dividends) to HEI (through ASB Hawaii). Generally, the FRB and OCC may disapprove or deny ASB’s request to make a capital distribution if the proposed distribution will cause ASB to become undercapitalized, or the proposed distribution raises safety and soundness concerns, or the proposed distribution violates a prohibition contained in any statute, regulation or agreement between ASB and the OCC. As of December 31, 2015, ASB could transfer approximately $141 million of net assets to HEI in the form of dividends and still maintain its “well-capitalized” position.

HEI management expects that the regulatory restrictions will not materially affect the operations of the Company nor HEI’s ability to pay common stock dividends.