-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, Q7NX5pf4wrgzsTMm4mFZMVwHaRcFe+OUyxFLnW2s6labbiGEjOE7q6cin6B4GMIL pHVExklLRVLb5GDthQ67VQ== 0000005016-98-000014.txt : 19980518 0000005016-98-000014.hdr.sgml : 19980518 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0000005016-98-000014 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 10-Q PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 2 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 19980331 FILED AS OF DATE: 19980515 SROS: NASD SROS: PCX FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORP CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000005016 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: FIRE, MARINE & CASUALTY INSURANCE [6331] IRS NUMBER: 310624874 STATE OF INCORPORATION: OH FISCAL YEAR END: 1231 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 10-Q SEC ACT: SEC FILE NUMBER: 001-07361 FILM NUMBER: 98623536 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: ONE E 4TH ST CITY: CINCINNATI STATE: OH ZIP: 45202 BUSINESS PHONE: 5135792121 10-Q 1 SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 For the Quarterly Period Ended Commission File March 31, 1998 No. 1-7361 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION Incorporated under IRS Employer I.D. the Laws of Ohio No. 31-0624874 One East Fourth Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 (513) 579-2121 Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months, and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No ___ As of May 1, 1998, there were 10,593,000 shares of the Registrant's Common Stock outstanding, all of which were owned by American Financial Group, Inc. Page 1 of 18 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (Dollars In Thousands) March 31, December 31, 1998 1997 Assets: Cash and short-term investments $ 203,303 $ 231,227 Investments: Bonds and redeemable preferred stocks: Held to maturity - at amortized cost (market - $3,044,700 and $3,202,300) 2,964,973 3,120,106 Available for sale - at market (amortized cost - $7,653,679 and $7,225,736) 7,960,179 7,532,836 Other stocks - principally at market (cost - $174,538 and $153,322) 478,338 446,222 Investment in investee corporation 221,138 200,714 Loans receivable 475,631 512,608 Real estate and other investments 209,907 215,472 Total investments 12,310,166 12,027,958 Recoverables from reinsurers and prepaid reinsurance premiums 1,029,672 998,743 Agents' balances and premiums receivable 714,286 691,005 Deferred acquisition costs 537,986 521,898 Other receivables 250,757 261,454 Deferred tax asset 4,588 41,413 Assets held in separate accounts 315,918 300,491 Prepaid expenses, deferred charges and other assets 327,639 364,385 Cost in excess of net assets acquired 300,907 299,408 $15,995,222 $15,737,982 Liabilities and Capital: Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses $ 4,230,907 $ 4,225,336 Unearned premiums 1,348,557 1,328,910 Annuity benefits accumulated 5,540,268 5,528,111 Life, accident and health reserves 778,056 709,899 Payable to American Financial Group, Inc. 344,500 352,766 Other long-term debt: Holding companies 285,514 286,661 Subsidiaries 214,472 194,084 Liabilities related to separate accounts 315,918 300,491 Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities 951,941 908,622 Total liabilities 14,010,133 13,834,880 Minority interest 513,309 509,619 Shareholders' Equity: Preferred Stock - $72,154 liquidation value 72,154 72,154 Common Stock, no par value - 20,000,000 shares authorized - 10,593,000 shares outstanding 9,625 9,625 Capital surplus 940,426 936,154 Retained earnings 100,075 34,350 Net unrealized gain on marketable securities, net of deferred income taxes 349,500 341,200 Total shareholders' equity 1,471,780 1,393,483 $15,995,222 $15,737,982 2 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EARNINGS (In Thousands, Except Per Share Data) Three months ended March 31, 1998 1997 Income: Property and casualty insurance premiums $ 676,172 $663,762 Life, accident and health premiums 46,816 25,365 Investment income 220,231 212,752 Equity in net earnings of investee 13,918 14,780 Realized gains on sales of: Securities 7,446 1,813 Investee and subsidiary 7,704 731 Other investments 6,843 - Other income 37,533 26,424 1,016,663 945,627 Costs and Expenses: Property and casualty insurance: Losses and loss adjustment expenses 499,825 469,324 Commissions and other underwriting expenses 193,605 184,301 Annuity benefits 71,110 68,830 Life, accident and health benefits 38,106 24,163 Interest charges on borrowed money 17,031 23,611 Minority interest expense 12,141 9,453 Other operating and general expenses 76,699 67,734 908,517 847,416 Earnings before income taxes and extraordinary items 108,146 98,211 Provision for income taxes 41,736 36,221 Earnings before extraordinary items 66,410 61,990 Extraordinary items - loss on prepayment of debt (685) (55) Net Earnings $ 65,725 $ 61,935 3 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (dollars in thousands)
Common Stock Unrealized Preferred and Capital Retained Gain on Comprehensive Stock Surplus Earnings Securities Income Balance at January 1, 1998 $72,154 $945,779 $ 34,350 $341,200 Net earnings - - 65,725 - $65,725 Capital contribution from parent - 4,177 - - - Change in unrealized - - - 8,300 8,300 Other - 95 - - - Balance at March 31, 1998 $72,154 $950,051 $100,075 $349,500 $74,025 Balance at January 1, 1997 $162,760 $929,371 $ 1,364 $183,400 Net earnings - - 61,935 - $61,935 Dividends on Preferred Stock - - (1,031) - - Capital contribution from parent - 4,177 - - - Change in unrealized - - - (66,200) (66,200) Other - (404) - - - Balance at March 31, 1997 $162,760 $933,144 $ 62,268 $117,200 ($ 4,265)
4 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (In Thousands) Three months ended March 31, 1998 1997 Operating Activities: Net earnings $ 65,725 $ 61,935 Adjustments: Extraordinary items 685 55 Depreciation and amortization 24,582 17,979 Annuity benefits 71,110 68,830 Equity in net earnings of investee (13,918) (14,780) Changes in reserves on assets 110 418 Realized gains on investing activities (35,299) (2,544) Increase in reinsurance and other receivables (34,832) (24,175) Decrease (increase) in other assets 43,426 (49,036) Increase (decrease) in insurance claims and reserves 41,375 (25,573) Decrease in other liabilities (5,942) (26,180) Increase in minority interest 5,144 6,293 Dividends from investee 1,200 1,200 Other, net (6,250) (830) 157,116 13,592 Investing Activities: Purchases of and additional investments in: Fixed maturity investments (631,793) (616,655) Equity securities (19,297) (9,408) Subsidiaries (31,000) - Real estate, property and equipment (16,621) (8,762) Maturities and redemptions of fixed maturity investments 284,517 155,184 Sales of: Fixed maturity investments 206,843 332,008 Equity securities 2,781 7,943 Subsidiary - 2,500 Real estate, property and equipment 30,043 396 Cash and short-term investments of acquired (former) subsidiaries 21,678 (70) Increase (decrease) in other investments 1,281 (1,119) (151,568) (137,983) Financing Activities: Fixed annuity receipts 107,832 133,402 Annuity surrenders, benefits and withdrawals (164,034) (134,699) Additional long-term borrowings 50,248 7,053 Reductions of long-term debt (32,185) (1,718) Borrowings from AFG - 42,000 Capital contribution 4,667 4,667 Issuances of trust preferred securities - 74,687 Cash dividends paid - (1,031) (33,472) 124,361 Net Decrease in Cash and Short-term Investments (27,924) (30) Cash and short-term investments at beginning of period 231,227 404,831 Cash and short-term investments at end of period $ 203,303 $ 404,801 5 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS A. Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements for American Financial Corporation ("AFC") and subsidiaries are unaudited; however, management believes that all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring accruals unless otherwise disclosed herein) necessary for fair presentation have been made. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the year. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and therefore do not include all information and footnotes necessary to be in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years to conform to the current year's presentation. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. All acquisitions have been treated as purchases. The results of operations of companies since their formation or acquisition are included in the consolidated financial statements. The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Changes in circumstances could cause actual results to differ materially from those estimates. AFC's ownership of subsidiaries and significant affiliates was as follows: March 31, December 31, 1998 1997 1996 American Annuity Corporation ("AAG") 81% 81% 81% American Financial Enterprises, Inc. ("AFEI") 80% 80% 83% American Premier Underwriters, Inc. 81% 81% 81% Chiquita Brands International, Inc. 37% 39% 43% Investments Debt securities are classified as "held to maturity" and reported at amortized cost if AFC has the positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity. Debt and equity securities are classified as "available for sale" and reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component of shareholders' equity if the securities are not classified as held to maturity or bought and held principally for selling in the near term. Only in certain limited circumstances, such as significant issuer credit deterioration or if required by insurance or other regulators, may a company change its intent to hold a certain security to maturity without calling into question its intent to hold other debt securities to maturity in the future. Premiums and discounts on mortgage-backed securities are amortized over their expected average lives using the interest method. Gains or losses on sales of securities are recognized at the time of disposition with the amount of gain or loss determined on the specific identification basis. When a decline in the value of a specific investment is considered to be other than temporary, a provision for impairment is charged to earnings and the carrying value of that investment is reduced. Short-term investments are carried at cost; loans receivable are stated primarily at the aggregate unpaid balance. 6 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Investment in Investee Corporation Investments in securities of 20%- to 50%-owned companies are generally carried at cost, adjusted for AFC's proportionate share of their undistributed earnings or losses. Cost in Excess of Net Assets Acquired The excess of cost of subsidiaries and investees over AFC's equity in the underlying net assets ("goodwill") is being amortized over 40 years. Insurance As discussed under "Reinsurance" below, unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses and unearned premiums have not been reduced for reinsurance recoverable. Reinsurance In the normal course of business, AFC's insurance subsidiaries cede reinsurance to other companies to diversify risk and limit maximum loss arising from large claims. To the extent that any reinsuring companies are unable to meet obligations under the agreements covering reinsurance ceded, AFC's insurance subsidiaries would remain liable. Amounts recoverable from reinsurers are estimated in a manner consistent with the claim liability associated with the reinsurance policies. AFC's insurance subsidiaries report as assets (a) the estimated reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses, including an estimate for losses incurred but not reported, and (b) amounts paid to reinsurers applicable to the unexpired terms of policies in force. AFC's insurance subsidiaries also assume reinsurance from other companies. Income on reinsurance assumed is recognized based on reports received from ceding reinsurers. Deferred Acquisition Costs Policy acquisition costs (principally commissions, premium taxes and other underwriting expenses) related to the production of new business are deferred ("DPAC"). For the property and casualty companies, the deferral of acquisition costs is limited based upon their recoverability without any consideration for anticipated investment income. DPAC is charged against income ratably over the terms of the related policies. For the annuity companies, DPAC is amortized, with interest, in relation to the present value of expected gross profits on the policies. Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses The net liabilities stated for unpaid claims and for expenses of investigation and adjustment of unpaid claims are based upon (a) the accumulation of case estimates for losses reported prior to the close of the accounting period on the direct business written; (b) estimates received from ceding reinsurers and insurance pools and associations; (c) estimates of unreported losses based on past experience; (d) estimates based on experience of expenses for investigating and adjusting claims and (e) the current state of the law and coverage litigation. These liabilities are subject to the impact of changes in claim amounts and frequency and other factors. In spite of the variability inherent in such estimates, management believes that the liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses are adequate. Changes in estimates of the liabilities for losses and loss adjustment expenses are reflected in the Statement of Earnings in the period in which determined. Annuity Benefits Accumulated Annuity receipts and benefit payments are recorded as increases or decreases in "annuity benefits accumulated" rather than as revenue and expense. Increases in this liability for interest credited are charged to expense and decreases for surrender charges are credited to other income. Life, Accident and Health Reserves Liabilities for future policy benefits under traditional ordinary life, accident and health policies are computed using a net level premium method. Computations are based on anticipated investment yield, mortality, morbidity and surrenders and include provisions for unfavorable deviations. Reserves are modified as necessary to reflect actual experience and developing trends. 7 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Assets Held In and Liabilities Related to Separate Accounts Separate account assets and related liabilities represent deposits maintained by several banks under a previously offered tax-deferred annuity program and, to a lesser extent, variable annuity deposits. AAG receives an annual fee from each bank for sponsoring the program; if depositors elect to purchase an annuity from AAG, funds are transferred to AAG. Premium Recognition Property and casualty premiums are earned over the terms of the policies on a pro rata basis. Unearned premiums represent that portion of premiums written which is applicable to the unexpired terms of policies in force. On reinsurance assumed from other insurance companies or written through various underwriting organizations, unearned premiums are based on reports received from such companies and organizations. For traditional life, accident and health products, premiums are recognized as revenue when legally collectible from policyholders. For interest-sensitive life and universal life products, premiums are recorded in a policyholder account which is reflected as a liability. Revenue is recognized as amounts are assessed against the policyholder account for mortality coverage and contract expenses. Policyholder Dividends Dividends payable to policyholders are included in "Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities" and represent estimates of amounts payable on participating policies which share in favorable underwriting results. The estimate is accrued during the period in which the related premium is earned. Changes in estimates are included in income in the period determined. Policyholder dividends do not become legal liabilities unless and until declared by the boards of directors of the insurance companies. Minority Interest For balance sheet purposes, minority interest represents the interests of noncontrolling shareholders in AFC subsidiaries, including preferred securities issued by trust subsidiaries of AAG, and the American Financial Group, Inc. ("AFG") direct ownership interest in American Premier Underwriters, Inc. ("American Premier" or "APU") and AFEI. For income statement purposes, minority interest expense represents those shareholders' interest in the earnings of AFC subsidiaries as well as accrued distributions on the trust preferred securities. Issuances of Stock by Subsidiaries and Investees Changes in AFC's equity in a subsidiary or an investee caused by issuances of the subsidiary's or investee's stock are accounted for as gains or losses where such issuance is not part of a broader reorganization. Income Taxes AFC and American Premier have each filed consolidated federal income tax returns which include all 80%-owned U.S. subsidiaries, except for certain life insurance subsidiaries and their subsidiaries. At the close of business on December 31, 1996, AFG contributed 81% of the common stock of American Premier to AFC. Accordingly, AFC and American Premier will file a consolidated return for 1997. Deferred income taxes are calculated using the liability method. Under this method, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases and are measured using enacted tax rates. Deferred tax assets are recognized if it is more likely than not that a benefit will be realized. 8 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Benefit Plans AFC provides retirement benefits to qualified employees of participating companies through contributory and noncontributory defined contribution plans contained in AFC's Retirement and Savings Plan. Under the retirement portion of the plan, company contributions (approximately 6% of covered compensation in 1997) are invested primarily in securities of AFG and affiliates. Under the savings portion of the plan, AFC matches a specific portion of employee contributions. Contributions to benefit plans are charged against earnings in the year for which they are declared. AFC and many of its subsidiaries provide health care and life insurance benefits to eligible retirees. AFC also provides postemployment benefits to former or inactive employees (primarily those on disability) who were not deemed retired under other company plans. The projected future cost of providing these benefits is expensed over the period the employees earn such benefits. Comprehensive Income Effective January 1, 1998, AFC implemented Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income." SFAS No. 130 uses the term "comprehensive income" to describe the total of net earnings plus other comprehensive income. For AFC, other comprehensive income represents the change in net unrealized gain on marketable securities net of deferred taxes and a reclassification adjustment for gains and losses included in net earnings. Implementation of this statement had no impact on net earnings or shareholders' equity. Prior periods have been restated to conform to the current presentation. Statement of Cash Flows For cash flow purposes, "investing activities" are defined as making and collecting loans and acquiring and disposing of debt or equity instruments and property and equipment. "Financing activities" include obtaining resources from owners and providing them with a return on their investments, borrowing money and repaying amounts borrowed. Annuity receipts, benefits and withdrawals are also reflected as financing activities. All other activities are considered "operating". Short-term investments having original maturities of three months or less when purchased are considered to be cash equivalents for purposes of the financial statements. 9 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED B. Segments of Operations AFC operates its property and casualty insurance business in three major segments: nonstandard automobile, specialty lines, and commercial and personal lines. AFC's annuity and life business primarily sells tax-deferred annuities to employees of primary and secondary educational institutions and hospitals. In addition, AFC has owned significant portions of the voting equity securities of certain companies (investee corporation - see Note C). The Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information", which is scheduled to become effective during the fourth quarter of 1998. The implementation of SFAS No. 131 is not expected to have a material effect on the segments currently disclosed by AFC. The following table (in thousands) shows AFC's revenues by significant business segment. Three months ended March 31, 1998 1997 Property and casualty insurance: Premiums earned: Nonstandard automobile $ 287,364 $279,031 Specialty lines 244,972 232,590 Commercial and personal lines 132,545 142,485 Other lines (a) 11,291 9,656 676,172 663,762 Investment and other income 132,301 110,150 808,473 773,912 Annuities and life (b) 188,557 148,706 Other 5,715 8,229 1,002,745 930,847 Equity in net earnings of investee 13,918 14,780 $1,016,663 $945,627 (a) NSA operations in the United Kingdom have been reclassified to other lines. (b) Represents primarily investment income. C. Investment in Investee Corporation Investment in investee corporation reflects AFC's ownership of 24 million shares of Chiquita common stock. The market value of this investment was $328 million and $391 million at March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997, respectively. Chiquita is a leading international marketer, producer and distributor of bananas and other quality fresh and processed food products. Summarized financial information for Chiquita follows (in millions): Three months ended March 31, 1998 1997 Net Sales $717 $631 Operating Income 70 71 Net Income 41 43 D. Payable to American Financial Group In December 1997, AFC and APU entered into a ten-year reciprocal Master Credit Agreement with AFG and AFC's direct parent, AFC Holding Company, under which funds are made available to each other at one percent over LIBOR. At March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997, AFC and APU had outstanding borrowings due AFG and AFC Holding under the Master Credit Agreement of $344.5 million and $352.8 million (including accrued interest of $8.3 million), respectively. 10 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED E. Other Long-Term Debt The carrying value of long-term debt consisted of the following (in thousands): March 31, December 31, 1998 1997 Holding Companies: AFC 9-3/4% Debentures due April 2004 $ 79,396 $ 79,792 AFC notes payable to banks due December 2002 45,000 45,000 APU 9-3/4% Subordinated Notes due August 1999 91,623 92,127 APU 10-5/8% Subordinated Notes due April 2000 43,638 43,889 APU 10-7/8% Subordinated Notes due May 2011 17,572 17,586 Other 8,285 8,267 $285,514 $286,661 Subsidiaries: AAG notes payable to banks due in installments to December 2003 $157,000 $107,000 AAG 11-1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes - 24,080 Notes payable secured by real estate 44,268 49,525 Other 13,204 13,479 $214,472 $194,084 At March 31, 1998, sinking fund and other scheduled principal payments on debt for the balance of 1998 and the subsequent five years were as follows (in thousands): Holding Companies Subsidiaries Total 1998 $ - $ 1,450 $ 1,450 1999 90,571 2,039 92,610 2000 42,230 8,751 50,981 2001 - 38,474 38,474 2002 50,407 61,367 111,774 2003 - 61,402 61,402 Debentures purchased in excess of scheduled payments may be applied to satisfy any sinking fund requirement. The scheduled principal payments shown above assume that debentures previously purchased are applied to the earliest scheduled retirements. In February 1998, AFC entered into a new unsecured credit agreement with a group of banks under which AFC can borrow up to $300 million through December 2002. Borrowings bear interest at floating rates based on prime or LIBOR. In January 1998, AAG replaced its existing bank lines with a new $200 million unsecured credit agreement. Loans under the credit agreement mature from 2000 to 2003 and bear interest at floating rates based on prime or LIBOR. In February 1998, AAG borrowed $50 million under the line and retired its 11-1/8% Notes (including $24.3 million principal amount held by AAG and its subsidiaries). 11 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED F. Minority Interest Minority interest in AFC's balance sheet is comprised of the following (in thousands): March 31, December 31, 1998 1997 Interest of AFG (parent) and of noncontrolling shareholders in subsidiaries' common stock $288,309 $284,619 Preferred securities issued by subsidiary trusts 225,000 225,000 $513,309 $509,619 Trust Issued Preferred Securities Wholly-owned subsidiary trusts of AAG have issued $225 million of preferred securities and, in turn, purchased $225 million of newly authorized AAG subordinated debt issues which provide interest and principal payments to fund the respective trusts' obligations. The preferred securities are mandatorily redeemable upon maturity or redemption of the subordinated debt. The preferred securities are summarized as follows: Date of Optional Issuance Issue (Maturity Date) Amount Redemption Dates November 1996 9-1/4% TOPrS (2026) $75,000,000 On or after 11/7/2001 March 1997 8-7/8% Pfd (2027) 75,000,000 On or after 3/1/2007 May 1997 7-1/4% ROPES (2041) 75,000,000 Prior to 9/28/2000 and after 9/28/2001 AAG effectively provides unconditional guarantees of its trusts' obligations. Minority Interest Expense Minority interest expense is comprised of (in thousands): Three months ended March 31, 1998 1997 Interest of AFG (parent) and noncontrolling shareholders in earnings of subsidiaries $ 7,383 $7,368 Accrued distributions on trust issued preferred securities 4,758 2,085 $12,141 $9,453 G. Preferred Stock Under provisions of both the Nonvoting (4.0 million shares authorized) and Voting (4.0 million shares authorized) Cumulative Preferred Stock, the Board of Directors may divide the authorized stock into series and set specific terms and conditions of each series. AFC's Preferred Stock consisted of the following: Series J, no par value; $25.00 liquidating value per share; annual dividends per share $2.00; redeemable at $25.75 per share beginning December 2005 declining to $25.00 at December 2007; 2,886,161 shares (stated value $72.2 million) outstanding at March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997. 12 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED H. Unrealized Gain on Marketable Securities The change in net unrealized gain on marketable securities for the three months ended March 31 included the following (in millions): Minority Pretax Taxes Interest Net 1998 Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities arising during the period $ 14.8 ($ 5.0) $1.0 $10.8 Less reclassification adjustment for realized gains included in net income (4.3) 1.5 .3 (2.5) Change in net unrealized gain on marketable securities $ 10.5 ($ 3.5) $1.3 $ 8.3 1997 Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities arising during the period ($115.8) $40.5 $ 9.9 ($65.4) Less reclassification adjustment for realized gains included in net income (1.3) .4 .1 (.8) Change in net unrealized gain on marketable securities ($117.1) $40.9 $10.0 ($66.2) I. Extraordinary Items Extraordinary items represent AFC's proportionate share of losses related to debt retirements by the following companies. Amounts shown are net of minority interest and income tax benefits (in thousands): Three months ended March 31, 1998 1997 Holding Companies: AFC (parent) ($ 22) ($17) APU (parent) (14) (38) Subsidiaries: AAG (649) - ($685) ($55) J. Cash Flows - Fixed Maturity Investments "Investing activities" related to fixed maturity investments in AFC's Statement of Cash Flows consisted of the following (in thousands): Held to Available Maturity For Sale Total 1998 Purchases $ 76 $631,717 $631,793 Maturities and redemptions 170,562 113,955 284,517 Sales 23,960(*) 182,883 206,843 1997 Purchases $ 987 $615,668 $616,655 Maturities and redemptions 81,185 73,999 155,184 Sales - 332,008 332,008 (*) Sold (at a gain of $.5 million) due to significant deterioration in the issuers' creditworthiness. K. Commitments and Contingencies There have been no significant changes to the matters discussed and referred to in Note O "Commitments and Contingencies" in AFC's Annual Report on Form 10-K for 1997. 13 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q ITEM 2 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations GENERAL AFC and American Premier are organized as holding companies with almost all of their operations being conducted by subsidiaries. These parent corporations, however, have continuing cash needs for administrative expenses, the payment of principal and interest on borrowings and shareholder dividends. Therefore, certain analyses are best done on a parent only basis while others are best done on a total enterprise basis. In addition, since most of its businesses are financial in nature, AFC does not prepare its consolidated financial statements using a current-noncurrent format. Consequently, certain traditional ratios and financial analysis tests are not meaningful. Forward-Looking Statements The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 encourages corporations to provide investors with information about the company's anticipated performance and provides protection from liability if future results are not the same as management's expectations. This document contains certain forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions which management believes are reasonable, but by their nature, inherently uncertain. Future results could differ materially from those projected. Factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to: changes in economic conditions, regulatory actions, level of catastrophe losses, and competitive pressures. AFC undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES Ratios AFC's debt to total capital ratio at the parent holding company level (excluding amounts due AFG) was approximately 16% at March 31, 1998 and 17% at December 31, 1997. Including amounts due AFG, the ratio was 30% and 31% at March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997, respectively. AFC's ratio of earnings to fixed charges, excluding and including preferred dividends, on a total enterprise basis are shown below. Three months Year Ended Ended March 31, December 31, 1998 1997 Earnings to fixed charges 5.15 4.20 Earnings to fixed charges plus preferred dividends 4.70 3.52 Sources of Funds Management believes the parent holding companies have sufficient resources to meet their liquidity requirements through operations in the short-term and long-term future. If funds generated from operations, including dividends and tax payments from subsidiaries, are insufficient to meet fixed charges in any period, these companies would be required to generate cash through borrowings, sales of securities or other assets, or similar transactions. AFC participates in a reciprocal Master Credit Agreement among the various AFG holding companies under which funds are made available to each other for general corporate purposes. Amounts due AFG under the Master Credit Agreement were $345 million at March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997. A new five-year, $300 million bank credit line was established by AFC in February 1998 replacing two subsidiary holding company lines. The new credit line provides ample liquidity and can be used to obtain funds for operating subsidiaries or, if necessary, for the parent companies. At March 31, 1998, there was $45 million borrowed under the credit line. 14 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued In the past, funds have been borrowed under bank facilities and used for working capital, capital infusions into subsidiaries, and to retire other issues of short-term or high-rate debt and preferred stock. Also, AFC believes it may be prudent and advisable to utilize portions of the bank debt in the normal course over the next year or two. Dividend payments from subsidiaries have been very important to the liquidity and cash flow of the individual holding companies in the past. However, the reliance on such dividend payments has been lessened by the combination of (i) strong capital at AFC's insurance subsidiaries (and the related decreased likelihood of a need for investment in those companies), (ii) the reductions of debt at the holding companies (and the related decrease in ongoing cash needs for interest and principal payments), (iii) AFC's ability to obtain financing in capital markets, as well as (iv) the sales of non-core investments. Investments Approximately 91% of the bonds and redeemable preferred stocks held by AFC were rated "investment grade" (credit rating of AAA to BBB) by nationally recognized rating agencies at March 31, 1998. Investment grade securities generally bear lower yields and lower degrees of risk than those that are unrated and non-investment grade. Management believes that the high quality investment portfolio should generate a stable and predictable investment return. AFC's equity securities are concentrated in a relatively limited number of major positions. This approach allows management to more closely monitor the companies and the industries in which they operate. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS General Pretax earnings before extraordinary items were $108 million for the first quarter of 1998 and $98 million for the first quarter of 1997. The increase in the 1998 period was due primarily to higher realized gains on sales of certain investments, income from the sale of real estate properties, and growth in investment income. These improvements were partially offset by a decrease in underwriting results in the property and casualty operations. Property and Casualty Insurance - Underwriting AFC manages and operates its property and casualty business as three major sectors. The nonstandard automobile insurance companies (the "NSA Group") insure risks not typically accepted for standard automobile coverage because of the applicant's driving record, type of vehicle, age or other criteria. The specialty lines are a diversified group of over twenty-five business lines that offer a wide variety of specialty insurance products. Some of the more significant areas are California workers' compensation, executive liability, inland and ocean marine, U.S.-based operations of Japanese companies, agricultural-related coverages, non-profit liability, general aviation coverages, fidelity and surety bonds, and umbrella and excess coverages. The commercial and personal lines provide coverages in workers' compensation, commercial multi- peril, umbrella, commercial automobile, standard private passenger automobile and homeowners insurance. Underwriting profitability is measured by the combined ratio which is a sum of the ratios of underwriting losses, loss adjustment expenses, underwriting expenses and policyholder dividends to premiums. When the combined ratio is under 100%, underwriting results are generally considered profitable; when the ratio is over 100%, underwriting results are generally considered unprofitable. The combined ratio does not reflect investment income, other income or federal income taxes. 15 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued For certain lines of business and products where the credibility of the range of loss projections is less certain (primarily the various specialty lines listed above), management believes that it is prudent and appropriate to use conservative assumptions until such time as the data, experience and projections have more credibility, as evidenced by data volume, consistency and maturity of the data. While this practice mitigates the risk of adverse development on this business, it does not eliminate it. Net written premiums and combined ratios for AFC's property and casualty insurance subsidiaries were as follows (dollars in millions): Three months ended March 31, 1998 1997 Net Written Premiums (GAAP) NSA Group $322.4 $321.2 Specialty Operations 246.9 264.4 Commercial and Personal Operations 117.9 94.8 Other Lines (*) 7.7 8.5 $694.9 $688.9 Combined Ratios (GAAP) NSA Group 95.9% 96.8% Specialty Operations 101.4 92.7 Commercial and Personal Operations 104.2 102.9 Aggregate (including other lines) 102.6 98.5 (*) NSA operations in the United Kingdom have been reclassified to other lines. NSA Group The NSA Group's net written premiums for the first three months of 1998 were substantially the same as compared to the 1997 period; underwriting profit increased $2.6 million due primarily to a reduction in underwriting expenses resulting from cost efficiencies during the same period. Specialty Operations For the first three months of 1998, net written premiums for the specialty operations decreased 7% from the comparable 1997 period. The 1997 premiums included certain in- force amounts related to general aviation policies obtained under a reinsurance agreement at the beginning of that year. Excluding this impact, premiums were essentially the same as a year ago. Underwriting results for the first three months of 1998 declined due primarily to a continuation of the adverse claims environment in the California workers' compensation business. The other specialty businesses reported a solid underwriting profit. Commercial and Personal Operations Net written premiums for the commercial and personal operations increased 24% during the first three months of 1998 from the comparable 1997 period. Net written premiums in the 1997 period had been unusually low due to the initial impact of a reinsurance agreement for AFC's homeowners' business. This reinsurance agreement became effective at the beginning of 1997 and is still in effect. Excluding this impact, premiums declined approximately 7% due primarily to a decrease in personal automobile coverages in certain states. Underwriting results declined slightly during the first three months of 1998 from the comparable 1997 period as improved performance in personal lines was offset by higher loss adjustment costs in commercial lines. Life, Accident and Health Premiums and Benefits The increase in life, accident and health premiums and benefits reflects AAG's acquisition of General Accident Life Assurance Company in December 1997 and increases in pre-need life insurance sales. 16 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued Investment Income Investment income increased approximately $7.5 million (4%) for the first quarter of 1998 compared to 1997 due primarily to an increase in the average amount of investments held. Investee Corporations Equity in net earnings of investee corporations represents AFC's proportionate share of Chiquita's earnings. Chiquita reported first quarter net earnings of $41 million in 1998 and $43 million in 1997. Realized Gains Realized capital gains have been an important part of the return on investments in marketable securities. Individual securities are sold creating gains and losses as market opportunities exist. Gain on Sale of Investee and Subsidiary Chiquita's public issuance of 3.1 million shares of its common stock in 1998 resulted in a pretax gain to AFC of $7.7 million. Other Income Other income increased $11.1 million (42%) in the first three months of 1998 compared to 1997 due primarily to income of $10.4 million from the sale of operating real estate assets. Annuity Benefits Annuity benefits reflect interest credited to annuity policyholders' funds accumulated. The majority of AAG's fixed rate annuity products permit AAG to change the crediting rate at any time (subject to minimum interest rate guarantees of 3% or 4% per annum). As a result, management has been able to react to changes in market interest rates and maintain a desired interest rate spread without a substantial effect on persistency. Annuity benefits increased 3% in the first three months of 1998 due primarily to an increase in average annuity benefits accumulated. Interest on Borrowed Money Interest expense decreased $6.6 million (28%) during the first three months of 1998 from the comparable 1997 period. The decrease reflects a decrease in average amounts borrowed and a decrease in average rates. Minority Interest Expense Minority interest expense increased $2.7 million (28%) during the first quarter of 1998 compared to 1997. Dividends paid by subsidiaries on their trust issued preferred securities have varied as the securities were issued over the past few years. Other Operating and General Expenses Other operating and general expenses increased $9.0 million (13%) during the first quarter of 1998 compared to 1997 due primarily to the operations of General Accident which recorded $5.3 million of expenses in 1998. 17 AMERICAN FINANCIAL CORPORATION 10-Q PART II OTHER INFORMATION Item 6 Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K (a) Exhibit 27 - Financial Data Schedule - Included in Report filed electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission. (b) Reports on Form 8-K: None. ____________________________________________________________ Signature Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, American Financial Corporation has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned duly authorized. American Financial Corporation May 14, 1998 BY: Fred J. Runk Fred J. Runk Senior Vice President and Treasurer 18 EX-27 2
5 This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from the American Financial Corporation 10-Q for the three months ended March 31, 1998 and is qualified in its entirety by reference to such financial statements. 1,000 3-MOS DEC-31-1998 MAR-31-1998 203,303 11,624,628 714,286 0 0 0 0 0 15,995,222 0 499,986 0 0 9,625 1,462,155 15,995,222 0 1,016,663 0 0 76,699 0 17,031 108,146 41,736 66,410 0 (685) 0 $65,725 0 0 Included an investment in investee of $221 million. Not applicable since all common shares are owned by American Financial Group, Inc.
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