10-Q 1 d10q.htm QUARTERLY REPORT FOR THE PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 QUARTERLY REPORT FOR THE PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008
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UNITED STATES

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 quarter ended September 30, 2008

Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.

1166 Avenue of the Americas

New York, New York 10036

(212) 345-5000

Commission file number 1-5998

State of Incorporation: Delaware

I.R.S. Employer Identification No. 36-2668272

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 (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large Accelerated Filer x        Accelerated Filer ¨            Non-Accelerated Filer ¨        Smaller Reporting Company ¨

(Do not check if a                

smaller reporting company)            

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨ No x.

As of October 31, 2008, there were outstanding 514,078,575 shares of common stock, par value $1.00 per share, of the registrant.

 

 

 


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INFORMATION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains “forward-looking statements,” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements, which express management’s current views concerning future events or results, use words like “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “project” and similar terms, and future or conditional tense verbs like “could,” “may,” “might,” “should,” “will” and “would.” For example, we may use forward-looking statements when addressing topics such as: changes in our business strategies and methods of generating revenue; the development and performance of our services and products; market and industry conditions, including competitive and pricing trends; changes in the composition or level of MMC’s revenues; our cost structure and the outcome of cost-saving or restructuring initiatives; the outcome of contingencies; dividend policy and share repurchase programs; the expected impact of acquisitions and dispositions; pension obligations; cash flow and liquidity; future actions by regulators; the impact of changes in accounting rules; and changes in senior management.

Forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in our forward-looking statements include:

 

n  

the challenges we face in achieving profitable revenue growth and improving operating margins at Marsh;

 

n  

the extent to which we retain existing clients and attract new business, and our ability to incentivize and retain key employees;

 

n  

the impact on risk and insurance services commission revenues of changes in the availability of, and the premiums insurance carriers charge for, insurance and reinsurance products, including the impact on premium rates and market capacity attributable to catastrophic events;

 

n  

the impact on renewals in our risk and insurance services segment of pricing trends in particular insurance markets, fluctuations in the general level of economic activity and decisions by insureds with respect to the level of risk they will self-insure;

 

n  

revenue fluctuations in risk and insurance services relating to the effect of new and lost business production and the timing of policy inception dates;

 

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the impact on our consulting segment of pricing trends, utilization rates, the general economic environment and legislative changes affecting client demand;

 

n  

the impact of competition, including with respect to pricing, the emergence of new competitors, and the fact that many of Marsh’s competitors are not constrained in their ability to receive contingent commissions;

 

n  

the impact of current financial market conditions on our results of operations and financial condition;

 

n  

the potential impact of legislative, regulatory, accounting and other initiatives which may be taken in response to the current financial crisis;

 

n  

our exposure to potential liabilities arising from errors and omissions claims against us, including claims of professional negligence in providing actuarial services, such as those alleged by the Alaska Retirement Management Board and Milwaukee County against Mercer;

 

n  

the ultimate economic impact on MMC of contingencies described in the notes to our financial statements, including the risk of a significant adverse outcome in the shareholder lawsuit against MMC concerning the late 2004 decline in MMC’s share price;

 

 

n  

our ability to meet our financing needs by generating cash from operations and accessing external financing sources, including the impact of current economic conditions on our cost of financing or ability to borrow;

 

n  

the potential impact of rating agency actions on our cost of financing and ability to borrow, as well as on our operating costs and competitive position;

 

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changes in the funded status of our global defined benefit pension plans and the impact of any increased pension funding resulting from those changes;

 

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n  

our ability to make strategic acquisitions and dispositions and to integrate, and realize expected synergies, savings or strategic benefits from, the businesses we acquire;

 

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the impact on net income of foreign exchange and/or interest rate fluctuations;

 

n  

changes in applicable tax or accounting requirements;

 

n  

potential income statement effects from the application of FIN 48 (“Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes”) and SFAS 142 (“Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”), including the effect of any subsequent adjustments to the estimates MMC uses in applying these accounting standards;

 

n  

the impact of, and potential challenges in complying with, legislation and regulation in the jurisdictions in which we operate, particularly given the global scope of our businesses and the possibility of conflicting regulatory requirements across the jurisdictions in which we do business; and

 

n  

other risks detailed from time to time in MMC’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The factors identified above are not exhaustive. MMC and its subsidiaries operate in a dynamic business environment in which new risks may emerge frequently. Accordingly, MMC cautions readers not to place undue reliance on its forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the dates on which they are made. MMC undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances arising after the date on which it is made. Further information concerning MMC and its businesses, including information about factors that could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition, is contained in MMC’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the “Risk Factors” section of MMC’s most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

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PART I.    FINANCIAL INFORMATION    5

Item 1.

   Financial Statements.    5
   CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME    5
   CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS    6
   CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Continued)    7
   CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS    8
   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS    9

Item 2.

   Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    31

Item 3.

   Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk    45

Item 4.

   Controls & Procedures    47
PART II.    OTHER INFORMATION    48

Item 1.

   Legal Proceedings    48

Item 1A.

   Risk Factors    48

Item 2.

   Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds    48

Item 3.

   Defaults Upon Senior Securities    49

Item 4.

   Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders    49

Item 5.

   Other Information    49

Item 6.

   Exhibits    49

 

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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.      Financial Statements.

Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Income (unaudited)

 

      Three Months Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
(In millions, except per share figures)    2008     2007     2008     2007  

Revenue

   $ 2,838     $ 2,716     $ 8,925     $ 8,262  

Expense:

        

Compensation and benefits

     1,811       1,778       5,524       5,109  

Other operating expenses

     957       822       2,697       2,462  

Goodwill impairment charge

     —         —         540       —    

Operating expenses

     2,768       2,600       8,761       7,571  

Operating income

     70       116       164       691  

Interest income

     10       30       40       64  

Interest expense

     (54 )     (65 )     (165 )     (211 )

Investment income (loss)

     (23 )     78       (31 )     163  

Income before income taxes and minority interest

     3       159       8       707  

Income taxes

     (18 )     75       142       251  

Minority interest, net of tax

     3       4       8       8  

Income (loss) from continuing operations

     18       80       (142 )     448  

Discontinued operations, net of tax

     (26 )     1,865       (11 )     1,942  

Net income (loss)

   $ (8 )   $ 1,945     $ (153 )   $ 2,390  

Basic net income (loss) per share — Continuing operations

   $ 0.04     $ 0.15     $ (0.28 )   $ 0.82  

                    — Net (loss) income

   $ (0.02 )   $ 3.64     $ (0.30 )   $ 4.39  

Diluted net income (loss) per share — Continuing operations

   $ 0.03     $ 0.15     $ (0.28 )   $ 0.81  

                      — Net (loss) income

   $ (0.02 )*   $ 3.60     $ (0.30 )   $ 4.31  

Weighted average number of shares outstanding — Basic

     513       534       514       545  

                                             — Diluted

     523       540       514       553  

Shares outstanding at September 30,

     514       520       514       520  

Dividends declared per share

   $ 0.20     $ 0.19     $ 0.80     $ 0.76  

 

* Calculated using the 513 million basic average shares outstanding due to the net loss for the quarter.

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

 

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Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)

 

(In millions of dollars)   

September 30,

2008

   

December 31,

2007

 

ASSETS

    

Current assets:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $  1,461     $  2,133  

Receivables

    

Commissions and fees

   2,678     2,614  

Advanced premiums and claims

   101     77  

Other

   257     302  
   3,036     2,993  

Less-allowance for doubtful accounts and cancellations

   (122 )   (119 )

Net receivables

   2,914     2,874  

Other current assets

   430     447  

Total current assets

   4,805     5,454  

Goodwill and intangible assets

   7,335     7,759  

Fixed assets

   1,037     992  

(net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $1,401 at September 30, 2008 and $1,374 at December 31, 2007)

    

Pension related assets

   1,318     1,411  

Other assets

   1,531     1,743  
     $16,026     $17,359  

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

 

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Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Balance Sheets (continued) (unaudited)

 

(In millions of dollars)   

September 30,

2008

   

December 31,

2007

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

    

Current liabilities:

    

Short-term debt

   $     408     $     260  

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

   1,686     1,670  

Regulatory settlements — current portion

   —       177  

Accrued compensation and employee benefits

   1,116     1,290  

Accrued income taxes

   —       96  

Dividends payable

   104     —    

Total current liabilities

   3,314     3,493  

Fiduciary liabilities

   3,774     3,612  

Less — cash and investments held in a fiduciary capacity

   (3,774 )   (3,612 )
   —       —    

Long-term debt

   3,197     3,604  

Retirement and postemployment benefits

   788     709  

Liabilities for errors and omissions

   586     596  

Other liabilities

   1,225     1,135  

Commitments and contingencies

   —       —    

Stockholders’ equity:

    

Preferred stock, $1 par value, authorized

    

6,000,000 shares, none issued

   —       —    

Common stock, $1 par value, authorized

    

1,600,000,000 shares, issued 560,641,640 shares at September 30, 2008 and September 30, 2007

   561     561  

Additional paid-in capital

   1,196     1,242  

Retained earnings

   7,157     7,732  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

   (762 )   (351 )
   8,152     9,184  

Less — treasury shares, at cost, 46,864,671 shares at September 30, 2008 and 40,249,598 shares at December 31, 2007

   (1,236 )   (1,362 )

Total stockholders’ equity

   6,916     7,822  
     $16,026     $17,359  

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

 

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Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)

 

For the Nine Months Ended September 30,

(In millions of dollars)

   2008     2007  

Operating cash flows:

    

Net (loss) income

   $ (153 )   $ 2,390  

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash used for operations:

    

Goodwill impairment charge

     540       —    

Depreciation and amortization of fixed assets and capitalized software

     249       278  

Amortization of intangible assets

     53       60  

Provision for deferred income taxes

     56       68  

(Gains)/losses on investments

     37       (169 )

(Gains)/losses on disposition of assets

     21       (1,844 )

Accrual of stock-based compensation

     28       62  

Changes in assets and liabilities:

    

Net receivables

     (19 )     (363 )

Other current assets

     (9 )     396  

Other assets

     (67 )     9  

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

     (177 )     (395 )

Accrued compensation and employee benefits

     (184 )     (245 )

Accrued income taxes

     (66 )     (2 )

Other liabilities

     (18 )     (199 )

Effect of exchange rate changes

     (92 )     (76 )

Net cash provided by (used for) operations

     199       (30 )

Financing cash flows:

    

Proceeds from issuance of debt

     —         3  

Repayments of debt

     (258 )     (1,114 )

Purchase of treasury shares

     —         (1,300 )

Issuance of common stock

     121       169  

Dividends paid

     (308 )     (313 )

Net cash used for financing activities

     (445 )     (2,555 )

Investing cash flows:

    

Capital expenditures

     (334 )     (262 )

Net sales of long-term investments

     33       133  

Proceeds from sales related to fixed assets

     11       6  

Dispositions

     56       3,357  

Acquisitions

     (114 )     (137 )

Other, net

     (2 )     1  

Net cash (used for) provided by investing activities

     (350 )     3,098  

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

     (76 )     217  

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (672 )     730  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     2,133       2,089  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

     1,461       2,819  

Cash and cash equivalents — reported as discontinued operations

     —         —    

Cash and cash equivalents — continuing operations

   $ 1,461     $ 2,819  

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

 

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Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

1. Nature of Operations

Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (“MMC”), a global professional services firm, is organized based on the different services that it offers. Under this organizational structure, MMC’s three business segments are: risk and insurance services; consulting; and risk consulting & technology.

The risk and insurance services segment provides risk management and insurance broking, reinsurance broking and insurance program management services for businesses, public entities, insurance companies, associations, professional services organizations, and private clients. MMC conducts business in this segment through Marsh and Guy Carpenter.

The consulting segment provides advice and services to the management of organizations in the area of human resources and related financial matters, comprising consulting, outsourcing and investment consulting and management services; and strategy and risk management consulting, comprising management, economic and brand consulting. MMC conducts business in this segment through Mercer and the Oliver Wyman Group.

The risk consulting & technology segment provides various risk consulting and related risk mitigation services to corporate, government, institutional and individual clients. These services fall into two main business groups: Kroll, which includes litigation support and data recovery, background screening and risk mitigation and response services; and corporate advisory & restructuring services. In October 2008, MMC sold the U.S. corporate advisory and restructuring operations in a leveraged management buyout. MMC is negotiating with the managements of the remaining two U.K.-based components of this business. MMC may incur exit costs related to the disposition of the U.K. operations.

On August 3, 2007, Great-West Lifeco Inc. (“GWL”) completed its purchase of Putnam Investments Trust for $3.9 billion in cash. The purchase included Putnam’s interest in the T.H. Lee private equity business. Putnam comprised MMC’s entire investment management segment.

 

2. Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared by MMC pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, have been omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations, although MMC believes that the information and disclosures presented are adequate to make such information and disclosure not misleading. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in MMC's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 (the “2007 10-K”), and the amended financial information filed in MMC’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 5, 2008.

 

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The financial information contained herein reflects all adjustments, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of MMC’s results of operations for the three and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year amounts to conform with the current year presentation.

 

3. Fiduciary Assets and Liabilities

In its capacity as an insurance broker or agent, MMC collects premiums from insureds and, after deducting its commissions, remits the premiums to the respective insurance underwriters. MMC also collects claims or refunds from underwriters on behalf of insureds. Unremitted insurance premiums and claims proceeds are held by MMC in a fiduciary capacity. Interest income on these fiduciary funds, included in service revenue, amounted to $123 million and $149 million for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Since fiduciary assets are not available for corporate use, they are shown in the consolidated balance sheets as an offset to fiduciary liabilities.

Fiduciary assets include approximately $1 billion of fixed income securities classified as available for sale. Unrealized gains or losses from available for sale securities are recorded in other comprehensive income until the securities are disposed of, or mature. Unrealized gains, net of tax, at September 30, 2008 were $9 million.

Net uncollected premiums and claims and the related payables amounted to $9.0 billion at September 30, 2008 and $9.2 billion at December 31, 2007. MMC is not a principal to the contracts under which the right to receive premiums or the right to receive reimbursement of insured losses arises. Net uncollected premiums and claims and the related payables are, therefore, not assets and liabilities of MMC and are not included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

In certain instances, MMC advances premiums, refunds or claims to insurance underwriters or insureds prior to collection. These advances are made from corporate funds and are reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as receivables.

 

4. Per Share Data

Basic net income per share and income from continuing operations per share are calculated by dividing the respective after-tax income by the weighted average number of shares of MMC’s common stock outstanding, excluding unvested restricted stock.

Diluted net income per share and income from continuing operations per share are calculated by dividing the respective after-tax income by the weighted average common shares outstanding, which have been adjusted for the dilutive effect of potentially issuable common shares. Reconciliations of net income to net income for diluted earnings per share and basic weighted average common shares outstanding to diluted weighted average common shares outstanding is presented below. The reconciling items related to the calculation of diluted weighted average common shares outstanding are the same for continuing operations. In the periods where there is a loss, the number of basic shares outstanding is used as the denominator because potentially issuable common shares are anti-dilutive.

 

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      Three Months Ended
    September 30,    
   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,    
 
(In millions, except average stock price)    2008     2007    2008     2007  

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $     18     $     80    $  (142 )   $   448  

Net income (loss)

   $      (8 )   $1,945    $  (153 )   $2,390  

Less:   Potential minority interest associated with the Putnam Class B

Common Shares

              (5 )

Net income (loss) for diluted earnings per share

   $      (8 )   $1,945    $  (153 )   $2,385  

Basic weighted average common shares outstanding

   513     534    514     545  

Dilutive effect of potentially issuable common shares

   10     6    —       8  

Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding

   523     540    514     553  

Average stock price used to calculate common stock equivalents

   $30.45     $27.62    $27.84     $29.63  

There were 52.5 million and 60.1 million stock options outstanding as of September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The calculation above includes 4 million common stock equivalents related to stock options in 2007. There were 7 million common stock equivalents in 2008 that would have increased diluted weighted average common shares outstanding for the nine months ended September 30, 2008; however, they have not been included in the calculation since MMC reported a net loss. MMC reported a net loss in the third quarter of 2008; therefore, the 513 million basic average shares outstanding are used to calculate diluted net loss per share for this period.

 

5. Supplemental Disclosures to the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

The following schedule provides additional information concerning interest and income taxes paid for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007.

 

(In millions of dollars)    2008    2007

Interest paid

   $ 194    $ 251

Income taxes paid

   $ 191    $ 147

 

6. Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The components of comprehensive (loss) income for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 are as follows:

 

(In millions of dollars)    2008     2007  

Foreign currency translation adjustments

   $ (245 )   $ 263  

Unrealized investment holding gains, net of income taxes

     3       5  

Less:   Reclassification adjustment for realized gains included in net income, net of income taxes

           (24 )

Adjustments related to pension/retiree plans

     (169 )     18  

Other comprehensive (loss) income

     (411 )     262  

Net (loss) income

     (153 )     2,390  

Comprehensive (loss) income

   $ (564 )   $ 2,652  

 

7. Acquisitions

In the nine months ended September 30, 2008, MMC made 9 acquisitions for total purchase consideration of $155 million. The allocation of purchase consideration resulted

 

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in acquired goodwill and other intangible assets of $105 million and $48 million, respectively. Estimated fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed are subject to adjustment as purchase accounting is finalized.

 

8. Discontinued Operations

In the third quarter of 2008, discontinued operations includes (1) the impact of immaterial corrections and other adjustments to the fourth quarter 2007 tax provision relating to the Putnam transaction, (2) adjustments to the tax provision relating to the Putnam transaction to reflect differences between tax returns filed in 2008 and the initial estimated provisions, and (3) interest on liabilities for certain tax-related indemnities provided as part of the Putnam transaction. In addition, Kroll recently completed the sale of Kroll Crucible (“Crucible”), a division of its government services operation. The loss on this disposal, net of tax, is also included in discontinued operations for the third quarter of 2008.

On February 1, 2008, Marsh completed the sale of a medical administrative claims business in Brazil (“Mediservice”). Discontinued operations for the first nine months of 2008 also includes the gain on the sale of Mediservice. The operating results of Mediservice and Crucible were immaterial to MMC’s results; therefore, the operating results for 2008 and 2007 have not been reclassified to discontinued operations.

On August 3, 2007, Great-West Lifeco Inc. (“GWL”) completed its purchase of Putnam Investments Trust. MMC recognized a pre-tax gain of $3.0 billion ($1.9 billion net of tax) in the third quarter of 2007. Putnam’s results of operations for 2007 are included in discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income.

As part of the disposal of Putnam, MMC provided indemnities to GWL with respect to certain Putnam-related litigation and regulatory matters described in Note 15, and certain indemnities related to contingent tax liabilities (the “indemnified matters”). In accordance with the guidelines of FASB Interpretation No. 45 (“FIN 45”), MMC estimated the “fair value” of the indemnities based on a (i) probability-weighted assessment of possible outcomes; or, (ii) in circumstances where the probability or amounts of potential outcomes could not be determined, an analysis of similar but not identical circumstances prepared by an MMC-affiliated professional economic valuation firm. As required by FIN 45, the amounts recognized are the greater of the estimated fair value of the indemnity or the amount required to be recorded under SFAS 5 or FIN 48 (for tax-related matters). The remaining liability related to these indemnities (the “FIN 45 liability”) was approximately $239 million at September 30, 2008. The FIN 45 liability considers the potential settlement amount as well as related defense costs. The matters for which indemnities have been provided are inherently uncertain as to their eventual outcome. The process of estimating “fair value” as required by FIN 45 entails necessarily uncertain assumptions about such future outcomes. Consequently, the ultimate resolution of the matters for which indemnities have been provided may well vary significantly from the liabilities calculated under FIN 45.

The indemnities described above do not have a stated expiration date. MMC is released from risk under the indemnity as the indemnified matters are settled or otherwise resolved. Since MMC is not released from risk under the indemnities simply based on the passage of time, future costs of settlements and/or legal fees related to the indemnified matters will be charged against the FIN 45 liability, so long as they are consistent with the estimated exposure contemplated for such matters in establishing the FIN 45 liability. MMC will assess the status of the indemnified matters each reporting period to determine whether to cease reduction of the FIN 45 liability, and/or whether additional accruals are appropriate under either SFAS 5 (for non-tax related matters) or FIN 48 (for tax related matters). Any future charges or credits resulting from the settlement or resolution of the indemnified matters, or any adjustments to the liabilities related to such matters will be recorded in discontinued operations, in accordance with SFAS 144.

 

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Summarized Statements of Income data for discontinued operations is as follows:

 

      Three Months Ended
September 30,
         Nine Months
Ended
September 30,

(In millions of dollars)

   2008     2007         2008     2007

Total Revenue

   $  —     $    112         $  —     $    798

Income before provision for income tax

   $  —     $      22       $  —     $    160

Provision (credit) for income tax

   (1 )   10         (1 )   71

Income from discontinued operations, net of tax

   1     12         1     89

Gain (loss) on disposal of discontinued operations

   (4 )   2,970       28     2,970

Provision for income tax

   23     1,117         40     1,117

Gain (loss) on disposal of discontinued operations, net of tax

   (27 )   1,853         (12 )   1,853

Discontinued operations, net of tax

   $(26 )   $1,865         $(11 )   $1,942

 

9. Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Under SFAS 142, MMC is required to assess goodwill and any indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually, or more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. MMC performs the annual impairment test for each of its reporting units during the third quarter of each year. Fair values of the reporting units are estimated using a market approach or a discounted cash flow model. Carrying values for the reporting units are based on balances at the prior quarter end and include directly identified assets and liabilities as well as an allocation of those assets and liabilities not recorded at the reporting unit level. MMC completed its 2008 annual review in the third quarter of 2008 and concluded goodwill is not impaired. As previously reported, MMC recorded goodwill impairment charges totaling $540 million in the first and second quarters of 2008, resulting from an interim goodwill impairment test in its risk consulting and technology segment.

Other intangible assets that are not deemed to have an indefinite life are amortized over their estimated lives and reviewed for impairment upon the occurrence of certain triggering events in accordance with applicable accounting literature.

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the nine months ended September 30 are as follows:

 

(In millions of dollars)    2008     2007

Balance as of January 1,

   $ 7,388     $ 7,206

Goodwill impairment

     (540 )    

Goodwill acquired

     118       97

Disposals

     (22 )    

Other adjustments (a)

     25       62

Balance as of September 30,

   $ 6,969     $ 7,365

 

(a)

Primarily foreign exchange and purchase accounting adjustments.

Goodwill allocable to each of MMC’s reportable segments is as follows: Risk and Insurance Services, $3.8 billion; Consulting, $2.0 billion; and Risk Consulting & Technology, $1.2

 

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billion.

Amortized intangible assets consist of the cost of client lists, client relationships and trade names acquired. The gross cost and accumulated amortization is as follows:

 

      September 30, 2008    December 31, 2007
(In millions of dollars)   

Gross

Cost

  

Accumulated

Amortization

  

Net

Carrying

Amount

   Gross
Cost
  

Accumulated

Amortization

  

Net

Carrying

Amount

Amortized intangibles

   $753    $387    $366    $706    $335    $371

Aggregate amortization expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, was $53 million and $49 million, respectively, and the estimated future aggregate amortization expense is as follows:

 

For the Years Ending December 31,

(In millions of dollars)

   Estimated Expense

2008 (including amounts incurred through September 30)

   $  72

2009

       60

2010

       52

2011

       44

2012

       42

Subsequent years

     149
     $419

 

10. Fair Value Measurements

Effective January 1, 2008, MMC adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 157 “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”). SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, establishes a fair value hierarchy based on the quality of inputs used to measure fair value and expands required disclosures about fair value measurements.

Fair Value Hierarchy

MMC has categorized its financial instruments into a three-level fair value hierarchy as defined in SFAS 157. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities (Level 1) and lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). In some cases, the inputs used to measure fair value might fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

Financial assets recorded in the consolidated balance sheets are categorized based on the inputs in the valuation techniques as follows:

Level 1. Financial assets and liabilities whose values are based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market (examples include active exchange-traded equity securities, listed derivatives, most U.S. Government and agency securities, and certain other sovereign government obligations).

 

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Level 2. Financial assets and liabilities whose values are based on the following:

a) Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets (for example, restricted stock);

b) Quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in non-active markets (examples include corporate and municipal bonds, which trade infrequently);

c) Pricing models whose inputs are observable for substantially the full term of the asset or liability (examples include most over-the-counter derivatives, including interest rate and currency swaps); and

d) Pricing models whose inputs are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data through correlation or other means for substantially the full asset or liability (for example, certain mortgage loans).

Level 3. Financial assets and liabilities, whose values are based on prices, or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement. These inputs reflect management’s own assumptions about the assumptions a market participant would use in pricing the asset or liability (examples include private equity investments, certain commercial mortgage whole loans, and long-dated or complex derivatives including certain foreign exchange options and long-dated options on gas and power).

The following presents MMC’s assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2008:

 

      Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring Basis
(In millions of dollars)    Level 1     Level 2     Level 3    Total

Assets:

         

Long-term investments (a)

   $ 14     $     $    $ 14

Other assets

   $ 125 (b)   $ 26 (d)   $    $ 151

Fiduciary assets (c)

   $     $ 979     $    $ 979

 

(a)

Primarily available for sale securities under SFAS 115.

(b)

Primarily mutual fund investments related to deferred compensation arrangements.

(c)

Primarily tax exempt municipal bonds and euro bonds.

(d)

Primarily medium term bond funds and fixed income securities related to assets acquired in a recent acquisition.

 

11. Retirement Benefits

MMC maintains qualified and non-qualified defined benefit pension plans for its U.S. and non-U.S. eligible employees. MMC’s policy for funding its tax qualified defined benefit retirement plans is to contribute amounts at least sufficient to meet the funding requirements set forth by U.S. law and the laws of the non-U.S. jurisdictions in which MMC offers defined benefit plans.

Following a recent asset allocation review, the target asset allocation for the U.S. Plan was changed to 65% equities and 35% fixed income from the previous target of 70% equities and 30% fixed income. At the end of the third quarter of 2008, the actual allocation for the U.S.

 

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Plan was 66% equities and 34% fixed income. The target asset allocation for the U.K. Plan, which comprises approximately 83% of non-U.S. Plan assets, is 58% equities and 42% fixed income. At the end of the third quarter of 2008, the actual allocation of assets for the U.K. Plan was 54% to equities and 46% to fixed income.

The components of the net periodic benefit cost for defined benefit and other postretirement plans are as follows:

Combined U.S. and significant non-U.S. Plans

For the Three Months Ended September 30,   Pension Benefits     Postretirement Benefits  
(In millions of dollars)     2008       2007       2008       2007  

Service cost

  $ 52     $ 57     $ 1     $ 2  

Interest cost

    150       140       5       3  

Expected return on plan assets

    (213 )     (199 )            

Amortization of prior service credit

    (14 )     (13 )     (3 )     (3 )

Recognized actuarial loss

    14       54              

Net periodic benefit (credit) cost

  $ (11 )   $ 39     $ 3     $ 2  

Curtailment gain

    1                    

Total (credit) expense

  $ (10 )   $ 39     $ 3     $ 2  

Combined U.S. and significant non-U.S. Plans

       
For the Nine Months Ended September 30,   Pension Benefits     Postretirement Benefits  
(In millions of dollars)   2008     2007     2008     2007  

Service cost

  $ 155     $ 170     $ 4     $ 5  

Interest cost

    446       415       13       11  

Expected return on plan assets

    (645 )     (589 )            

Amortization of prior service credit

    (41 )     (41 )     (10 )     (10 )

Recognized actuarial loss

    51       154       1       2  

Net periodic benefit (credit) cost

  $ (34 )   $ 109     $ 8     $ 8  

Curtailment gain

    1       (2 )            

Settlement gain

          (2 )            

Special termination benefits

    1       2              

Total (credit) expense

  $ (32 )   $ 107     $ 8     $ 8  

U.S. Plans only

                               
For the Three Months Ended September 30,   Pension Benefits     Postretirement Benefits  
(In millions of dollars)   2008     2007     2008     2007  

Service cost

  $ 18     $ 19     $ 1     $ 1  

Interest cost

    53       49       3       2  

Expected return on plan assets

    (72 )     (66 )            

Amortization of prior service credit

    (13 )     (13 )     (3 )     (3 )

Recognized actuarial loss

    5       22              

Net periodic benefit (credit) cost

  $ (9 )   $ 11     $ 1     $  

 

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U.S. Plans only

For the Nine Months Ended September 30,    Pension Benefits     Postretirement Benefits  
(In millions of dollars)    2008     2007     2008     2007  

Service cost

   $    55     $    62     $    3     $    4  

Interest cost

   158     147     9     8  

Expected return on plan assets

   (217 )   (200 )   —       —    

Amortization of prior service credit

   (40 )   (40 )   (10 )   (10 )

Recognized actuarial loss

   16     61     —       1  

Net periodic benefit (credit) cost

   $  (28 )   $    30     $    2     $    3  
The net periodic benefit cost of the U.S. Plans for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 is based on the January 1, 2008 employee census.   
Significant non-U.S. Plans only  
For the Three Months Ended September 30,    Pension Benefits     Postretirement Benefits  
(In millions of dollars)    2008     2007     2008     2007  

Service cost

   $    34     $    38     $—       $    1  

Interest cost

   97     91     2     1  

Expected return on plan assets

   (141 )   (133 )   —       —    

Amortization of prior service credit

   (1 )   —       —       —    

Recognized actuarial loss

   9     32     —       —    

Net periodic benefit (credit) cost

   $    (2 )   $    28     $    2     $    2  

Curtailment gain

   1     —       —       —    

Settlement gain

   —       —       —       —    

Special termination benefits

   —       —       —       —    

Total (credit) expense

   $    (1 )   $    28     $    2     $    2  
Significant non-U.S. Plans only  
For the Nine Months Ended September 30,    Pension Benefits     Postretirement Benefits  
(In millions of dollars)    2008     2007     2008     2007  

Service cost

   $  100     $  108     $    1     $    1  

Interest cost

   288     268     4     3  

Expected return on plan assets

   (428 )   (389 )   —       —    

Amortization of prior service credit

   (1 )   (1 )   —       —    

Recognized actuarial loss

   35     93     1     1  

Net periodic benefit (credit) cost

   $    (6 )   $    79     $    6     $    5  

Curtailment gain

   1     (2 )   —       —    

Settlement gain

   —       (2 )   —       —    

Special termination benefits

   1     2     —       —    

Total (credit) expense

   $    (4 )   $    77     $    6     $    5  

 

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The weighted average actuarial assumptions utilized to calculate the net periodic benefit costs for the U.S. and significant non-U.S. defined benefit plans are as follows:

Combined U.S. and significant non-U.S. Plans

 

      Pension
Benefits
    Postretirement
Benefits
 
      2008     2007     2008     2007  

Weighted average assumptions:

        

Expected return on plan assets

   8.2 %   8.2 %        

Discount rate

   6.1 %   5.4 %   6.5 %   5.8 %

Rate of compensation increase

   3.8 %   3.8 %        

 

12. Debt

MMC’s outstanding debt is as follows:

 

(In millions of dollars)   

September 30,

2008

  

December 31,

2007

Short-term:

     

Current portion of long-term debt

   $   408    $   260
     $   408    $   260

Long-term:

     

Senior notes – 7.125% due 2009

   $   400    $   400

Senior notes – 6.25% due 2012 (5.1% effective interest rate)

   258    260

Senior notes – 3.625% due 2008

   —      250

Senior notes – 4.850% due 2013

   249    249

Senior notes – 5.875% due 2033

   296    296

Senior notes – 5.375% due 2014

   648    647

Senior notes – 5.15% due 2010

   549    548

Senior notes – 5.75% due 2015

   746    746

Mortgage – 5.70% due 2035

   456    461

Other

   3    7
   3,605    3,864

Less current portion

   408    260
     $3,197    $3,604

During the first quarter of 2008, MMC’s 3.625% five-year fixed rate $250 million senior notes matured. MMC used cash on hand to manage liquidity, including the funding of the maturing notes. There were no commercial paper borrowings outstanding at September 30, 2008.

MMC and certain of its foreign subsidiaries maintain a $1.2 billion multi-currency revolving credit facility. Subsidiary borrowings under the facility are unconditionally guaranteed by MMC. The facility expires in December 2010. The interest rate on this facility varies based upon the level of usage of the facility and MMC’s credit ratings. The facility requires MMC to maintain certain coverage and leverage ratios which are tested quarterly. At September 30, 2008, there was no amount outstanding under this facility.

 

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13. Restructuring Costs

2008 Actions

In the third quarter of 2008, MMC implemented restructuring activities resulting in charges totaling $81 million, which includes severance and related benefits of $53 million, fees and consulting costs related to cost reduction activities of $10 million, accelerated amortization of $14 million and cost of future rent and other real estate costs of $4 million, incurred as follows: Marsh—$78 million and Guy Carpenter—$3 million. These activities resulted in the elimination of 634 positions at Marsh. In addition, Marsh outsourced an additional 600 positions as part of its U.K. back office outsourcing initiative.

For the first nine months of 2008, MMC implemented restructuring actions which resulted in costs totaling $160 million, primarily related to severance and benefits. These costs were incurred as follows: Marsh—$117 million, Guy Carpenter—$28 million, Risk Consulting and Technology—$7 million, and Corporate—$8 million. These activities resulted in the elimination of 1,142 positions at Marsh, 319 positions at Guy Carpenter, 83 positions in Risk Consulting and Technology and 70 positions at Corporate.

Actions Prior to 2008

Prior to 2008, MMC implemented several restructuring and cost-saving initiatives related to firm-wide infrastructure, organization structure and operating company business processes. These initiatives resulted in staff reductions and consolidations of facilities. In connection with these activities, MMC recorded a restructuring charge of $49 million in the third quarter of 2008 for future rent and other real estate costs to exit five floors in MMC’s New York Headquarters building. The nine months ended September 30, 2008 also included a charge related to a change in the estimated costs to exit certain facilities in London. As of September 30, 2008, the remaining liability for these initiatives was $118 million, primarily related to future severance and benefit payments and future lease agreements.

The expenses associated with the above initiatives are included in Compensation and benefits and Other operating expenses in the consolidated statements of income. The liabilities associated with these initiatives are classified on the consolidated balance sheets as Accounts payable, Other liabilities, or Accrued compensation, depending on the nature of the items.

 

14. Common Stock

In August 2007, MMC entered into an $800 million accelerated share repurchase agreement with a financial institution counterparty. Under the terms of the agreement, MMC paid the full $800 million purchase price and took delivery from the counterparty of an initial tranche of 21,320,530 shares of MMC common stock. This number of shares was the quotient of the $800 million purchase price divided by a contractual “cap” price of $37.5225 per share. Based on the market price of MMC’s common stock over the subsequent settlement period, in March 2008 the counterparty delivered to MMC an additional 10,751,100 shares for no additional payment and the transaction was concluded. MMC thus repurchased a total of 32,071,630 shares at average price per share to MMC of $24.9442. The repurchased shares were reflected as an increase to treasury shares (a decrease in shares outstanding) on the respective delivery dates. This transaction was effected under a $1.5 billion share repurchase authorization granted by MMC’s Board of Directors in August 2007. MMC remains authorized to repurchase additional shares of its common stock up to a value of $700 million. There is no time limit on this authorization.

 

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In May 2007, MMC entered into a $500 million accelerated share repurchase agreement with a financial institution counterparty. Under the terms of the agreement, MMC paid the full $500 million purchase price and took delivery from the counterparty of an initial tranche of 13,464,749 shares of MMC common stock. Based on the market price of MMC’s common stock over the subsequent settlement period, in July 2007 the counterparty delivered to MMC an additional 2,555,519 shares for no additional payment and the transaction was concluded. MMC thus repurchased a total of 16,020,268 shares in the transaction, for a total cost of $500 million and an average price per share to MMC

of $31.2105. The repurchased shares were reflected as an increase in treasury shares (a decrease in shares outstanding) on the respective delivery dates. This transaction was effected under a $500 million share repurchase authorization granted by MMC’s Board of Directors in May 2007.

 

15. Claims, Lawsuits and Other Contingencies

MMC and Marsh Litigation and Regulatory Matters

Brokerage Compensation Practices Settlement

In January 2005, MMC and its subsidiary Marsh Inc. entered into an agreement with the New York State Attorney General (“NYAG”) and the New York State Insurance Department to settle a civil complaint filed in New York State court by NYAG in October 2004 (the “NYAG Lawsuit”) and a related citation issued by the Insurance Department. Among other things, the NYAG Lawsuit and the citation had alleged that Marsh’s use of market service agreements with various insurance companies entailed fraudulent business practices, bid-rigging, illegal restraint of trade and other statutory violations.

Following the filing of the NYAG Lawsuit, various state regulators and attorneys general initiated investigations relating to the conduct alleged in the NYAG Lawsuit. Civil actions have been filed against MMC, Marsh and certain Marsh subsidiaries by the State of Connecticut in January 2005, the State of Florida in March 2006 and the State of Ohio in August 2007. The complaints in these pending actions seek a variety of monetary damages and injunctive and other equitable relief and are based on a variety of legal theories, including unfair trade practices, antitrust, negligent misrepresentation, breach of fiduciary duty and state RICO laws. MMC has been contacted by certain other state entities conducting investigations indicating that they may file civil actions or otherwise seek additional monetary or other remedies from MMC.

Numerous private party lawsuits have been commenced against MMC, one or more of its subsidiaries, and their current and former directors and officers, relating to matters alleged in the NYAG Lawsuit. These lawsuits include the following:

Policyholder Claims

 

  n  

Various putative class actions purportedly brought on behalf of policyholders have been consolidated into two actions in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey (one on behalf of a purported class of "commercial" policyholders and the second on behalf of a purported class of "employee benefit" policyholders). The actions alleged a variety of legal theories, including those related to state tort, contract, fiduciary duty, federal and state antitrust and RICO theories, and sought a

 

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variety of remedies, including unspecified monetary damages, treble damages, disgorgement, restitution, punitive damages, declaratory and injunctive relief, and attorneys' fees and costs. The court has dismissed with prejudice all of the federal antitrust and RICO claims and has dismissed without prejudice all of the state law claims asserted in both actions. The plaintiffs appealed. On June 19, 2008, the parties entered into an agreement to settle the commercial and employee benefit policyholder putative class actions using the remainder available from the $850 million fund created in connection with the settlement of the NYAG Lawsuit. The court has preliminarily approved the settlement; a final approval hearing is scheduled for December 2008.

 

  n  

In July 2007, two putative class actions against MMC, Marsh, certain insurers and other insurance brokers purportedly brought on behalf of policyholders were filed in the U.S. District Courts for the Southern District of Florida and the Southern District of New York. These actions relate to the same practices alleged in the NYAG Lawsuit, but with respect to insurance coverage placed with Certain Underwriters at Lloyd’s, London. These actions have been transferred to the District of New Jersey.

 

  n  

Four class or representative actions on behalf of policyholders are pending in state courts. Twenty-one actions instituted by individual policyholders and others are pending in federal and state courts relating to matters alleged in the NYAG Lawsuit. Two putative class actions and an individual policyholder action are pending in Canada.

Shareholder Claims

Following the announcement of the NYAG Lawsuit and related actions taken by MMC, MMC’s stock price dropped from approximately $45 per share to a low of approximately $22.75 per share. The number of shares outstanding at the time was approximately 526 million.

 

  n  

A purported securities class action against MMC, Marsh and certain of their former officers is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Plaintiffs make factual allegations similar to those asserted in the NYAG Lawsuit, including that MMC artificially inflated its share price by making misrepresentations and omissions relating to Marsh’s market service agreements and business practices. Plaintiffs also allege that MMC failed to disclose alleged anti-competitive and illegal practices at Marsh, such as “bid-rigging” and soliciting fictitious quotes. Plaintiffs allege violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Section 11 of the Securities Act of 1933 and seek unspecified damages. MMC has responded to the complaint and discovery in this matter is ongoing.

 

  n  

Three individual shareholder actions against MMC and others are pending in state courts. Two of these actions have been dismissed and the plaintiffs have appealed.

 

  n  

A purported ERISA class action is pending against MMC and various current and former employees, officers and directors in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York on behalf of participants and beneficiaries of an MMC retirement plan. The complaint alleges, among other things, that in light of the alleged misconduct described in the NYAG Lawsuit, the defendants knew or should have known that the investment of the plan’s assets in MMC stock was imprudent, that certain defendants failed to provide plan participants with complete and accurate information about MMC stock, that certain defendants responsible for selecting, removing and monitoring other fiduciaries did not comply with ERISA, and that MMC

 

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knowingly participated in other defendants’ breaches of fiduciary duties. The complaint seeks, among other things, unspecified compensatory damages, injunctive relief and attorneys’ fees and costs. Discovery is underway in this matter.

 

  n  

Several shareholder derivative actions are pending against MMC’s current and former directors and officers. Most of these actions have been consolidated into two proceedings, one in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, and one in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. These actions allege, among other things, breach of fiduciary duties with respect to the alleged misconduct described in the NYAG Lawsuit, and that the defendants are liable for and must contribute to or indemnify MMC for any related damages MMC has suffered. The consolidated action in federal court in New York has been stayed in favor of the state derivative action in Delaware, which remains in its preliminary stages.

Other Claims

 

  n  

A shareholder derivative suit pending in the Delaware Court of Chancery against the directors and officers of American International Group, Inc. (“AIG”) names as additional defendants MMC, Marsh, certain Marsh subsidiaries and certain former officers and employees. The suit alleges that the MMC and Marsh defendants engaged in conspiracy and fraud with respect to the alleged misconduct described in the NYAG Lawsuit, and that the MMC and Marsh corporate defendants aided and abetted current and former directors and officers of AIG in breaching their fiduciary duties to AIG with respect to AIG’s participation in the alleged misconduct. The complaint seeks damages including the return of all contingent commissions paid by AIG to MMC and Marsh. The MMC and Marsh corporate defendants have moved to dismiss the claims.

Other Governmental Inquiries and Claims Relating to MMC and its Subsidiaries

 

  n  

In December 2007, the Alaska Retirement Management Board filed a civil lawsuit against Mercer (US) Inc. in the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska for alleged professional negligence in actuarial services that Mercer provided to the Alaska Division of Retirement and Benefits relating to the Alaska Public Employees Retirement System and the Alaska Teachers Retirement System. The complaint alleges damages of “at least $1.8 billion.” Discovery is underway in this matter.

 

  n  

In October 2007, the State of Connecticut brought a civil action against Guy Carpenter in Connecticut state court, alleging that Guy Carpenter violated the state’s antitrust and unfair trade practices laws by engaging in allocation of markets, price-fixing and other allegedly improper conduct by taking part in the operation of several reinsurance facilities over a period of decades. The complaint alleges damages to Guy Carpenter’s insurance company clients and their customers, as well as to the general economy of Connecticut, and seeks monetary damages, civil penalties, attorneys’ fees, costs and injunctive and other equitable relief. Guy Carpenter subsequently removed the case to federal court and the State has moved to remand.

 

  n  

In March 2006, Milwaukee County and the Employees Retirement System of the County of Milwaukee and its Pension Board filed a civil lawsuit against Mercer (US) Inc. in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin alleging professional negligence in the provision of actuarial services and seeking damages in excess of $300 million. Mercer has filed a motion for summary judgment seeking dismissal of the plaintiffs' claims. The case is scheduled for trial beginning in January 2009.

 

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  n  

Our activities are regulated extensively under the laws of the United States and its various states, the European Union and its member states, and the other jurisdictions in which we operate. Therefore, in the ordinary course of business, in addition to private party lawsuits, we may be subject to investigations, lawsuits and/or other regulatory actions undertaken by governmental authorities.

Putnam-Related Matters

On August 3, 2007, Great-West Lifeco Inc. (“GWL”) completed its purchase of Putnam Investments Trust. Under the terms of the stock purchase agreement with GWL, a copy of which was included as an exhibit to MMC’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 1, 2007, MMC agreed to indemnify GWL in the future with respect to certain Putnam-related litigation and regulatory matters. The matters described below directly involve MMC and/or may be subject to these indemnification obligations:

“Market-timing” Related Matters

In 2003 and 2004, Putnam entered into settlements with the SEC and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with respect to excessive short-term trading by, among others, certain former Putnam employees in shares of the Putnam mutual funds (the “Putnam Funds”).

 

  n  

MMC and Putnam were named in a substantial number of civil complaints, filed in various state and federal courts, alleging "market-timing" and, in some cases, “late trading” activities. The actions filed in or removed to federal court have been transferred, along with actions against other mutual fund complexes, to the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. The following summarizes the consolidated matters pending in the District of Maryland:

 

   

Two putative class actions by investors in certain Putnam Funds are pending against Putnam. One action asserts claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and Section 36(b) of the Investment Company Act of 1940. The other action purports to assert derivative claims on behalf of all Putnam Funds under Section 36(b) of the Investment Company Act. Both suits seek to recover unspecified damages allegedly suffered by the Putnam Funds and their investors as a result of purported market-timing and late trading activity in certain Putnam Funds. Summary judgment and class certification motion practice and expert discovery are proceeding in both actions.

 

   

A complaint asserting shareholder derivative claims, purportedly on behalf of MMC, was filed against current and former members of MMC’s Board of Directors, two of Putnam’s former officers, and MMC as a nominal defendant. This action alleges violation of fiduciary duties in failing to provide oversight regarding market-timing in the Putnam Funds. This action has been stayed pursuant to an agreement of the parties.

 

   

MMC, Putnam, and certain of their current and former officers, directors and employees are defendants in purported ERISA class actions, one brought by participants in an MMC retirement plan and the other brought by participants in a Putnam retirement plan. The actions allege, among other things, that, in view of the market-timing that was allegedly allowed to occur at Putnam, the investment of the plans' funds in MMC stock and the Putnam Funds was imprudent and

 

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constituted a breach of fiduciary duties to plan participants. Both actions seek unspecified damages and equitable relief. Following a September 2006 dismissal of the action regarding the Putnam plan, the plaintiff appealed the decision to the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. In June 2008, the appellate court reversed the dismissal and remanded the case for further proceedings. The action regarding the MMC plan had been stayed pending the resolution of the appeal.

 

  n  

Certain Putnam entities were named as defendants in a suit brought in the District Court of Travis County, Texas by a former institutional client, the Employee Retirement System of Texas. Plaintiff alleged that Putnam breached its investment management advisory agreement and did not make appropriate disclosures regarding alleged market-timing activity at the time the investment management advisory agreement was executed. The majority of plaintiff's claims were dismissed or withdrawn in January 2008. The trial court dismissed plaintiff’s remaining claim for breach of contract in June 2008. Plaintiffs have appealed.

Other Contingencies Relating to MMC and its Subsidiaries

Errors and Omissions Claims

 

  n  

MMC and its subsidiaries are subject to a significant number of other claims, lawsuits and proceedings in the ordinary course of business. Such claims and lawsuits consist principally of alleged errors and omissions in connection with the performance of professional services. Some of these claims seek damages, including punitive damages, in amounts that could, if awarded, be significant. MMC has varying levels of third party insurance coverage, depending on the policy year. To the extent that expected losses exceed MMC’s retention in any policy year, MMC records an asset for the amount that MMC expects to recover under its third-party insurance programs. The policy limits and coverage terms of the third-party insurance vary to some extent by policy year, but MMC is not aware of coverage defenses or other obstacles to coverage that would limit recoveries in years prior to policy year 2001-2002 in a material amount. In policy years subsequent to 2001-2002, the availability of third-party insurance has declined significantly. MMC utilizes internal actuarial and other estimates, and case level reviews by inside and outside counsel, to establish loss reserves to provide for its loss retention. These reserves are reviewed quarterly and adjusted as developments warrant.

Guarantees

 

  n  

In connection with its acquisition of U.K.-based Sedgwick Group in 1998, MMC acquired several insurance underwriting businesses that were already in run-off, including River Thames Insurance Company Limited (“River Thames”), which MMC sold in 2001. Sedgwick guaranteed payment of claims on certain policies underwritten through the Institute of London Underwriters (the “ILU”) by River Thames. The policies covered by this guarantee are reinsured up to £40 million by a related party of River Thames. Payment of claims under the reinsurance agreement is collateralized by segregated assets held in a trust. As of September 30, 2008, the reinsurance coverage exceeded the best estimate of the projected liability of the policies covered by the guarantee. To the extent River Thames or the reinsurer is unable to meet its obligations under those policies, a claimant may seek to recover from MMC under the guarantee.

 

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  n  

From 1980 to 1983, MMC owned indirectly the English & American Insurance Company (“E&A”), which was a member of the ILU. The ILU required MMC to guarantee a portion of E&A’s obligations. After E&A became insolvent in 1993, the ILU agreed to discharge the guarantee in exchange for MMC’s agreement to post an evergreen letter of credit that is available to pay claims by policyholders on certain E&A policies issued through the ILU and incepting between July 3, 1980 and October 6, 1983. In April 2006, a lawsuit was commenced in the Commercial Court in London against MMC and the ILU by an assignee of an E&A policyholder that purported to have a claim against the MMC letter of credit in the amount of approximately $8.5 million and sought a judicial declaration of its rights as an assignee of a policyholder claim. MMC contested the claim and the lawsuit was discontinued by the plaintiff in May 2007. MMC expects the plaintiff or others to continue to pursue this claim against the MMC letter of credit. MMC anticipates that additional claimants may seek to recover against the letter of credit.

The proceedings and other matters described in this Note 15 on Claims, Lawsuits and Other Contingencies may expose MMC to liability for significant monetary damages and other forms of relief. Where a loss is both probable and reasonably estimable, MMC has established reserves in accordance with SFAS No. 5, “Accounting for Contingencies”. Except as specifically set forth above, MMC's management is unable, at the present time, to provide a reasonable estimate of the range of possible loss attributable to the foregoing matters or the impact they may have on MMC's consolidated results of operations or financial position (over and above MMC’s existing loss reserves) or MMC’s cash flows (to the extent not covered by insurance). This is primarily because many of these cases remain in their early stages and only limited discovery has taken place. Adverse determinations in one or more of the matters discussed above could have a material impact on MMC's financial condition or the results of MMC’s operations in a future period.

 

16. Segment Information

MMC is organized based on the types of services provided. Under this organizational structure, MMC’s business segments are:

 

n  

Risk and Insurance Services, comprising insurance services (Marsh) and reinsurance services (Guy Carpenter);

 

n  

Consulting, comprising Mercer and Oliver Wyman Group; and

 

n  

Risk Consulting and Technology, comprising Kroll and Corporate Advisory and Restructuring.

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those used for the consolidated financial statements described in Note 1 to the 2007 10-K, except for the classification of Investment income (loss), discussed below. The information in the following tables excludes the results of Putnam, which are classified as discontinued operations. Revenues are attributed to geographic areas on the basis of where the services are performed. Segment performance is evaluated based on segment operating income, which includes directly related expenses and charges or credits related to integration and restructuring, but not MMC corporate-level expenses.

In the second quarter of 2008, performance measurements for segment revenue and segment operating income used by MMC’s chief operating decision maker to evaluate performance and for the allocation of resources, were changed so that investment gains

 

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and losses derived from investments strategically linked to MMC’s operating companies are no longer included. The presentation of segment revenue and segment operating income was conformed accordingly. The amounts are now reflected as “Investment income (loss)”, which is presented outside of MMC’s operating income. In addition, the related cash flows received from or paid for certain investments have been similarly changed in the consolidated statements of cash flows. On September 5, 2008, MMC filed Form 8-K amending certain financial information in its 2007 Annual Report to reflect the revised segment measurements described above.

Selected information about MMC's operating segments for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 follows:

 

(In millions of dollars)    Revenue    

Operating

Income
(Loss)

 

2008 -

    

Risk and Insurance Services

   $4,190  (a)   $356  

Consulting

   3,997  (b)   473  

Risk Consulting & Technology

   792  (c)   (470 (d)

Total Operating Segments

   8,979     359  

Corporate / Eliminations

   (54 )   (195 )

Total Consolidated

   $8,925     $164  

2007 -

    

Risk and Insurance Services

   $4,038  (a)   $292  

Consulting

   3,565  (b)   445  

Risk Consulting & Technology

   740  (c)   83  

Total Operating Segments

   8,343     820  

Corporate / Eliminations

   (81 )   (129 )

Total Consolidated

   $8,262     $691  

 

(a)

Includes inter-segment revenue of $6 million and $3 million in 2008 and 2007, respectively, and interest income on fiduciary funds of $114 million and $137 million in 2008 and 2007, respectively.

(b)

Includes inter-segment revenue of $40 million and $71 million in 2008 and 2007, respectively, and interest income on fiduciary funds of $8 million and $12 million in 2008 and 2007, respectively.

(c)

Includes inter-segment revenue of $9 million in 2008 and $7 million in 2007.

(d)

Includes a goodwill impairment charge of $540 million.

 

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Operating segment revenue by product for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 is as follows:

 

(In millions of dollars)    2008     2007  

Risk and Insurance Services

    

Insurance Services

   $ 3,508     $ 3,303  

Reinsurance Services

     682       735  

Total Risk and Insurance Services

     4,190       4,038  

Consulting

    

Mercer

     2,835       2,486  

Oliver Wyman Group

     1,162       1,079  

Total Consulting

     3,997       3,565  

Risk Consulting & Technology

    

Kroll

     678       604  

Corporate Advisory and Restructuring

     114       136  

Total Risk Consulting & Technology

     792       740  

Total Operating Segments

     8,979       8,343  

Corporate Eliminations

     (54 )     (81 )

Total

   $ 8,925     $ 8,262  

 

17. New Accounting Pronouncements

On January 1, 2007, MMC adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (“FIN 48”), which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income tax positions. This interpretation requires that MMC recognizes in its consolidated financial statements the impact of a tax position when it is more likely than not that the tax position would be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities based on the technical merits of the position. As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, MMC recognized an increase in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $13 million, which is accounted for as a reduction to the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings. The term “unrecognized tax benefits” in FIN 48 primarily refers to the differences between a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return and the benefit measured and recognized in the financial statements in accordance with the guidelines of FIN 48. Including this increase, MMC had approximately $272 million of total gross unrecognized tax benefits at the beginning of 2007. Of this total, $218 million represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect the effective tax rate in any future periods. MMC classifies interest and penalties relating to uncertain tax positions in the financial statements as income taxes. The total gross amount of such accrued interest and penalties, before any applicable federal benefit, at January 1, 2007 was $40 million. See Note 7 to the 2007 10-K for further discussion of FIN 48 and income taxes.

It is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will decrease between zero and approximately $80 million within the next 12 months due to settlement of audits.

Effective January 1, 2008, MMC adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 157 related to items that are recognized or disclosed in the financial statements on a recurring basis. SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, establishes a fair value hierarchy based on the quality of inputs used to measure fair value and expands required disclosures about fair value measurements. The adoption of SFAS 157 did not have a material impact on MMC’s consolidated financial statements. See Note 10 for further discussion of SFAS 157.

 

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In February 2008, the FASB issued a final Staff Position “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157” (“FSP 157-2”) that delays the effective date of SFAS 157 for non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities, until fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, except for items that are recognized or disclosed in the financial statements on a recurring basis. MMC has adopted the provisions of FSP 157-2 by deferring application of SFAS 157 to the fair value measurement of its reporting units for goodwill impairment and testing purposes, until the first quarter ended March 31, 2009. MMC does not expect the application of SFAS 157 to its non-financial assets to have a material impact on consolidated financial statements.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (“SFAS 159”). SFAS 159 permits an entity to choose to measure many financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are reported in earnings. SFAS 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The adjustment to reflect the difference between fair value and the carrying amount would be accounted for as a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the date of adoption. MMC did not elect to adopt the fair value option for any financial assets or liabilities as of January 1, 2008.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” (“SFAS 161”) an amendment of SFAS 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” SFAS 161 requires entities to provide enhanced disclosures about how and why they use derivative instruments, how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS 133 and how they affect entities’ financial position, financial performance and cash flows. SFAS 161 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. Early application is encouraged. SFAS 161 does not require comparative disclosure at initial adoption. MMC does not expect the adoption of SFAS 161 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (“SFAS 162”). SFAS 162 identifies and ranks the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles used to prepare financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). SFAS 162 will be effective 60 days following the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board’s amendment to AU 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with General Accepted Accounting Principles.” MMC does not expect SFAS 162 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In June 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position No.EITF 03-6-1 (“FSP 03-6-1”) “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities.” FSP 03-6-1applies to the calculation of earnings per share (“EPS”) under SFAS 128 “Earnings per Share” for share-based payment awards with rights to dividends or dividend equivalents. FSP 03-6-1indicates that unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents (whether paid or unpaid) are participating securities and should be included in the computation of EPS using the two-step method. FSP 03-6-1 will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008 and interim periods within those years. All prior-period EPS data presented should be adjusted retrospectively (including interim statements, summaries of earnings and selected financial data) in conformity with the provisions of FSP 03-6-1. MMC is assessing the impact of FSP 03-6-1.

 

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On December 4, 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (“SFAS 141(R)”), and SFAS 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (“SFAS 160”).

SFAS 141(R) requires entities in a business combination to recognize all (and only) the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction; establishes the acquisition-date fair value as the measurement objective for all assets acquired and liabilities assumed; and requires the acquirer to disclose all information needed by investors and other users to evaluate and understand the nature and financial effect of the business combination.

SFAS 160 clarifies that a noncontrolling or minority interest in a subsidiary is considered an ownership interest and accordingly, requires all entities to report such interests in subsidiaries as equity in the consolidated financial statements.

Both standards are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The impact on MMC’s financial statements will depend on the number and/or size of acquisitions completed in periods subsequent to the standards’ effective date. Early adoption is not permitted.

On October 10, 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position (“FSP”) No. FAS 157-3, “Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset Is Not Active”. The FSP applies to financial assets within the scope of SFAS 157 “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”) and clarifies the application of SFAS 157 in a market that is not active. The FSP also provides guidelines regarding factors to consider when determining whether an investment is other-than-temporarily impaired, including, (1) the nature of the underlying investment (for example, whether the security is debt, equity or a hybrid) (2) the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been less than cost (3) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; or (4) the intent and ability of the holder to retain its investment in the issuer for a sufficient time to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value.

The SEC and FASB Staff stated that because fair value measurements and the assessment of impairment will likely require significant use of judgment, issuers must be sure to provide investors with clear and transparent disclosures. MMC does not expect the adoption of this FSP to have a material impact on the financial statements.

On September 12, 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position (“FSP”). No. FAS 133-1 and FIN 45-4 “Disclosures about Credit Derivatives and Certain Guarantees: An Amendment of FASB Statement No.133 and FASB Interpretation No. 45; and Clarification of the Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 161.” The FSP amends FASB Statement No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” (“SFAS 133”), to require disclosures by sellers of credit derivatives, including credit derivatives embedded in a hybrid instrument.

This FSP also amends FASB Interpretation No. 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others” (“FIN 45”), to require an additional disclosure about the current status of the payment/performance risk of a guarantee. The amendment to SFAS 133 and FIN 45 are effective for reporting periods ending after November 15, 2008; earlier adoption is encouraged.

 

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The FSP clarifies the Board’s intent that the disclosures required by Statement 161 “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” should be provided for any reporting period (annual or quarterly interim) beginning after November 15, 2008. MMC does not expect the adoption of this FSP to have a material impact on the financial statements.

 

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Item  2.      Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contains “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. See “Information Concerning Forward-Looking Statements” at the outset of this report. This Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with MMC’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, and the amended financial information included on Form 8-K filed on September 5, 2008.

General

Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries (“MMC”) is a global professional services firm providing advice and solutions in the areas of risk, strategy, and human capital. MMC’s subsidiaries include Marsh, which provides risk and insurance services; Guy Carpenter, which provides reinsurance services; Mercer, which provides human resource and related financial advice and services; the Oliver Wyman Group, which provides management consulting and other services; and Kroll, which provides risk consulting and technology services. With more than 55,000 employees worldwide, MMC provides analysis, advice and transactional capabilities to clients in over 100 countries.

MMC’s business segments are based on the services provided. Risk and Insurance Services includes risk management and insurance and reinsurance broking and services, provided primarily by Marsh and Guy Carpenter. Consulting, which comprises the activities of Mercer and Oliver Wyman Group, includes human resource consulting and related services, and specialized management, economic and brand consulting services. Risk Consulting & Technology, which comprises the activities of Kroll and Corporate Advisory and Restructuring, includes risk consulting and related investigative, intelligence, financial, security and technology services.

Beginning in the second quarter of 2008, performance measurements for segment revenue and segment operating income used by MMC’s chief operating decision maker to evaluate performance and for the allocation of resources, was changed so that investment gains and losses derived from investments strategically linked to MMC’s operating companies are no longer included. The presentation of segment revenue and segment operating income was conformed accordingly. The amounts are now reflected as “Investment income (loss)”, which is presented outside of MMC’s operating income. Please see Note 16 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information about the impact of this change in presentation. On September 5, 2008, MMC filed Form 8-K amending certain financial information in its 2007 Annual Report to reflect the revised segment measurements described above.

Please see Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements which discusses the purchase of Putnam by Great-West Lifeco Inc. on August 3, 2007. The financial results of Putnam for 2007 are classified as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income.

 

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Consolidated Results of Operations

 

      Third Quarter    Nine Months
(In millions, except per share figures)    2008     2007    2008     2007

Revenue

   $ 2,838     $ 2,716    $ 8,925     $ 8,262

Expense:

         

Compensation and Benefits

     1,811       1,778      5,524       5,109

Other Operating Expenses

     957       822      2,697       2,462

Goodwill Impairment Charge

     —         —        540       —  

Operating Expenses

     2,768       2,600      8,761       7,571

Operating Income

     70       116      164       691

Net interest expense

     44       35      125       147

Investment Income (loss)

     (23 )     78      (31 )     163

Income taxes

     (18 )     75      142       251

Minority interest, net of tax

     3       4      8       8

Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations

     18       80      (142 )     448

Discontinued Operations, net of tax

     (26 )     1,865      (11 )     1,942

Net (Loss) Income

   $ (8 )   $ 1,945    $ (153 )   $ 2,390

MMC reported consolidated operating income of $70 million in the third quarter of 2008 compared with $116 million in the prior year. Operating income in consulting increased 6% in the third quarter of 2008, compared with the same quarter of 2007. Operational improvements realized in the risk and insurance services segment were more than offset by higher restructuring charges and a $33 million charge related to a professional liability claim. Restructuring charges of $49 million drove a $37 million increase in Corporate expenses, which were partly offset by a $10 million credit.

Income from continuing operations decreased from $80 million in the third quarter of 2007 to $18 million in the same period in 2008. This decrease reflects the change in operating income discussed above as well as an investment loss in 2008 compared with investment income in the prior year; partly offset by lower income taxes.

Discontinued operations reflects the gain on disposal of Putnam in the third quarter of 2007, and in 2008, primarily includes adjustments of the tax provision related to the Putnam transaction.

MMC reported consolidated operating income of $164 million for the first nine months of 2008 compared with $691 million in the prior year. The 2008 results include a $540 million goodwill impairment charge related to the risk consulting and technology segment. Excluding this charge, consolidated operating income was $704 million in the first nine months of 2008, an increase of 2% from prior year. The increase was driven by increases of 22% and 6% in the operating income of the risk and insurance services and consulting segments, respectively. These increases were partly offset by a $66 million increase in corporate expenses, reflecting a $49 million restructuring charge related to the exit from certain floors in MMC’s New York headquarters building.

Consolidated Revenue and Expense

MMC conducts business in many countries, as a result of which the impact of foreign exchange rate movements may distort period-to-period comparisons of revenue. Similarly, the revenue impact of acquisitions and dispositions may impact period-to-period comparisons of revenue. Underlying revenue measures the change in revenue from one period to another by isolating these impacts. The impact of foreign currency exchange fluctuations and dispositions on MMC’s operating revenues by segment, for the three-and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 compared to the same periods in 2007, is as follows:

 

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                          Components of Revenue Change  
(In millions, except percentage figures)   Three Months Ended
September 30,
   

% Change

GAAP
Revenue

   

Currency
Impact

   

Acquisitions/

Dispositions
Impact

   

Underlying
Revenue

 
  2008     2007          

Risk and Insurance Services

                                   

Marsh

  $1,070     $1,037     3 %   2 %       1 %

Guy Carpenter

  205     226     (9 )%   1 %       (10 )%

Total Risk and Insurance Services

  1,275     1,263     1 %   2 %       (1 )%

Consulting

           

Mercer

  951     844     12 %   1 %   1 %   10 %

Oliver Wyman Group

  377     374     1 %   2 %   4 %   (5 )%

Total Consulting

  1,328     1,218     9 %   1 %   2 %   6 %

Risk Consulting & Technology

           

Kroll

  218     210     4 %       5 %   (1 )%

Corporate Advisory and Restructuring

  36     48     (25 )%   (3 )%       (22 )%

Total Risk Consulting & Technology

  254     258     (2 )%   (1 )%   4 %   (5 )%

Total Operating Segments

  2,857     2,739     4 %   1 %   1 %   2 %

Corporate Eliminations

  (19 )   (23 )        

Total Revenue

  $2,838     $2,716     5 %   2 %   1 %   2 %

The following table provides more detailed revenue information for certain of the components presented above:

 

                      Components of Revenue Change  
    Three Months Ended
September 30,
 

% Change
GAAP
Revenue

   

Currency
Impact

   

Acquisitions/

Dispositions
Impact

   

Underlying
Revenue

 
    2008   2007        

Marsh:

                               

EMEA

  $   370   $   345   7 %   3 %       4 %

Asia Pacific

  110   96   15 %   4 %       11 %

Latin America

  65   60   9 %   11 %   (5 )%   3 %

Total International

  545   501   9 %   5 %   (1 )%   5 %

U.S. and Canada

  525   536   (2 )%           (2 )%

Total Marsh

  $1,070   $1,037   3 %   2 %       1 %

Mercer:

           

Retirement

  $   299   $   255   17 %   1 %   5 %   11 %

Health and Benefits

  238   210   13 %   1 %       12 %

Other Consulting Lines

  154   140   10 %   2 %   (1 )%   9 %

Mercer Consulting

  691   605   14 %   1 %   2 %   11 %

Outsourcing

  183   171   7 %           7 %

Investment Consulting & Management

  77   68   13 %       1 %   12 %

Total Mercer

  $   951   $   844   12 %   1 %   1 %   10 %

Kroll:

           

Litigation Support and Data Recovery

  $     82   $     69   18 %   1 %   14 %   3 %

Background Screening

  65   78   (16 )%   (1 )%       (15 )%

Risk Mitigation and Response

  71   63   12 %           12 %

Total Kroll

  $   218   $   210   4 %       5 %   (1 )%

 

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                           Components of Revenue Change  
(In millions, except percentage figures)    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
   

% Change

GAAP

Revenue

   

Currency

Impact

   

Acquisitions/

Dispositions

Impact

   

Underlying

Revenue

 
   2008     2007          

Risk and Insurance Services

            

Marsh

           $ 3,508     $ 3,303     6 %   4 %       2 %

Guy Carpenter

     682       735     (7 )%   2 %       (9 )%

Total Risk and Insurance Services

     4,190       4,038     4 %   4 %        

Consulting

            

Mercer

     2,835       2,486     14 %   4 %   1 %   9 %

Oliver Wyman Group

     1,162       1,079     8 %   4 %   3 %   1 %

Total Consulting

     3,997       3,565     12 %   4 %   1 %   7 %

Risk Consulting & Technology

            

Kroll

     678       604     12 %   1 %   6 %   5 %

Corporate Advisory and Restructuring

     114       136     (16 )%   (1 )%       (15 )%

Total Risk Consulting & Technology

     792       740     7 %   1 %   5 %   1 %

Total Operating Segments

     8,979       8,343     8 %   4 %   1 %   3 %

Corporate Eliminations

     (54 )     (81 )        

Total Revenue

           $ 8,925     $ 8,262     8 %   4 %   1 %   3 %

The following table provides more detailed revenue information for certain of the components presented above:

 

 

                           Components of Revenue Change  
     Nine Months Ended
September 30,
   

% Change
GAAP

Revenue

   

Currency

Impact

   

Acquisitions/

Dispositions

Impact

   

Underlying

Revenue

 
      2008     2007          

Marsh:

            

EMEA

             $ 1,402     $ 1,261     11 %   7 %       4 %

Asia Pacific

     328       279     17 %   8 %       9 %

Latin America

     173       158     10 %   13 %   (5 )%   2 %

Total International

     1,903       1,698     12 %   8 %       4 %

U.S. and Canada

     1,605       1,605         1 %       (1 )%

Total Marsh

             $ 3,508     $ 3,303     6 %   4 %       2 %

Mercer:

            

Retirement

             $ 922     $ 800     15 %   4 %   4 %   7 %

Health and Benefits

     700       623     12 %   3 %       9 %

Other Consulting Lines

     420       371     13 %   4 %   (1 )%   10 %

Mercer Consulting

     2,042       1,794     14 %   4 %   2 %   8 %

Outsourcing

     553       499     11 %   3 %   (1 )%   9 %

Investment Consulting & Management

     240       193     24 %   5 %       19 %

Total Mercer

             $ 2,835     $ 2,486     14 %   4 %   1 %   9 %

Kroll:

            

Litigation Support and Data Recovery

             $ 257     $ 196     31 %   2 %   19 %   10 %

Background Screening

     206       224     (8 )%           (8 )%

Risk Mitigation and Response

     215       184     16 %   2 %       14 %

Total Kroll

             $ 678     $ 604     12 %   1 %   6 %   5 %

Revenue

Consolidated revenue for the third quarter of 2008 was $2.8 billion, a 5% increase compared with the same period in the prior year, and a 2% increase on an underlying basis.

 

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Revenue in the risk and insurance services segment for the third quarter of 2008 increased 1% over the same period in 2007, reflecting the positive impact of foreign currency exchange rates partly offset by a 1% decrease in underlying revenue. Within the risk and insurance services segment, underlying revenue increased 1% in Marsh, while underlying revenue decreased 10% in Guy Carpenter. Consulting revenue increased 9%, resulting from a 12% increase in Mercer and 1% growth in Oliver Wyman. On an underlying basis, consulting segment revenue increased 6%, reflecting a 10% increase in Mercer, offset by a 5% decrease in Oliver Wyman. Revenue decreased 2% in risk consulting and technology as a 4% revenue increase in Kroll was more than offset by a decline in the Corporate Advisory and Restructuring businesses.

For the first nine months of 2008, risk and insurance services revenue increased 4% from the same period in 2007, and was flat on an underlying basis. Consulting revenue increased 12%, resulting from a 14% increase in Mercer and 8% growth in Oliver Wyman. On an underlying basis, revenue increased 9% in Mercer, 1% in Oliver Wyman and 7% for the consulting segment in total. Revenue increased 7% in risk consulting & technology or 1% on an underlying basis, as increases in Kroll’s litigation support and data recovery and risk mitigation and response businesses were partly offset by a decline in Corporate Advisory and Restructuring.

Operating Expenses

Consolidated operating expenses, in the third quarter of 2008, increased 6% from the same period in 2007. Approximately 1% of the increase was due to the impact of foreign currency exchange, 1% related to acquisitions and the remaining 4% was due to an increase in underlying expenses. The increase in underlying expenses results from higher restructuring and related costs, a $33 million charge related to a professional liability claim in the risk and insurance services segment and higher expenses that are reimbursed by clients, which together accounted for a 7% increase. These increases were partly offset by lower operating expenses (i.e., travel, entertainment, meetings and marketing & advertising) as the Company continues its efforts to monitor and control expenses.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, operating expenses increased 16% compared with the same period in 2007. Three percent of the increase results from the impact of foreign currency exchange and 1% from acquisitions. Underlying expenses increased 12% of which approximately 7% is due to the $540 million goodwill impairment charge recorded in 2008 and 2% relates to higher restructuring and related charges in 2008.

Restructuring and Related Activities

Actions Initiated in 2008

For the first nine months of 2008, MMC implemented restructuring actions which resulted in costs totaling $160 million primarily related to severance and benefits. These costs were incurred as follows: risk and insurance services—$145 million, risk consulting & technology—$7 million, and corporate—$8 million. These activities resulted in the elimination of 1,142 positions at Marsh, 319 positions at Guy Carpenter, 83 positions in risk consulting and technology and 70 positions at Corporate. In addition, Marsh outsourced approximately 600 positions as part of its U.K. back office outsourcing initiative. The annualized cost savings from these actions are expected to be approximately $170 million. MMC expects to incur additional restructuring charges in the fourth quarter of 2008.

Actions Initiated Prior to 2008

For the first nine months of 2008, MMC recorded a charge of $49 million for future rent and real estate costs to exit five floors in MMC’s New York headquarters building that was part of the restructuring plan announced in 2006 and $9 million related to reserve adjustments for U.K. property. These amounts were included in corporate expenses.

 

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Putnam Transaction

On August 3, 2007, Great-West Lifeco Inc. completed its purchase of Putnam Investments Trust for $3.9 billion in cash. Putnam’s results of operations for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2007 are included in discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

Risk and Insurance Services

The results of operations for the risk and insurance services segment are presented below:

 

      Third Quarter     Nine Months  

(In millions of dollars)

     2008       2007       2008       2007  

Revenue

   $ 1,275     $ 1,263     $ 4,190     $ 4,038  

Compensation and Benefits

     847       853       2,543       2,450  

Other Expenses

     456       421       1,291       1,296  

Expense

     1,303       1,274       3,834       3,746  

Operating Income (Loss)

   $ (28 )   $ (11 )   $ 356     $ 292  

Operating Income Margin

     N/A       N/A       8.5 %     7.2 %

Revenue

Revenue in the risk and insurance services segment increased 1% in the third quarter of 2008 compared with the same period in 2007, reflecting a 2% positive impact of foreign currency translation, partly offset by a 1% decrease in underlying revenue.

In Marsh, revenue in the third quarter of 2008 was $1.1 billion, an increase of 3% from the same quarter of the prior year, driven by strong performance in its international operations. Underlying revenue grew 1 percent, including 11 percent growth in Asia Pacific, 4 percent growth in EMEA and 3 percent growth in Latin America. These increases were partly offset by a 2% decline in the U.S. and Canada. Marsh’s client revenue retention improved on a year-over-year basis, continuing the trend seen throughout the year. New business remained strong in the current quarter, on level with the year-ago period. Marsh’s results were achieved in an environment of significant price competition in the global commercial property and casualty insurance marketplace.

Guy Carpenter’s revenue decreased 9% in the third quarter of 2008 compared to prior year and 10% on an underlying basis. Reinsurance premium rates continued to decline in the third quarter across most coverages, with client’s risk retention levels remaining high.

Revenue in the risk and insurance services segment increased 4% for the first nine months of 2008 compared with the same period of 2007, resulting from the impact of foreign exchange and a 2% increase in underlying revenue at Marsh, partly offset by a 9% decline in underlying revenue at Guy Carpenter.

Expense

Expenses in the risk and insurance services segment increased $29 million in the third quarter of 2008, compared with the same period in the prior year resulting from a 1% increase in underlying expenses and the impact of foreign exchange. Higher restructuring costs and a $33 million charge related to a professional liability claim increased underlying expenses by 9%.

 

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This increase was mostly offset by lower compensation and benefit costs and decreases in other operating costs. The reduction in compensation and benefits reflects reduced headcounts from restructuring actions at both Marsh and Guy Carpenter, and lower pension costs, partly offset by higher incentive compensation accruals. The decreases in other operating costs include travel, entertainment, meetings, marketing & advertising and outside services, as Marsh and Guy Carpenter continue their efforts to monitor and control expenses.

Expenses for the nine-month period in 2008 increased 2% compared with the prior year. On an underlying basis, expenses decreased 1% versus 2007, reflecting a decrease in other operating expenses, partly offset by higher restructuring charges and compensation costs.

Consulting

The results of operations for the consulting segment are presented below:

 

      Third Quarter     Nine Months  

(In millions of dollars)

     2008       2007       2008       2007  

Revenue

   $ 1,328     $ 1,218     $ 3,997     $ 3,565  

Compensation and Benefits

     803       742       2,430       2,165  

Other Expenses

     368       328       1,094       955  

Expense

     1,171       1,070       3,524       3,120  

Operating Income

   $ 157     $ 148     $ 473     $ 445  

Operating Income Margin

     11.8 %     12.2 %     11.8 %     12.5 %

Revenue

Consulting revenue in the third quarter of 2008 increased 9% compared with the same period in 2007, or 6% on an underlying basis. Mercer’s revenue increased 12% or 10% on an underlying basis with strong revenue growth achieved throughout its operations; reflecting underlying revenue growth in consulting of 11%, investment consulting and management of 12% and outsourcing of 7%. Within Mercer’s consulting lines, underlying revenue increased 11% in retirement, 12% in health and benefits, and 9% in other consulting lines. Oliver Wyman’s revenue increased 1%, or a decline of 5% on an underlying basis, compared with the same period last year due to ongoing adverse global economics and financial market conditions.

Consulting revenue in the first nine months of 2008 increased 12% compared with the same period in 2007, or 7% on an underlying basis. Mercer’s revenue increased 14% or 9% on an underlying basis; reflecting underlying revenue growth in consulting of 8%, investment consulting and management of 19% and outsourcing of 9%. Within Mercer’s consulting lines, underlying revenue increased 7% in retirement, 9% in health and benefits, and 10% in other consulting lines. Oliver Wyman’s revenue grew 8%, or 1% on an underlying basis, compared with the same period last year.

Expense

Consulting expenses increased 9% and 13% in the third quarter and first nine months of 2008 compared with the same periods in 2007, respectively, or 6% and 8% on an underlying basis in each of those periods. This increase in underlying expenses reflects higher compensation costs due in part to increased staff levels and an increase in expenses that are reimbursable by clients.

 

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Risk Consulting & Technology

The results of operations for the risk consulting & technology segment are presented below:

 

      Third Quarter     Nine Months  

(In millions of dollars)

     2008       2007       2008       2007  

Revenue

   $ 254     $ 258     $ 792     $ 740  

Compensation and Benefits

     113       121       377       343  

Other Expenses

     113       108       345       314  

Goodwill Impairment Charge

     —         —         540       —    

Expense

     226       229       1,262       657  

Operating (Loss) Income

   $ 28     $ 29     $ (470 )   $ 83  

Operating Income Margin

     11.0 %     11.2 %     N/A       11.2 %

Revenue

Risk consulting and technology revenues in the third quarter of 2008 decreased 2% compared with the prior year, and 5% on an underlying basis. Kroll’s revenue was $218 million in the third quarter of 2008, an increase of 4% from the year-ago quarter, or a 1% decline on an underlying basis. The 12% increase in Kroll’s risk mitigation and response business was offset by a decline in mortgage origination, which is part of Kroll’s background screening businesses. Revenue in corporate advisory and restructuring decreased 25% versus the same period last year.

For the first nine months of 2008, risk consulting and technology revenues increased 7% or 1% on an underlying basis. Kroll increased 12% or 5% on an underlying basis, while corporate advisory and restructuring decreased 16% or 15% on an underlying basis.

Expense

Risk consulting and technology expenses decreased 1% in the third quarter of 2008 compared to 2007, or 5% on an underlying basis. The decrease in expenses reflects lower compensation and incentive compensation, partly offset by the impact of an acquisition in Kroll’s litigation support and data recovery group, and restructuring charges recorded in 2008.

For the first nine months of 2008 expenses were $1.3 billion compared to $657 million in 2007. Excluding the $540 million goodwill impairment charge, risk consulting and technology expenses for the nine months of 2008 increased 10% compared with the same periods in the prior year. On an underlying basis, expenses increased 4% for the nine month period ended September 30, 2008 as compared to prior year.

Corporate Expenses

Corporate expenses in the third quarter of 2008 were $87 million compared with $50 million in the prior year. The third quarter of 2008 includes a $49 million charge related to future rent and other real estate costs to exit five floors in MMC’s New York headquarters building. Expenses in the third quarter of 2008 include a credit of $10 million related to the hiring of MMC’s former CEO by U.S. Investigations Services, Inc. (“USIS”). In the third quarter of 2007, MMC recorded $11 million of restructuring charges related to corporate infrastructure and process improvements.

For the first nine months of 2008, corporate expenses of $195 million were $66 million higher

 

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than the same period in the prior year. The increase is due to the $49 million charge related to exiting five floors from MMC’s New York headquarters building and a $9 million increase in the estimated costs associated with the exit from certain facilities in London. Expenses in 2008 include a credit of $10 million related to the hiring of MMC’s former CEO by USIS. Results for the first nine months of 2007 include a $14 million credit from an accrual adjustment related to the separation of former MMC senior executives.

Interest

Interest income earned on corporate funds amounted to $10 million in the third quarter of 2008, compared to $30 million in the third quarter of 2007. Interest income was $40 million for the first nine months of 2008, a decrease of $24 million versus the same period in prior year.

The decrease in interest income primarily reflects the combined effect of lower average interest rates and a lower level of invested balances in 2008 compared with the prior year. The invested balances in the third quarter of 2007 were higher primarily due to proceeds received from the Putnam transaction, which were subsequently used to repurchase MMC shares, pay down debt and pay taxes on the gain on the Putnam transaction. Interest expense of $54 million in the third quarter of 2008 decreased from $65 million in the third quarter of 2007. Year-to-date interest expense was $165 million versus $211 million for the same period in 2007. The decrease in interest expense is due to a decrease in the average level of debt outstanding compared to the prior year, primarily due to the repayment of commercial paper and bank borrowings in the third quarter of 2007 with the proceeds from the Putnam transaction and the repayment of $250 million of senior notes in February 2008.

Investment Income (Loss)

Net investment losses in the third quarter of 2008 were $23 million, primarily due to mark-to-market declines on Risk Capital Holding’s private equity investments, and an other than temporary decline in the value of warrants received as compensation for a restructuring assignment. This compared with investment gains of $78 million in the third quarter of 2007. For the nine months of 2008, investment losses were $31 million compared with $163 million of gains from the prior period.

Income Taxes

MMC reported a net income tax benefit of $18 million for the third quarter of 2008, primarily due to the favorable impact of the geographic mix of earnings and an adjustment to reflect tax return estimates to tax returns filed in 2008. For the first nine months of 2008, MMC's consolidated effective tax rate increased significantly compared with 47.0% for the same period in 2007. The increase in effective tax rate was primarily due to the nondeductible goodwill impairment charges in the first six months of 2008, partially offset by the favorable impacts of the geographic mix of earnings and adjustment of tax return estimates. Excluding the impact of the nondeductible goodwill impairment charges, MMC's consolidated effective tax rate for the first nine months of 2008 was 25.9%.

MMC’s effective tax rate is affected significantly by the geographic mix of MMC’s earnings, which may have a favorable or unfavorable impact on the rate. In addition, losses in certain jurisdictions cannot be offset by earnings from other operations, and may require valuation allowances affecting the rate, depending on estimates of the realizability of associated deferred tax assets. Furthermore, the earnings mix in future periods could result in foreign tax credit carryforwards for which a valuation allowance may be required.

 

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It is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will decrease between zero and approximately $80 million within the next 12 months due to settlement of audits.

Discontinued Operations

In the third quarter of 2008, discontinued operations includes (1) the impact of immaterial corrections and other adjustments to the fourth quarter 2007 tax provision relating to the Putnam transaction, (2) adjustments to the tax provision relating to the Putnam transaction to reflect differences between tax returns filed in 2008 and the initial estimated provisions, and (3) interest on liabilities for certain tax-related indemnities provided as part of the Putnam transaction. In addition, Kroll recently completed the sale of Kroll Crucible (“Crucible”), a division of its government services operation. The loss on this disposal, net of tax, is also included in discontinued operations for the third quarter of 2008.

Discontinued operations for the first nine months of 2008 also includes the gain on the sale of a claims administration operation in Brazil that was recorded in the first quarter of 2008. The first nine months of 2007 includes the operating results of Putnam.

The table below depicts the results of discontinued operations including revenue and expense for Putnam.

 

      Third Quarter    Nine Months  
(In millions of dollars)      2008      2007      2008       2007  

Putnam

          

Revenue

   $ —     $ 112    $     $ 798  

Expense

     —       90            636  

Net Operating Income

   $ —       22    $       162  

Minority Interest and other discontinued operations

     —                  (2 )

Provision (credit) for income tax

     (1)      10      (1 )     71  

Income from discontinued operations, net of tax

          12      1       89  

Gain (loss) on disposal of discontinued operations

     (4)      2,970      28       2,970  

Provision for income tax

     23       1,117      40       1,117  

Gain (loss) on disposal of discontinued operations, net of tax

     (27)      1,853      (12 )     1,853  

Discontinued operations, net of tax

   $ (26)
   $ 1,865    $ (11 )   $ 1,942  

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Operating Cash Flows

MMC provided $199 million of cash from operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2008, compared with $30 million used for operations for the same period in 2007. These amounts reflect the net (loss) income of MMC during those periods, excluding gains or losses from investments and from the disposition of businesses, adjusted for non-cash charges and changes in working capital, which relate primarily to the timing of payments of accrued liabilities or receipts of assets. Cash generated from the disposition of businesses is included in investing cash flows.

As discussed in Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements, in January 2005 MMC reached a settlement with the NYAG and NYSID that resolved the actions they had commenced against MMC and Marsh in October 2004. As a result of this agreement, MMC recorded a charge in 2004 for an $850 million fund to compensate policyholder clients. The final compensation fund payment of $170 million was made in June 2008.

 

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Financing Cash Flows

Net cash used for financing activities was $445 million for the period ended September 30, 2008 compared with $2.6 billion for the same period in 2007.

During the first quarter of 2008, MMC’s 3.625% five-year fixed rate $250 million senior notes matured. MMC used cash on hand to manage liquidity, including the repayment of these notes. In the first three quarters of 2007, MMC used cash on hand as well as commercial paper and bank borrowings to fund $1 billion of senior note maturities.

MMC paid dividends of approximately $308 million ($0.60 per share) during the first nine months of 2008, as compared to $313 million ($0.57 per share) during the first nine months of 2007.

MMC and certain of its foreign subsidiaries maintain a $1.2 billion multi-currency revolving credit facility. Subsidiary borrowings under the facility are unconditionally guaranteed by MMC. The facility will expire in December 2010. There were no outstanding borrowings under this facility at September 30, 2008.

MMC’s senior debt is currently rated Baa2 by Moody’s and BBB- by Standard & Poor’s. MMC’s short-term debt is currently rated P-2 by Moody’s and A-3 by Standard & Poor’s. MMC carries a stable outlook from both Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s.

Investing Cash Flows

Cash used for investing activities amounted to $350 million in the first nine months of 2008, compared to cash provided by investing activities of $3.1 billion for the same period in 2007.

Cash used for acquisitions, net of cash acquired, was $114 million during the first nine months of 2008. Remaining deferred cash payments of $62 million for acquisitions completed in the second quarter of 2008 and in prior years are recorded in accounts payable and accrued liabilities or other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2008. Cash generated by dispositions amounted to $56 million in the first nine months of 2008. In 2008, MMC generated net cash of $33 million from the sales of investments, compared with $133 million in the prior year.

MMC's additions to fixed assets and capitalized software, which amounted to $334 million in the first nine months of 2008 and $262 million in the first nine months of 2007, primarily related to computer equipment purchases, the refurbishing and modernizing of office facilities and software development costs.

MMC has committed to potential future investments of approximately $81 million in connection with its investments in Trident II and other funds managed by Stone Point Capital. The majority of MMC’s investment commitments for funds managed by Stone Point are related to Trident II, the investment period for which is now closed for new investments. Any remaining capital calls for Trident II would relate to follow-on investments in existing portfolio companies or for management fees or other partnership expenses. Significant future capital calls related to Trident II are not expected. Although it is anticipated that Trident II will be harvesting its remaining portfolio in 2008 and thereafter, the timing of any portfolio company sales and capital distributions is unknown and not controlled by MMC.

 

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Commitments and Obligations

MMC’s contractual obligations of the types identified in the table below were of the following amounts as of September 30, 2008 (dollars in millions):

 

      Payment due by Period

Contractual Obligations

     Total     

 

Within

1 Year

     1-3 Years      4-5 Years     

 

After

5 Years  

Current portion of long-term debt

   $ 408    $ 408    $ —      $ —      $ —    

Long-term debt

     3,201      —        567      517      2,117  

Net operating leases

     2,751      348      591      507      1,305  

Service agreements

     91      33      35      21      2  

Other long-term obligations

     62      25      37      —        —    

Total

   $ 6,513    $ 814    $ 1,230    $ 1,045    $ 3,424  

The above does not include unrecognized tax benefits of $347 million, accounted for under FIN 48, as MMC is unable to reasonably predict the timing of settlement of these liabilities, other than approximately $50 million that may become payable within one year. The above does not include liabilities established under FIN 45 as MMC is unable to reasonably predict the timing of settlement of these liabilities.

New Accounting Pronouncements

On January 1, 2007, MMC adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (“FIN 48”), which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income tax positions. This interpretation requires that MMC recognizes in its consolidated financial statements the impact of a tax position when it is more likely than not that the tax position would be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities based on the technical merits of the position. As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, MMC recognized an increase in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $13 million, which is accounted for as a reduction to the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings. The term “unrecognized tax benefits” in FIN 48 primarily refers to the differences between a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return and the benefit measured and recognized in the financial statements in accordance with the guidelines of FIN 48. Including this increase, MMC had approximately $272 million of total gross unrecognized tax benefits at the beginning of 2007. Of this total, $218 million represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect the effective tax rate in any future periods. MMC classifies interest and penalties relating to uncertain tax positions in the financial statements as income taxes. The total gross amount of such accrued interest and penalties, before any applicable federal benefit, at January 1, 2007 was $40 million. See Note 7 to the 2007 10-K for further discussion of FIN 48 and income taxes.

Effective January 1, 2008, MMC adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 157 related to items that are recognized or disclosed in the financial statements on a recurring basis. SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, establishes a fair value hierarchy based on the quality of inputs used to measure fair value and expands required disclosures about fair value measurements. The adoption of SFAS 157 did not have a material impact on MMC’s consolidated financial statements. See Note 10 for further discussion of SFAS 157.

 

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In February 2008, the FASB issued a final Staff Position “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157” (“FSP 157-2”) that delays the effective date of SFAS 157 for non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities, until fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, except for items that are recognized or disclosed in the financial statements on a recurring basis. MMC has adopted the provisions of FSP 157-2 by deferring application of SFAS 157 to the fair value measurement of its reporting units for goodwill impairment and testing purposes, until the first quarter ended March 31, 2009. MMC does not expect the application of SFAS 157 to its non-financial assets to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (“SFAS 159”). SFAS 159 permits an entity to choose to measure many financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are reported in earnings. SFAS 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The adjustment to reflect the difference between fair value and the carrying amount would be accounted for as a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the date of adoption. MMC did not elect to adopt the fair value option for any financial assets or liabilities as of January 1, 2008.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” (“SFAS 161”) an amendment of SFAS 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” SFAS 161 requires entities to provide enhanced disclosures about how and why they use derivative instruments, how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS 133 and how they affect entities’ financial position, financial performance and cash flows. SFAS 161 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. Early application is encouraged. SFAS 161 does not require comparative disclosure at initial adoption. MMC does not expect the adoption of SFAS 161 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (“SFAS 162”). SFAS 162 identifies and ranks the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles used to prepare financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). SFAS 162 will be effective 60 days following the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board’s amendment to AU 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” MMC does not expect SFAS 162 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In June 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position No. EITF 03-6-1 “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities” (“FSP 03-6-1”). FSP 03-6-1 applies to the calculation of earnings per share (“EPS”) under SFAS 128 “Earnings per Share” for share-based payment awards with rights to dividends or dividend equivalents. FSP 03-6-1 indicates that unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents (whether paid or unpaid) are participating securities and should be included in the computation of EPS using the two-step method. FSP 03-6-1 will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008 and interim periods within those years. All prior-period EPS data presented should be adjusted retrospectively (including interim statements, summaries of earnings and selected financial data) in conformity with the provisions of FSP 03-6-1. Early application is not permitted. MMC is assessing the impact of FSP 03-6-1.

On December 4, 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (“SFAS 141(R)”), and SFAS 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (“SFAS 160”).

 

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SFAS 141(R) requires entities in a business combination to recognize all (and only) the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction; establishes the acquisition-date fair value as the measurement objective for all assets acquired and liabilities assumed; and requires the acquirer to disclose all information needed by investors and other users to evaluate and understand the nature and financial effect of the business combination.

SFAS 160 clarifies that a noncontrolling or minority interest in a subsidiary is considered an ownership interest and accordingly, requires all entities to report such interests in subsidiaries as equity in the consolidated financial statements.

Both standards are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The impact on MMC’s financial statements will depend on the number and/or size of acquisitions completed in periods subsequent to the standards’ effective date. Early adoption is not permitted.

On October 10, 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position (“FSP”) No. FAS 157-3, “Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset Is Not Active”. The FSP applies to financial assets within the scope of SFAS 157 “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”) and clarifies the application of SFAS 157 in a market that is not active. The FSP also provides guidelines regarding factors to consider when determining whether an investment is other-than-temporarily impaired, including, (1) the nature of the underlying investment (for example, whether the security is debt, equity or a hybrid) (2) the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been less than cost (3) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; or (4) the intent and ability of the holder to retain its investment in the issuer for a sufficient time to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value.

The SEC and FASB Staff stated that because fair value measurements and the assessment of impairment will likely require significant use of judgment, issuers must be sure to provide investors with clear and transparent disclosures.

MMC does not expect the adoption of this FSP to have a material impact on the financial statements.

On September 12, 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position (“FSP”) No. FAS 133-1 and FIN 45-4 “Disclosures about Credit Derivatives and Certain Guarantees: An Amendment of FASB Statement No.133 and FASB Interpretation No. 45; and Clarification of the Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 161”. The FSP amends FASB Statement No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” (“SFAS 133”), to require disclosures by sellers of credit derivatives, including credit derivatives embedded in a hybrid instrument.

This FSP also amends FASB Interpretation No. 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others” (“FIN 45”), to require an additional disclosure about the current status of the payment/performance risk of a guarantee. The amendments to SFAS 133 and FIN 45 are effective for reporting periods ending after November 15, 2008; earlier adoption is encouraged.

The FSP clarifies the Board’s intent that the disclosures required by Statement 161 “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” should be provided for any reporting period (annual or quarterly interim) beginning after November 15, 2008. MMC does not expect the adoption of this FSP to have a material impact on the financial statements.

 

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Item 3.      Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Market Risk and Credit Risk

Certain of MMC's revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities are exposed to the impact of interest rate changes and fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and equity markets.

Interest Rate Risk and Credit Risk

MMC has historically managed its net exposure to interest rate changes by utilizing a mixture of variable and fixed rate borrowings to finance MMC’s asset base. During 2007, virtually all of MMC’s variable rate borrowings were repaid.

Interest income generated from MMC’s cash investments as well as invested fiduciary funds will vary with the general level of interest rates.

In addition to interest rate risk, our cash investments and fiduciary fund investments are subject to potential loss of value due to counterparty credit risk. To minimize this risk, MMC and its subsidiaries invest pursuant to a Board approved investment policy. The policy mandates the preservation of principal and liquidity and requires broad diversification with counterparty limits assigned based primarily on credit rating and type of investment. MMC carefully monitors its cash and fiduciary fund investments and will further restrict the portfolio as appropriate to market conditions. The majority of cash and fiduciary fund investments are invested in short-term bank deposits and liquid money market funds.

Foreign Currency Risk

The translated values of revenue and expense from MMC's international operations are subject to fluctuations due to changes in currency exchange rates. Forward contracts and options are periodically utilized by MMC to limit foreign currency exchange rate exposure on net income and cash flows for specific, clearly defined transactions arising in the ordinary course of its business.

Equity Price Risk

MMC holds investments in both public and private companies as well as certain private equity funds managed by Stone Point Capital. Publicly traded investments of $42 million are classified as available for sale under SFAS No. 115. Non-publicly traded investments of $94 million are accounted for using the cost method and $229 million are accounted for under APB Opinion No. 18, “The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock”. The investments that are classified as available for sale or that are not publicly traded are subject to risk of changes in market value, which if determined to be other than temporary, could result in realized impairment losses. MMC periodically reviews the carrying value of such investments to determine if any valuation adjustments are appropriate under the applicable accounting pronouncements.

Interest Rate, Credit and Equity Market Risk Related to Defined Benefit Pension Plans

As discussed in Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements, MMC maintains qualified and non-qualified defined benefit pension plans for U.S. and non-U.S. eligible employees. At December 31, 2007, assets in the plans exceeded $10 billion. Asset values have decreased during the current year primarily due to equity market conditions. The current asset allocation targets are 65% equities, 35% fixed income for the U.S. plans and 58% equities, 42% fixed income for the U.K. plans. Together these plans make up approximately 85% of plan assets worldwide. The assets of each plan are managed by outside investment managers with direction from MMC’s pension fiduciaries.

 

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The assets and liabilities of these plans expose MMC to changes in the global equity and fixed income markets as well as changes in the interest rates used to value plan liabilities. Changes in the value of assets and liabilities in the plans may result in changes to the funded status as measured under generally accepted accounting principles. Changes in the funded status of the plans (i) would impact the amount of shareholders’ equity recorded in MMC consolidated balance sheets, (ii) could result in changes in future pension expense recognized in MMC’s consolidated statements of income and (iii) could require additional funding of the plans under applicable U.S. or international laws. Asset allocations are reviewed and adjusted based on a variety of factors, including market conditions and funded status.

Other

A significant number of lawsuits and regulatory proceedings are pending. See Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this report.

 

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Part I – Item 4.      Controls & Procedures

a. Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Based on their evaluation, as of the end of the period of this report, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) are effective.

b. Changes in Internal Controls

There were no changes in MMC’s internal controls over financial reporting that were identified in connection with the evaluation referred to under Part I – Item 4a above that occurred during MMC’s last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, MMC’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.      Legal Proceedings.

The information set forth in Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements provided in Part I of this report is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 1A.       Risk Factors.

MMC and its subsidiaries face a number of risks and uncertainties. In addition to the other information in this report and our other filings with the SEC, readers should consider carefully the risk factors discussed in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007. If any of the risks described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K or such other risks actually occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Item 2.      Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.

Issuer Repurchases of Equity Securities

MMC did not repurchase any shares of its common stock during the third quarter of 2008. In August 2007, MMC’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase by MMC from time to time of up to $1.5 billion of its common stock. Following completion of an $800 million accelerated share repurchase program in 2008, MMC remains authorized to repurchase shares of its common stock up to a dollar value of $700 million. There is no time limit on this authorization.

 

Period

   (a)
Total Number
of Shares
(or Units)
Purchased
   (b)
Average Price
Paid per Share
(or Unit)
   (c)
Total Number of
Shares (or Units)
Purchased as

Part of Publicly
Announced
Plans

or Programs
   (d)
Maximum Number
(or Approximate
Dollar Value) of
Shares (or Units)
that May Yet Be
Purchased Under
the Plans or
Programs

July 1-31, 2008

            $700 million

August 1-31, 2008

            $700 million

September 1-30, 2008

            $700 million

Total 3Q 2008

            $700 million

 

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Item 3.      Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

None.

Item 4.      Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

None.

Item 5.      Other Information.

In August 2008, MMC announced that Vanessa A. Wittman had been appointed an Executive Vice President of MMC effective September 10, 2008, and would succeed Matthew B. Bartley as Chief Financial Officer of MMC by October 15, 2008. On October 15, 2008, Ms. Wittman was designated Chief Financial Officer of MMC and Mr. Bartley left the firm.

Item 6.      Exhibits.

 

3.2    Amended and Restated By-laws of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (incorporated by reference to MMC’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 18, 2008)
10.1    Letter Agreement, dated August 18, 2008, between Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. and Vanessa A. Wittman (incorporated by reference to MMC’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 21, 2008)
12.1    Statement Re: Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
31.1    Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer
31.2    Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer
32.1    Section 1350 Certifications

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

Date: November 7, 2008  

/s/ Vanessa A. Wittman

  Vanessa A. Wittman
  Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Date: November 7, 2008  

/s/ Robert J. Rapport

  Robert J. Rapport
  Vice President & Controller
  (Chief Accounting Officer)


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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit No.

 

Exhibit Name

3.2   Amended and Restated By-laws of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (incorporated by reference to MMC’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 18, 2008)
10.1   Letter Agreement, dated August 18, 2008, between Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. and Vanessa A. Wittman (incorporated by reference to MMC’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 21, 2008)
12.1   Statement Re: Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
31.1   Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer
31.2   Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer
32.1   Section 1350 Certifications