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Investments and Derivative Instruments
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2012
Investments and Derivative Instruments [Abstract]  
Investments and Derivative Instruments

5. Investments and Derivative Instruments

Significant Investment Accounting Policies

Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments

The Company deems debt securities and certain equity securities with debt-like characteristics (collectively “debt securities”) to be other-than-temporarily impaired (“impaired”) if a security meets the following conditions: a) the Company intends to sell or it is more likely than not the Company will be required to sell the security before a recovery in value, or b) the Company does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. If the Company intends to sell or it is more likely than not the Company will be required to sell the security before a recovery in value, a charge is recorded in net realized capital losses equal to the difference between the fair value and amortized cost basis of the security. For those impaired debt securities which do not meet the first condition and for which the Company does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis, the difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and the fair value is separated into the portion representing a credit other-than-temporary impairment (“impairment”), which is recorded in net realized capital losses, and the remaining impairment, which is recorded in OCI. Generally, the Company determines a security’s credit impairment as the difference between its amortized cost basis and its best estimate of expected future cash flows discounted at the security’s effective yield prior to impairment. The remaining non-credit impairment, which is recorded in OCI, is the difference between the security’s fair value and the Company’s best estimate of expected future cash flows discounted at the security’s effective yield prior to the impairment, which typically represents current market liquidity and risk premiums. The previous amortized cost basis less the impairment recognized in net realized capital losses becomes the security’s new cost basis. The Company accretes the new cost basis to the estimated future cash flows over the expected remaining life of the security by prospectively adjusting the security’s yield, if necessary. The following table presents the change in non-credit impairments recognized in OCI as disclosed in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three ended March 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

 

 

                 
    Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
    2012     2011  

OTTI losses recognized in OCI

  $ (7   $ (64

Changes in fair value and/or sales

    10       64  

Tax and deferred acquisition costs

    (11     5  
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Change in non-credit impairments recognized in OCI

  $ (8   $ 5  
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The Company’s evaluation of whether a credit impairment exists for debt securities includes but is not limited to, the following factors: (a) changes in the financial condition of the security’s underlying collateral, (b) whether the issuer is current on contractually obligated interest and principal payments, (c) changes in the financial condition, credit rating and near-term prospects of the issuer, (d) the extent to which the fair value has been less than the amortized cost of the security and (e) the payment structure of the security. The Company’s best estimate of expected future cash flows used to determine the credit loss amount is a quantitative and qualitative process that incorporates information received from third-party sources along with certain internal assumptions and judgments regarding the future performance of the security. The Company’s best estimate of future cash flows involves assumptions including, but not limited to, various performance indicators, such as historical and projected default and recovery rates, credit ratings, current and projected delinquency rates, and loan-to-value (“LTV”) ratios. In addition, for structured securities, the Company considers factors including, but not limited to, average cumulative collateral loss rates that vary by vintage year, commercial and residential property value declines that vary by property type and location and commercial real estate delinquency levels. These assumptions require the use of significant management judgment and include the probability of issuer default and estimates regarding timing and amount of expected recoveries which may include estimating the underlying collateral value. In addition, projections of expected future debt security cash flows may change based upon new information regarding the performance of the issuer and/or underlying collateral such as changes in the projections of the underlying property value estimates.

For equity securities where the decline in the fair value is deemed to be other-than-temporary, a charge is recorded in net realized capital losses equal to the difference between the fair value and cost basis of the security. The previous cost basis less the impairment becomes the security’s new cost basis. The Company asserts its intent and ability to retain those equity securities deemed to be temporarily impaired until the price recovers. Once identified, these securities are systematically restricted from trading unless approved by a committee of investment and accounting professionals (“Committee”). The Committee will only authorize the sale of these securities based on predefined criteria that relate to events that could not have been reasonably foreseen. Examples of the criteria include, but are not limited to, the deterioration in the issuer’s financial condition, security price declines, a change in regulatory requirements or a major business combination or major disposition.

The primary factors considered in evaluating whether an impairment exists for an equity security include, but are not limited to: (a) the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than the cost of the security, (b) changes in the financial condition, credit rating and near-term prospects of the issuer, (c) whether the issuer is current on preferred stock dividends and (d) the intent and ability of the Company to retain the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for recovery.

 

 

Mortgage Loan Valuation Allowances

The Company’s security monitoring process reviews mortgage loans on a quarterly basis to identify potential credit losses. Commercial mortgage loans are considered to be impaired when management estimates that, based upon current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Criteria used to determine if an impairment exists include, but are not limited to: current and projected macroeconomic factors, such as unemployment rates, and property-specific factors such as rental rates, occupancy levels, LTV ratios and debt service coverage ratios (“DSCR”). In addition, the Company considers historic, current and projected delinquency rates and property values. These assumptions require the use of significant management judgment and include the probability and timing of borrower default and loss severity estimates. In addition, projections of expected future cash flows may change based upon new information regarding the performance of the borrower and/or underlying collateral such as changes in the projections of the underlying property value estimates.

For mortgage loans that are deemed impaired, a valuation allowance is established for the difference between the carrying amount and the Company’s share of either (a) the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, (b) the loan’s observable market price or, most frequently, (c) the fair value of the collateral. A valuation allowance has been established for either individual loans or as a projected loss contingency for loans with an LTV ratio of 90% or greater and consideration of other credit quality factors, including DSCR. Changes in valuation allowances are recorded in net realized capital gains and losses. Interest income on impaired loans is accrued to the extent it is deemed collectible and the loans continue to perform under the original or restructured terms. Interest income ceases to accrue for loans when it is probable that the Company will not receive interest and principal payments according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement, or if a loan is more than 60 days past due. Loans may resume accrual status when it is determined that sufficient collateral exists to satisfy the full amount of the loan and interest payments, as well as when it is probable cash will be received in the foreseeable future. Interest income on defaulted loans is recognized when received.

Net Realized Capital Gains (Losses)

 

 

                 
    Three Months Ended
March 31,
 

(Before-tax)

  2012     2011  

Gross gains on sales

  $ 259     $ 61  

Gross losses on sales

    (97     (133

Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings

    (29     (55

Valuation allowances on mortgage loans

    1       (3

Japanese fixed annuity contract hedges, net [1]

    (20     (17

Periodic net coupon settlements on credit derivatives/Japan

    (5     (7

Results of variable annuity hedge program

               

U.S. GMWB derivatives, net

    185       56  

U.S. macro hedge program

    (189     (84
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total U.S. program

    (4     (28

International program

    (1,219     (319
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total results of variable annuity hedge program

    (1,223     (347

Other, net [2]

    204       98  
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized capital gains (losses), before-tax

  $ (910   $ (403
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] Relates to the Japanese fixed annuity product (adjustment of product liability for changes in spot currency exchange rates, related derivative hedging instruments, excluding net period coupon settlements, and Japan FVO securities).
[2] Primarily consists of gains and losses on non-qualifying derivatives and fixed maturities, FVO, Japan 3Win related foreign currency swaps, and other investment gains and losses.

Net realized capital gains and losses from investment sales, after deducting the life and pension policyholders’ share for certain products, are reported as a component of revenues and are determined on a specific identification basis. Gross gains and losses on sales and impairments previously reported as unrealized gains (losses) in AOCI were $133 and ($127), respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011. Proceeds from sales of AFS securities totaled $12.7 billion and $7.5 billion, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011.

 

Other-Than-Temporary Impairment Losses

The following table presents a roll-forward of the Company’s cumulative credit impairments on debt securities held.

 

 

                 
    Three Months Ended
March 31,
 

(Before-tax)

  2012     2011  

Balance as of beginning of period

  $ (1,676   $ (2,072

Additions for credit impairments recognized on [1]:

               

Securities not previously impaired

    (12     (28

Securities previously impaired

    (5     (17

Reductions for credit impairments previously recognized on:

               

Securities that matured or were sold during the period

    160       109  

Securities due to an increase in expected cash flows

    3       5  
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance as of end of period

  $ (1,530   $ (2,003
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] These additions are included in the net OTTI losses recognized in earnings in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Available-for-Sale Securities

The following table presents the Company’s AFS securities by type.

 

 

                                                                                 
    March 31, 2012     December 31, 2011  
    Cost or
Amortized
Cost
    Gross
Unrealized
Gains
    Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    Fair
Value
    Non-Credit
OTTI [1]
    Cost or
Amortized
Cost
    Gross
Unrealized
Gains
    Gross
Unrealized
Losses
    Fair
Value
    Non-Credit
OTTI [1]
 

ABS

  $ 3,346     $ 47     $ (306   $ 3,087     $ (6   $ 3,430     $ 55     $ (332   $ 3,153     $ (7

CDOs [2]

    3,351       40       (305     3,043       (43     2,819       16       (348     2,487       (46

CMBS

    6,847       305       (378     6,774       (25     7,192       271       (512     6,951       (31

Corporate [2]

    40,383       3,508       (562     43,329       (2     41,161       3,661       (739     44,011       —    

Foreign govt./govt. agencies

    3,248       128       (24     3,352       —         2,030       141       (10     2,161       —    

Municipal

    12,991       914       (67     13,838       —         12,557       775       (72     13,260       —    

RMBS

    6,778       240       (423     6,595       (108     5,961       252       (456     5,757       (127

U.S. Treasuries

    3,077       83       (21     3,139       —         3,828       203       (2     4,029       —    
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturities, AFS

    80,021       5,265       (2,086     83,157       (184     78,978       5,374       (2,471     81,809       (211

Equity securities, AFS

    1,001       69       (132     938       —         1,056       68       (203     921       —    
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total AFS securities

  $ 81,022     $ 5,334     $ (2,218   $ 84,095     $ (184   $ 80,034     $ 5,442     $ (2,674   $ 82,730     $ (211
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] Represents the amount of cumulative non-credit OTTI losses recognized in OCI on securities that also had credit impairments. These losses are included in gross unrealized losses as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011.
[2] Gross unrealized gains (losses) exclude the change in fair value of bifurcated embedded derivative features of certain securities. Changes in fair value are recorded in net realized capital gains (losses).

The following table presents the Company’s fixed maturities, AFS, by contractual maturity year.

 

 

                 
    March 31, 2012  

Contractual Maturity

  Amortized Cost     Fair Value  

One year or less

  $ 2,127     $ 2,146  

Over one year through five years

    15,678       16,520  

Over five years through ten years

    14,566       15,712  

Over ten years

    27,328       29,280  
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Subtotal

    59,699       63,658  

Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities

    20,322       19,499  
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturities, AFS

  $ 80,021     $ 83,157  
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Estimated maturities may differ from contractual maturities due to security call or prepayment provisions. Due to the potential for variability in payment speeds (i.e. prepayments or extensions), mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities are not categorized by contractual maturity.

 

Securities Unrealized Loss Aging

The following tables present the Company’s unrealized loss aging for AFS securities by type and length of time the security was in a continuous unrealized loss position.

 

 

                                                                         
    March 31, 2012  
    Less Than 12 Months     12 Months or More     Total  
    Amortized
Cost
    Fair
Value
    Unrealized
Losses
    Amortized
Cost
    Fair
Value
    Unrealized
Losses
    Amortized
Cost
    Fair
Value
    Unrealized
Losses
 

ABS

  $ 192     $ 159     $ (33   $ 1,098     $ 825     $ (273   $ 1,290     $ 984     $ (306

CDOs [1]

    62       42       (20     3,187       2,860       (285     3,249       2,902       (305

CMBS

    852       803       (49     1,955       1,626       (329     2,807       2,429       (378

Corporate

    4,076       3,941       (135     2,543       2,116       (427     6,619       6,057       (562

Foreign govt./govt. agencies

    647       627       (20     29       25       (4     676       652       (24

Municipal

    823       799       (24     425       382       (43     1,248       1,181       (67

RMBS

    1,246       1,166       (80     1,171       828       (343     2,417       1,994       (423

U.S. Treasuries

    1,011       990       (21     —         —         —         1,011       990       (21
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturities

    8,909       8,527       (382     10,408       8,662       (1,704     19,317       17,189       (2,086

Equity securities

    206       181       (25     400       293       (107     606       474       (132
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total securities in an unrealized loss

  $ 9,115     $ 8,708     $ (407   $ 10,808     $ 8,955     $ (1,811   $ 19,923     $ 17,663     $ (2,218
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

                                                                         
    December 31, 2011  
    Less Than 12 Months     12 Months or More     Total  
    Amortized
Cost
    Fair
Value
    Unrealized
Losses
    Amortized
Cost
    Fair
Value
    Unrealized
Losses
    Amortized
Cost
    Fair
Value
    Unrealized
Losses
 

ABS

  $ 629     $ 594     $ (35   $ 1,169     $ 872     $ (297   $ 1,798     $ 1,466     $ (332

CDOs

    81       59       (22     2,709       2,383       (326     2,790       2,442       (348

CMBS

    1,297       1,194       (103     2,144       1,735       (409     3,441       2,929       (512

Corporate [1]

    4,388       4,219       (169     3,268       2,627       (570     7,656       6,846       (739

Foreign govt./govt. agencies

    218       212       (6     51       47       (4     269       259       (10

Municipal

    299       294       (5     627       560       (67     926       854       (72

RMBS

    415       330       (85     1,206       835       (371     1,621       1,165       (456

U.S. Treasuries

    343       341       (2     —         —         —         343       341       (2
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturities

    7,670       7,243       (427     11,174       9,059       (2,044     18,844       16,302       (2,471

Equity securities

    167       138       (29     439       265       (174     606       403       (203
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total securities in an unrealized loss

  $ 7,837     $ 7,381     $ (456   $ 11,613     $ 9,324     $ (2,218   $ 19,450     $ 16,705     $ (2,674
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] Unrealized losses exclude the change in fair value of bifurcated embedded derivative features of certain securities. Changes in fair value are recorded in net realized capital gains (losses).

As of March 31, 2012, AFS securities in an unrealized loss position, comprised of 2,458 securities, primarily related to corporate securities within the financial services sector, commercial real estate and RMBS which have experienced price deterioration. As of March 31, 2012, 78% of these securities were depressed less than 20% of cost or amortized cost. The decline in unrealized losses during 2012 was primarily attributable to credit spread tightening, partially offset by rising interest rates.

Most of the securities depressed for twelve months or more relate to structured securities with exposure to commercial and residential real estate, as well as certain floating rate corporate securities or those securities with greater than 10 years to maturity, concentrated in the financial services sector. Current market spreads continue to be significantly wider for structured securities with exposure to commercial and residential real estate, as compared to spreads at the security’s respective purchase date, largely due to the economic and market uncertainties regarding future performance of commercial and residential real estate. The majority of securities have a floating-rate coupon referenced to a market index where rates have declined substantially. In addition, equity securities include investment grade perpetual preferred securities that contain “debt-like” characteristics where the decline in fair value is not attributable to issuer-specific credit deterioration, none of which have nor are expected to miss a periodic dividend payment. These securities have been depressed due to the securities’ floating-rate coupon in the current low interest rate environment, general market credit spread widening since the date of purchase and the long-dated nature of the securities. The Company neither has an intention to sell nor does it expect to be required to sell the securities outlined above.

 

Mortgage Loans

 

 

                                                 
    March 31, 2012     December 31, 2011  
    Amortized
Cost [1]
    Valuation
Allowance
    Carrying
Value
    Amortized
Cost [1]
    Valuation
Allowance
    Carrying
Value
 

Commercial

  $ 6,363     $ (88   $ 6,275     $ 5,830     $ (102   $ 5,728  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans

  $ 6,363     $ (88   $ 6,275     $ 5,830     $ (102   $ 5,728  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] Amortized cost represents carrying value prior to valuation allowances, if any.

As of March 31, 2012, the carrying value of mortgage loans associated with the valuation allowance was $548. Included in the table above are mortgage loans held-for-sale with a carrying value and valuation allowance of $57 and $4, respectively, as of March 31, 2012 and $74 and $4, respectively, as of December 31, 2011. The carrying value of these loans is included in mortgage loans in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of March 31, 2012, loans within the Company’s mortgage loan portfolio that have had extensions or restructurings other than what is allowable under the original terms of the contract are immaterial.

The following table presents the activity within the Company’s valuation allowance for mortgage loans. These loans have been evaluated both individually and collectively for impairment. Loans evaluated collectively for impairment are immaterial.

 

 

                 
    2012     2011  

Balance as of January 1

  $ (102   $ (155

(Additions)/Reversals

    1       (3

Deductions

    13       5  
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance as of March 31

  $ (88   $ (153
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The current weighted-average LTV ratio of the Company’s commercial mortgage loan portfolio was 65% as of March 31, 2012, while the weighted-average LTV ratio at origination of these loans was 62%. LTV ratios compare the loan amount to the value of the underlying property collateralizing the loan. The loan values are updated no less than annually through property level reviews of the portfolio. Factors considered in the property valuation include, but are not limited to, actual and expected property cash flows, geographic market data and capitalization rates. DSCRs compare a property’s net operating income to the borrower’s principal and interest payments. The current weighted average DSCR of the Company’s commercial mortgage loan portfolio was 1.95x as of March 31, 2012. The Company held only two delinquent commercial mortgage loans past due by 90 days or more. The total carrying value and valuation allowance of these loans totaled $3 and $51, respectively, as of March 31, 2012, and are not accruing income.

The following table presents the carrying value of the Company’s commercial mortgage loans by LTV and DSCR.

 

 

                                 
Commercial Mortgage Loans Credit Quality  
     
    March 31, 2012     December 31, 2011  

Loan-to-value

  Carrying
Value
    Avg. Debt-Service
Coverage Ratio
    Carrying
Value
    Avg. Debt-Service
Coverage Ratio
 

Greater than 80%

  $ 636       1.34x     $ 707       1.45x  

65% - 80%

    2,782       1.61x       2,384       1.60x  

Less than 65%

    2,857       2.44x       2,637       2.40x  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total commercial mortgage loans

  $ 6,275       1.95x     $ 5,728       1.94x  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The following tables present the carrying value of the Company’s mortgage loans by region and property type.

 

 

                                 
Mortgage Loans by Region  
     
    March 31, 2012     December 31, 2011  
    Carrying
Value
    Percent of
Total
    Carrying
Value
    Percent of
Total
 

East North Central

  $ 89       1.4   $ 94       1.6

Middle Atlantic

    501       8.0     508       8.9

Mountain

    125       2.0     125       2.2

New England

    337       5.4     294       5.1

Pacific

    1,850       29.5     1,690       29.5

South Atlantic

    1,443       23.0     1,149       20.1

West North Central

    16       0.3     30       0.5

West South Central

    395       6.3     224       3.9

Other [1]

    1,519       24.1     1,614       28.2
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans

  $ 6,275       100.0   $ 5,728       100.0
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] Primarily represents loans collateralized by multiple properties in various regions.

 

 

                                 
Mortgage Loans by Property Type  
     
    March 31, 2012     December 31, 2011  
    Carrying
Value
    Percent of
Total
    Carrying
Value
    Percent of
Total
 

Commercial

                               

Agricultural

  $ 198       3.2   $ 249       4.3

Industrial

    1,847       29.4     1,747       30.5

Lodging

    92       1.5     93       1.6

Multifamily

    1,208       19.3     1,070       18.7

Office

    1,307       20.8     1,078       18.8

Retail

    1,369       21.8     1,234       21.5

Other

    254       4.0     257       4.6
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans

  $ 6,275       100.0   $ 5,728       100.0
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Variable Interest Entities

The Company is involved with various special purpose entities and other entities that are deemed to be VIEs primarily as a collateral manager and as an investor through normal investment activities, as well as a means of accessing capital. A VIE is an entity that either has investors that lack certain essential characteristics of a controlling financial interest or lacks sufficient funds to finance its own activities without financial support provided by other entities.

The Company performs ongoing qualitative assessments of its VIEs to determine whether the Company has a controlling financial interest in the VIE and therefore is the primary beneficiary. The Company is deemed to have a controlling financial interest when it has both the ability to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and the obligation to absorb losses or right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. Based on the Company’s assessment, if it determines it is the primary beneficiary, the Company consolidates the VIE in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Consolidated VIEs

The following table presents the carrying value of assets and liabilities, and the maximum exposure to loss relating to the VIEs for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. Creditors have no recourse against the Company in the event of default by these VIEs nor does the Company have any implied or unfunded commitments to these VIEs. The Company’s financial or other support provided to these VIEs is limited to its investment management services and original investment.

 

 

                                                 
    March 31, 2012     December 31, 2011  
    Total
Assets
    Total
Liabilities  [1]
    Maximum
Exposure

to Loss [2]
    Total
Assets
    Total
Liabilities  [1]
    Maximum
Exposure
to Loss [2]
 

CDOs [3]

  $ 484     $ 460     $ 21     $ 491     $ 471     $ 29  

Investment fund [4]

    100       —         101       —         —         —    

Limited partnerships

    7       1       6       7       —         7  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 591     $ 461     $ 128     $ 498     $ 471     $ 36  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] Included in other liabilities in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
[2] The maximum exposure to loss represents the maximum loss amount that the Company could recognize as a reduction in net investment income or as a realized capital loss and is the cost basis of the Company’s investment.
[3] Total assets included in fixed maturities, AFS, and fixed maturities, FVO, in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
[4] Total assets included in fixed maturities, AFS, and short-term investments in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

CDOs represent structured investment vehicles for which the Company has a controlling financial interest as it provides collateral management services, earns a fee for those services and also holds investments in the securities issued by these vehicles. Investment fund represents a wholly-owned fixed income fund established in 2012 for which the Company has exclusive management and control including management of investment securities which is the activity that most significantly impacts its economic performance. Limited partnerships represent one hedge fund for which the Company holds a majority interest in the fund as an investment.

Non-Consolidated VIEs

The Company holds a significant variable interest for one VIE for which it is not the primary beneficiary and, therefore, was not consolidated on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. This VIE represents a contingent capital facility (“facility”) that has been held by the Company since February 2007 for which the Company has no implied or unfunded commitments. Assets and liabilities recorded for the facility were $27 and $25, respectively as of March 31, 2012 and $28 and $28, respectively, as of December 31, 2011. Additionally, the Company has a maximum exposure to loss of $3 as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, which represents the issuance costs that were incurred to establish the facility. The Company does not have a controlling financial interest as it does not manage the assets of the facility nor does it have the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the facility, as the asset manager has significant variable interest in the vehicle. The Company’s financial or other support provided to the facility is limited to providing ongoing support to cover the facility’s operating expenses. For further information on the facility, see Note 14 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in The Hartford’s 2011 Form 10-K Annual Report.

In addition, the Company, through normal investment activities, makes passive investments in structured securities issued by VIEs for which the Company is not the manager which are included in ABS, CDOs, CMBS and RMBS in the Available-for-Sale Securities table and fixed maturities, FVO, in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company has not provided financial or other support with respect to these investments other than its original investment. For these investments, the Company determined it is not the primary beneficiary due to the relative size of the Company’s investment in comparison to the principal amount of the structured securities issued by the VIEs, the level of credit subordination which reduces the Company’s obligation to absorb losses or right to receive benefits and the Company’s inability to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIEs. The Company’s maximum exposure to loss on these investments is limited to the amount of the Company’s investment.

Dollar Roll Agreements

The Company entered into a dollar roll agreement during the three months ended March 31, 2012. A dollar roll is a type of repurchase agreement where a mortgage backed security is sold with an agreement to repurchase substantially the same security at specified time in the future. The Company accounts for the dollar roll transactions as collateralized borrowings and, accordingly, retains the mortgage-backed securities within fixed maturities. Transaction proceeds were invested in short-term investments with the obligation to repurchase the mortgage-backed securities recorded in Other Liabilities. The Company did not reinvest the cash collateral associated with the dollar roll agreement as of March 31, 2012. Securities sold under agreement to repurchase were $346 as of March 31, 2012.

 

Derivative Instruments

The Company utilizes a variety of over-the-counter and exchange traded derivative instruments as a part of its overall risk management strategy, as well as to enter into replication transactions. Derivative instruments are used to manage risk associated with interest rate, equity market, credit spread, issuer default, price, and currency exchange rate risk or volatility. Replication transactions are used as an economical means to synthetically replicate the characteristics and performance of assets that would otherwise be permissible investments under the Company’s investment policies. The Company also purchases and issues financial instruments and products that either are accounted for as free-standing derivatives, such as certain reinsurance contracts, or may contain features that are deemed to be embedded derivative instruments, such as the GMWB rider included with certain variable annuity products.

Cash flow hedges

Interest rate swaps

Interest rate swaps are primarily used to convert interest receipts on floating-rate fixed maturity securities. These derivatives are predominantly used to better match cash receipts from assets with cash disbursements required to fund liabilities. The Company also enters into forward starting swap agreements to hedge the interest rate exposure related to the purchase of fixed-rate securities. These derivatives are primarily structured to hedge interest rate risk inherent in the assumptions used to price certain liabilities.

Foreign currency swaps

Foreign currency swaps are used to convert foreign currency-denominated cash flows related to certain investment receipts and liability payments to U.S. dollars in order to reduce cash flow fluctuations due to changes in currency rates.

Fair value hedges

Interest rate swaps

Interest rate swaps are used to hedge the changes in fair value of certain fixed rate liabilities and fixed maturity securities due to fluctuations in interest rates.

Foreign currency swaps

Foreign currency swaps are used to hedge the changes in fair value of certain foreign currency-denominated fixed rate liabilities due to changes in foreign currency rates by swapping the fixed foreign payments to floating rate U.S. dollar denominated payments.

Non-qualifying strategies

Interest rate swaps, swaptions, caps, floors, and futures

The Company uses interest rate swaps, swaptions, caps, floors, and futures to manage duration between assets and liabilities in certain investment portfolios. In addition, the Company enters into interest rate swaps to terminate existing swaps, thereby offsetting the changes in value of the original swap. As of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the notional amount of interest rate swaps in offsetting relationships was $7.8 billion.

Foreign currency swaps and forwards

The Company enters into foreign currency swaps and forwards to convert the foreign currency exposures of certain foreign currency-denominated fixed maturity investments to U.S. dollars.

Japan 3Win foreign currency swaps

Prior to the second quarter of 2009, The Company offered certain variable annuity products with a guaranteed minimum income benefit (“GMIB”) rider through a wholly-owned Japanese subsidiary. The GMIB rider is reinsured to a wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary, which invests in U.S. dollar denominated assets to support the liability. The U.S. subsidiary entered into pay U.S. dollar, receive yen swap contracts to hedge the currency and interest rate exposure between the U.S. dollar denominated assets and the yen denominated fixed liability reinsurance payments.

Japanese fixed annuity hedging instruments

Prior to the second quarter of 2009, The Company offered a yen denominated fixed annuity product through a wholly-owned Japanese subsidiary and reinsured to a wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary. The U.S. subsidiary invests in U.S. dollar denominated securities to support the yen denominated fixed liability payments and entered into currency rate swaps to hedge the foreign currency exchange rate and yen interest rate exposures that exist as a result of U.S. dollar assets backing the yen denominated liability.

 

Credit derivatives that purchase credit protection

Credit default swaps are used to purchase credit protection on an individual entity or referenced index to economically hedge against default risk and credit-related changes in value on fixed maturity securities. These contracts require the Company to pay a periodic fee in exchange for compensation from the counterparty should the referenced security issuers experience a credit event, as defined in the contract.

Credit derivatives that assume credit risk

Credit default swaps are used to assume credit risk related to an individual entity, referenced index, or asset pool, as a part of replication transactions. These contracts entitle the Company to receive a periodic fee in exchange for an obligation to compensate the derivative counterparty should the referenced security issuers experience a credit event, as defined in the contract. The Company is also exposed to credit risk due to credit derivatives embedded within certain fixed maturity securities. These securities are primarily comprised of structured securities that contain credit derivatives that reference a standard index of corporate securities.

Credit derivatives in offsetting positions

The Company enters into credit default swaps to terminate existing credit default swaps, thereby offsetting the changes in value of the original swap going forward.

Equity index swaps and options

The Company offers certain equity indexed products, which may contain an embedded derivative that requires bifurcation. The Company enters into S&P index swaps and options to economically hedge the equity volatility risk associated with these embedded derivatives. In addition, during the third quarter of 2011, the Company entered into equity index options and futures with the purpose of hedging the impact of an adverse equity market environment on the investment portfolio.

U.S GMWB product derivatives

The Company currently offers certain variable annuity products with a GMWB rider in the U.S. The GMWB is a bifurcated embedded derivative that provides the policyholder with a guaranteed remaining balance (“GRB”) if the account value is reduced to zero through a combination of market declines and withdrawals. The GRB is generally equal to premiums less withdrawals. Certain contract provisions can increase the GRB at contractholder election or after the passage of time. The notional value of the embedded derivative is the GRB.

U.S. GMWB reinsurance contracts

The Company has entered into reinsurance arrangements to offset a portion of its risk exposure to the GMWB for the remaining lives of covered variable annuity contracts. Reinsurance contracts covering GMWB are accounted for as free-standing derivatives. The notional amount of the reinsurance contracts is the GRB amount.

U.S. GMWB hedging instruments

The Company enters into derivative contracts to partially hedge exposure associated with a portion of the GMWB liabilities that are not reinsured. These derivative contracts include customized swaps, interest rate swaps and futures, and equity swaps, options, and futures, on certain indices including the S&P 500 index, EAFE index, and NASDAQ index.

The following table represents notional and fair value for U.S. GMWB hedging instruments.

 

                                 
    Notional Amount     Fair Value  
    March 31, 
2012
    December 31,
2011
    March 31, 
2012
    December 31,
2011
 

Customized swaps

  $ 8,760     $ 8,389     $ 239     $ 385  

Equity swaps, options, and futures

    5,695       5,320       329       498  

Interest rate swaps and futures

    4,834       2,697       (43     11  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 19,289     $ 16,406     $ 525     $ 894  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

U.S. macro hedge program

The Company utilizes equity options and futures contracts to partially hedge against a decline in the equity markets and the resulting statutory surplus and capital impact primarily arising from guaranteed minimum death benefit (“GMDB”), GMIB and GMWB obligations.

The following table represents notional and fair value for the U.S. macro hedge program.

 

                                 
    Notional Amount     Fair Value  
    March 31, 
2012
    December 31,
2011
    March 31, 
2012
    December 31,
2011
 

Equity futures

  $ —       $ 59     $ —       $ —    

Equity options

    5,458       6,760       173       357  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 5,458     $ 6,819     $ 173     $ 357  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

International program product derivatives

The Company formerly offered certain variable annuity products with GMWB or GMAB riders in the U.K. and Japan. The GMWB and GMAB are bifurcated embedded derivatives. The GMWB provides the policyholder with a GRB if the account value is reduced to zero through a combination of market declines and withdrawals. The GRB is generally equal to premiums less withdrawals. Certain contract provisions can increase the GRB at contractholder election or after the passage of time. The GMAB provides the policyholder with their initial deposit in a lump sum after a specified waiting period. The notional amount of the embedded derivatives are the foreign currency denominated GRBs converted to U.S. dollars at the current foreign spot exchange rate as of the reporting period date.

International program hedging instruments

The Company utilizes equity futures, options and swaps, and currency forwards and options to partially hedge against a decline in the debt and equity markets or changes in foreign currency exchange rates and the resulting statutory surplus and capital impact primarily arising from GMDB, GMIB and GMWB obligations issued in the U.K. and Japan. The Company also enters into foreign currency denominated interest rate swaps and swaptions to hedge the interest rate exposure related to the potential annuitization of certain benefit obligations.

The following table represents notional and fair value for the international program hedging instruments.

 

 

                                 
    Notional Amount     Fair Value  
    March 31, 
2012
    December 31,
2011
    March 31, 
2012
    December 31,
2011
 

Currency forwards [1]

  $ 12,713     $ 8,622     $ (105   $ 446  

Currency options

    10,135       7,357       83       127  

Equity futures

    2,784       3,835       —         —    

Equity options

    2,872       1,565       142       74  

Equity swaps

    1,287       392       4       (8

Interest rate futures

    531       739       —         —    

Interest rate swaps and swaptions

    14,893       11,216       77       111  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 45,215     $ 33,726     $ 201     $ 750  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] As of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 net notional amounts are $4.7 billion and $7.2 billion, respectively, which include $8.7 billion and $7.9 billion, respectively, related to long positions and $4.0 billion and $0.7 billion, respectively, related to short positions.

Contingent capital facility put option

The Company entered into a put option agreement that provides the Company the right to require a third-party trust to purchase, at any time, The Hartford’s junior subordinated notes in a maximum aggregate principal amount of $500. Under the put option agreement, The Hartford will pay premiums on a periodic basis and will reimburse the trust for certain fees and ordinary expenses.

 

Derivative Balance Sheet Classification

The table below summarizes the balance sheet classification of the Company’s derivative related fair value amounts, as well as the gross asset and liability fair value amounts. For reporting purposes, the Company offsets the fair value amounts, income accruals, and cash collateral held related to derivative instruments executed in a legal entity and with the same counterparty under a master netting agreement, which provides the Company with the legal right of offset. The fair value amounts presented below do not include income accruals or cash collateral held amounts, which are netted with derivative fair value amounts to determine balance sheet presentation. Derivative fair value reported as liabilities after taking into account the master netting agreements, is $2.5 billion and $3.2 billion as of March 31, 2012, and December 31, 2011, respectively. Derivatives in the Company’s separate accounts are not included because the associated gains and losses accrue directly to policyholders. The Company’s derivative instruments are held for risk management purposes, unless otherwise noted in the table below. The notional amount of derivative contracts represents the basis upon which pay or receive amounts are calculated and is presented in the table to quantify the volume of the Company’s derivative activity. Notional amounts are not necessarily reflective of credit risk.

 

 

                                                                 
    Net Derivatives     Asset Derivatives     Liability Derivatives  
    Notional Amount     Fair Value     Fair Value     Fair Value  

Hedge Designation/ Derivative Type

  Mar. 31,
2012
    Dec. 31,
2011
    Mar. 31,
2012
    Dec. 31,
2011
    Mar. 31,
2012
    Dec. 31,
2011
    Mar. 31,
2012
    Dec. 31,
2011
 

Cash flow hedges

                                                               

Interest rate swaps

  $ 8,646     $ 8,652     $ 180     $ 329     $ 204     $ 329     $ (24   $ —    

Foreign currency swaps

    285       291       2       6       26       30       (24     (24
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total cash flow hedges

    8,931       8,943       182       335       230       359       (48     (24
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Fair value hedges

                                                               

Interest rate swaps

    1,226       1,007       (65     (78     2       —         (67     (78

Foreign currency swaps

    185       677       71       (39     71       63       —         (102
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fair value hedges

    1,411       1,684       6       (117     73       63       (67     (180
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-qualifying strategies

                                                               

Interest rate contracts

                                                               

Interest rate swaps, caps, floors, and futures

    9,614       10,144       (562     (583     393       531       (955     (1,114

Foreign exchange contracts

                                                               

Foreign currency swaps and forwards

    393       380       (16     (12     5       6       (21     (18

Japan 3Win foreign currency swaps

    2,054       2,054       3       184       15       184       (12     —    

Japanese fixed annuity hedging instruments

    1,933       1,945       364       514       371       540       (7     (26

Credit contracts

                                                               

Credit derivatives that purchase credit protection

    1,368       1,721       3       36       27       56       (24     (20

Credit derivatives that assume credit risk [1]

    3,001       2,952       (511     (648     7       2       (518     (650

Credit derivatives in offsetting positions

    8,645       8,189       (51     (57     122       164       (173     (221

Equity contracts

                                                               

Equity index swaps and options

    550       1,501       24       27       39       40       (15     (13

Variable annuity hedge program

                                                               

U.S. GMWB product derivatives [2]

    33,227       34,569       (1,683     (2,538     —         —         (1,683     (2,538

U.S. GMWB reinsurance contracts

    6,872       7,193       308       443       308       443       —         —    

U.S. GMWB hedging instruments

    19,289       16,406       525       894       670       1,022       (145     (128

U.S. macro hedge program

    5,458       6,819       173       357       173       357       —         —    

International program product derivatives [2]

    2,694       2,710       (38     (71     —         —         (38     (71

International program hedging instruments

    45,215       33,726       201       750       642       887       (441     (137

Other

                                                               

Contingent capital facility put option

    500       500       27       28       27       28       —         —    
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total non-qualifying strategies

    140,813       130,809       (1,233     (676     2,799       4,260       (4,032     (4,936
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total cash flow hedges, fair value hedges, and non-qualifying strategies

  $ 151,155     $ 141,436     $ (1,045   $ (458   $ 3,102     $ 4,682     $ (4,147   $ (5,140
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance Sheet Location

                                                               

Fixed maturities, available-for-sale

  $ 703     $ 703     $ (43   $ (72   $ —       $ —       $ (43   $ (72

Other investments

    50,201       60,227       1,193       2,331       1,748       3,165       (555     (834

Other liabilities

    57,368       35,944       (768     (538     1,046       1,074       (1,814     (1,612

Consumer notes

    35       35       (4     (4     —         —         (4     (4

Reinsurance recoverables

    6,872       7,193       308       443       308       443       —         —    

Other policyholder funds and benefits payable

    35,976       37,334       (1,731     (2,618     —         —         (1,731     (2,618
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total derivatives

  $ 151,155     $ 141,436     $ (1,045   $ (458   $ 3,102     $ 4,682     $ (4,147   $ (5,140
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] The derivative instruments related to this strategy are held for other investment purposes.
[2] These derivatives are embedded within liabilities and are not held for risk management purposes.

 

Change in Notional Amount

The net increase in notional amount of derivatives since December 31, 2011, was primarily due to the following:

 

 

The net notional amount related to the international program hedging instruments as of March 31, 2012, was $37.2 billion and consisted of $41.2 billion of long positions and $4.0 billion offsetting short positions. The net notional amount as of December 31, 2011, was $32.3 billion and consisted of $33.0 billion of long positions and $0.7 billion offsetting short positions. The increase in net notional of $4.9 billion primarily resulted from an increase in foreign currency denominated interest rate swaps and swaptions.

 

 

The U.S. macro hedge program notional decreased $1.4 billion primarily due to the expiration of certain out of the money options in January of 2012.

Change in Fair Value

The net decrease in the total fair value of derivative instruments since December 31, 2011, was primarily related to the following:

 

 

The fair value related to the international program hedging instruments decreased as a result of depreciation of the yen in relation to the euro and the U.S. dollar, and an increase in global and domestic equity markets.

 

 

The increase in the combined GMWB hedging program, which includes the GMWB product, reinsurance, and hedging derivatives, was primarily a result of an improvements in equity markets, lower equity volatility, favorable policyholder behavior, and a general increase in long-term interest rates.

 

 

The fair value related to the Japanese fixed annuity hedging instruments and Japan 3Win foreign currency swaps decreased primarily due to the U.S. dollar strengthening in comparison to the Japanese yen and strengthening of the currency basis swap spread between U.S. dollar and Japanese yen.

Cash Flow Hedges

For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative is reported as a component of OCI and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Gains and losses on the derivative representing hedge ineffectiveness are recognized in current period earnings. All components of each derivative’s gain or loss were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness.

The following table presents the components of the gain or loss on derivatives that qualify as cash flow hedges:

Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships For The Three Months Ended March 31,

 

                                 
    Gain (Loss) Recognized
in OCI on Derivative
(Effective Portion)
    Net Realized Capital Gains
(Losses) Recognized in
Income on Derivative
(Ineffective Portion)
 
    2012     2011     2012     2011  

Interest rate swaps

  $ (33   $ (66   $ —       $ (2

Foreign currency swaps

    (5     —         —         —    
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ (38   $ (66   $ —       $ (2
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

                     
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships For The Three Months Ended March 31,  
   
   

Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)

 
   

Location

  2012     2011  

Interest rate swaps

  Net realized capital gain/(loss)   $ 5     $ 2  

Interest rate swaps

  Net investment income     36       32  

Foreign currency swaps

  Net realized capital gain/(loss)     3       5  
       

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

      $ 44     $ 39  
       

 

 

   

 

 

 

As of March 31, 2012, the before-tax deferred net gains on derivative instruments recorded in AOCI that are expected to be reclassified to earnings during the next twelve months are $120. This expectation is based on the anticipated interest payments on hedged investments in fixed maturity securities that will occur over the next twelve months, at which time the Company will recognize the deferred net gains (losses) as an adjustment to interest income over the term of the investment cash flows. The maximum term over which the Company is hedging its exposure to the variability of future cash flows (for forecasted transactions, excluding interest payments on existing variable-rate financial instruments) is approximately three years.

During the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had no net reclassifications from AOCI to earnings resulting from the discontinuance of cash-flow hedges due to forecasted transactions that were no longer probable of occurring.

 

Fair Value Hedges

For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a fair value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative, as well as the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in current earnings. The Company includes the gain or loss on the derivative in the same line item as the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item. All components of each derivative’s gain or loss were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness.

The Company recognized in income gains (losses) representing the ineffective portion of fair value hedges as follows:

Derivatives in Fair-Value Hedging Relationships

 

                                 
    Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income [1]  
    Derivative     Hedge Item  
    Three Months Ended
March 31,
    Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
    2012     2011     2012     2011  

Interest rate swaps

                               

Net realized capital gain/(loss)

  $ 11     $ 10     $ (10   $ (9

Foreign currency swaps

                               

Net realized capital gain/(loss)

    9       14       (9     (14

Benefits, losses and loss adjustment expenses

    (3     (8     3       8  
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 17     $ 16     $ (16   $ (15
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] The amounts presented do not include the periodic net coupon settlements of the derivative or the coupon income (expense) related to the hedged item. The net of the amounts presented represents the ineffective portion of the hedge.

Non-qualifying Strategies

For non-qualifying strategies, including embedded derivatives that are required to be bifurcated from their host contracts and accounted for as derivatives, the gain or loss on the derivative is recognized currently in earnings within net realized capital gains (losses). The following table presents the gain or loss recognized in income on non-qualifying strategies:

Derivatives Used in Non-Qualifying Strategies

Gain or (Loss) Recognized within Net Realized Capital Gains and Losses

 

                 
    Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
    2012     2011  

Interest rate contracts

               

Interest rate swaps, caps, floors, and forwards

  $ 2     $ 5  

Foreign exchange contracts

               

Foreign currency swaps and forwards

    (5     (5

Japan 3Win foreign currency swaps [1]

    (181     (58

Japanese fixed annuity hedging instruments [2]

    (128     (62

Credit contracts

               

Credit derivatives that purchase credit protection

    (36     (17

Credit derivatives that assume credit risk

    149       19  

Equity contracts

               

Equity index swaps and options

    (19     —    

Variable annuity hedge program

               

U.S. GMWB product derivatives

    896       348  

U.S. GMWB reinsurance contracts

    (143     (65

U.S. GMWB hedging instruments

    (568     (227

U.S. macro hedge program

    (189     (84

International program product derivatives

    35       16  

International program hedging instruments

    (1,254     (335

Other

               

Contingent capital facility put option

    (2     (2
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ (1,443   $ (467
   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] The associated liability is adjusted for changes in spot rates through realized capital gains and was $118 and $42 for the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
[2] The associated liability is adjusted for changes in spot rates through realized capital gains and was $157 and $53 for the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2012, the net realized capital gain (loss) related to derivatives used in non-qualifying strategies was primarily comprised of the following:

 

 

The net loss associated with the international program hedging instruments was primarily driven by depreciation of the yen in relation to the euro and the U.S. dollar, and an increase in global and domestic equity markets.

 

 

The net loss on the U.S. macro hedge program was primarily driven by an increase in the domestic equity market and lower equity market volatility.

 

 

The net gain related to the combined GMWB hedging program, which includes the GMWB product, reinsurance, and hedging derivatives, was primarily a result of lower equity and interest rate volatility, favorable policyholder behavior, and a general increase in long-term interest rates.

 

 

The net loss related to the Japanese fixed annuity hedging instruments and Japan 3Win foreign currency swaps was primarily due to the U.S. dollar strengthening in comparison to the Japanese yen and strengthening of the currency basis swap spread between U.S. dollar and Japanese yen.

For the three months ended March 31, 2011, the net realized capital gain (loss) related to derivatives used in non-qualifying strategies was primarily comprised of the following:

 

 

The net loss associated with the international program hedging instruments was primarily due to weakening of the Japanese yen, higher global and domestic equity markets valuation and lower implied market volatility.

 

 

The net loss related to the Japanese fixed annuity hedging instruments and Japan 3Win foreign currency swaps was primarily due to the U.S. dollar strengthening in comparison to the Japanese yen, partially offset by an increase in long-term U.S. interest rates.

 

 

The gain related to the combined GMWB hedging program, which includes the GMWB product, reinsurance, and hedging derivatives was primarily a result of lower implied market volatility and a general increase in long-term interest rates.

Refer to Note 9 for additional disclosures regarding contingent credit related features in derivative agreements.

Credit Risk Assumed through Credit Derivatives

The Company enters into credit default swaps that assume credit risk of a single entity, referenced index, or asset pool in order to synthetically replicate investment transactions. The Company will receive periodic payments based on an agreed upon rate and notional amount and will only make a payment if there is a credit event. A credit event payment will typically be equal to the notional value of the swap contract less the value of the referenced security issuer’s debt obligation after the occurrence of the credit event. A credit event is generally defined as a default on contractually obligated interest or principal payments or bankruptcy of the referenced entity. The credit default swaps in which the Company assumes credit risk primarily reference investment grade single corporate issuers and baskets, which include standard and customized diversified portfolios of corporate issuers. The diversified portfolios of corporate issuers are established within sector concentration limits and may be divided into tranches that possess different credit ratings.

 

The following tables present the notional amount, fair value, weighted average years to maturity, underlying referenced credit obligation type and average credit ratings, and offsetting notional amounts and fair value for credit derivatives in which the Company is assuming credit risk as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011.

As of March 31, 2012

 

                                                     
                      Underlying Referenced Credit
Obligation(s) [1]
           

Credit Derivative type by derivative risk exposure

  Notional
Amount
[2]
    Fair
Value
    Weighted
Average
Years to
Maturity
    Type     Average
Credit
Rating
  Offsetting
Notional
Amount [3]
    Offsetting
Fair
Value [3]
 

Single name credit default swaps

                                                   

Investment grade risk exposure

  $ 1,693     $ (12     3 years      
 
Corporate Credit/
Foreign Gov.
  
  
  A   $ 1,424     $ (29

Below investment grade risk exposure

    160       (2     2 years       Corporate Credit     BB-     144       (5

Basket credit default swaps [4]

                                                   

Investment grade risk exposure

    3,866       (6     3 years       Corporate Credit     BBB+     2,229       —    

Investment grade risk exposure

    525       (80     5 years       CMBS Credit     A     525       80  

Below investment grade risk exposure

    555       (465     3 years       Corporate Credit     BBB     —         —    

Embedded credit derivatives

                                                   

Investment grade risk exposure

    25       24       3 years       Corporate Credit     BBB-     —         —    

Below investment grade risk exposure

    500       441       5 years       Corporate Credit     BB+     —         —    
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 7,324     $ (100                       $ 4,322     $ 46  
   

 

 

   

 

 

                       

 

 

   

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2011

 

                                                     
                      Underlying Referenced
Credit Obligation(s) [1]
           

Credit Derivative type by derivative risk exposure

  Notional
Amount [2]
    Fair
Value
    Weighted
Average
Years to
Maturity
    Type     Average
Credit
Rating
  Offsetting
Notional
Amount [3]
    Offsetting
Fair
Value [3]
 

Single name credit default swaps

                                                   

Investment grade risk exposure

  $ 1,628     $ (34     3 years      
 
Corporate Credit/
Foreign Gov.
  
  
  A+   $ 1,424     $ (15

Below investment grade risk exposure

    170       (7     2 years       Corporate Credit     BB-     144       (5

Basket credit default swaps [4]

                                                   

Investment grade risk exposure

    3,645       (92     3 years       Corporate Credit     BBB+     2,001       29  

Investment grade risk exposure

    525       (98     5 years       CMBS Credit     BBB+     525       98  

Below investment grade risk exposure

    553       (509     3 years       Corporate Credit     BBB+     —         —    

Embedded credit derivatives

                                                   

Investment grade risk exposure

    25       24       3 years       Corporate Credit     BBB-     —         —    

Below investment grade risk exposure

    500       411       5 years       Corporate Credit     BB+     —         —    
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 7,046     $ (305                       $ 4,094     $ 107  
   

 

 

   

 

 

                       

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

[1] The average credit ratings are based on availability and the midpoint of the applicable ratings among Moody’s, S&P, and Fitch. If no rating is available from a rating agency, then an internally developed rating is used.
[2] Notional amount is equal to the maximum potential future loss amount. There is no specific collateral related to these contracts or recourse provisions included in the contracts to offset losses.
[3] The Company has entered into offsetting credit default swaps to terminate certain existing credit default swaps, thereby offsetting the future changes in value of, or losses paid related to, the original swap.
[4] Includes $4.4 billion and $4.2 billion as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, of standard market indices of diversified portfolios of corporate issuers referenced through credit default swaps. These swaps are subsequently valued based upon the observable standard market index. Also includes $553 as of both March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 of customized diversified portfolios of corporate issuers referenced through credit default swaps.