10-Q 1 d532482d10q.htm 10-Q 10-Q
Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)      

 

LOGO

 

   QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)   
   OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934   
  

 

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2013

  
  

 

OR

 

  

LOGO

 

   TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)   
   OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934   
  

 

Commission File Number 1-11848

  

REINSURANCE GROUP OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 

MISSOURI                                                                 43-1627032
(State or other jurisdiction                                                (IRS employer
of incorporation or organization)                                     identification number)

1370 Timberlake Manor Parkway

Chesterfield, Missouri 63017

(Address of principal executive offices)

(636) 736-7000

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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 has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

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          

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 April 30, 2013, 72,499,239 shares of the registrant’s common stock were outstanding.


Table of Contents

REINSURANCE GROUP OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Item

        Page
   PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION   

1

  

Financial Statements

  
  

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)

March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012

   3
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)

Three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012

   4
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)

Three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012

   5
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)

Three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012

   6
  

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

   7

2

  

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of

Financial Condition and Results of Operations

   40

3

  

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk

   69

4

  

Controls and Procedures

   69
   PART II – OTHER INFORMATION   

1

  

Legal Proceedings

   70

1A

  

Risk Factors

   70

2

  

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

   70

6

  

Exhibits

   70
  

Signatures

   71
  

Index to Exhibits

   72

 

2


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REINSURANCE GROUP OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

 

     March 31,
2013
    December 31,
2012
 
     (Dollars in thousands, except share data)  

 

Assets

    

Fixed maturity securities:

    

Available-for-sale at fair value (amortized cost of $19,838,949 and $19,559,432 at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively)

    $     22,401,659       $ 22,291,614   

Mortgage loans on real estate (net of allowances of $9,924 and $11,580 at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively)

     2,325,191        2,300,587   

Policy loans

     1,245,812        1,278,175   

Funds withheld at interest

     5,698,594        5,594,182   

Short-term investments

     180,707        288,082   

Other invested assets

     1,129,651        1,159,543   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investments

     32,981,614        32,912,183   

Cash and cash equivalents

     1,001,841        1,259,892   

Accrued investment income

     230,269        201,344   

Premiums receivable and other reinsurance balances

     1,259,281        1,356,087   

Reinsurance ceded receivables

     602,373        620,901   

Deferred policy acquisition costs

     3,545,063        3,619,274   

Other assets

     576,660        390,757   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

    $     40,197,101       $ 40,360,438   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

    

Future policy benefits

    $     11,355,882       $ 11,372,856   

Interest-sensitive contract liabilities

     13,141,402        13,353,502   

Other policy claims and benefits

     3,243,948        3,160,250   

Other reinsurance balances

     250,606        233,630   

Deferred income taxes

     2,105,391        2,120,501   

Other liabilities

     877,405        742,249   

Long-term debt

     1,815,392        1,815,253   

Collateral finance facility

     491,987        652,010   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     33,282,013        33,450,251   

Commitments and contingent liabilities (See Note 8)

    

Stockholders’ Equity:

    

Preferred stock (par value $.01 per share; 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued or outstanding)

     --        --   

Common stock (par value $.01 per share; 140,000,000 shares authorized; shares issued: 79,137,758 at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012)

     791        791   

Additional paid-in-capital

     1,765,255        1,755,421   

Retained earnings

     3,521,492        3,357,255   

Treasury stock, at cost; 5,836,961 and 5,210,427 shares at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively

     (349,190)        (312,182)   

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     1,976,740        2,108,902   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ equity

     6,915,088        6,910,187   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

    $       40,197,101       $       40,360,438   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited).

 

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REINSURANCE GROUP OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(Unaudited)

 

    Three months ended March 31,  
    2013     2012  
Revenues:   (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)  

Net premiums

    $ 1,979,693        $ 1,863,482   

Investment income, net of related expenses

    425,131        340,940   

Investment related gains (losses), net:

   

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities

    (202)        (7,607)   

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to (from) accumulated other comprehensive income

    --        (7,221)   

Other investment related gains (losses), net

    94,573        58,348   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment related gains (losses), net

    94,371        43,520   

Other revenues

    101,907        45,033   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

    2,601,102        2,292,975   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Benefits and Expenses:

   

Claims and other policy benefits

    1,688,910        1,580,149   

Interest credited

    125,483        88,042   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

    357,357        307,634   

Other operating expenses

    119,501        110,098   

Interest expense

    28,486        23,322   

Collateral finance facility expense

    2,538        2,967   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total benefits and expenses

    2,322,275        2,112,212   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

    278,827        180,763   

Provision for income taxes

    93,292        57,445   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income

    $ 185,535        $ 123,318   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings per share:

   

Basic earnings per share

    $ 2.51        $ 1.68   

Diluted earnings per share

    $ 2.49        $ 1.67   

Dividends declared per share

    $ 0.24        $ 0.18   

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited).

 

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REINSURANCE GROUP OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2013     2012  

Comprehensive income

    

Net income

   $   185,535      $   123,318   

Other comprehensive income, net of tax:

    

Change in foreign currency translation adjustments

     (14,105)        24,080   

Change in net unrealized gains and losses on investments

     (119,333)        (35,415)   

Change in other-than-temporary impairment losses on fixed maturity securities

     451        4,694   

Changes in pension and other postretirement plan adjustments

     825        290   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

     (132,162)        (6,351)   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total comprehensive income

   $ 53,373      $ 116,967   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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REINSURANCE GROUP OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2013     2012  
    

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

    

Net income

     $             185,535        $             123,318   

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

    

Change in operating assets and liabilities:

    

Accrued investment income

     (30,083)        (28,616)   

Premiums receivable and other reinsurance balances

     72,864        (61,722)   

Deferred policy acquisition costs

     42,741        (65,583)   

Reinsurance ceded receivable balances

     28,131        28,686   

Future policy benefits, other policy claims and benefits, and other reinsurance balances

     275,091        554,354   

Deferred income taxes

     16,343        38,107   

Other assets and other liabilities, net

     (12,317)        5,944   

Amortization of net investment premiums, discounts and other

     (22,497)        (35,281)   

Investment related gains, net

     (94,371)        (43,520)   

Gain on repurchase of collateral finance facility securities

     (46,506)        --   

Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangement

     (143)        30   

Other, net

     80,142        38,938   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

     494,930        554,655   

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

    

Sales of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale

     795,575        47,096   

Maturities of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale

     36,028        36,437   

Purchases of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale

     (1,277,240)        (572,345)   

Cash invested in mortgage loans

     (79,361)        (75,081)   

Cash invested in funds withheld at interest

     (29,829)        (33,083)   

Principal payments on mortgage loans on real estate

     52,157        22,081   

Principal payments on policy loans

     32,378        330   

Change in short-term investments and other invested assets

     84,917        65,256   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

     (385,375)        (509,309)   

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

    

Dividends to stockholders

     (17,753)        (13,255)   

Repurchase of collateral finance facility securities

     (112,000)        --   

Purchases of treasury stock

     (47,640)        (4,118)   

Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangement

     143        (30)   

Exercise of stock options, net

     1,071        216   

Change in cash collateral for derivative positions

     11,532        (100,565)   

Deposits on universal life and other investment type policies and contracts

     17,241        37,303   

Withdrawals on universal life and other investment type policies and contracts

     (204,196)        (59,922)   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in financing activities

     (351,602)        (140,371)   

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

     (16,004)        6,088   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Change in cash and cash equivalents

     (258,051)        (88,937)   

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

     1,259,892        962,870   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

     $ 1,001,841        $ 873,933   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplementary information:

    

Cash paid for interest

     $ 16,552        $ 24,592   

Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds

     $ 9,125        $ 15,112   

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited).

 

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REINSURANCE GROUP OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

 

1. Organization and Basis of Presentation

Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated (“RGA”) is an insurance holding company that was formed on December 31, 1992. The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of RGA and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, these financial statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Results for the three months ended March 31, 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2013. There were no subsequent events that would require disclosure or adjustments to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements through the date the financial statements were issued. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of RGA and its subsidiaries, all intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. They should be read in conjunction with the Company’s 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K (“2012 Annual Report”) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 1, 2013.

 

2. Earnings Per Share

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share on net income (in thousands, except per share information):

 

     Three months ended  
     March 31,  
     2013     2012  

Earnings:

    

Net income (numerator for basic and diluted calculations)

     $ 185,535        $ 123,318   

Shares:

    

Weighted average outstanding shares (denominator for basic calculation)

     73,838        73,575   

Equivalent shares from outstanding stock options

     551        468   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Denominator for diluted calculation

     74,389        74,043   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings per share:

    

Basic

     $ 2.51        $ 1.68   

Diluted

     $                 2.49        $                 1.67   

The calculation of common equivalent shares does not include the impact of options having a strike or conversion price that exceeds the average stock price for the earnings period, as the result would be antidilutive. The calculation of common equivalent shares also excludes the impact of outstanding performance contingent shares, as the conditions necessary for their issuance have not been satisfied as of the end of the reporting period. For the three months ended March 31, 2013, approximately 1.5 million stock options and approximately 0.9 million performance contingent shares were excluded from the calculation. For the three months ended March 31, 2012, approximately 1.4 million stock options and approximately 0.7 million performance contingent shares were excluded from the calculation.

 

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3. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

The balance of and changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”) for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 are as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

     Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Income Tax  
          Accumulated     
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
     Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    of Investments(1)    
     Pension and
    Postretirement    
Benefits
     Total  

Balance, December 31, 2012

   $ 267,475       $ 1,877,657       $ (36,230)       $ 2,108,902   

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications

     (14,105)         (112,711)         99         (126,717)   

Amounts reclassified from AOCI

     --         (6,171)         726         (5,445)   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)

     (14,105)         (118,882)         825         (132,162)   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2013

   $           253,370       $       1,758,775       $           (35,405)       $           1,976,740   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

     Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Income Tax  
          Accumulated     
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
     Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    of Investments(1)    
     Pension and
    Postretirement    
Benefits
     Total  

Balance, December 31, 2011

   $           229,795       $         1,419,318       $           (30,960)       $           1,618,153   

Change in component during the period

     24,080         (30,721)         290         (6,351)   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2012

   $ 253,875       $ 1,388,597       $ (30,670)       $ 1,611,802   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1)

Includes cash flow hedges. See Note 5 - “Derivative Instruments” for additional information on cash flow hedges.

The following table presents the amounts reclassified out of AOCI for the three months ended March 31, 2013 (dollars in thousands):

 

Details about AOCI Components

  Amount
Reclassified

from AOCI
   

        Affected Line Item in Statement of Income         

Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities

  $                 10,348      Investment related gains (losses), net

Gains and losses on cash flow hedge - interest rate swap

    305      Investment income

Deferred policy acquisition costs attributed to unrealized gains and losses(1)

    (1,548)     
 

 

 

   
    9,105      Total before tax
    (2,934)      Tax expense
 

 

 

   
  $ 6,171      Net of tax
 

 

 

   

Amortization of unrealized pension and postretirement benefits:

   

Prior service cost(2)

  $ (94)     

Actuarial gains/(losses)(2)

    (1,023)     
 

 

 

   
    (1,117)      Total before tax
    391      Tax benefit
 

 

 

   
  $ (726)      Net of tax
 

 

 

   

Total reclassifications for the period

  $ 5,445      Net of tax
 

 

 

   

 

(1) This AOCI component is included in the computation of the deferred policy acquisition cost. See Note 8 – “Deferred policy Acquisition Costs” of the 2012 Annual Report for additional details.
(2) These AOCI components are included in the computation of the net periodic pension cost. See Note 9 – “Employee Benefit Plans” for additional details.

 

4. Investments

Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale

The following tables provide information relating to investments in fixed maturity and equity securities by sector as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

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                                  Other-than-  
                      Estimated           temporary  
March 31, 2013:   Amortized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Fair     % of     impairments  
    Cost     Gains     Losses     Value     Total     in AOCI  

Available-for-sale:

           

Corporate securities

  $       11,464,082      $       1,022,512      $ 45,093      $ 12,441,501        55.5 %      $ --   

Canadian and Canadian provincial governments

    2,681,603        1,261,728        1,133        3,942,198        17.6           --   

Residential mortgage-backed securities

    1,005,232        75,579        4,041        1,076,770        4.8           (241)   

Asset-backed securities

    752,280        23,333        19,069        756,544        3.4           (2,259)   

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

    1,596,659        143,381        41,896        1,698,144        7.6           (5,431)   

U.S. government and agencies

    299,395        31,938        132        331,201        1.5           --   

State and political subdivisions

    281,215        37,628        5,746        313,097        1.4           --   

Other foreign government, supranational and foreign government-sponsored enterprises

    1,758,483        87,306        3,585        1,842,204        8.2           --   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

  $ 19,838,949      $ 2,683,405      $         120,695      $       22,401,659                  100.0 %      $         (7,931)   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-redeemable preferred stock

  $ 76,179      $ 7,940      $     $ 84,111        38.1 %     

Other equity securities

    138,088        295        1,829        136,554        61.9        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total equity securities

  $ 214,267      $ 8,235      $ 1,837      $ 220,665        100.0 %     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

                                  Other-than-  
                      Estimated           temporary  
December 31, 2012:   Amortized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Fair     % of     impairments  
    Cost     Gains     Losses     Value     Total     in AOCI  

Available-for-sale:

           

Corporate securities

  $       11,333,431      $       1,085,973      $ 39,333      $ 12,380,071        55.5 %      $ --   

Canadian and Canadian provincial governments

    2,676,777        1,372,731        174        4,049,334        18.2           --   

Residential mortgage-backed securities

    969,267        76,520        3,723        1,042,064        4.7           (241)   

Asset-backed securities

    700,455        19,898        28,798        691,555        3.1           (2,259)   

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

    1,608,376        142,369        51,842        1,698,903        7.6           (6,125)   

U.S. government and agencies

    231,256        33,958        24        265,190        1.2           --   

State and political subdivisions

    270,086        38,058        5,646        302,498        1.4           --   

Other foreign government, supranational and foreign government-sponsored enterprises

    1,769,784        94,929        2,714        1,861,999        8.3           --   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

  $ 19,559,432      $ 2,864,436      $       132,254      $       22,291,614                  100.0 %      $         (8,625)   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-redeemable preferred stock

  $ 68,469      $ 6,542      $ 170      $ 74,841        33.6 %     

Other equity securities

    148,577        416        1,134        147,859        66.4        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total equity securities

  $ 217,046      $ 6,958      $ 1,304      $ 222,700        100.0 %     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

The Company enters into various collateral arrangements that require both the pledging and acceptance of fixed maturity securities as collateral. The Company pledged fixed maturity securities as collateral to derivative and reinsurance counterparties with an amortized cost of $25.4 million and $16.9 million, and an estimated fair value of $25.8 million and $17.0 million, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 respectively, which are included in other invested assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Securities with an amortized cost of $8,216.3 million and $7,549.0 million, and an estimated fair value of $8,889.9 million and $7,913.8 million, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively, were held in trust to satisfy collateral requirements under certain third-party reinsurance treaties.

The Company received fixed maturity securities as collateral from derivative and reinsurance counterparties with an estimated fair value of $85.4 million and $95.6 million, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The collateral is held in separate custodial accounts and is not recorded on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets. Subject to certain constraints, the Company is permitted by contract to sell or re-pledge this collateral; however, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, none of the collateral had been sold or re-pledged.

As of March 31, 2013, the Company held securities with a fair value of $1,357.9 million that were guaranteed or issued by the Canadian province of Ontario and $1,723.9 million that were guaranteed or issued by the Canadian province of Quebec, both of which exceeded 10% of total stockholders’ equity. As of December 31, 2012, the Company held securities with a fair value of $1,400.0 million that were guaranteed or issued by the Canadian province of Ontario and $1,785.0 million that were guaranteed or issued by the Canadian province of Quebec, both of which exceeded 10% of total stockholders’ equity.

 

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The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale at March 31, 2013 are shown by contractual maturity in the table below. Actual maturities can differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Asset and mortgage-backed securities are shown separately in the table below, as they are not due at a single maturity date. At March 31, 2013, the contractual maturities of investments in fixed maturity securities were as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

    Amortized     Fair  
    Cost     Value  

Available-for-sale:

   

Due in one year or less

  $ 348,130      $ 352,916   

Due after one year through five years

    3,716,625        3,917,468   

Due after five years through ten years

    6,922,683        7,521,433   

Due after ten years

    5,497,340        7,078,384   

Asset and mortgage-backed securities

    3,354,171        3,531,458   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $             19,838,949      $             22,401,659   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

The tables below show the major industry types of the Company’s corporate fixed maturity holdings as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

March 31, 2013:         Estimated        
        Amortized Cost                 Fair Value                   % of Total             

Finance

  $ 3,693,500      $ 3,978,979        32.0 %     

Industrial

    5,977,146        6,480,028        52.1        

Utility

    1,763,573        1,951,839        15.7        

Other

    29,863        30,655        0.2        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 11,464,082      $ 12,441,501        100.0 %     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
December 31, 2012:         Estimated        
    Amortized Cost     Fair Value     % of Total  

Finance

  $ 3,619,455      $ 3,900,152        31.5 %     

Industrial

    5,881,967        6,443,846        52.0        

Utility

    1,799,658        2,002,611        16.2        

Other

    32,351        33,462        0.3        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 11,333,431      $ 12,380,071        100.0 %     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other-Than-Temporary Impairments

As discussed in Note 2 – “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of the 2012 Annual Report, a portion of certain other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses on fixed maturity securities are recognized in AOCI. For these securities the net amount recognized in earnings (“credit loss impairments”) represents the difference between the amortized cost of the security and the net present value of its projected future cash flows discounted at the effective interest rate implicit in the debt security prior to impairment. Any remaining difference between the fair value and amortized cost is recognized in AOCI. The following table sets forth the amount of pre-tax credit loss impairments on fixed maturity securities held by the Company as of the dates indicated, for which a portion of the OTTI loss was recognized in AOCI, and the corresponding changes in such amounts (dollars in thousands):

 

        Three months ended March 31,      
   

 

2013

    2012  

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 16,675      $ 63,947   

Initial impairments - credit loss OTTI recognized on securities not previously impaired

    --        1,902   

Additional impairments - credit loss OTTI recognized on securities previously impaired

    --        8,720   

Credit loss OTTI previously recognized on securities impaired to fair value during the period

    --        (11,381)   

Credit loss OTTI previously recognized on securities which matured, paid down, prepaid or were sold during the period

    (1,902)        (952)   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 14,773      $ 62,236   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Purchased Credit Impaired Fixed Maturity Securities Available-for-Sale

In the third quarter of 2012, the Company began purchasing certain residential mortgage-backed securities that had experienced deterioration in credit quality since their issuance. Securities acquired with evidence of credit quality deterioration since origination and for which it is probable at the acquisition date that the Company will be unable to collect all contractually required payments are classified as purchased credit impaired securities. For each security, the excess of the cash flows expected to be collected as of the acquisition date over its acquisition date fair value is referred to as the accretable yield and is recognized as net investment income on an effective yield basis. At the date of acquisition, the timing and

 

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amount of the cash flows expected to be collected was determined based on a best estimate using key assumptions, such as interest rates, default rates and prepayment speeds. If subsequently, based on current information and events, it is probable that there is a significant increase in cash flows previously expected to be collected or if actual cash flows are significantly greater than cash flows previously expected to be collected, the accretable yield is adjusted prospectively. The excess of the contractually required payments (including interest) as of the acquisition date over the cash flows expected to be collected as of the acquisition date is referred to as the nonaccretable difference, and this amount is not expected to be realized as net investment income. Decreases in cash flows expected to be collected can result in OTTI.

The following tables present information on the Company’s purchased credit impaired securities, which are included in fixed maturity securities available-for-sale (dollars in thousands):

 

            March 31, 2013                       December 31, 2012        

Outstanding principal and interest balance(1)

   $ 172,800           $ 108,831   

Carrying value, including accrued interest(2)

   $ 134,564           $ 84,765   

 

(1)  Represents the contractually required payments which is the sum of contractual principal, whether or not currently due, and accrued interest.
(2)  Estimated fair value plus accrued interest.

The following table presents information about purchased credit impaired investments acquired during the three months ended March 31, 2013 (dollars in thousands).

 

    At Date of  
                Acquisition               

Contractually required payments (including interest)

  $ 91,863   

Cash flows expected to be collected(1)

  $ 72,940   

Fair value of investments acquired

  $ 50,874   

 

(1) Represents undiscounted principal and interest cash flow expectations at the date of acquisition.

The following table presents activity for the accretable yield on purchased credit impaired securities for the three months ended March 31, 2013 (dollars in thousands):

 

        Three months ended    
March 31, 2013
 

Balance, beginning of period

  $ 39,239   

Investments purchased

    22,066   

Accretion

    (1,943)   

Reclassification to nonaccretable difference

    553   
 

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

  $ 59,915   
 

 

 

 

Unrealized Losses for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale

The following table presents the total gross unrealized losses for the 667 and 567 fixed maturity and equity securities as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively, where the estimated fair value had declined and remained below amortized cost by the indicated amount (dollars in thousands):

 

    March 31, 2013        December 31, 2012  
    Gross
      Unrealized      
Losses
        % of Total            Gross
     Unrealized     
Losses
        % of Total      

Less than 20%

  $ 66,235        54.1 %          $ 54,951        41.2 %    

20% or more for less than six months

    --        --              734        0.5      

20% or more for six months or greater

    56,297        45.9               77,873        58.3      
 

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 122,532        100.0 %          $ 133,558        100.0 %    
 

 

 

   

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

The Company’s determination of whether a decline in value is other-than-temporary includes analysis of the underlying credit and the extent and duration of a decline in value. The Company’s credit analysis of an investment includes determining whether the issuer is current on its contractual payments, evaluating whether it is probable that the Company will be able to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the security and analyzing the overall ability of the Company to recover the amortized cost of the investment. The Company continues to consider declines in value as a potential indicator of credit deterioration. However, the Company believes that due to fluctuating market conditions and an extended period of economic uncertainty, the extent and duration of a decline in value have become less indicative of when

 

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there has been credit deterioration with respect to a fixed maturity security since it may not have an impact on the ability of the issuer to service all scheduled payments and the Company’s evaluation of the recoverability of all contractual cash flows or the ability to recover an amount at least equal to amortized cost. In the Company’s impairment review process, the duration and severity of an unrealized loss position for equity securities are given greater weight and consideration given the lack of contractual cash flows or deferability features.

The following tables present the estimated fair values and gross unrealized losses, including other-than-temporary impairment losses reported in AOCI, for 667 and 567 fixed maturity and equity securities that have estimated fair values below amortized cost as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively (dollars in thousands). These investments are presented by class and grade of security, as well as the length of time the related market value has remained below amortized cost.

 

    Less than 12 months     12 months or greater     Total  
          Gross           Gross           Gross  
March 31, 2013:   Estimated         Unrealized         Estimated         Unrealized         Estimated         Unrealized      
        Fair Value         Losses         Fair Value         Losses         Fair Value         Losses  

Investment grade securities:

           

Corporate securities

    $ 1,187,238        $ 25,066        $ 89,284        $ 11,614        $ 1,276,522        $ 36,680   

Canadian and Canadian provincial governments

    59,042        1,133        --        --        59,042        1,133   

Residential mortgage-backed securities

    54,738        469        17,664        2,920        72,402        3,389   

Asset-backed securities

    91,530        672        86,661        7,216        178,191        7,888   

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

    79,509        471        21,920        6,521        101,429        6,992   

U.S. government and agencies

    56,975        132        --        --        56,975        132   

State and political subdivisions

    30,734        266        11,463        5,480        42,197        5,746   

Other foreign government, supranational and foreign government-sponsored enterprises

    335,216        2,809        7,375        744        342,591        3,553   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment grade securities

    1,894,982        31,018        234,367        34,495        2,129,349        65,513   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Non-investment grade securities:

           

Corporate securities

    155,261        2,961        30,763        5,452        186,024        8,413   

Residential mortgage-backed securities

    18,215        298        4,681        354        22,896        652   

Asset-backed securities

    10,138        171        29,370        11,010        39,508        11,181   

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

    --        --        66,674        34,904        66,674        34,904   

Other foreign government, supranational and foreign government-sponsored enterprises

    1,034        32        --        --        1,034        32   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total non-investment grade securities

    184,648        3,462        131,488        51,720        316,136        55,182   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

    $ 2,079,630        $ 34,480        $ 365,855        $ 86,215        $ 2,445,485        $ 120,695   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Non-redeemable preferred stock

    $ 7,885        $       $       $       $ 7,886        $  

Other equity securities

    110,187        1,829        --        --        110,187        1,829   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total equity securities

    $ 118,072        $ 1,836        $       $       $ 118,073        $ 1,837   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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    Less than 12 months     12 months or greater     Total  
          Gross           Gross           Gross  
December 31, 2012:   Estimated         Unrealized         Estimated         Unrealized         Estimated         Unrealized      
        Fair Value         Losses         Fair Value         Losses         Fair Value         Losses  

Investment grade securities:

           

Corporate securities

    $ 786,203        $ 13,276        $ 108,187        $ 17,386        $ 894,390        $ 30,662   

Canadian and Canadian provincial governments

    12,349        174        --        --        12,349        174   

Residential mortgage-backed securities

    22,288        97        19,394        3,199        41,682        3,296   

Asset-backed securities

    59,119        449        96,179        9,508        155,298        9,957   

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

    89,507        797        29,181        7,974        118,688        8,771   

U.S. government and agencies

    7,272        24        --        --        7,272        24   

State and political subdivisions

    20,602        1,514        11,736        4,132        32,338        5,646   

Other foreign government, supranational and foreign government-sponsored enterprises

    244,817        1,953        7,435        761        252,252        2,714   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment grade securities

    1,242,157        18,284        272,112        42,960        1,514,269        61,244   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Non-investment grade securities:

           

Corporate securities

    181,168        3,170        39,123        5,501        220,291        8,671   

Residential mortgage-backed securities

    15,199        80        2,633        347        17,832        427   

Asset-backed securities

    3,421        26        31,938        18,815        35,359        18,841   

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

    3,317        764        68,405        42,307        71,722        43,071   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total non-investment grade securities

    203,105        4,040        142,099        66,970        345,204        71,010   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

    $ 1,445,262        $ 22,324        $ 414,211        $ 109,930        $ 1,859,473        $ 132,254   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-redeemable preferred stock

    $ 5,577        $ 52        $ 5,679        $ 118        $ 11,256        $ 170   

Other equity securities

    85,374        1,134        --        --        85,374        1,134   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total equity securities

    $ 90,951        $ 1,186        $ 5,679        $ 118        $ 96,630        $ 1,304   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

As of March 31, 2013, the Company does not intend to sell these fixed maturity securities and does not believe it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell these fixed maturity securities before the recovery of the fair value up to the current amortized cost of the investment, which may be maturity. As of March 31, 2013, the Company has the ability and intent to hold the equity securities until the recovery of the fair value up to the current cost of the investment. However, unforeseen facts and circumstances may cause the Company to sell fixed maturity and equity securities in the ordinary course of managing its portfolio to meet certain diversification, credit quality, asset-liability management and liquidity guidelines.

Unrealized losses on non-investment grade securities are principally related to asset and mortgage-backed securities and were the result of wider credit spreads resulting from higher risk premiums since the time of initial purchase, largely due to macroeconomic conditions and credit market deterioration, including the impact of lower real estate valuations. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, approximately $46.3 million and $61.5 million, respectively, of gross unrealized losses greater than 12 months was associated with non-investment grade asset and mortgage-backed securities. This class of securities was evaluated based on actual and projected collateral losses relative to the securities’ positions in the respective securitization trusts and security specific expectations of cash flows. This evaluation also takes into consideration credit enhancement, measured in terms of (i) subordination from other classes of securities in the trust that are contractually obligated to absorb losses before the class of security the Company owns, and (ii) the expected impact of other structural features embedded in the securitization trust beneficial to the class of securities the Company owns, such as overcollateralization and excess spread.

 

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Investment Income, Net of Related Expenses

Major categories of investment income, net of related expenses, consist of the following (dollars in thousands):

 

    Three months ended
March  31,
 
            2013                        2012          

Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale

  $              239,244         $             191,418   

Mortgage loans on real estate

    28,243           14,965   

Policy loans

    17,910           16,783   

Funds withheld at interest

    137,259           115,014   

Short-term investments

    813           988   

Other invested assets

    13,922           11,322   
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Investment revenue

    437,391           350,490   

Investment expense

    12,260           9,550   
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Investment income, net of related expenses

  $ 425,131         $ 340,940   
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Investment Related Gains (Losses), Net

Investment related gains (losses), net consist of the following (dollars in thousands):

 

    Three months ended
March  31,
 
            2013                     2012          

Fixed maturities and equity securities available for sale:

   

Other-than-temporary impairment losses on fixed maturities

  $ (202)      $ (7,607)   

Portion of loss recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (before taxes)

    --        (7,221)   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net other-than-temporary impairment losses on fixed maturities recognized in earnings

    (202)        (14,828)   

Impairment losses on equity securities

    --        (839)   

Gain on investment activity

    21,680        22,312   

Loss on investment activity

    (11,212)        (7,504)   

Other impairment losses and change in mortgage loan provision

    (1,626)        (5,843)   

Derivatives and other, net

    85,731        50,222   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment related gains (losses), net

  $             94,371      $             43,520   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

The net other-than-temporary impairment losses on fixed maturity securities recognized in earnings were $0.2 million and $14.8 million in the first three months of 2013 and 2012, respectively. The other-than-temporary impairments in the first three months of 2012 were primarily due to a decline in value of structured securities with exposure to commercial mortgages and general credit deterioration in select corporate and foreign securities. The increase in derivatives and other is primarily due to an increase in the fair value of free-standing derivatives.

During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company sold fixed maturity and equity securities with fair values of $204.3 million and $248.1 million at losses of $11.2 million and $7.5 million, respectively. The Company generally does not engage in short-term buying and selling of securities.

Securities Borrowing and Other

The Company participates in a securities borrowing program whereby securities, which are not reflected on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets, are borrowed from a third party. The Company is required to maintain a minimum of 100% of the market value of the borrowed securities as collateral, which consists of rights to reinsurance treaty cash flows. The Company had borrowed securities with an amortized cost of $87.5 million as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, which was equal to the market value in both periods. The borrowed securities are used to provide collateral under an affiliated reinsurance transaction.

The Company also participates in a repurchase/reverse repurchase program in which securities, reflected as investments on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets, are pledged to a third party. In return, the Company receives securities from the third party with an estimated fair value equal to a minimum of 100% of the securities pledged. The securities received are not reflected on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets. As of March 31, 2013 the Company had pledged securities with an amortized cost of $284.5 million and an estimated fair value of $309.7 million, and in return the Company received securities with an estimated fair value of $343.2 million. As of December 31, 2012 the Company had pledged securities with an amortized cost of $290.2 million and an estimated fair value of $305.9 million, and in return the Company received securities with an estimated fair value of $342.0 million.

 

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Mortgage Loans on Real Estate

Mortgage loans represented approximately 7.0% of the Company’s total investments as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012. The Company makes mortgage loans on income producing properties, such as apartments, retail and office buildings, and light industrial facilities. Loan-to-value ratios at the time of loan approval are 75% or less. The distribution of mortgage loans, gross of valuation allowances, by property type is as follows as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

    March 31, 2013        December 31, 2012  
    Recorded        Percentage        Recorded        Percentage  
Property type:   Investment        of Total        Investment        of Total  

Apartment

  $             230,762           9.9 %          $             229,266           9.9 %    

Retail

    715,036           30.6               669,958           29.0       

Office building

    836,332           35.8               825,406           35.7       

Industrial

    426,011           18.2               455,682           19.7       

Other commercial

    126,974           5.5               131,855           5.7       
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

  $ 2,335,115                       100.0 %          $ 2,312,167                       100.0 %    
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company’s mortgage loans, gross of valuation allowances, were distributed throughout the United States as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

    March 31, 2013        December 31, 2012  
    Recorded        Percentage        Recorded        Percentage  
    Investment        of Total        Investment        of Total  

Pacific

  $             597,540           25.6 %          $             593,589           25.7 %    

South Atlantic

    483,398           20.7               477,068           20.5       

Mountain

    251,406           10.8               233,174           10.1       

Middle Atlantic

    286,314           12.3               300,475           13.0       

West North Central

    160,203           6.8               168,063           7.3       

East North Central

    243,202           10.4               224,122           9.7       

West South Central

    160,117           6.9               161,451           7.0       

East South Central

    62,323           2.7               62,789           2.7       

New England

    90,612           3.8               91,436           4.0       
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

  $ 2,335,115                       100.0 %          $ 2,312,167                       100.0 %    
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

The maturities of the mortgage loans, gross of valuation allowances, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

        March 31, 2013            December 31, 2012    

Due within five years

  $             1,157,373       $             1,187,387   

Due after five years through ten years

    832,292         776,655   

Due after ten years

    345,450         348,125   
 

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

  $ 2,335,115       $ 2,312,167   
 

 

 

    

 

 

 

Information regarding the Company’s credit quality indicators for its recorded investment in mortgage loans, gross of valuation allowances, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 is as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

Internal credit risk grade:       March 31, 2013            December 31, 2012    

High investment grade

  $             1,473,018       $             1,235,605   

Investment grade

    622,794         834,494   

Average

    147,650         132,607   

Watch list

    62,679         76,463   

In or near default

    28,974         32,998   
 

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

  $ 2,335,115       $ 2,312,167   
 

 

 

    

 

 

 

The age analysis of the Company’s past due recorded investment in mortgage loans, gross of valuation allowances, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 is as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

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         March 31, 2013             December 31, 2012     

 

31-60 days past due

   $   6,594       $   7,504   

 

61-90 days past due

     --         --   

 

Greater than 90 days

     8,342         16,886   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

Total past due

     14,936         24,390   

 

Current

     2,320,179         2,287,777   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

Total

   $ 2,335,115       $ 2,312,167   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The following table presents the recorded investment in mortgage loans, by method of evaluation of credit loss, and the related valuation allowances, by type of credit loss, at (dollars in thousands):

 

                                 
         March 31, 2013             December 31, 2012     

Mortgage loans:

     

Evaluated individually for credit losses

   $ 41,167       $ 39,956   

Evaluated collectively for credit losses

     2,293,948         2,272,211   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Mortgage loans, gross of valuation allowances

     2,335,115         2,312,167   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Valuation allowances:

     

Specific for credit losses

     6,008         6,980   

Non-specifically identified credit losses

     3,916         4,600   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total valuation allowances

     9,924         11,580   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

Mortgage loans, net of valuation allowances

   $ 2,325,191       $ 2,300,587   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Information regarding the Company’s loan valuation allowances for mortgage loans for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 is as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

             Three Months Ended March 31,           
     2013      2012  

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 11,580       $ 11,793   

Charge-offs

     (852)         (2,193)   

Provision (release)

     (804)         5,050   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

   $ 9,924       $ 14,650   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Information regarding the portion of the Company’s mortgage loans that were impaired as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 is as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

     Unpaid
         Principal        
Balance
     Recorded
       Investment       
     Related
       Allowance      
             Carrying        
Value
 

March 31, 2013:

           

Impaired mortgage loans with no valuation allowance recorded

   $ 14,802       $ 14,259       $ --       $ 14,259   

Impaired mortgage loans with valuation allowance recorded

     26,975         26,908         6,008         20,900   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total impaired mortgage loans

   $ 41,777       $ 41,167       $ 6,008       $ 35,159   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

December 31, 2012:

           

Impaired mortgage loans with no valuation allowance recorded

   $ 13,039       $ 12,496       $ --       $ 12,496   

Impaired mortgage loans with valuation allowance recorded

     27,527         27,460         6,980         20,480   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total impaired mortgage loans

   $ 40,566       $ 39,956       $ 6,980       $ 32,976   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

The Company’s average investment in impaired mortgage loans and the related interest income are reflected in the table below for the periods indicated (dollars in thousands):

 

   

     Three Months Ended  
     March 31, 2013      March 31, 2012  
              Average          
Investment(1)
              Interest          
Income
              Average          
Investment(1)
              Interest          
Income
 

Impaired mortgage loans with no valuation allowance recorded

   $ 13,378       $ 135       $ 21,571       $ 169   

 

Impaired mortgage loans with valuation allowance recorded

     27,184         240         37,308         308   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 40,562       $ 375       $ 58,879       $ 477   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

(1) Average recorded investment represents the average loan balances as of the beginning of period and all subsequent quarterly end of period balances.

 

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The Company did not acquire any impaired mortgage loans during the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012. The Company had $8.3 million and $16.9 million of mortgage loans, gross of valuation allowances, that were on nonaccrual status at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.

Policy Loans

Policy loans comprised approximately 3.8% and 3.9% of the Company’s total investments as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively, substantially all of which are associated with one client. These policy loans present no credit risk because the amount of the loan cannot exceed the obligation due to the ceding company upon the death of the insured or surrender of the underlying policy. The provisions of the treaties in force and the underlying policies determine the policy loan interest rates. As policy loans represent premature distributions of policy liabilities, they have the effect of reducing future disintermediation risk. In addition, the Company earns a spread between the interest rate earned on policy loans and the interest rate credited to corresponding liabilities.

Funds Withheld at Interest

Funds withheld at interest comprised approximately 17.3% and 17.0% of the Company’s total investments as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, approximately 70.2% and 69.7%, respectively, of the Company’s funds withheld at interest balance, net of embedded derivatives, was associated with one client. For reinsurance agreements written on a modified coinsurance basis and certain agreements written on a coinsurance funds withheld basis, assets equal to the net statutory reserves are withheld and legally owned and managed by the ceding company and are reflected as funds withheld at interest on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets. In the event of a ceding company’s insolvency, the Company would need to assert a claim on the assets supporting its reserve liabilities. However, the risk of loss to the Company is mitigated by its ability to offset amounts it owes the ceding company for claims or allowances with amounts owed to the Company from the ceding company. The Company is subject to the investment performance on the withheld assets, although it does not directly control them. These assets are primarily fixed maturity investment securities and pose risks similar to the fixed maturity securities the Company owns. To mitigate this risk, the Company helps set the investment guidelines followed by the ceding company and monitors compliance.

Other Invested Assets

Other invested assets include equity securities, collateral (included in other), limited partnership interests, real estate joint ventures, real estate held-for-investment (included in other), structured loans and derivative contracts. Other invested assets represented approximately 3.4% and 3.5% of the Company’s total investments as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. Carrying values of these assets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

          March 31, 2013                December 31, 2012       

Equity securities

   $ 220,665       $ 222,700   

Limited partnerships and real estate joint ventures

     375,451         356,419   

Structured loans

     272,592         306,497   

Derivatives

     151,761         168,208   

Other

     109,182         105,719   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other invested assets

   $ 1,129,651       $ 1,159,543   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Netting Arrangements

Certain of the Company’s derivatives are subject to enforceable master netting arrangements and reported as a net asset or liability in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The Company nets all derivatives that are subject to such arrangements.

The Company has elected to include all derivatives, except embedded derivatives, in the tables below, irrespective of whether they are subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or a similar agreement. See “Securities Borrowing and Other” above for information regarding the Company’s securities borrowing and repurchase/reverse repurchase programs. See Note 5 – “Derivative Instruments” for information regarding the Company’s bifurcated embedded derivatives.

The following table provides information relating to the Company’s derivative instruments as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

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                          Gross Amounts Not
Offset in the Balance Sheet
        
            Gross Amounts      Net Amounts                Cash Collateral            
        Gross Amounts         Offset in the      Presented in the      Financial      Pledged/         
     Recognized         Balance Sheet            Balance Sheet              Instruments           Received         Net Amount     

March 31, 2013:

                 

Derivative assets

   $ 175,236       $ (23,475)       $ 151,761       $ (17,664)       $ (126,329)       $ 7,768   

Derivative liabilities

     42,079         (23,475)         18,604         (14,118)         (6,250)         (1,764)   

December 31, 2012:

                 

Derivative assets

   $ 190,634       $ (22,426)       $ 168,208       $ (22,458)       $ (136,414)       $ 9,336   

Derivative liabilities

     54,078         (22,426)         31,652         (1,565)         (27,867)         2,220   

 

5. Derivative Instruments

Derivatives, except embedded derivatives, are carried on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets in other invested assets or other liabilities, at fair value. Embedded derivative liabilities on modified coinsurance or funds withheld arrangements are included on the condensed consolidated balance sheets with the host contract in funds withheld at interest, at fair value. Embedded derivative liabilities on indexed annuity and variable annuity products are included on the condensed consolidated balance sheets with the host contract in interest-sensitive contract liabilities, at fair value. Embedded derivative assets are included on the condensed consolidated balance sheets in reinsurance ceded receivables. The following table presents the notional amounts and fair value of derivative instruments as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

     March 31, 2013      December 31, 2012  
     Notional      Carrying Value/Fair Value      Notional      Carrying Value/Fair Value  
     Amount      Assets      Liabilities      Amount      Assets      Liabilities  

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:

                 

Interest rate swaps

     $ 1,566,403         $ 99,860         $ 15,642         $ 2,195,059         $ 123,085         $ 17,867   

Interest rate options

     240,000         16,054         --         --         --         --   

Financial futures

     113,046         --         --         127,877         --         --   

Foreign currency forwards

     70,000         --         7,014         74,400         1,017         2,105   

Consumer price index swaps

     85,332         945         --         85,135         1,446         --   

Credit default swaps

     716,700         2,160         5,431         714,000         2,228         5,922   

Equity options

     812,494         54,791         --         696,776         62,514         --   

Synthetic guaranteed investment contracts

     3,185,035         --         --         2,018,073         --         --   

Embedded derivatives in:

                 

Modified coinsurance or funds withheld arrangements

     --         --         156,189         --         --         243,177   

Indexed annuity products

     --         --         769,685         --         --         740,256   

Variable annuity products

     --         --         120,791         --         --         172,105   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total non-hedging derivatives

     6,789,010         173,810         1,074,752         5,911,320         190,290         1,181,432   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:

                 

Interest rate swaps

     55,098         254         2,273         57,275         344         786   

Foreign currency swaps

     632,921         1,172         11,719         629,512         --         27,398   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total hedging derivatives

     688,019         1,426         13,992         686,787         344         28,184   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total derivatives

     $       7,477,029         $       175,236         $       1,088,744         $       6,598,107         $       190,634         $       1,209,616   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

The Company does not enter into derivative instruments for speculative purposes. As discussed below under “Non-qualifying Derivatives and Derivatives for Purposes Other Than Hedging,” the Company uses various derivative instruments for risk management purposes that either do not qualify or have not been qualified for hedge accounting treatment, including derivatives used to economically hedge changes in the fair value of liabilities associated with the reinsurance of variable annuities with guaranteed living benefits. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company held interest rate swaps that were designated and qualified as cash flow hedges of interest rate risk. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company held foreign currency swaps that were designated and qualified as hedges of a portion of its net investment in its foreign operations. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company also had derivative instruments that were not designated as hedging instruments. See Note 2 – “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of the Company’s 2012 Annual Report for a detailed discussion of the accounting treatment for derivative instruments,

 

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including embedded derivatives. Derivative instruments are carried at fair value and generally require an insignificant amount of cash at inception of the contracts.

Cash Flow Hedges

The Company designates and accounts for certain interest rate swaps, in which the cash flows are denominated in different currencies, commonly referred to as cross-currency swaps, as cash flow hedges when they meet the requirements of the general accounting principles for Derivatives and Hedging.

The following table presents the components of AOCI, before income tax, and the condensed consolidated income statement classification where the gain or loss is recognized related to cash flow hedges for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

                 Three months ended  March 31,              
     2013      2012  

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance beginning of period

    $ 403        $ (828)   

Gains (losses) deferred in other comprehensive income (loss) on the effective portion of cash flow hedges

     1,863         323   

Amounts reclassified to investment income

     (305)         (357)   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance end of period

    $ 1,961        $ (862)   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

As of March 31, 2013, 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 $0.8 million. 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 investment income over the term of the investment cash flows. There were no hedged forecasted transactions, other than the receipt or payment of variable interest payments on existing financial instruments, for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012.

The following table presents the effects of derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships on the condensed consolidated statements of income and AOCI for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

Derivatives in Cash Flow

Hedging Relationships

  Amount of Gains
(Losses) Deferred in
AOCI on Derivatives
    Amount and Location of Gains (Losses)
Reclassified from AOCI  into Income (Loss)
    Amount and Location of Gains (Losses)
Recognized in Income (Loss) on Derivatives
 
       (Effective Portion)        (Effective Portion)     (Ineffective Portion and Amounts Excluded
from Effectiveness Testing)
 
             Investment Related   
Gains (Losses)
       Investment Income           Investment Related   
Gains (Losses)
       Investment Income     

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2013:

         

Interest rate swaps

   $ 1,863       $ --        $ 305       $ (17)       $ --    
For the three months ended March 31, 2012:          

Interest rate swaps

   $ 323       $ --        $ 357       $ (24)       $ --    

Hedges of Net Investments in Foreign Operations

The Company uses foreign currency swaps to hedge a portion of its net investment in certain foreign operations against adverse movements in exchange rates. The following table illustrates the Company’s net investments in foreign operations (“NIFO”) hedges for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

        Derivative Gains (Losses) Deferred in AOCI       
    For the three months ended March 31,  

Type of NIFO Hedge (1) (2)

  2013      2012  

Foreign currency swaps

   $ 10,922        $ (10,645

 

(1) There were no sales or substantial liquidations of net investments in foreign operations that would have required the reclassification of gains or losses from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into investment income during the periods presented.

 

(2) There was no ineffectiveness recognized for the Company’s hedges of net investments in foreign operations.

 

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The cumulative foreign currency translation loss recorded in AOCI related to these hedges was $5.5 million and $16.4 million at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. If a foreign operation was sold or substantially liquidated, the amounts in AOCI would be reclassified to the condensed consolidated statements of income. A pro rata portion would be reclassified upon partial sale of a foreign operation.

Non-qualifying Derivatives and Derivatives for Purposes Other Than Hedging

The Company uses various derivative instruments for risk management purposes that either do not qualify or have not been qualified for hedge accounting treatment, including derivatives used to economically hedge changes in the fair value of liabilities associated with the reinsurance of variable annuities with guaranteed living benefits. The gain or loss related to the change in fair value for these derivative instruments is recognized in investment related gains (losses), in the condensed consolidated statements of income, except where otherwise noted. For the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized investment related losses of $60.4 million and $93.3 million, respectively, related to derivatives (not including embedded derivatives) that do not qualify or have not been qualified for hedge accounting.

A summary of the effect of non-hedging derivatives, including embedded derivatives, on the Company’s income statement for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 is as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

                  Gain (Loss) for the Three Months  Ended        
March 31,
 

Type of Non-hedging Derivative

  

Income Statement Location of Gain (Loss)

   2013      2012  

Interest rate swaps

  

Investment related gains (losses), net

     $ (22,265)         $ (47,352)   

Interest rate options

  

Investment related gains (losses), net

     1,982         --   

Financial futures

  

Investment related gains (losses), net

     (6,881)         (17,409)   

Foreign currency forwards

  

Investment related gains (losses), net

     (5,659)         (1,608)   

CPI swaps

  

Investment related gains (losses), net

     (871)         (802)   

Credit default swaps

  

Investment related gains (losses), net

     3,904         11,813   

Equity options

  

Investment related gains (losses), net

     (30,623)         (37,983)   

Embedded derivatives in:

        

Modco or funds withheld arrangements

  

Investment related gains (losses), net

     90,257         (9,428)   

Indexed annuity products

  

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

     --         (998)   

Indexed annuity products

  

Interest credited

     (32,996)         (18,741)   

Variable annuity products

  

Investment related gains (losses), net

     51,314         146,375   
     

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total non-hedging derivatives

        $ 48,162         $ 23,867   
     

 

 

    

 

 

 

Types of Derivatives Used by the Company

Interest Rate Swaps

Interest rate swaps are used by the Company primarily to reduce market risks from changes in interest rates and to alter interest rate exposure arising from mismatches between assets and liabilities (duration mismatches). With an interest rate swap, the Company agrees with another party to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between two rates, which can be either fixed-rate or floating-rate interest amounts, tied to an agreed-upon notional principal amount. These transactions are executed pursuant to master agreements that provide for a single net payment or individual gross payments at each due date.

Interest Rate Options

Interest rate options, commonly referred to as swaptions, are used by the Company primarily to hedge living benefit guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products. A swaption, used to hedge against adverse changes in interest rates, is an option to enter into a swap with a forward starting effective date. The Company pays an upfront premium for the right to exercise this option in the future.

Financial Futures

Exchange-traded equity futures are used primarily to economically hedge liabilities embedded in certain variable annuity products. With exchange-traded equity futures transactions, the Company agrees to purchase or sell a specified number of contracts, the value of which is determined by the relevant stock indices, and to post variation margin on a daily basis in an amount equal to the difference between the daily estimated fair values of those contracts. The Company enters into exchange-traded equity futures with regulated futures commission merchants that are members of the exchange.

 

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Equity Options

Equity index options are used by the Company primarily to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products. To hedge against adverse changes in equity indices volatility, the Company buys put options. The contracts are net settled in cash based on differentials in the indices at the time of exercise and the strike price.

Consumer Price Index Swaps

Consumer price index (“CPI”) swaps are used by the Company primarily to economically hedge liabilities embedded in certain insurance products where value is directly affected by changes in a designated benchmark consumer price index. With a CPI swap transaction, the Company agrees with another party to exchange the actual amount of inflation realized over a specified period of time for a fixed amount of inflation determined at inception. These transactions are executed pursuant to master agreements that provide for a single net payment or individual gross payments to be made by the counterparty at each due date. Most of these swaps will require a single payment to be made by one counterparty at the maturity date of the swap.

Foreign Currency Swaps

Foreign currency swaps are used by the Company to reduce the risk from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates associated with its assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies. With a foreign currency swap transaction, the Company agrees with another party to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between one currency and another at a forward exchange rate calculated by reference to an agreed upon principal amount. The principal amount of each currency is exchanged at the termination of the currency swap by each party.

Foreign Currency Forwards

Foreign currency forwards are used by the Company to reduce the risk from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates associated with its assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies. With a foreign currency forward transaction, the Company agrees with another party to deliver a specified amount of an identified currency at a specified future date. The price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment for such a contract is made in a different currency at the specified future date.

Credit Default Swaps

The Company sells protection under single name credit default swaps and credit default swap index tranches to diversify its credit risk exposure in certain portfolios and, in combination with purchasing securities, to replicate characteristics of similar investments based on the credit quality and term of the credit default swap. Credit default triggers for indexed reference entities and single name reference entities are defined in the contracts. The Company’s maximum exposure to credit loss equals the notional value for credit default swaps. In the event of default for credit default swaps, the Company is typically required to pay the protection holder the full notional value less a recovery rate determined at auction.

The following table presents the estimated fair value, maximum amount of future payments and weighted average years to maturity of credit default swaps sold by the Company at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

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     March 31, 2013      December 31, 2012  

Rating Agency Designation of Referenced
Credit Obligations(1)

   Estimated Fair
  Value of Credit  
Default Swaps
    

 

Maximum
Amount of Future
Payments under
Credit Default
Swaps(2)

     Weighted
Average
Years to
  Maturity(3)  
     Estimated Fair
  Value of Credit  
Default Swaps
     Maximum
Amount of Future
Payments under
Credit Default
Swaps(2)
     Weighted
Average
Years to
  Maturity(3)  
 

AAA/AA-/A+/A/A-

                 

Single name credit default swaps

   $ (1,630)       $ 124,500         5.7       $ (2,077)       $ 124,500         5.9   

Credit default swaps referencing indices

     --         --         --         --         --         --   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal

     (1,630)         124,500         5.7         (2,077)         124,500         5.9   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

BBB+/BBB/BBB-

                 

Single name credit default swaps

     (2,030)         138,200         5.7         (2,345)         135,500         5.5   

Credit default swaps referencing indices

     565         430,000         4.7         937         430,000         5.0   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal

     (1,465)         568,200         5.0         (1,408)         565,500         5.1   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

BB+

                 

Single name credit default swaps

     (110)         6,000         4.2         (222)         6,000         4.5   

Credit default swaps referencing indices

     --         --         --         --         --         --   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal

     (110)         6,000         4.2         (222)         6,000         4.5   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ (3,205)       $ 698,700         5.1       $ (3,707)       $ 696,000         5.2   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1)

The rating agency designations are based on ratings from Standard and Poor’s (“S&P”).

 

(2)

Assumes the value of the referenced credit obligations is zero.

 

(3)

The weighted average years to maturity of the credit default swaps is calculated based on weighted average notional amounts.

The Company also purchases credit default swaps to reduce its risk against a drop in bond prices due to credit concerns of certain bond issuers. If a credit event, as defined by the contract, occurs, the Company is able to put the bond back to the counterparty at par.

Synthetic Guaranteed Investment Contracts

The Company sells fee-based synthetic guaranteed investment contracts which include investment-only, stable value contracts, to retirement plans. The assets are owned by the trustees of such plans, who invest the assets under the terms of investment guidelines agreed to with the Company. The contracts contain a guarantee of a minimum rate of return on participant balances supported by the underlying assets, and a guarantee of liquidity to meet certain participant-initiated plan cash flow requirements. These contracts are accounted for as derivatives, recorded at fair value and classified as interest rate derivatives.

Embedded Derivatives

The Company has certain embedded derivatives which are required to be separated from their host contracts and reported as derivatives. Host contracts include reinsurance treaties structured on a modified coinsurance (“modco”) or funds withheld basis. Changes in fair values of embedded derivatives on modco or funds withheld treaties are net of a decrease in investment related gains (losses), net of $1.7 million and $63.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, associated with the Company’s own credit risk. Changes in fair values of embedded derivatives on variable annuity contracts are net of a decrease in investment related gains (losses), net of $11.9 million and $37.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, associated with the Company’s own credit risk. Additionally, the Company reinsures equity-indexed annuity and variable annuity contracts with benefits that are considered embedded derivatives, including guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits, guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits, and guaranteed minimum income benefits. The related gains (losses) and the effect on net income after amortization of deferred acquisition costs (“DAC”) and income taxes for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 are reflected in the following table (dollars in thousands):

 

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    Three months ended
March 31,
 
            2013                     2012          

Embedded derivatives in modco or funds withheld arrangements included in investment related gains

  $ 90,257      $ (9,428)   

After the associated amortization of DAC and taxes, the related amounts included in net income

    21,624        1,933   

Embedded derivatives in variable annuity contracts included in investment related gains

    51,314        146,375   

After the associated amortization of DAC and taxes, the related amounts included in net income

    12,192        15,082   

Amounts related to embedded derivatives in equity-indexed annuities included in benefits and expenses

    (32,996)        (19,739)   

After the associated amortization of DAC and taxes, the related amounts included in net income

    (29,550)        13,870   

Credit Risk

The Company manages its credit risk related to over-the-counter derivatives by entering into transactions with creditworthy counterparties, maintaining collateral arrangements and through the use of master agreements that provide for a single net payment to be made by one counterparty to another at each due date and upon termination. As exchange-traded futures are affected through regulated exchanges, and positions are marked to market on a daily basis, the Company has minimal exposure to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties.

The Company enters into various collateral arrangements, which require both the posting and accepting of collateral in connection with its derivative instruments. Collateral agreements contain attachment thresholds that may vary depending on the posting party’s ratings. Additionally, a decline in the Company’s or the counterparty’s credit ratings to specified levels could result in potential settlement of the derivative positions under the Company’s agreements with its counterparties. The Company also has exchange-traded futures, which require the maintenance of a margin account.

The Company’s credit exposure related to derivative contracts is generally limited to the fair value at the reporting date plus or minus any collateral posted or held by the Company. Information regarding the Company’s credit exposure related to its over-the-counter derivative contracts and margin account for exchange-traded futures at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are reflected in the following table (dollars in thousands):

 

         March 31, 2013            December 31, 2012    

Estimated fair value of derivatives in net asset position

   $ 133,157       $ 136,558   

Cash provided as collateral(1)

     6,250         27,867   

Securities pledged to counterparties as collateral(2)

     14,118         1,565   

Cash pledged from counterparties as collateral(3)

     (126,329)         (136,414)   

Securities pledged from counterparties as collateral(4)

     (17,664)         (22,458)   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net credit exposure

   $ 9,532       $ 7,118   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Margin account related to exchange-traded futures(5)

   $ 3,529       $ 5,605   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) Consists of receivable from counterparty, included in other assets.
(2) Included in other invested assets, primarily consists of U.S. Treasury securities.
(3) Included in cash and cash equivalents, with obligation to return cash collateral recorded in other liabilities.
(4) Consists of U.S. Treasury securities.
(5) Included in cash and cash equivalents.

 

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6.  Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities

Fair Value Measurement

General accounting principles for Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures define fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. These principles also establish a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value and describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

 

Level 1  

 

Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Active markets are defined as having the following characteristics for the measured asset/liability: (i) many transactions, (ii) current prices, (iii) price quotes not varying substantially among market makers, (iv) narrow bid/ask spreads and (v) most information publicly available. The Company’s Level 1 assets and liabilities include investment securities that are traded in exchange markets.

Level 2

 

Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or market standard valuation techniques and assumptions with significant inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. Such observable inputs include benchmarking prices for similar assets in active, liquid markets, quoted prices in markets that are not active and observable yields and spreads in the market. The Company’s Level 2 assets and liabilities include investment securities with quoted prices that are traded less frequently than exchange-traded instruments and derivative contracts whose values are determined using market standard valuation techniques. This category primarily includes corporate securities, Canadian and Canadian provincial government securities, and residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities, among others. Level 2 valuations are generally obtained from third party pricing services for identical or comparable assets or liabilities or through the use of valuation methodologies using observable market inputs. Prices from services are validated through analytical reviews and assessment of current market activity.

Level 3

 

Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the related assets or liabilities. Level 3 assets and liabilities include financial instruments whose value is determined using market standard valuation techniques described above. When observable inputs are not available, the market standard techniques for determining the estimated fair value of certain securities that trade infrequently, and therefore have little transparency, rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value and that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. These unobservable inputs can be based in large part on management judgment or estimation and cannot be supported by reference to market activity. Even though unobservable, management believes these inputs are based on assumptions deemed appropriate given the circumstances and consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing similar assets and liabilities. For the Company’s invested assets, this category generally includes corporate securities (primarily private placements and bank loans), asset-backed securities (including those with exposure to subprime mortgages), and to a lesser extent, certain residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities, among others. Prices are determined using valuation methodologies such as discounted cash flow models and other similar techniques. Non-binding broker quotes, which are utilized when pricing service information is not available, are reviewed for reasonableness based on the Company’s understanding of the market, and are generally considered Level 3. Under certain circumstances, based on its observations of transactions in active markets, the Company may conclude the prices received from independent third party pricing services or brokers are not reasonable or reflective of market activity. In those instances, the Company would apply internally developed valuation techniques to the related assets or liabilities. Additionally, the Company’s embedded derivatives, all of which are associated with reinsurance treaties, are classified in Level 3 since their values include significant unobservable inputs.

When inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the level within which the fair value measurement is categorized is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. For example, a Level 3 fair value measurement may include inputs that are observable (Levels 1 and 2) and unobservable (Level 3). Therefore, gains and losses for such assets and liabilities categorized within Level 3 may include changes in fair value that are attributable to both observable inputs (Levels 1 and 2) and unobservable inputs (Level 3).

Assets and Liabilities by Hierarchy Level

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are summarized below (dollars in thousands):

 

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March 31, 2013:               Fair Value Measurements Using:  
         Total         

        Level 1        

         Level 2              Level 3      

Assets:

             

Fixed maturity securities – available-for-sale:

             

Corporate securities

   $         12,441,501       $     65,890       $         10,728,708       $         1,646,903   

Canadian and Canadian provincial governments

     3,942,198           --         3,942,198         --   

Residential mortgage-backed securities

     1,076,770           --         936,053         140,717   

Asset-backed securities

     756,544           --         468,313         288,231   

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

     1,698,144           --         1,522,850         175,294   

U.S. government and agencies securities

     331,201           259,892         71,309         --   

State and political subdivision securities

     313,097           --         270,458         42,639   

Other foreign government supranational and foreign government-sponsored enterprises

     1,842,204           272,823         1,541,516         27,865   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities – available-for-sale

     22,401,659           598,605         19,481,405         2,321,649   

Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivatives

     (156,189)           --         --         (156,189)   

Cash equivalents

     367,876           367,876         --         --   

Short-term investments

     157,281           118,621         16,659         22,001   

Other invested assets:

             

Non-redeemable preferred stock

     84,111           73,446         10,665         --   

Other equity securities

     136,554           136,554         --         --   

Derivatives:

             

Interest rate swaps

     83,662           --         83,662         --   

Interest rate options

     16,054           --         16,054         --   

CPI swaps

     945           --         945         --   

Credit default swaps

     (3,391)           --         (3,391)         --   

Equity options

     54,351           --         54,351         --   

Foreign currency swaps

     140           --         140         --   

Collateral

     25,790           14,118         11,672         --   

Other

     7,205           7,205         --         --   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other invested assets

     405,421           231,323         174,098         --   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 23,176,048       $     1,316,425       $ 19,672,162       $ 2,187,461   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities:

             

Interest sensitive contract liabilities – embedded derivatives

   $ 890,476       $     --       $ --       $ 890,476   

Other liabilities:

             

Derivatives:

             

Interest rate swaps

     1,463           --         1,463         --   

Foreign currency forwards

     7,014           --         7,014         --   

Credit default swaps

     (120)           --         (120)         --   

Equity options

     (440)           --         (440)         --   

Foreign currency swaps

     10,687           --         10,687         --   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 909,080       $     --       $ 18,604       $ 890,476   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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December 31, 2012:               Fair Value Measurements Using:  
         Total         

        Level 1        

         Level 2              Level 3      

Assets:

             

Fixed maturity securities – available-for-sale:

             

Corporate securities

   $         12,380,071       $     43,544       $         10,667,964       $         1,668,563   

Canadian and Canadian provincial governments

     4,049,334           --         4,049,334         --   

Residential mortgage-backed securities

     1,042,064           --         948,133         93,931   

Asset-backed securities

     691,555           --         459,164         232,391   

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

     1,698,903           --         1,531,897         167,006   

U.S. government and agencies securities

     265,190           192,780         67,872         4,538   

State and political subdivision securities

     302,498           --         259,286         43,212   

Other foreign government, supranational and foreign government-sponsored enterprises

     1,861,999           297,025         1,536,694         28,280   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities – available-for-sale

     22,291,614           533,349         19,520,344         2,237,921   

Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivatives

     (243,177)           --         --         (243,177)   

Cash equivalents

     575,864           575,864         --         --   

Short-term investments

     239,131           178,923         38,177         22,031   

Other invested assets:

             

Non-redeemable preferred stock

     74,841           64,268         10,573         --   

Other equity securities

     147,859           147,859         --         --   

Derivatives:

             

Interest rate swaps

     104,972           --         104,972         --   

Foreign currency forwards

     1,017           --         1,017         --   

CPI swaps

     1,446           --         1,446         --   

Credit default swaps

     (1,741)           --         (1,741)         --   

Equity options

     62,514           --         62,514         --   

Collateral

     17,002           1,323         15,679         --   

Other

     11,951           11,951         --         --   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other invested assets

     419,861           225,401         194,460         --   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 23,283,293       $     1,513,537       $ 19,752,981       $ 2,016,775   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities:

             

Interest sensitive contract liabilities – embedded derivatives

   $ 912,361       $     --       $ --       $ 912,361   

Other liabilities:

             

Derivatives:

             

Interest rate swaps

     196           --         196         --   

Foreign currency forwards

     2,105           --         2,105         --   

Credit default swaps

     1,953           --         1,953         --   

Foreign currency swaps

     27,398           --         27,398         --   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 944,013       $     --       $ 31,652       $ 912,361   
  

 

 

    

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The Company may utilize information from third parties, such as pricing services and brokers, to assist in determining the fair value for certain assets and liabilities; however, management is ultimately responsible for all fair values presented in the Company’s financial statements. This includes responsibility for monitoring the fair value process, ensuring objective and reliable valuation practices and pricing of financial instruments, and approving changes to valuation methodologies and pricing sources. The selection of the valuation technique(s) to apply considers the definition of an exit price and the nature of the asset or liability being valued and significant expertise and judgment is required.

The Company performs initial and ongoing analysis and review of the various techniques utilized in determining fair value to ensure that the valuation approaches utilized are appropriate and consistently applied, and that the various assumptions are reasonable. The Company also performs ongoing analysis and review of the information and prices received from third parties to ensure that the prices represent a reasonable estimate of the fair value and to monitor controls around pricing, which includes quantitative and qualitative analysis and is overseen by the Company’s investment and accounting personnel. Examples of procedures performed include, but are not limited to, review of pricing trends, comparison of a sample of executed prices of securities sold to the fair value estimates, comparison of fair value estimates to management’s knowledge of the current market, and ongoing confirmation that third party pricing services use, wherever possible, market-based parameters for valuation. In addition, the Company utilizes both internal and external cash flow models to analyze the reasonableness of fair values utilizing credit spread and other market assumptions, where appropriate. As a result of the analysis, if the Company determines there is a more appropriate fair value based upon the available market data, the price received from the third party is adjusted accordingly. The Company also determines if the inputs used in estimated fair values received from pricing services are observable by assessing whether these inputs can be corroborated by observable market data.

 

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The fair value of embedded derivative liabilities, including those calculated by third parties, are monitored through the use of attribution reports to quantify the effect of underlying sources of fair value change, including capital market inputs based on policyholder account values, interest rates and short-term and long-term implied volatilities, from period to period. Actuarial assumptions are based on experience studies performed internally in combination with available industry information and are reviewed on a periodic basis, at least annually.

For assets and liabilities reported at fair value, the Company utilizes when available, fair values based on quoted prices in active markets that are regularly and readily obtainable. Generally, these are very liquid investments and the valuation does not require management judgment. When quoted prices in active markets are not available, fair value is based on market valuation techniques, market comparable pricing and the income approach. The use of different techniques, assumptions and inputs may have a material effect on the estimated fair values of the Company’s securities holdings. For the quarters ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the application of market standard valuation techniques applied to similar assets and liabilities has been consistent.

The methods and assumptions the Company uses to estimate the fair value of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below.

Fixed Maturity Securities – The fair values of the Company’s publicly-traded fixed maturity securities are generally based on prices obtained from independent pricing services. Prices from pricing services are sourced from multiple vendors, and a vendor hierarchy is maintained by asset type based on historical pricing experience and vendor expertise. The Company generally receives prices from multiple pricing services for each security, but ultimately uses the price from the pricing service highest in the vendor hierarchy based on the respective asset type. To validate reasonableness, prices are periodically reviewed as explained above. Consistent with the fair value hierarchy described above, securities with validated quotes from pricing services are generally reflected within Level 2, as they are primarily based on observable pricing for similar assets and/or other market observable inputs. If the pricing information received from third party pricing services is not reflective of market activity or other inputs observable in the market, the Company may challenge the price through a formal process with the pricing service.

If the Company ultimately concludes that pricing information received from the independent pricing service is not reflective of market activity, non-binding broker quotes are used, if available. If the Company concludes the values from both pricing services and brokers are not reflective of market activity, it may override the information from the pricing service or broker with an internally developed valuation; however, this occurs infrequently. Internally developed valuations or non-binding broker quotes are also used to determine fair value in circumstances where vendor pricing is not available. These estimates may use significant unobservable inputs, which reflect the Company’s assumptions about the inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset. Circumstances where observable market data are not available may include events such as market illiquidity and credit events related to the security. Pricing service overrides, internally developed valuations and non-binding broker quotes are generally based on significant unobservable inputs and are reflected as Level 3 in the valuation hierarchy.

The inputs used in the valuation of corporate and government securities include, but are not limited to standard market observable inputs which are derived from, or corroborated by, market observable data including market yield curve, duration, call provisions, observable prices and spreads for similar publicly traded or privately traded issues that incorporate the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer. For structured securities, valuation is based primarily on matrix pricing or other similar techniques using standard market inputs including spreads for actively traded securities, spreads off benchmark yields, expected prepayment speeds and volumes, current and forecasted loss severity, rating, weighted average coupon, weighted average maturity, average delinquency rates, geographic region, debt-service coverage ratios and issuance-specific information including, but not limited to: collateral type, payment terms of the underlying assets, payment priority within the tranche, structure of the security, deal performance and vintage of loans.

When observable inputs are not available, the market standard valuation techniques for determining the estimated fair value of certain types of securities that trade infrequently, and therefore have little or no price transparency, rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. These unobservable inputs can be based in large part on management judgment or estimation, and cannot be supported by reference to market activity. Even though unobservable, these inputs are based on assumptions deemed appropriate given the circumstances and are believed to be consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such securities.

The fair values of private placement securities are primarily determined using a discounted cash flow model. In certain cases these models primarily use observable inputs with a discount rate based upon the average of spread surveys collected from private market intermediaries who are active in both primary and secondary transactions, taking into account, among other factors, the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer and the reduced liquidity associated with private placements. Generally, these securities have been reflected within Level 3. For certain private fixed maturities, the discounted cash flow

 

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model may also incorporate significant unobservable inputs, which reflect the Company’s own assumptions about the inputs market participants would use in pricing the security. To the extent management determines that such unobservable inputs are not significant to the price of a security, a Level 2 classification is made. Otherwise, a Level 3 classification is used.

Embedded Derivatives – For embedded derivative liabilities associated with the underlying products in reinsurance treaties, primarily equity-indexed and variable annuity treaties, the Company utilizes a discounted cash flow model, which includes an estimate of future equity option purchases and an adjustment for the Company’s own credit risk. The variable annuity embedded derivative calculations are performed by third parties based on methodology and input assumptions provided by the Company. To validate the reasonableness of the resulting fair value, the Company’s internal actuaries perform reviews and analytical procedures on the results. The capital market inputs to the model, such as equity indexes, short-term equity volatility and interest rates, are generally observable. The valuation also requires certain significant inputs, which are generally not observable and accordingly, the valuation is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy, see “Level 3 Measurements and Transfers” below for a description.

The fair value of embedded derivatives associated with funds withheld reinsurance treaties is determined based upon a total return swap technique with reference to the fair value of the investments held by the ceding company that support the Company’s funds withheld at interest asset with an adjustment for the Company’s own credit risk. The fair value of the underlying assets is generally based on market observable inputs using industry standard valuation techniques. The valuation also requires certain significant inputs, which are generally not observable and accordingly, the valuation is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy, see “Level 3 Measurements and Transfers” below for a description.

Company’s Own Credit Risk – The Company uses a structural default risk model to estimate its own credit risk. The input assumptions are a combination of externally derived and published values (default threshold and uncertainty), market inputs (interest rate, Company equity price per share, Company debt per share, Company equity price volatility) and insurance industry data (Loss Given Default), adjusted for market recoverability.

Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments – Cash equivalents and short-term investments include money market instruments, commercial paper and other highly liquid debt instruments. Money market instruments are generally valued using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible for identical assets and are primarily classified as Level 1. The fair value of certain other short-term investments, such as floating rate notes and bonds with original maturities less then twelve months, are based upon other market observable data and are typically classified as Level 2. However, certain short-term investments may incorporate significant unobservable inputs resulting in a Level 3 classification. Various time deposits carried as cash equivalents or short-term investments are not measured at estimated fair value and therefore are excluded from the tables presented.

Equity Securities – Equity securities consist principally of exchange-traded funds and preferred stock of publicly and privately traded companies. The fair values of publicly traded equity securities are primarily based on quoted market prices in active markets and are classified within Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair values of preferred equity securities, for which quoted market prices are not readily available, are based on prices obtained from independent pricing services and these securities are generally classified within Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative Assets and Derivative Liabilities – All of the derivative instruments utilized by the Company are classified within Level 2 on the fair value hierarchy. These derivatives are principally valued using an income approach. Valuations of interest rate contracts, non-option-based, are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves, and repurchase rates. Valuations of foreign currency contracts, non-option-based, are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, LIBOR basis curves, currency spot rates, and cross currency basis curves. Valuations of credit contracts, non-option-based, are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, credit curves, and recovery rates. Valuations of equity market contracts, non-option-based, are based on present value techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, spot equity index levels, and dividend yield curves. Valuations of equity market contracts, option-based, are based on option pricing models, which utilize significant inputs that may include the swap yield curve, spot equity index levels, dividend yield curves, and equity volatility. The Company does not currently have derivatives included in Level 3 measurement.

Level 3 Measurements and Transfers

As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively, the Company classified approximately 10.4% and 10.0% of its fixed maturity securities in the Level 3 category. These securities primarily consist of private placement corporate securities and bank loans with inactive trading markets. Additionally, the Company has included asset-backed securities with subprime exposure and mortgage-backed securities with below investment grade ratings in the Level 3 category due to market uncertainty associated with these securities and the Company’s utilization of information from third parties for the valuation of these securities.

 

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The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s corporate, sovereign, government-backed, other political subdivision and short-term investments are probability of default, liquidity premium and subordination premium. Significant increases (decreases) in any of those inputs in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement. Generally, a change in the assumption used for the probability of default is accompanied by a directionally similar change in the assumptions used for the liquidity premium and subordination premium. For securities with a fair value derived using the market comparable pricing valuation technique, liquidity premium is the only significant unobservable input.

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s asset and mortgage-backed securities are prepayment rates, probability of default, liquidity premium and loss severity in the event of default. Significant increases (decreases) in any of those inputs in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement. Generally, a change in the assumption used for the probability of default is accompanied by a directionally similar change in the assumption used for the liquidity premium and loss severity and a directionally opposite change in the assumption used for prepayment rates.

The actuarial assumptions used in the fair value of embedded derivatives which include assumptions related to lapses, withdrawals, and mortality, are based on experience studies performed by the Company in combination with available industry information and are reviewed on a periodic basis, at least annually. The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of embedded derivatives are assumptions associated with policyholder experience and selected capital market assumptions for equity-indexed and variable annuities. The selected capital market assumptions, which include long-term implied volatilities, are projections based on short-term historical information. Changes in interest rates, equity indices, equity volatility, the Company’s own credit risk, and actuarial assumptions regarding policyholder experience may result in significant fluctuations in the value of embedded derivatives.

Fair value measurements associated with funds withheld reinsurance treaties are generally not materially sensitive to changes in unobservable inputs associated with policyholder experience. The primary drivers of change in these fair values are related to movements of credit spreads, which are generally observable. Increases (decreases) in market credit spreads tend to decrease (increase) the fair value of embedded derivatives. Increases (decreases) in the own credit assumption tend to decrease (increase) the magnitude of the fair value of embedded derivatives.

Fair value measurements associated with variable annuity treaties are sensitive to both capital markets inputs and policyholder experience inputs. Increases (decreases) in lapse rates tend to decrease (increase) the value of the embedded derivatives associated with variable annuity treaties. Increases (decreases) in the long-term volatility assumption tend to increase (decrease) the fair value of embedded derivatives. Increases (decreases) in the own credit assumption tend to decrease (increase) the magnitude of the fair value of embedded derivatives.

The following table presents quantitative information about significant unobservable inputs used in Level 3 fair value measurements developed by the Company, which does not include Level 3 asset and liability measurements provided by third parties, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

March 31, 2013:           Valuation    Unobservable    Range  
           Fair Value           

Technique(s)

   Input     (Weighted Average)   

Assets:

           

State and political subdivision securities

   $ 5,364       Market comparable securities        Liquidity premium      1%   

Corporate securities

     429,817       Market comparable securities    Liquidity premium      0-2% (1%)   

Short-term investments

     22,001       Market comparable securities    Liquidity premium      1%   

Funds withheld at interest- embedded derivatives

     (156,189)       Total return swap    Mortality      0-100%  (1%)   
         Lapse      0-35%  (6%)   
         Withdrawal      0-5%  (3%)   
         Own Credit      0-1%  (1%)   
         Crediting rate      2-4%  (3%)   

Liabilities:

           

Interest sensitive contract liabilities- embedded derivatives- indexed annuities

     769,685       Discounted cash flow    Mortality      0-100%  (1%)   
         Lapse      0-35%  (6%)   
         Withdrawal      0-5%  (3%)   
         Option budget projection      2-4%  (3%)   

 

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Table of Contents

March 31, 2013 (continued):

 

  Fair Value    

Valuation

Technique(s)

  Unobservable
Input
  Range
(Weighted Average)
 

Interest sensitive contract liabilities- embedded derivatives- variable annuities

    120,791      Discounted cash flow   Mortality     0-100% (2%)   
      Lapse     0-25% (5%)   
      Withdrawal     0-7% (3%)   
      Own Credit     0-1% (1%)   
      Long-term volatility     0-27% (13%)   

December 31, 2012:

 

  Fair Value    

Valuation

Technique(s)

  Unobservable
Input
  Range
(Weighted Average)
 
       

Assets:

       

State and political subdivision securities

  $ 5,451      Market comparable securities     Liquidity premium     1%   

Corporate securities

            450,177      Market comparable securities     Liquidity premium     0-2% (1%)   

Short-term investments

    22,031      Market comparable securities     Liquidity premium     1%   

Funds withheld at interest- embedded derivatives

    (243,177)      Total return swap   Mortality     0-100% (1%)   
      Lapse     0-35% (6%)   
      Withdrawal     0-5% (3%)   
      Own Credit     0-1% (1%)   
      Crediting Rate     2-4% (3%)   

Liabilities:

       

Interest sensitive contract liabilities- embedded derivatives- indexed annuities

    740,256      Discounted cash flow   Mortality     0-100% (1%)   
      Lapse     0-35% (6%)   
      Withdrawal     0-5% (3%)   
      Option budget projection     2-4% (3%)   

Interest sensitive contract liabilities- embedded derivatives- variable annuities

    172,105      Discounted cash flow   Mortality     0-100% (2%)   
      Lapse     0-25% (5%)   
      Withdrawal     0-7% (3%)   
      Own Credit     0-1% (1%)   
      Long-term volatility     0-27% (14%)   

The Company recognizes transfers of financial instruments into and out of levels within the fair value hierarchy at the beginning of the quarter in which the actual event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer occurs. Financial instruments transferred into Level 3 are due to a lack of observable market transactions and price information. Financial instruments are transferred out of Level 3 when circumstances change such that significant inputs can be corroborated with market observable data. This may be due to a significant increase in market activity for the financial instrument, a specific event, one or more significant input(s) becoming observable. Transfers out of Level 3 were primarily the result of the Company using observable pricing information or a third party pricing quotation that appropriately reflects the fair value of those financial instruments, without the need for adjustment based on the Company’s own assumptions regarding the characteristics of a specific financial instrument or the current liquidity in the market. In addition, certain transfers out of Level 3 were also due to increased observations of market transactions and price information for those financial instruments.

Transfers from Level 1 to Level 2 are due to the lack of observable market data when pricing these securities, while transfers from Level 2 to Level 1 are due to an increase in the availability of market observable data in an active market. The following tables present the transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2013      2012  
         Transfers from    
Level 1 to

Level 2
         Transfers from    
Level 2 to

Level 1
         Transfers from    
Level 1 to

Level 2
         Transfers from    
Level 2 to

Level 1
 

Fixed maturity securities - available-for-sale:

           

Corporate securities

     $ --           $ 14,012            $ --           $ 4    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed maturity securities

     $ --           $ 14,012            $ --           $ 4    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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The tables below provide a summary of the changes in fair value of Level 3 assets and liabilities for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as well as the portion of gains or losses included in income for the three months ended March 31, 2013 attributable to unrealized gains or losses related to those assets and liabilities still held at March 31, 2013 (dollars in thousands):

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2013:   Fixed maturity securities - available-for-sale  
        Corporate    
securities
    Residential
mortgage-

backed
securities
        Asset-backed    
securities
        Commercial    
mortgage-
backed

securities
    U.S.
Government
  and  agencies  
securities
 

Fair value, beginning of period

   $ 1,668,563      $ 93,931      $         232,391      $ 167,006      $ 4,538   

Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)

         

Included in earnings, net:

         

Investment income, net of related expenses

    (2,027)        105        878        502        --   

Investment related gains (losses), net

    (1,262)        (173)        (1,747)        (870)        --   

Claims & other policy benefits

    --        --        --        --        --   

Interest credited

    --        --        --        --        --   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

    --        --        --        --        --   

Included in other comprehensive income

    963        2,514        12,036        12,500        --   

Purchases(1)

    74,671        40,538        55,881        --        --   

Sales(1)

    (16,278)        (1,599)        (8,297)        (1,604)        --   

Settlements(1)

    (65,366)        (4,923)        (5,877)        (2,240)        --   

Transfers into Level 3

    3,773        10,324        2,966        --        --   

Transfers out of Level 3

    (16,134)        --        --        --        (4,538)   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Fair value, end of period

   $   1,646,903      $ 140,717      $         288,231      $ 175,294      $ --   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period          

Included in earnings, net:

         

Investment income, net of related expenses

  $ (2,027)      $ 105      $ 882      $ 501      $ --   

Investment related gains (losses), net

    (202)        --        --        --        --   

Claims & other policy benefits

    --        --        --        --        --   

Interest credited

    --        --        --        --        --   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

    --        --        --        --        --   
For the three months ended March 31, 2013 (continued):   Fixed maturity securities
available-for-sale
                   
    State
and political
subdivision
securities
    Other foreign
government,
supranational and
foreign government-
sponsored enterprises
    Funds withheld
at interest-
embedded
derivative
    Short-term
investments
    Interest sensitive
contract liabilities
embedded
derivatives
 

Fair value, beginning of period

  $ 43,212      $ 28,280      $ (243,177)      $ 22,031      $ (912,361)   

Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)

         

Included in earnings, net:

         

Investment income, net of related expenses

          (75)        --        (3)        --   

Investment related gains (losses), net

    (4)        --        86,988        --        51,314   

Claims & other policy benefits

    --        --        --        --        --   

Interest credited

    --        --        --        --        (32,996)   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

    --        --        --        --        --   

Included in other comprehensive income

    (553)        (340)        --        (27)        --   

Purchases(1)

    --        --        --        --        (13,860)   

Sales(1)

    --        --        --        --        --   

Settlements(1)

    (25)        --        --        --        17,427   

Transfers into Level 3

    --        --        --        --        --   

Transfers out of Level 3

    --        --        --        --        --   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Fair value, end of period

  $ 42,639      $ 27,865      $ (156,189)      $ 22,001      $ (890,476)   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period          

Included in earnings, net:

         

Investment income, net of related expenses

  $     $ (75)      $ --      $ (4)      $ --   

Investment related gains (losses), net

    --        --        86,988        --        50,123   

Claims & other policy benefits

    --        --        --        --        --   

Interest credited

    --        --        --        --        (50,424)   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

    --        --        --        --        --   

 

(1)

The amount reported within purchases, sales and settlements is the purchase price (for purchases) and the sales/settlement proceeds (for sales and settlements) based upon the actual date purchased or sold/settled. Items purchased and sold/settled in the same period are excluded from the rollforward. The Company had no issuances during the period.

 

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The tables below provide a summary of the changes in fair value of Level 3 assets and liabilities for the three months ended March 31, 2012, as well as the portion of gains or losses included in income for the three and nine months ended March 31, 2012 attributable to unrealized gains or losses related to those assets and liabilities still held at March 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2012:   Fixed maturity securities - available-for-sale  
        Corporate    
securities
        Residential    
mortgage-

backed
securities
        Asset-backed    
securities
        Commercial    
mortgage-
backed

securities
    State.
  and political  
subdivision
securities
 

Fair value, beginning of period

  $ 974,169      $ 81,655      $ 193,492      $ 115,976      $ 10,373   

Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)

         

Included in earnings, net:

         

Investment income, net of related expenses

    30        110        249        588        (5)   

Investment related gains (losses), net

    (585)        279        (670)        (12,075)        (4)   

Claims & other policy benefits

    --        --        --        --        --   

Interest credited

    --        --        --        --        --   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

    --        --        --        --        --   

Included in other comprehensive income

    (682)        1,580        6,696        13,521        406   

Purchases (1)

    21,161         244        --        --        --   

Sales(1)

    (9,408)        (8,004)        --        --        --   

Settlements(1)

    (20,875)        (1,800)        (3,865)        --        (23)   

Transfers into Level 3

    17,444        --         1,080        10,846        --   

Transfers out of Level 3

    (3,583)        (19,629)        (50,620)        (10,178)        (5,508)   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Fair value, end of period

  $ 977,671      $ 54,435      $ 146,362      $ 118,678      $ 5,239   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period          

Included in earnings, net:

         

Investment income, net of related expenses

  $ 30      $ 106      $ 249      $ 588      $ (5)   

Investment related gains (losses), net

    (727)        (108)        (607)        (12,075)        --   

Claims & other policy benefits

    --        --        --        --        --   

Interest credited

    --        --        --        --        --   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

    --        --        --        --        --   

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2012 (continued):   Funds withheld
at interest-
embedded
derivatives
    Other invested
assets- other
equity securities
    Reinsurance
ceded receivable-
embedded
derivatives
    Interest sensitive
contract liabilities
embedded
derivatives
 

Fair value, beginning of period

  $ (361,456)      $ 11,489      $ 4,945      $ (1,028,241)   

Total gains/losses (realized/unrealized)

       

Included in earnings, net:

       

Investment income, net of related expenses

    --        --        --        --   

Investment related gains (losses), net

    (9,428)        --        --        146,375   

Claims & other policy benefits

    --        --        --        2,278   

Interest credited

    --        --        --        (21,193)   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

    --        --        (1,329)        --   

Included in other comprehensive income

    --        338        --        --   

Purchases(1)

    --        --        --        (23,590)   

Sales(1)

    --        --        --        --   

Settlements(1)

    --        --        (102)        21,089   

Transfers into Level 3

    --        --        --        --   

Transfers out of Level 3

    --        --        --        --   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Fair value, end of period

  $ (370,884)      $ 11,827      $ 3,514      $ (903,282)   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the period relating to those Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at the end of the period        

Included in earnings, net:

       

Investment income, net of related expenses

  $ --      $ --      $ --      $ --   

Investment related gains (losses), net

    (9,428)        --        --        144,624   

Claims & other policy benefits

    --        --        --        2,037   

Interest credited

    --        --        --        (42,107)   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

    --        --        (1,188)        --   

 

(1)

The amount reported within purchases, sales and settlements is the purchase price (for purchases) and the sales/settlement proceeds (for sales and settlements) based upon the actual date purchased or sold/settled. Items purchased and sold/settled in the same period are excluded from the rollforward. The Company had no issuances during the period.

 

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Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements

Certain assets are measured at estimated fair value on a non-recurring basis and are not included in the tables presented above. The amounts below relate to certain investments measured at estimated fair value during the period and still held at the reporting dates (dollars in thousands).

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2013      2012  
       Carrying Value  
Prior to
Measurement
       Estimated Fair  
Value After
Measurement
     Net
Investment
  Gains  (Losses)  
       Carrying Value  
Prior to
Measurement
       Estimated Fair  
Value After
Measurement
     Net
Investment
  Gains  (Losses)  
 

Mortgage loans(1)

   $ 13,581       $ 13,700       $ 119       $ 32,671       $ 28,875        $ (3,796)   

Limited partnership interests(2)

     11,590         9,161         (2,429)         --         --         --   

 

(1)

Mortgage loans — The impaired mortgage loans presented above were written down to their estimated fair values at the date the impairments were recognized and are reported as losses above. Subsequent improvements in estimated fair value on previously impaired loans recorded through a reduction in the previously established valuation allowance are reported as gains above. Nonrecurring fair value adjustments on mortgage loans are based on the fair value of underlying collateral or discounted cash flows and were classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

(2)

Limited partnership interests — The impaired investments presented above were accounted for using the cost method. Impairments on these cost method investments were recognized at estimated fair value determined using the net asset values of the Company’s ownership interest as provided in the financial statements of the investees. The valuation of these investments is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy due to the limited activity and price transparency inherent in the market for such investments.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The Company is required by general accounting principles for Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures to disclose the fair value of certain financial instruments including those that are not carried at fair value. The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments, which were not measured at fair value on a recurring basis, at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

March 31, 2013       Carrying Value             Estimated Fair    
Value
    Fair Value Measurement Using:  
                Level 1                          Level 2                          Level 3             

Assets:

         

Mortgage loans on real estate

  $ 2,325,191      $ 2,429,358      $ --      $ --      $ 2,429,358   

Policy loans

    1,245,812        1,245,812        --        1,245,812        --   

Funds withheld at interest(1)

    5,851,967        6,363,220        --        --        6,363,220   

Cash and cash equivalents(2)

    633,965        633,965        633,965        --        --   

Short-term investments(2)

    23,426        23,426        23,426        --        --   

Other invested assets(2)

    552,420        589,979        --        32,250        557,729   

Accrued investment income

    230,269        230,269        --        230,269        --   

Liabilities:

         

Interest-sensitive contract liabilities(1)

  $ 11,385,069      $ 11,805,623      $ --      $ --      $ 11,805,623   

Long-term debt

    1,815,392        2,025,511        --        --        2,025,511   

Collateral finance facility

    491,987        368,625        --        --        368,625   
December 31, 2012:   Carrying Value     Estimated Fair
Value
    Fair Value Measurement Using:  
      Level 1     Level 2     Level 3  

Assets:

         

Mortgage loans on real estate

  $ 2,300,587      $ 2,426,688      $ --      $ --      $ 2,426,688   

Policy loans

    1,278,175        1,278,175        --        1,278,175        --   

Funds withheld at interest(1)

    5,837,359        6,362,324        --        --        6,362,324   

Cash and cash equivalents(2)

    684,028        684,028        684,028        --        --   

Short-term investments(2)

    48,951        48,951        48,951        --        --   

Other invested assets(2)

    596,336        626,358        --        32,250        594,108   

Accrued investment income

    201,344        201,344        --        201,344        --   

Liabilities:

         

Interest-sensitive contract liabilities(1)

  $ 11,566,962      $ 11,926,339      $ --      $ --      $ 11,926,339   

Long-term debt

    1,815,253        2,014,062        --        --        2,014,062   

Collateral finance facility

    652,010        456,050        --        --        456,050   

 

(1) Carrying values presented herein differ from those presented in the condensed consolidated balance sheets because certain items within the respective financial statement caption are embedded derivatives and are measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

 

(2) Carrying values presented herein differ from those presented in the condensed consolidated balance sheets because certain items within the respective financial statement caption are measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

Mortgage Loans on Real Estate – The fair value of mortgage loans on real estate is estimated by discounting cash flows, both principal and interest, using current interest rates for mortgage loans with similar credit ratings and similar remaining maturities. As such, inputs include current treasury yields and spreads, which are based on the credit rating and average life

 

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of the loan, corresponding to the market spreads. The valuation of mortgage loans on real estate is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

Policy Loans – Policy loans typically carry an interest rate that is adjusted annually based on an observable market index and therefore carrying value approximates fair value. The valuation of policy loans is considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.

Funds Withheld at Interest – The carrying value of funds withheld at interest approximates fair value except where the funds withheld are specifically identified in the agreement. When funds withheld are specifically identified in the agreement, the fair value is based on the fair value of the underlying assets which are held by the ceding company. Ceding companies use a variety of sources and pricing methodologies, which are not transparent to the Company and may include significant unobservable inputs, to value the securities that are held in distinct portfolios, therefore the valuation of these funds withheld assets are considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

Cash and Cash Equivalents and Short-term Investments – The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments approximates fair values due to the short-term maturities of these instruments and are considered Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy.

Other Invested Assets – This primarily includes limited partnership interests accounted for using the cost method, structured loans and Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines common stock. The fair value of limited partnerships and other investments accounted for using the cost method is determined using the net asset values of the Company’s ownership interest as provided in the financial statements of the investees. The valuation of these investments is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy due to the limited activity and price transparency inherent in the market for such investments. The fair value of structured loans is estimated based on a discounted cash flow analysis using discount rates applicable to each structured loan, this is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the Company’s common stock investment in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines is considered to be the carrying value and it is considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.

Accrued Investment Income – The carrying value for accrued investment income approximates fair value as there are no adjustments made to the carrying value. This is considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.

Interest-Sensitive Contract Liabilities – The carrying and fair values of interest-sensitive contract liabilities reflected in the table above exclude contracts with significant mortality risk. The fair value of the Company’s interest-sensitive contract liabilities utilizes a market standard technique with both capital market inputs and policyholder behavior assumptions, as well as cash values adjusted for recapture fees. The capital market inputs to the model, such as interest rates, are generally observable. Policyholder behavior assumptions are generally not observable and may require use of significant management judgment. The valuation of interest-sensitive contract liabilities is considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

Long-term Debt and Collateral Finance Facility – The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt and collateral finance facility is generally estimated by discounting future cash flows using market rates currently available for debt with similar remaining maturities and reflecting the credit risk of the Company, including inputs when available, from actively traded debt of the Company or other companies with similar credit quality. The valuation of long-term debt and collateral finance facility are generally obtained from brokers and are considered Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

 

7. Segment Information

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Note 2 of the consolidated financial statements accompanying the 2012 Annual Report. The Company measures segment performance primarily based on profit or loss from operations before income taxes. There are no intersegment reinsurance transactions and the Company does not have any material long-lived assets. Investment income is allocated to the segments based upon average assets and related capital levels deemed appropriate to support the segment business volumes.

The Company allocates capital to its segments based on an internally developed economic capital model, the purpose of which is to measure the risk in the business and to provide a basis upon which capital is deployed. The economic capital model considers the unique and specific nature of the risks inherent in the Company’s businesses. As a result of the economic capital allocation process, a portion of investment income and investment related gains and losses are attributed to the segments based on the level of allocated capital. In addition, the segments are charged for excess capital utilized above the allocated economic capital basis. This charge is included in policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses.

 

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The Company’s reportable segments are strategic business units that are primarily segregated by geographic region. Information related to revenues, income (loss) before income taxes and total assets of the Company for each reportable segment are summarized below (dollars in thousands).

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
Total revenues:    2013      2012  

U.S.

   $ 1,500,264       $ 1,324,147   

Canada

     297,089         275,623   

Europe & South Africa

     339,229         308,337   

Asia Pacific

     388,969         359,685   

Corporate and Other

     75,551         25,183   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $             2,601,102       $             2,292,975   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     Three months ended March 31,  
Income (loss) before income taxes:    2013      2012  

U.S.

   $ 174,409       $ 92,745   

Canada

     36,308         55,063   

Europe & South Africa

     17,385         6,606   

Asia Pacific

     14,518         32,067   

Corporate and Other

     36,207         (5,718)   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 278,827       $ 180,763   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

Total Assets:            March 31, 2013                    December 31, 2012        

U.S.

   $ 24,802,143      $ 24,924,363   

Canada

     3,946,500        3,764,002   

Europe & South Africa

     2,137,397        2,235,199   

Asia Pacific

     3,051,842        3,208,732   

Corporate and Other

     6,259,219        6,228,142   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $             40,197,101      $             40,360,438   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

8. Commitments and Contingent Liabilities

At March 31, 2013, the Company’s commitments to fund investments were $166.8 million in limited partnerships, $22.2 million in commercial mortgage loans and $80.5 million in bank loans, including revolving credit agreements. At December 31, 2012, the Company’s commitments to fund investments were $176.7 million in limited partnerships, $22.2 million in commercial mortgage loans and $68.5 million in bank loans, including revolving credit agreements. The Company anticipates that the majority of its current commitments will be invested over the next five years; however, these commitments could become due any time at the request of the counterparties. Investments in limited partnerships and private placements are carried at cost or reported using the equity method and included in other invested assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Bank loans are carried at fair value and included in fixed maturities available-for-sale.

The Company is subject to litigation in the normal course of its business. The Company currently has no material litigation. A legal reserve is established when the Company is notified of an arbitration demand or litigation or is notified that an arbitration demand or litigation is imminent, it is probable that the Company will incur a loss as a result and the amount of the probable loss is reasonably capable of being estimated.

The Company has obtained bank letters of credit in favor of various affiliated and unaffiliated insurance companies from which the Company assumes business. These letters of credit represent guarantees of performance under the reinsurance agreements and allow ceding companies to take statutory reserve credits. Certain of these letters of credit contain financial covenant restrictions. At March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, there were approximately $60.3 million and $45.4 million, respectively, of undrawn outstanding bank letters of credit in favor of third parties. Additionally, the Company utilizes letters of credit to secure reserve credits when it retrocedes business to its subsidiaries, including Parkway Reinsurance Company (“Parkway Re”), Rockwood Reinsurance Company (“Rockwood Re”), Timberlake Financial L.L.C. (“Timberlake Financial”), RGA Americas Reinsurance, Ltd. (“RGA Americas”), RGA Reinsurance Company (Barbados) Ltd. (“RGA Barbados”) and RGA Atlantic Reinsurance Company, Ltd. (“RGA Atlantic”). The Company cedes business to its affiliates to help reduce the amount of regulatory capital required in certain jurisdictions such as the U.S. and the United Kingdom. The capital required to support the business in the affiliates reflects more realistic expectations than the original jurisdiction of the business, where capital requirements are often considered to be quite conservative. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, $864.5 million and $763.5 million, respectively, in undrawn letters of credit from various banks were outstanding, backing reinsurance between the various subsidiaries of the Company. The banks providing letters of

 

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credit to the Company are included on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) list of approved banks.

The Company maintains four credit facilities, a syndicated revolving credit facility with a capacity of $850.0 million and three letter of credit facilities with a combined capacity of $590.0 million. The Company may borrow cash and obtain letters of credit in multiple currencies under its syndicated revolving credit facility. The following table provides additional information on the Company’s credit facilities as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in millions):

 

          Amount Utilized(1)       

    Facility Capacity    

  

        Maturity Date        

         March 31, 2013              December 31, 2012       

Basis of Fees

$850.0

   December 2015    $ 140.0       $ 402.9       Senior unsecured long-term debt rating

$200.0

   September 2019      200.0         200.0       Fixed

$120.0

   May 2016      100.0         100.0       Fixed

$270.0

   November 2017      270.0         --       Fixed

 

(1)

Represents issued but undrawn letters of credit. There was no cash borrowed for the periods presented.

RGA has issued guarantees to third parties on behalf of its subsidiaries for the payment of amounts due under certain reinsurance treaties, securities borrowing arrangements, financing arrangements and office lease obligations, whereby, if a subsidiary fails to meet an obligation, RGA or one of its other subsidiaries will make a payment to fulfill the obligation. In limited circumstances, treaty guarantees are granted to ceding companies in order to provide them additional security, particularly in cases where RGA’s subsidiary is relatively new, unrated, or not of a significant size, relative to the ceding company. Liabilities supported by the treaty guarantees, before consideration for any legally offsetting amounts due from the guaranteed party, totaled $701.0 million and $686.0 million as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively, and are reflected on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets in future policy benefits. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company’s exposure related to treaty guarantees, net of assets held in trust, was $481.7 million and $463.5 million, respectively. Potential guaranteed amounts of future payments will vary depending on production levels and underwriting results. Guarantees related to borrowed securities provide additional security to third parties should a subsidiary fail to make principal and/or interest payments when due. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, RGA’s obligation related to borrowed securities guarantees was $87.5 million. There were no amounts guaranteed under financing arrangements as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

Manor Reinsurance, Ltd. (“Manor Re”), a subsidiary of RGA, has obtained $300.0 million of collateral financing through 2020 from an international bank which enabled Manor Re to deposit assets in trust to support statutory reserve credits for an affiliated reinsurance transaction. The bank has recourse to RGA should Manor Re fail to make payments or otherwise not perform its obligations under this financing.

The Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, has committed to provide statutory reserve support to a third-party through 2035, in exchange for a fee, by funding a loan if certain defined events occur. Such statutory reserves are required under the U.S. Valuation of Life Policies Model Regulation (commonly referred to as Regulation XXX for term life insurance policies and Regulation A-XXX for universal life secondary guarantees). The maximum potential obligation under this commitment is $560.0 million. The third-party has recourse to RGA should the subsidiary fail to provide the required funding, however, as of March 31, 2013, the Company does not believe that it will be required to provide any funding under this commitment as the occurrence of the defined events is considered remote.

In addition, the Company indemnifies its directors and officers as provided in its charters and by-laws. Since this indemnity generally is not subject to limitation with respect to duration or amount, the Company does not believe that it is possible to determine the maximum potential amount due under this indemnity in the future.

 

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9. Employee Benefit Plans

The components of net periodic benefit costs for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

     Pension Benefits      Other Benefits  
     Three months ended March 31,      Three months ended March 31,  
     2013      2012      2013      2012  

Net periodic benefit cost:

           

Service cost

   $ 1,883       $ 1,532       $ 410       $ 279   

Interest Cost

     1,018         980         312         259   

Expected return on plan assets

     (767)         (734)         --         --   

Amortization of prior service cost

     94         99         --         --   

Amortization of prior actuarial loss

     837         275         186         88   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $             3,065       $                 2,152       $                 908       $                 626   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The Company has not made any pension contributions during the first three months of 2013, but expects to make total pension contributions of $6.4 million in 2013.

 

10. Equity Based Compensation

Equity compensation expense was $9.7 million and $8.4 million in the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. In the first quarter of 2013, the Company granted 0.7 million stock appreciation rights at $58.77 weighted average exercise price per share and 0.3 million performance contingent units to employees. Additionally, non-employee directors were granted a total of 14,200 shares of common stock. As of March 31, 2013, 2.1 million share options at $49.29 weighted average per share were vested and exercisable with a remaining weighted average exercise period of 5.1 years. As of March 31, 2013, the total compensation cost of non-vested awards not yet recognized in the financial statements was $44.6 million. It is estimated that these costs will vest over a weighted average period of 3.1 years.

 

11. Retrocession Arrangements and Reinsurance Ceded Receivables

The Company generally reports retrocession activity on a gross basis. Amounts paid or deemed to have been paid for reinsurance are reflected in reinsurance ceded receivables. The cost of reinsurance related to long-duration contracts is recognized over the terms of the reinsured policies on a basis consistent with the reporting of those policies. In the normal course of business, the Company seeks to limit its exposure to loss on any single insured and to recover a portion of benefits paid by ceding reinsurance to other insurance enterprises or reinsurers under excess coverage, quota share and coinsurance contracts.

Certain retrocessions are arranged through the Company’s retrocession pools for amounts in excess of the Company’s retention limit. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, all rated retrocession pool participants rated by the A.M. Best Company were rated “A- (excellent)” or better, except for one pool member that was rated “B++.” The Company verifies retrocession pool participants’ ratings on a quarterly basis. For a majority of the retrocessionaires that were not rated, security in the form of letters of credit or trust assets has been given as additional security in favor of RGA Reinsurance Company (“RGA Reinsurance”). In addition, the Company performs annual financial reviews of its retrocessionaires to evaluate financial stability and performance.

As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company had claims recoverable from retrocessionaires of $156.4 million and $156.0 million, respectively, which is included in reinsurance ceded receivables, in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The Company considers outstanding claims recoverable in excess of 90 days to be past due. There were $16.6 million and $10.4 million of past due claims recoverable as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. Based on financial reviews of the counterparties, the Company has not established a valuation allowance for claims recoverable. The Company has never experienced a material default in connection with retrocession arrangements, nor has it experienced any difficulty in collecting claims recoverable from retrocessionaires; however, no assurance can be given as to the future performance of such retrocessionaires or as to recoverability of any such claims.

 

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12. Repurchase of Collateral Finance Facility Notes

On January 17, 2013, the Company repurchased $160.0 million face amount of its Series A Floating Rate Insured Notes issued by RGA’s subsidiary, Timberlake Financial, L.L.C., for $112.0 million, which was the market value at the date of the purchase. The notes were purchased by RGA Reinsurance Company, also a subsidiary of RGA. As a result, the Company recorded a pre-tax gain of $46.5 million, after fees, in other revenues.

 

13. Stock Transactions

On January 24, 2013, RGA’s board of directors authorized a share repurchase program for up to $200.0 million of RGA’s outstanding common stock. This authorization was effective January 24, 2013 and does not have an expiration date. During the first quarter of 2013, RGA repurchased 815,011 shares of common stock under this program for $47.6 million. During April 2013, the Company repurchased an additional 892,047 shares of common stock under the program for $52.4 million. The common shares repurchased have been placed into treasury to be used for general corporate purposes.

On April 18, 2013, RGA’s board of directors authorized an increase of $100.0 million to the share repurchase program previously authorized on January 24, 2013. With this authorization, the total amount of the Company’s outstanding common stock authorized for repurchase is $300.0 million.

 

14. New Accounting Standards

Changes to the general accounting principles are established by the FASB in the form of accounting standards updates to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification™. Accounting standards updates not listed below were assessed and determined to be either not applicable or are expected to have minimal impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Adoption of New Accounting Standards

Basis of Presentation

In December 2011, the FASB amended the general accounting principles for Balance Sheet as it relates to the disclosures about offsetting assets and liabilities. The amendment requires disclosures about the Company’s rights of offset and related arrangements associated with its financial instruments and derivative instruments. This amendment also requires the disclosure of both gross and net information about both instruments and transactions eligible for offset in the balance sheet and instruments and transactions subject to an agreement similar to a master netting arrangement. In January 2013, the FASB amended the general accounting principles for Balance Sheet as it relates to the disclosures about offsetting assets and liabilities. This amendment clarifies that the scope of the Balance Sheet amendment made in December 2011 applies only to derivatives, including bifurcated embedded derivatives, repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements, and securities borrowing and lending transactions that are either offset or subject to an enforceable master netting agreement or a similar agreement. These amendments are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013. The Company adopted these amendments and the required disclosures are provided in Note 4 — “Investments.”

Transfers and Servicing

In April 2011, the FASB amended the general accounting principles for Transfers and Servicing as it relates to the reconsideration of effective control for repurchase agreements. This amendment removes from the assessment of effective control the criterion requiring the transferor to have the ability to repurchase or redeem the financial assets and also removes the collateral maintenance implementation guidance related to that criterion. The amendment is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this amendment did not have an impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.

Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures

In May 2011, the FASB amended the general accounting principles for Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures as it relates to the measurement and disclosure requirements about fair value measurements. This amendment clarifies the FASB’s intent about the application of existing fair value measurement requirements. It also changes particular principles and requirements for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements. The amendment is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company adopted this amendment and the required disclosures are provided in Note 6 — “Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities.”

 

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Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

In October 2010, the FASB amended the general accounting principles for Financial Services – Insurance as it relates to accounting for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. This amendment clarifies that only those costs that result directly from and are essential to the contract transaction and that would not have been incurred had the contract transaction not occurred can be capitalized. It also defines acquisitions costs as costs that are related directly to the successful acquisitions of new or renewal insurance contracts. The amendment is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The retrospective adoption of this amendment on January 1, 2012, resulted in a reduction in the Company’s deferred acquisition cost asset and a corresponding reduction to equity, reflected in the financial statements in all periods. There will be a decrease in amortization subsequent to adoption due to the reduced deferred acquisition cost asset. There has also been a reduction in the level of future costs the Company defers; thereby increasing expenses incurred in future periods. The cumulative effect of the adoption of this amendment was a decrease to total stockholders’ equity of $318.4 million and a decrease in the deferred policy acquisition costs balance of $470.1 million on January 1, 2012.

Comprehensive Income

In February 2013, the FASB amended the general accounting principles for Comprehensive Income as it relates to the reporting of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. The amendment requires entities to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. This amendment also requires entities to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income. However, this is only necessary if the amount reclassified is required to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. The amendment is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 31, 2012. The Company adopted this amendment and the required disclosures are provided in Note 3 — “Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income.”

In June 2011, the FASB amended the general accounting principles for Comprehensive Income as it relates to the presentation of comprehensive income. This amendment requires entities to present the total of comprehensive income, the components of net income, and the components of other comprehensive income in either a continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements. The amendment does not change the items that must be reported in other comprehensive income. In December 2011, the FASB amended the general accounting principles for Comprehensive Income as it relates to the presentation of comprehensive income. This amendment defers the requirement to present the effects of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income on the Company’s consolidated statements of income, which was required in the Comprehensive Income amendment made in June 2011. These amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company adopted these amendments and the required presentation is provided in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.

 

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ITEM 2.        MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Forward-Looking and Cautionary Statements

This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 including, among others, statements relating to projections of the strategies, earnings, revenues, income or loss, ratios, future financial performance, and growth potential of the Company. The words “intend,” “expect,” “project,” “estimate,” “predict,” “anticipate,” “should,” “believe,” and other similar expressions also are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified. Future events and actual results, performance, and achievements could differ materially from those set forth in, contemplated by, or underlying the forward-looking statements.

Numerous important factors could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements including, without limitation, (1) adverse capital and credit market conditions and their impact on the Company’s liquidity, access to capital and cost of capital, (2) the impairment of other financial institutions and its effect on the Company’s business, (3) requirements to post collateral or make payments due to declines in market value of assets subject to the Company’s collateral arrangements, (4) the fact that the determination of allowances and impairments taken on the Company’s investments is highly subjective, (5) adverse changes in mortality, morbidity, lapsation or claims experience, (6) changes in the Company’s financial strength and credit ratings and the effect of such changes on the Company’s future results of operations and financial condition, (7) inadequate risk analysis and underwriting, (8) general economic conditions or a prolonged economic downturn affecting the demand for insurance and reinsurance in the Company’s current and planned markets, (9) the availability and cost of collateral necessary for regulatory reserves and capital, (10) market or economic conditions that adversely affect the value of the Company’s investment securities or result in the impairment of all or a portion of the value of certain of the Company’s investment securities, that in turn could affect regulatory capital, (11) market or economic conditions that adversely affect the Company’s ability to make timely sales of investment securities, (12) risks inherent in the Company’s risk management and investment strategy, including changes in investment portfolio yields due to interest rate or credit quality changes, (13) fluctuations in U.S. or foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, or securities and real estate markets, (14) adverse litigation or arbitration results, (15) the adequacy of reserves, resources and accurate information relating to settlements, awards and terminated and discontinued lines of business, (16) the stability of and actions by governments and economies in the markets in which the Company operates, including ongoing uncertainties regarding the amount of United States sovereign debt and the credit ratings thereof, (17) competitive factors and competitors’ responses to the Company’s initiatives, (18) the success of the Company’s clients, (19) successful execution of the Company’s entry into new markets, (20) successful development and introduction of new products and distribution opportunities, (21) the Company’s ability to successfully integrate and operate reinsurance business that the Company acquires, (22) action by regulators who have authority over the Company’s reinsurance operations in the jurisdictions in which it operates, (23) the Company’s dependence on third parties, including those insurance companies and reinsurers to which the Company cedes some reinsurance, third-party investment managers and others, (24) the threat of natural disasters, catastrophes, terrorist attacks, epidemics or pandemics anywhere in the world where the Company or its clients do business, (25) changes in laws, regulations, and accounting standards applicable to the Company, its subsidiaries, or its business, (26) the effect of the Company’s status as an insurance holding company and regulatory restrictions on its ability to pay principal of and interest on its debt obligations, and (27) other risks and uncertainties described in this document and in the Company’s other filings with the SEC.

Forward-looking statements should be evaluated together with the many risks and uncertainties that affect the Company’s business, including those mentioned in this document and the cautionary statements described in the periodic reports the Company files with the SEC. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. The Company does not undertake any obligations to update these forward-looking statements, even though the Company’s situation may change in the future. The Company qualifies all of its forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements. For a discussion of these risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, you are advised to see Item 1A – “Risk Factors” in the 2012 Annual Report.

Overview

RGA is an insurance holding company that was formed on December 31, 1992. The condensed consolidated financial statements include the assets, liabilities and results of operations of RGA, RGA Reinsurance, RCM, RGA Barbados, RGA Americas, RGA Atlantic, RGA Canada, RGA Australia and RGA International as well as other subsidiaries, which are primarily wholly owned (collectively, the Company).

The Company is primarily engaged in the reinsurance of individual and group coverages for traditional life and health, longevity, disability income, annuity and critical illness products, and financial reinsurance. RGA and its predecessor, the Reinsurance Division of General American Life Insurance Company, a Missouri life insurance company, have been engaged

 

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in the business of life reinsurance since 1973. Approximately 66.3% of the Company’s 2012 net premiums were from its operations in North America, represented by its U.S. and Canada segments.

The Company derives revenues primarily from renewal premiums from existing reinsurance treaties, new business premiums from existing or new reinsurance treaties and income earned on invested assets.

The Company’s primary business is life and health reinsurance, which involves reinsuring life insurance policies that are often in force for the remaining lifetime of the underlying individuals insured, with premiums earned typically over a period of 10 to 30 years. Each year, however, a portion of the business under existing treaties terminates due to, among other things, lapses or voluntary surrenders of underlying policies, deaths of insureds, and the exercise of recapture options by ceding companies.

As is customary in the reinsurance business, clients continually update, refine, and revise reinsurance information provided to the Company. Such revised information is used by the Company in preparation of its financial statements and the financial effects resulting from the incorporation of revised data are reflected in the current period.

The Company’s long-term profitability primarily depends on the volume and amount of death claims incurred and the ability to adequately price the risks assumed. While death claims are reasonably predictable over a period of many years, claims become less predictable over shorter periods and are subject to significant fluctuation from quarter to quarter and year to year. The maximum amount of individual life coverage the Company retains per life varies by market and can be as high as $8.0 million. In certain limited situations the Company has retained more than $8.0 million per individual life. Exposures in excess of these retention amounts are typically retroceded to retrocessionaires; however, the Company remains fully liable to the ceding company for the entire amount of risk it assumes. The Company believes its sources of liquidity are sufficient to cover potential claims payments on both a short-term and long-term basis.

The Company has five geographic-based or function-based operational segments, each of which is a distinct reportable segment: U.S., Canada, Europe & South Africa, Asia Pacific and Corporate and Other. The U.S. operations provide traditional life, long-term care, group life and health reinsurance, annuity and financial reinsurance products. The Canada operations reinsure traditional life products as well as creditor reinsurance, group life and health reinsurance, non-guaranteed critical illness products and longevity reinsurance. Europe & South Africa operations include a variety of life and health products, critical illness and longevity business throughout Europe and in South Africa, in addition to other markets the Company is developing. The principle types of reinsurance in Asia Pacific include life, critical illness, health, disability income, superannuation and financial reinsurance. Corporate and Other includes results from, among others, RGA Technology Partners, Inc. (“RTP”), a wholly-owned subsidiary that develops and markets technology solutions for the insurance industry, interest expense related to debt and the investment income and expense associated with the Company’s collateral finance facility. The Company measures segment performance based on profit or loss from operations before income taxes.

The Company allocates capital to its segments based on an internally developed economic capital model, the purpose of which is to measure the risk in the business and to provide a consistent basis upon which capital is deployed. The economic capital model considers the unique and specific nature of the risks inherent in RGA’s businesses. As a result of the economic capital allocation process, a portion of investment income and investment related gains and losses is credited to the segments based on the level of allocated capital. In addition, the segments are charged for excess capital utilized above the allocated economic capital basis. This charge is included in policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses.

Results of Operations

Consolidated

Consolidated income before income taxes increased $98.1 million, or 54.3% for the first quarter of 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase was primarily due an increase in investment related gains, higher investment income and the recognition in other revenues of gains on the repurchase of collateral finance facility securities of $46.5 million. The increase in investment related gains reflects a favorable change in the value of embedded derivatives within the U.S. segment due to the effect of tightening credit spreads. Foreign currency fluctuations relative to the prior year unfavorably affected income before income taxes by approximately $2.2 million in the first quarter of 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012.

The Company recognizes in consolidated income, changes in the value of embedded derivatives on modco or funds withheld treaties, equity-indexed annuity treaties (“EIAs”) and variable annuity products. The change in the value of embedded derivatives related to reinsurance treaties written on a modco or funds withheld basis is subject to the general accounting principles for derivatives and hedging related to embedded derivatives. The unrealized gains and losses associated with these embedded derivatives, after adjustment for deferred acquisition costs, increased income before income taxes by $30.3 million in the first quarter of 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. Changes in risk free rates used in the fair value estimates of embedded derivatives associated with EIAs affect the amount of unrealized gains and losses the Company

 

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recognizes. The unrealized gains and losses associated with EIAs, after adjustment for deferred acquisition costs and retrocession, increased income before income taxes by $5.0 million in the first quarter of 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The change in the Company’s liability for variable annuities associated with guaranteed minimum living benefits affects the amount of unrealized gains and losses the Company recognizes. The unrealized gains and losses associated with guaranteed minimum living benefits, after adjustment for deferred acquisition costs, decreased income before income taxes by $4.4 million in the first quarter of 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012.

The combined changes in these three types of embedded derivatives, after adjustment for deferred acquisition costs and retrocession, resulted in an increase of approximately $30.9 million in consolidated income before income taxes in the first quarter of 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. These fluctuations do not affect current cash flows, crediting rates or spread performance on the underlying treaties. Therefore, management believes it is helpful to distinguish between the effects of changes the fair value of in these embedded derivatives, net of related hedging activity, and the primary factors that drive profitability of the underlying treaties, namely investment income, fee income, and interest credited.

Consolidated net premiums increased $116.2 million, or 6.2%, in the first quarter of 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012, due to growth in life reinsurance in force. Foreign currency fluctuations unfavorably affected net premiums by approximately $19.6 million in the first quarter of 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. Consolidated assumed life insurance in force increased to $2,872.8 billion as of March 31, 2013 from $2,771.0 billion as of March 31, 2012 due to new business production. The Company added new business production, measured by face amount of insurance in force, of $95.9 billion and $118.5 billion during the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. Foreign currency fluctuations negatively affected the increase in assumed life insurance in force from March 31, 2012 by $38.9 billion. Management believes industry consolidation and the established practice of reinsuring mortality risks should continue to provide opportunities for growth, albeit at rates less than historically experienced in some markets.

Consolidated investment income, net of related expenses, increased $84.2 million, or 24.7%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase is primarily due to $53.5 million of investment income associated with a large fixed annuity transaction executed in the second quarter of 2012. Contributing to the increase is market value changes related to the Company’s funds withheld at interest investment associated with the reinsurance of certain EIAs which favorably affected investment income by $20.8 million. The effect on investment income of the EIAs market value changes is substantially offset by a corresponding change in interest credited to policyholder account balances resulting in an insignificant effect on net income. The increase also reflects a larger average invested asset base, excluding funds withheld and other spread business, somewhat offset by lower effective investment portfolio yields. Average invested assets at amortized cost, excluding funds withheld and other spread business, for the three months ended March 31, 2013 totaled $18.0 billion, a 10.1% increase over March 31, 2012. The average yield earned on investments, excluding funds withheld and other spread business, decreased to 4.83%, for the first quarter of 2013 from 5.05% for the first quarter of 2012. The average yield will vary from quarter to quarter and year to year depending on a number of variables, including the prevailing interest rate and credit spread environment, changes in the mix of the underlying investments and cash balances, and the timing of dividends and distributions on certain investments. A continued low interest rate environment in the U.S. and Canada is expected to put downward pressure on this yield in future reporting periods.

Total investment related gains (losses), net increased by $50.9 million, or 116.8%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase is primarily due to a favorable change in the embedded derivatives related to reinsurance treaties written on a modco or funds withheld basis of $99.7 million, an increase in the fair value of derivatives used to hedge the embedded derivative liabilities associated with guaranteed minimum living benefits of $43.4 million and a decrease in investment impairments on fixed maturity and equity securities of $14.6 million. Offsetting these increases was an unfavorable change in the embedded derivatives related to guaranteed minimum living benefits of $95.1 million. See Note 4 – “Investments” and Note 5 – “Derivative Instruments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the impairment losses and derivatives. Investment income and investment related gains and losses are allocated to the operating segments based upon average assets and related capital levels deemed appropriate to support the segment operations.

The effective tax rate on a consolidated basis was 33.5% and 31.8% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. The 2013 effective tax rate was lower than the U.S. Statutory rate of 35% primarily as a result of income in non-U.S. jurisdictions with lower tax rates than the U.S. and differences in tax basis in foreign jurisdictions. The 2012 effective tax rate was lower than the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily as a result of income in non-U.S. jurisdictions with lower tax rates than the U.S. and differences in tax basis in foreign jurisdictions offset by a tax accrual of $1.3 million related to business extender provisions that the U.S. Congress did not pass prior to the end of the quarter.

 

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Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires the application of accounting policies that often involve a significant degree of judgment. Management, on an ongoing basis, reviews estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of financial statements. If management determines that modifications in assumptions and estimates are appropriate given current facts and circumstances, results of operations and financial position as reported in the condensed consolidated financial statements could change significantly.

Management believes the critical accounting policies relating to the following areas are most dependent on the application of estimates and assumptions:

 

   

Deferred acquisition costs;

 

   

Liabilities for future policy benefits and incurred but not reported claims;

 

   

Valuation of investments and other-than-temporary impairments;

 

   

Valuation of embedded derivatives; and

 

   

Income taxes.

A discussion of each of the critical accounting policies may be found in the Company’s 2012 Annual Report under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Critical Accounting Policies.”

Further discussion and analysis of the results for 2013 compared to 2012 are presented by segment.

U.S. Operations

U.S. operations consist of two major sub-segments: Traditional and Non-Traditional. The Traditional sub-segment primarily specializes in individual mortality-risk reinsurance and to a lesser extent, group, health and long-term care reinsurance. The Non-Traditional sub-segment consists of Asset-Intensive and Financial Reinsurance. During 2012, the Asset-Intensive sub-segment issued its first fee-based synthetic guaranteed investment contracts which include investment-only, stable value contracts, to retirement plans.

 

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For the three months ended March 31, 2013           Non-Traditional         
(dollars in thousands)           Asset-Intensive     

Financial

Reinsurance

    

Total

U.S.

 
     Traditional           
  

 

 

 

Revenues:

           

Net premiums

     $ 1,046,049       $ 3,838       $ --       $ 1,049,887   

Investment income, net of related expenses

     132,289         179,369         597         312,255   

Investment related gains (losses), net:

           

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities

     (162)         --         --         (162)   

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to (from) accumulated other comprehensive income

     --         --         --         --   

Other investment related gains (losses), net

     7,459         88,584         34         96,077   
  

 

 

 

Total investment related gains (losses), net

     7,297         88,584         34         95,915   

Other revenues

     529         28,881         12,797         42,207   
  

 

 

 

Total revenues

     1,186,164         300,672         13,428         1,500,264   
  

 

 

 

Benefits and expenses:

           

Claims and other policy benefits

     929,680         3,588         --         933,268   

Interest credited

     16,150         108,785         --         124,935   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

     139,968         94,663         3,440         238,071   

Other operating expenses

     23,521         4,113         1,947         29,581   
  

 

 

 

Total benefits and expenses

     1,109,319         211,149         5,387         1,325,855   
  

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

     $ 76,845       $ 89,523       $ 8,041       $ 174,409   
  

 

 

 
For the three months ended March 31, 2012           Non-Traditional         
(dollars in thousands)           Asset-Intensive     

Financial

Reinsurance

    

Total

U.S.

 
     Traditional           
  

 

 

 

Revenues:

           

Net premiums

     $ 1,021,507       $ 3,596        $ --       $ 1,025,103   

Investment income (loss), net of related expenses

     132,417         109,277         164         241,858   

Investment related gains (losses), net:

           

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities

     (6,030)         --         --         (6,030)   

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to (from) accumulated other comprehensive income

     (5,907)         --         --         (5,907)   

Other investment related gains (losses), net

     (1,147)         40,603         (139)         39,317   
  

 

 

 

Total investment related gains (losses), net

     (13,084)         40,603         (139)         27,380   

Other revenues

     1,003         19,893         8,910         29,806   
  

 

 

 

Total revenues

     1,141,843         173,369         8,935         1,324,147   
  

 

 

 

Benefits and expenses:

           

Claims and other policy benefits

     907,461         1,902         --         909,363   

Interest credited

     15,054         72,750         --         87,804   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses (income)

     145,485         59,065         770         205,320   

Other operating expenses

     24,001         3,062                     1,852         28,915   
  

 

 

 

Total benefits and expenses

             1,092,001                 136,779         2,622                 1,231,402   
  

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

     $ 49,842       $ 36,590       $ 6,313       $ 92,745   
  

 

 

 

Income before income taxes for the U.S. operations segment increased by $81.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase in income before income taxes in the first quarter of 2013 can be largely attributed to the Asset-Intensive segment. The significant increase in income over the prior year for this sub-segment was generated primarily by a large Asset-Intensive transaction completed in the second quarter of 2012, favorable changes in credit spreads on the fair value of embedded derivatives associated with treaties written on a modified coinsurance or funds withheld basis, and favorable returns in the broader equity markets in the first quarter of 2013. In addition, income before income taxes in the Traditional sub-segment also increased, mainly as a result of an increase in investment related gains.

Traditional Reinsurance

The U.S. Traditional sub-segment provides life and health reinsurance to domestic clients for a variety of products through yearly renewable term, coinsurance and modified coinsurance agreements. These reinsurance arrangements may involve either facultative or automatic agreements.

 

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Income before income taxes for the U.S. Traditional sub-segment increased by $27.0 million, or 54.2%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase in the first quarter was primarily due to an increase in investment related gains (losses), net and growth, primarily in the individual health line of business, compared to the same period in 2012.

Net premiums increased $24.5 million, or 2.4%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase in net premiums was driven almost entirely by growth in the health and group related coverages which contributed $24.4 million to the increase for the first quarter of 2013. This sub-segment added new individual life business production, measured by face amount of insurance in force, of $25.7 billion and $85.0 billion during the first three months of 2013 and 2012, respectively. Approximately $42.8 billion of the decrease in new business production compared to the same period in 2012 relates to one large in force transaction recorded in the first quarter of 2012.

Net investment income decreased $0.1 million, or 0.1%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The decrease is due to lower yield rates almost entirely offset by an increase in the average invested asset base. Investment related gains (losses), net increased $20.4 million, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012, primarily due to a decrease in investment impairments. Investment income and investment related gains and losses are allocated to the various operating segments based on average assets and related capital levels deemed appropriate to support the segment business volumes. Investment performance varies with the composition of investments and the relative allocation of capital to the operating segments.

Claims and other policy benefits as a percentage of net premiums (“loss ratios”) were 88.9% and 88.8% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. The Company’s experience indicates that claims flow is typically higher in the first quarter due to seasonality of death claims as more people die in winter months than other months of the year in several of the Company’s major markets. Although reasonably predictable over a period of years, death claims can be volatile over shorter periods.

Interest credited expense increased $1.1 million, or 7.3%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. This expense relates primarily to one treaty in which the related investment income increased proportionately, resulting in minimal net income impact. Interest credited in this sub-segment relates to amounts credited on cash value products which also have a significant mortality component. Income before income taxes is affected by the spread between the investment income and the interest credited on the underlying products. Interest earned rates and related interest crediting rates are index driven. The spread remained relatively constant in both periods.

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses as a percentage of net premiums were 13.4% and 14.2% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. Overall, while these ratios are expected to remain in a predictable range, they may fluctuate from period to period due to varying allowance levels within coinsurance-type arrangements. In addition, the amortization pattern of previously capitalized amounts, which are subject to the form of the reinsurance agreement and the underlying insurance policies, may vary. Also, the mix of first year coinsurance business versus yearly renewable term business can cause the percentage to fluctuate from period to period.

Other operating expenses decreased $0.5 million, or 2.0%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. Other operating expenses, as a percentage of net premiums were 2.2% and 2.3% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Asset-Intensive Reinsurance

The U.S. Asset-Intensive sub-segment primarily assumes investment risk within underlying annuities and corporate-owned life insurance policies. Most of these reinsurance agreements are coinsurance, coinsurance with funds withheld or modified coinsurance whereby the Company recognizes profits or losses primarily from the spread between the investment income earned and the interest credited on the underlying deposit liabilities, as well as fees associated with variable annuity account values.

Impact of certain derivatives:

Income for the asset-intensive business tends to be volatile due to changes in the fair value of certain derivatives, including embedded derivatives associated with reinsurance treaties structured on a modco basis or funds withheld basis, as well as embedded derivatives associated with the Company’s reinsurance of equity-indexed annuities and variable annuities with guaranteed minimum benefit riders. Fluctuations occur period to period primarily due to changing investment conditions including, but not limited to, interest rate movements (including risk-free rates and credit spreads), implied volatility and equity market performance, all of which are factors in the calculations of fair value. Therefore, management believes it is helpful to distinguish between the effects of changes in these derivatives, net of related hedging activity, and the primary factors that drive profitability of the underlying treaties, namely investment income, fee income (included in other revenues), and interest credited. These fluctuations are considered unrealized by management and do not affect current cash flows, crediting rates or spread performance on the underlying treaties.

 

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The following table summarizes the asset-intensive results and quantifies the impact of these embedded derivatives for the periods presented. Revenues before certain derivatives, benefits and expenses before certain derivatives, and income before income taxes and certain derivatives, should not be viewed as substitutes for GAAP revenues, GAAP benefits and expenses, and GAAP income before income taxes.

 

(dollars in thousands)          For the three months ended       
March 31,
 
     2013      2012  

Revenues:

     

Total revenues

      $ 300,672          $ 173,369   

Less:

     

Embedded derivatives – modco/funds withheld treaties

     90,201         (9,387)   

Guaranteed minimum benefit riders and related free standing derivatives

     (1,039)         50,670   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Revenues before certain derivatives

     211,510         132,086   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Benefits and expenses:

     

Total benefits and expenses

     211,149         136,779   

Less:

     

Embedded derivatives – modco/funds withheld treaties

     56,990         (12,402)   

Guaranteed minimum benefit riders and related free standing derivatives

     (1,411)         33,470   

Equity-indexed annuities

     (6,846)         (1,836)   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Benefits and expenses before certain derivatives

     162,416         117,547   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income before income taxes:

     

Income before income taxes

     89,523         36,590   

Less:

     

Embedded derivatives – modco/funds withheld treaties

     33,211         3,015   

Guaranteed minimum benefit riders and related free standing derivatives

     372         17,200   

Equity-indexed annuities

     6,846         1,836   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income before income taxes and certain derivatives

     49,094         14,539   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Embedded Derivatives - Modco/Funds Withheld Treaties- Represents the change in the fair value of embedded derivatives on funds withheld at interest associated with treaties written on a modco or funds withheld basis. The fair value changes of embedded derivatives on funds withheld at interest associated with treaties written on a modco or funds withheld basis are reflected in revenues, while the related impact on deferred acquisition expenses is reflected in benefits and expenses. Changes in the fair value of the embedded derivative are driven by changes in investment credit spreads, including the Company’s own credit risk. Generally, an increase in investment credit spreads, ignoring changes in the Company’s own credit risk, will have a negative impact on the fair value of the embedded derivative (decrease in income). Changes in fair values of these embedded derivatives are net of a decrease in revenues of $1.7 million and $63.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, associated with the Company’s own credit risk. A 10% increase in the Company’s own credit risk rate would have increased revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2013 by approximately $0.1 million. Conversely, a 10% decrease in the Company’s own credit risk rate would have decreased revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2013 by approximately $0.1 million.

In the first quarter of 2013, the change in fair value of the embedded derivative increased revenues by $90.2 million and related deferred acquisition expenses decreased benefits and expenses by $57.0 million, for a positive pre-tax income impact of $33.2 million. During the first quarter of 2012, the change in fair value of the embedded derivative decreased revenues by $9.4 million and related deferred acquisition expenses decreased benefits and expenses by $12.4 million, for a positive pre-tax income impact of $3.0 million.

Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Riders- Represents the impact related to guaranteed minimum benefits associated with the Company’s reinsurance of variable annuities. The fair value changes of the guaranteed minimum benefits along with the changes in fair value of the free standing derivatives purchased by the Company to partially hedge the liability are reflected in revenues, while the related impact on deferred acquisition expenses is reflected in expenses. Changes in fair values of these embedded derivatives are net of an increase in revenues of $11.9 million and $37.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, associated with the Company’s own credit risk. A 10% increase in the Company’s own credit risk rate would have increased revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2013 by approximately $1.1 million. Conversely, a 10% decrease in the Company’s own credit risk rate would have decreased revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2013 by approximately $1.1 million.

 

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In the first quarter of 2013, the change in the fair value of the guaranteed minimum benefits, after allowing for changes in the associated free standing derivatives, decreased revenues by $1.0 million and deferred acquisition expenses decreased benefits and expenses by $1.4 million for a positive pre-tax income impact of $0.4 million. In the first quarter of 2012, the change in the fair value of the guaranteed minimum benefits after allowing for changes in the associated free standing derivatives increased revenues by $50.7 million and deferred acquisition expenses increased benefits and expenses by $33.5 million for a positive pre-tax income impact of $17.2 million.

Equity-Indexed Annuities- Represents the impact of changes in the benchmark rate on the calculation of the fair value of embedded derivative liabilities associated with equity-indexed annuities, after adjustments for related deferred acquisition expenses. In the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, expenses decreased $6.8 million and $1.8 million, respectively.

The changes in derivatives discussed above are considered unrealized by management and do not affect current cash flows, crediting rates or spread performance on the underlying treaties. Fluctuations occur period to period primarily due to changing investment conditions including, but not limited to, interest rate movements (including benchmark rates and credit spreads), implied volatility and equity market performance, all of which are factors in the calculations of fair value. Therefore, management believes it is helpful to distinguish between the effects of changes in these derivatives and the primary factors that drive profitability of the underlying treaties, namely investment income, fee income (included in other revenues) and interest credited.

Discussion and analysis before certain derivatives:

The increase in income before income taxes and certain derivatives in the first quarter of 2013 of $34.6 million was primarily due to a large coinsurance agreement entered into in the second quarter of 2012. In addition, the net impact of investment related gains (losses) and corresponding changes in DAC related to capital gains (losses) in the funds withheld portfolios also contributed to the favorable variance.

The increase in revenue before certain derivatives of $79.4 million in the first quarter of 2013 was largely driven by an increase in investment income attributed to the new coinsurance agreement referred to above.

The increase in benefits and expenses before certain derivatives of $44.9 million in the first quarter of 2013 was primarily due to a change in the interest credited expense related to the coinsurance transaction mentioned above. This change was mostly offset by a corresponding change in investment income.

The average invested asset base supporting this sub-segment increased to $11.3 billion in the first quarter of 2013 from $5.9 billion in the first quarter of 2012. The growth in the asset base was driven primarily by the significant coinsurance transaction previously mentioned. As of March 31, 2013, $4.3 billion of the invested assets were funds withheld at interest, of which 93.6% is associated with one client.

Financial Reinsurance

U.S. Financial Reinsurance sub-segment income before income taxes consists primarily of net fees earned on financial reinsurance transactions. Financial reinsurance risks are assumed by the U.S. segment and a portion are retroceded to other insurance companies or brokered business in which the Company does not participate in the assumption of risk. The fees earned from financial reinsurance contracts and brokered business are reflected in other revenues, and the fees paid to retrocessionaires are reflected in policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses.

Income before income taxes increased $1.7 million, or 27.4%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase in the first quarter of 2013 was the result of additional surplus relief provided as compared to the same period in 2012. At March 31, 2013 and 2012, the amount of reinsurance assumed from client companies, as measured by pre-tax statutory surplus, risk based capital and other financial structures was $2.7 billion and $2.0 billion, respectively. Fees earned from this business can vary significantly depending on the size of the transactions and the timing of their completion and therefore can fluctuate from period to period.

Canada Operations

The Company conducts reinsurance business in Canada primarily through RGA Life Reinsurance Company of Canada (“RGA Canada”), a wholly-owned subsidiary. RGA Canada assists clients with capital management activity and mortality and morbidity risk management, and is primarily engaged in traditional individual life reinsurance, as well as creditor, group life and health, critical illness, and longevity reinsurance. Creditor insurance covers the outstanding balance on personal, mortgage or commercial loans in the event of death, disability or critical illness and is generally shorter in duration than traditional life insurance.

 

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(dollars in thousands)            For the three months ended         
March 31,
 
     2013      2012  

Revenues:

     

Net premiums

   $ 243,271       $ 218,210   

Investment income, net of related expenses

     50,555         48,900   

Investment related gains (losses), net:

     

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities

     --         --   

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to (from) accumulated other comprehensive income

     --         --   

Other investment related gains (losses), net

     3,055         8,543   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment related gains (losses), net

     3,055         8,543   

Other revenues

     208         (30)   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues

     297,089         275,623   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Benefits and expenses:

     

Claims and other policy benefits

     189,698         160,625   

Interest credited

     12         --   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

     60,832         50,285   

Other operating expenses

     10,239         9,650   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total benefits and expenses

     260,781         220,560   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

   $ 36,308       $ 55,063   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income before income taxes decreased by $18.8 million, or 34.1%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The decrease in income in the first quarter of 2013 was primarily due to better traditional individual life mortality experience in the prior quarter compared to this quarter and a decrease of $5.5 million in net investment related gains. In addition, the first quarter of 2012 included $6.3 million of income from the recapture of a previously assumed block of individual life business. In the first three months of 2013, a weaker Canadian dollar resulted in a decrease in income before income taxes of $0.5 million compared to the same period in 2012.

Net premiums increased $25.1 million, or 11.5%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. Premiums increased in the first quarter of 2013 due to new business from both new and existing treaties. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange, reinsurance in force at March 31, 2013 increased 7.0% over March 31, 2012. The increase in net premiums is also due to an increase in premiums from creditor treaties of $16.7 million. Foreign currency exchange fluctuation in the Canadian dollar resulted in a decrease in net premiums of approximately $1.6 million in the first quarter of 2013 compared to 2012. Premium levels can be significantly influenced by currency fluctuations, large transactions, mix of business and reporting practices of ceding companies and therefore may fluctuate from period to period.

Net investment income increased $1.7 million, or 3.4%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase in investment income, excluding the impact of foreign exchange, was mainly the result of a 11.0% increase in the allocated asset base due to growth in the underlying business volume, offset by a lower investment yield. Foreign currency exchange fluctuation in the Canadian dollar resulted in a decrease to net investment income of approximately $0.4 million in the first quarter of 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. Investment income and investment related gains and losses are allocated to the segments based upon average assets and related capital levels deemed appropriate to support the segment business volumes. Investment performance varies with the composition of investments and the relative allocation of capital to the operating segments.

Loss ratios for this segment were 78.0% and 73.6% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. Excluding creditor business, claims and other policy benefits, as a percentage of net premiums and investment income were 72.9% and 65.4% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. The increase in the loss ratio is due to better than expected traditional individual life mortality experience in the prior quarter compared to the current quarter.

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses as a percentage of net premiums were 25.0% and 23.0% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses as a percentage of net premiums for traditional individual life business were 12.9% and 14.6% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. Overall, while these ratios are expected to remain in a predictable range, they may fluctuate from period to period due to varying allowance levels and product mix. In addition, the amortization pattern of previously capitalized amounts, which are subject to the form of the reinsurance agreement and the underlying insurance policies, may vary.

Other operating expenses increased by $0.6 million, or 6.1% for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. Other operating expenses as a percentage of net premiums were 4.2% and 4.4% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively.

 

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Europe & South Africa Operations

The Europe & South Africa segment includes operations in the United Kingdom (“UK”), South Africa, France, Germany, India, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain and the United Arab Emirates. The segment provides reinsurance for a variety of life and health products through yearly renewable term and coinsurance agreements, critical illness coverage and longevity risk related to payout annuities. Reinsurance agreements may be facultative or automatic agreements covering primarily individual risks and, in some markets, group risks.

 

(dollars in thousands)            For the three months ended         
March 31,
 
     2013      2012  

Revenues:

     

Net premiums

   $ 323,908       $ 292,771   

Investment income, net of related expenses

     12,224         11,331   

Investment related gains (losses), net:

     

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities

     --         --   

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to (from) accumulated other comprehensive income

     --         --   

Other investment related gains (losses), net

     1,810         1,982   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment related gains (losses), net

     1,810         1,982   

Other revenues

     1,287         2,253   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues

     339,229         308,337   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Benefits and expenses:

     

Claims and other policy benefits

     283,915         261,484   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

     11,734         15,052   

Other operating expenses

     26,195         25,195   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total benefits and expenses

     321,844         301,731   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

   $ 17,385       $ 6,606   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income before income taxes increased by $10.8 million, or 163.2%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase in income before income taxes for the first quarter was primarily due to favorable claims experience over the prior period, partially offset by adverse critical illness claims in the UK and disability income claims in South Africa. Unfavorable foreign currency exchange fluctuations contributed to the decrease in income before income taxes totaling $0.9 million for the first quarter of 2013.

Net premiums increased $31.1 million, or 10.6%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. Net premiums increased as a result of new business from both new and existing treaties including a $11.0 million increase associated with reinsurance of longevity risk in the UK. During 2013, there was an unfavorable foreign currency exchange fluctuation, particularly with the British pound and the South African rand weakening against the U.S. dollar when compared to the same periods in 2012, which decreased net premiums by approximately $9.9 million in the first quarter of 2013 as compared to the same period in 2012.

A portion of the net premiums for the segment, in each period presented, relates to reinsurance of critical illness coverage, primarily in the UK. This coverage provides a benefit in the event of the diagnosis of a pre-defined critical illness. Net premiums earned from this coverage totaled $63.6 million and $61.5 million in the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. Premium levels can be significantly influenced by currency fluctuations, large transactions and reporting practices of ceding companies and therefore can fluctuate from period to period.

Net investment income increased $0.9 million, or 7.9%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. This increase was primarily due to an increase in the invested asset base. Investment income and investment related gains and losses are allocated to the various operating segments based on average assets and related capital levels deemed appropriate to support the segment business volumes. Investment performance varies with the composition of investments and the relative allocation of capital to the operating segments.

Loss ratios for this segment were 87.7% and 89.3% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. The decreased loss ratio for the current quarter is attributable to favorable claims experience over the prior period, partially offset by adverse critical illness claims in the UK and disability income claims in South Africa. Although reasonably predictable over a period of years, claims can be volatile over shorter periods. Management views recent experience as normal short-term volatility that is inherent in the business.

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses as a percentage of net premiums was 3.6% and 5.1% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. These percentages fluctuate due to timing of client company reporting, variations in the mixture of business and the relative maturity of the business. In addition, as the segment grows, renewal premiums, which have lower allowances than first-year premiums, represent a greater percentage of the total net premiums.

 

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Other operating expenses increased $1.0 million, or 4.0%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. Other operating expenses as a percentage of net premiums totaled 8.1% and 8.6% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively.

While concerns continue in 2013 relating to the European sovereign debt and European economies, approximately 88.6% of revenues for the segment were earned outside of the eurozone in the first quarter of 2013. Approximately 5.4% of the segment’s revenues were earned in Spain, Italy and Portugal in the first quarter of 2013.

Asia Pacific Operations

The Asia Pacific segment includes operations in Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan and mainland China. The principal types of reinsurance include life, critical illness, disability income, superannuation, and financial reinsurance. Superannuation is the Australian government mandated compulsory retirement savings program. Superannuation funds accumulate retirement funds for employees, and, in addition, offer life and disability insurance coverage. Reinsurance agreements may be facultative or automatic agreements covering primarily individual risks and in some markets, group risks.

 

(dollars in thousands)            For the three months ended         
March 31,
 
     2013      2012  

Revenues:

     

Net premiums

   $ 363,604       $ 325,350   

Investment income, net of related expenses

     22,081         22,578   

Investment related gains (losses), net:

     

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities

     --         --   

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to (from) accumulated other comprehensive income

     --         --   

Other investment related gains (losses), net

     (4,465)         4,349   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment related gains (losses), net

     (4,465)         4,349   

Other revenues

     7,749         7,408   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues

     388,969         359,685   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Benefits and expenses:

     

Claims and other policy benefits

     281,945         248,620   

Interest credited

     311         238   

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses

     62,063         50,847   

Other operating expenses

     30,132         27,913   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total benefits and expenses

     374,451         327,618   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

   $ 14,518       $ 32,067   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income before income taxes decreased by $17.5 million, or 54.7%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The decrease in income was primarily attributable to more favorable claims experience in several markets in the prior year and an unfavorable change in investment related gains (losses), net. Additionally, foreign currency exchange fluctuations resulted in a decrease to income before income taxes totaling approximately $0.9 million for the first quarter of 2013 compared to the same period in 2012.

Net premiums increased $38.3 million, or 11.8%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. Premiums in the first quarter of 2013 increased mainly in Hong Kong and South East Asia and Australia with new treaties and growth in existing treaties, partially offset by a decrease in premiums in Japan. Unfavorable changes in Asia Pacific segment currencies resulted in a decrease in net premiums of approximately $8.1 million for the first quarter of 2013 compared to the same period in 2012.

A portion of the net premiums for the segment, in each period presented, relates to reinsurance of critical illness coverage. This coverage provides a benefit in the event of the diagnosis of a pre-defined critical illness. Reinsurance of critical illness in the Asia Pacific operations is offered primarily in South Korea, Australia and Hong Kong. Net premiums earned from this coverage totaled $54.5 million and $40.3 million in the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. Premium levels can be significantly influenced by currency fluctuations, large transactions and reporting practices of ceding companies and can fluctuate from period to period.

Net investment income decreased $0.5 million, or 2.2%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. This decrease can be primarily attributed to a lower investment yield largely offset by an increase in the invested asset base. Also contributing to the decrease was an unfavorable change in foreign currency exchange fluctuations of $0.5 million. Investment income and investment related gains and losses are allocated to the various operating segments based on average assets and related capital levels deemed appropriate to support the segment business volumes. Investment performance varies with the composition of investments and the relative allocation of capital to the operating segments.

 

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Other revenues increased by $0.3 million, or 4.6%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase in other revenues relates to new financial reinsurance treaties in Japan, which is the primary source of other revenues. At March 31, 2013 and 2012, the amount of reinsurance assumed from client companies, as measured by pre-tax statutory surplus, risk based capital and other financial reinsurance structures was $2.0 billion and $2.3 billion, respectively. Fees earned from this business can vary significantly depending on the size of the transactions and the timing of their completion and, therefore, can fluctuate from period to period.

Loss ratios for this segment were 77.5% and 76.4% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. The increase in the loss ratio for the first quarter of 2013 compared to 2012 is primarily due to less favorable claims experience compared to the prior year, most notably in Australia. Although reasonably predictable over a period of years, claims can be volatile over shorter periods. Recent experience has reflected under-performing business in Australia. Loss ratios will fluctuate due to timing of client company reporting, variations in the mixture of business and the relative maturity of the business.

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses as a percentage of net premiums were 17.1% and 15.6% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. The ratio of policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses as a percentage of net premiums should generally decline as the business matures; however, the percentage does fluctuate periodically due to timing of client company reporting and variations in the mixture of business.

Other operating expenses increased $2.2 million, or 7.9%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. Other operating expenses as a percentage of net premiums totaled 8.3% and 8.6% for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012. The timing of premium flows and the level of costs associated with the entrance into and development of new markets in the growing Asia Pacific segment may cause other operating expenses as a percentage of net premiums to fluctuate over periods of time.

Corporate and Other

Corporate and Other revenues include investment income and investment related gains and losses from unallocated invested assets. Corporate and Other expenses consist of the offset to capital charges allocated to the operating segments within the policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses line item, unallocated overhead and executive costs, interest expense related to debt, and the investment income and expense associated with the Company’s collateral finance facility. Additionally, Corporate and Other includes results from, among others, RTP, a wholly-owned subsidiary that develops and markets technology solutions for the insurance industry.

 

(dollars in thousands)            For the three months ended         
March 31,
 
     2013      2012  

Revenues:

     

Net premiums

   $ (977)       $ 2,048   

Investment income, net of related expenses

     28,016         16,273   

Investment related gains (losses), net:

     

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities

     (40)         (1,577)   

Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to (from) accumulated other comprehensive income

            (1,314)   

Other investment related gains (losses), net

     (1,904)         4,157   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment related gains (losses), net

     (1,944)         1,266   

Other revenues

     50,456         5,596   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues

     75,551         25,183   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Benefits and expenses:

     

Claims and other policy benefits

     84         57   

Interest credited

     225          

Policy acquisition costs and other insurance expenses (income)

     (15,343)         (13,870)   

Other operating expenses

     23,354         18,425   

Interest expenses

     28,486         23,322   

Collateral finance facility expense

     2,538         2,967   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total benefits and expenses

     39,344         30,901   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

   $ 36,207       $ (5,718)   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes increased by $41.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase for the first quarter is primarily due to a $44.9 million increase to other revenue.

Total revenues increased by $50.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase was largely due to a $46.5 million gain on repurchase of collateral finance facility securities.

 

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Additionally, there was an $11.7 million increase in investment income mainly due to a higher investment yield, primarily on limited partnership investments, in addition to growth in the invested asset base.

Total benefits and expenses increased by $8.4 million, or 27.3%, for the three months ended March 31, 2013, as compared to the same period in 2012. The increase for the first quarter of 2013 was primarily due to an increase in other operating expenses of $4.9 million primarily relating to employee compensation, and an increase in interest expense of $5.2 million on a higher level of outstanding debt.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Current Market Environment

The current interest rate environment in select markets, primarily the U.S., is negatively affecting the Company’s earnings. The average investment yield, excluding funds withheld and other spread business, has decreased 22 basis points for the three months ended March 31, 2013 as compared to the same period in 2012. In addition, the Company’s insurance liabilities, in particular its annuity products, are sensitive to changing market factors. Results of operations in the first three months of 2013 compared to the same period in 2012 are favorable, largely due to changes in the value of embedded derivatives as credit spreads have tightened. There has been a continued increase in gross unrealized gains on fixed maturity and equity securities available-for-sale, which were $2,691.6 million and $2,197.8 million at March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Gross unrealized losses totaled $122.5 million and $214.4 million at March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The increase in the gross unrealized gains is primarily due to lower interest rates.

The Company continues to be in a position to hold any investment security showing an unrealized loss until recovery, provided it remains comfortable with the credit of the issuer. As indicated above, gross unrealized gains on investment securities of $2,691.6 million are well in excess of gross unrealized losses of $122.5 million as of March 31, 2013. Historically low interest rates continued to put pressure on the Company’s investment yield. In January 2012, U.S. Federal Reserve officials indicated that economic conditions in the U.S. would likely warrant exceptionally low federal funds rate through 2014. The Company does not rely on short-term funding or commercial paper and to date it has experienced no liquidity pressure, nor does it anticipate such pressure in the foreseeable future.

The Company projects its reserves to be sufficient and it would not expect to write down deferred acquisition costs or be required to take any actions to augment capital, even if interest rates remain at current levels for the next five years, assuming all other factors remain constant. While the Company has felt the pressures of sustained low interest rates and volatile equity markets and may continue to do so, its business operations are not overly sensitive to these risks. Although management believes the Company’s current capital base is adequate to support its business at current operating levels, it continues to monitor new business opportunities and any associated new capital needs that could arise from the changing financial landscape.

The Holding Company

RGA is an insurance holding company whose primary uses of liquidity include, but are not limited to, the immediate capital needs of its operating companies, dividends paid to its shareholders, repurchase of common stock and interest payments on its indebtedness. RGA recognized interest expense of $38.0 million and $32.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. RGA made capital contributions to subsidiaries of $17.0 million and $1.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Dividends to shareholders were $17.8 million and $13.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. There were no principal payments on RGA’s debt for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012. The primary sources of RGA’s liquidity include proceeds from its capital raising efforts, interest income on undeployed corporate investments, interest income received on surplus notes with RGA Reinsurance, Reinsurance Company of Missouri, Incorporated (“RCM”) and Rockwood Re and dividends from operating subsidiaries. RGA recognized interest and dividend income of $25.7 million and $19.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. There was no issuance of unaffiliated or affiliated long term debt for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012. As the Company continues its business operations, RGA will continue to be dependent upon these sources of liquidity. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, RGA held $684.6 million and $722.3 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents, short-term and other investments and fixed maturity investments.

The Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, has committed to provide statutory reserve support to a third-party through 2035, in exchange for a fee, by funding a loan if certain defined events occur. Such statutory reserves are required under the U.S. Valuation of Life Policies Model Regulation (commonly referred to as Regulation XXX for term life insurance policies and Regulation A-XXX for universal life secondary guarantees). The maximum potential obligation under this commitment is $560.0 million. The third-party has recourse to RGA should the subsidiary fail to provide the required funding, however, as of March 31, 2013, the Company does not believe that it will be required to provide any funding under this commitment as the occurrence of the defined events is considered remote.

 

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RGA has established an intercompany revolving credit facility where certain subsidiaries can lend to or borrow from each other and from RGA in order to manage capital and liquidity more efficiently. The intercompany revolving credit facility, which is a series of demand loans among RGA and its affiliates, is permitted under applicable insurance laws. This facility reduces overall borrowing costs by allowing RGA and its operating companies to access internal cash resources instead of incurring third-party transaction costs. The statutory borrowing and lending limit for RGA’s Missouri-domiciled insurance subsidiaries is currently 3% of the insurance company’s admitted assets as of its most recent year-end. There were no amounts outstanding under the intercompany revolving credit facility as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

The Company believes that it has sufficient liquidity for the next 12 months to fund its cash needs under various scenarios that include the potential risk of early recapture of reinsurance treaties and higher than expected death claims. Historically, the Company has generated positive net cash flows from operations. However, in the event of significant unanticipated cash requirements beyond normal liquidity, the Company has multiple liquidity alternatives available based on market conditions and the amount and timing of the liquidity need. These options include borrowings under committed credit facilities, secured borrowings, the ability to issue long-term debt, preferred securities or common equity and, if necessary, the sale of invested assets subject to market conditions.

On January 24, 2013, RGA’s board of directors authorized a share repurchase program for up to $200.0 million of RGA’s outstanding common stock. This authorization was effective January 24, 2013 and does not have an expiration date. During the first quarter of 2013, RGA repurchased 815,011 shares of common stock under this program for $47.6 million. During April 2013, the Company repurchased an additional 892,047 shares of common stock under the program for $52.4 million. The common shares repurchased have been placed into treasury to be used for general corporate purposes.

On April 18, 2013, RGA’s board of directors authorized an increase of $100.0 million to the share repurchase program previously authorized on January 24, 2013. With this authorization, the total amount of the Company’s outstanding common stock authorized for repurchase is $300.0 million.

In April 2013, the Company’s board of directors declared a dividend of $0.24 per share. All future payments of dividends are at the discretion of RGA’s board of directors and will depend on the Company’s earnings, capital requirements, insurance regulatory conditions, operating conditions, and other such factors as the board of directors may deem relevant. The amount of dividends that RGA can pay will depend in part on the operations of its reinsurance subsidiaries.

Cash Flows

The Company’s net cash flows provided by operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 were $494.9 million and $554.7 million, respectively. Cash flows from operating activities are affected by the timing of premiums received, claims paid, and working capital changes. The Company believes the short-term cash requirements of its business operations will be sufficiently met by the positive cash flows generated. Additionally, the Company believes it maintains a high quality fixed maturity portfolio that can be sold, if necessary, to meet the Company’s short- and long-term obligations.

Net cash used in investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 was $385.4 million and $509.3 million, respectively. Cash flows from investing activities primarily reflect the sales, maturities and purchases of fixed maturity securities related to the management of the Company’s investment portfolios and the investment of excess cash generated by operating and financing activities. Cash flows from investing activities also include the investment activity related to mortgage loans, policy loans, funds withheld at interest, short-term investments and other invested assets.

Net cash used in financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 was $351.6 million and $140.4 million, respectively. Cash flows from financing activities primarily reflects the Company’s capital management efforts, treasury stock activity, dividends to stockholders, changes in collateral for derivative positions and the activity related to universal life and other investment type policies and contracts.

Debt

Certain of the Company’s debt agreements contain financial covenant restrictions related to, among others, liens, the issuance and disposition of stock of restricted subsidiaries, minimum requirements of consolidated net worth, maximum ratios of debt to capitalization and change of control provisions. The Company is required to maintain a minimum consolidated net worth, as defined in the debt agreements, of $2.8 billion, calculated as of the last day of each fiscal quarter. Also, consolidated indebtedness, calculated as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, cannot exceed 35% of the sum of the Company’s consolidated indebtedness plus adjusted consolidated net worth. A material ongoing covenant default could require immediate payment of the amount due, including principal, under the various agreements. Additionally, the Company’s debt agreements contain cross-default covenants, which would make outstanding borrowings immediately payable in the event of a material uncured covenant default under any of the agreements, including, but not limited to, non-payment of indebtedness when due for an amount in excess of $100.0 million, bankruptcy proceedings, or any other event which results in the acceleration of the maturity of indebtedness. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company had $1,815.4 million and $1,815.3 million, respectively, in outstanding borrowings under its debt agreements and was in compliance with

 

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all covenants under those agreements. The ability of the Company to make debt principal and interest payments depends on the earnings and surplus of subsidiaries, investment earnings on undeployed capital proceeds, and the Company’s ability to raise additional funds. Scheduled repayments of debt over the next five years total $300.0 million, all due in 2017.

The Company enters into derivative agreements with counterparties that reference either the Company’s debt rating or its financial strength rating. If either rating is downgraded in the future, it could trigger certain terms in the Company’s derivative agreements, which could negatively affect overall liquidity. For the majority of the Company’s derivative agreements, there is a termination event should the long-term senior debt ratings drop below either BBB+ (S&P) or Baa1 (Moody’s) or the financial strength ratings drop below either A- (S&P) or A3 (Moody’s).

The Company may borrow up to $850.0 million in cash and obtain letters of credit in multiple currencies on its revolving credit facility that expires in December 2015. As of March 31, 2013, the Company had no cash borrowings outstanding and $140.0 million in issued, but undrawn, letters of credit under this facility. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the average interest rate on long-term debt outstanding was 5.99%.

Based on the historic cash flows and the current financial results of the Company, management believes RGA’s cash flows will be sufficient to enable RGA to meet its obligations for at least the next 12 months.

Collateral Finance Facilities

In 2006, RGA’s subsidiary, Timberlake Financial L.L.C. (“Timberlake Financial”), issued $850.0 million of Series A Floating Rate Insured Notes due June 2036 in a private placement. The notes were issued to fund the collateral requirements for statutory reserves required by the U.S. Valuation of Life Policies Model Regulation (commonly referred to as Regulation XXX) on specified term life insurance policies reinsured by RGA Reinsurance and retroceded to Timberlake Reinsurance Company II (“Timberlake Re”). Proceeds from the notes, along with a $112.8 million direct investment by the Company, were deposited into a series of accounts that collateralize the notes and are not available to satisfy the general obligations of the Company. Interest on the notes accrues at an annual rate of 1-month LIBOR plus a base rate margin, payable monthly. The payment of interest and principal on the notes is insured through a financial guaranty insurance policy by a monoline insurance company whose parent company is operating under Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The notes represent senior, secured indebtedness of Timberlake Financial without legal recourse to RGA or its other subsidiaries.

Timberlake Financial relies primarily upon the receipt of interest and principal payments on a surplus note and dividend payments from its wholly-owned subsidiary, Timberlake Re, a South Carolina captive insurance company, to make payments of interest and principal on the notes. The ability of Timberlake Re to make interest and principal payments on the surplus note and dividend payments to Timberlake Financial is contingent upon the South Carolina Department of Insurance’s regulatory approval. As of March 31, 2013, Timberlake Re’s surplus totaled $32.6 million. Reserve decreases and statutory profits are expected to increase capital and surplus above $35.0 million by year-end 2014. Since Timberlake Re’s capital and surplus fell below the minimum requirement in its licensing order of $35.0 million, it has been required, since the second quarter of 2011, to request approval on a quarterly rather than annual basis and provide additional scenario testing results. Approval to pay interest on the surplus note was granted through June 28, 2013.

On January 17, 2013, the Company repurchased $160.0 million face amount of the Timberlake Financial notes for $112.0 million, which was the market value at the date of the purchase. The notes were purchased by RGA Reinsurance. As a result, the Company recorded a pre-tax gain of $46.5 million, after fees, in other revenues.

In 2010, Manor Re obtained $300.0 million of collateral financing through 2020 from an international bank which enabled Manor Re to deposit assets in trust to support statutory reserve credit for an affiliated reinsurance transaction. The bank has recourse to RGA should Manor Re fail to make payments or otherwise not perform its obligations under this financing. Interest on the collateral financing accrues at an annual rate of 3-month LIBOR plus a base rate margin, payable quarterly.

Asset / Liability Management

The Company actively manages its cash and invested assets using an approach that is intended to balance quality, diversification, asset/liability matching, liquidity and investment return. The goals of the investment process are to optimize after-tax, risk-adjusted investment income and after-tax, risk-adjusted total return while managing the assets and liabilities on a cash flow and duration basis.

The Company has established target asset portfolios for each major insurance product, which represent the investment strategies intended to profitably fund its liabilities within acceptable risk parameters. These strategies include objectives and limits for effective duration, yield curve sensitivity and convexity, liquidity, asset sector concentration and credit quality.

The Company’s asset-intensive products are primarily supported by investments in fixed maturity securities reflected on the Company’s balance sheet and under funds withheld arrangements with the ceding company. Investment guidelines are established to structure the investment portfolio based upon the type, duration and behavior of products in the liability portfolio so as to achieve targeted levels of profitability. The Company manages the asset-intensive business to provide a

 

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targeted spread between the interest rate earned on investments and the interest rate credited to the underlying interest-sensitive contract liabilities. The Company periodically reviews models projecting different interest rate scenarios and their effect on profitability. Certain of these asset-intensive agreements, primarily in the U.S. operating segment, are generally funded by fixed maturity securities that are withheld by the ceding company.

The Company’s liquidity position (cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments) was $1,182.5 million and $1,548.0 million at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. Cash and cash equivalents includes cash collateral received from derivative counterparties of $126.3 million and $136.4 million as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. This unrestricted cash collateral is included in cash and cash equivalents and the obligation to return it is included in other liabilities in the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets. Liquidity needs are determined from valuation analyses conducted by operational units and are driven by product portfolios. Periodic evaluations of demand liabilities and short-term liquid assets are designed to adjust specific portfolios, as well as their durations and maturities, in response to anticipated liquidity needs.

The Company also participates in a repurchase/reverse repurchase program in which securities, reflected as investments on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets, are pledged to a third party. In return, the Company receives securities from the third party with an estimated fair value equal to a minimum of 100% of the securities pledged. The securities received are not reflected on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. As of March 31, 2013 the Company had pledged securities with an amortized cost of $284.5 million and an estimated fair value of $309.7 million, in return the Company received securities with an estimated fair value of $343.2 million. As of December 31, 2012 the Company had pledged securities with an amortized cost of $290.2 million and an estimated fair value of $305.9 million, in return the Company received securities with an estimated fair value of $342.0 million. In addition to its security agreements with third parties, certain RGA’s subsidiaries have entered into intercompany securities lending agreements to more efficiently source securities for lending to third parties and to provide for more efficient regulatory capital management.

RGA Reinsurance is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (“FHLB”) and holds $32.3 million of common stock in the FHLB, which is included in other invested assets on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets. RGA Reinsurance occasionally enters into traditional funding agreements with the FHLB, and had no outstanding traditional funding agreements with the FHLB at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012. The Company had no traditional funding agreements during the first three nine months of 2013 and 2012. Interest on traditional funding agreements with the FHLB is reflected in interest expense on the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of income.

In addition, RGA Reinsurance has also entered into funding agreements with the FHLB under guaranteed investment contracts whereby RGA Reinsurance has issued the funding agreements in exchange for cash and for which the FHLB has been granted a blanket lien on RGA Reinsurance’s commercial and residential mortgage-backed securities and commercial mortgage loans used to collateralize RGA Reinsurance’s obligations under the funding agreements. RGA Reinsurance maintains control over these pledged assets, and may use, commingle, encumber or dispose of any portion of the collateral as long as there is no event of default and the remaining qualified collateral is sufficient to satisfy the collateral maintenance level. The funding agreements and the related security agreements represented by this blanket lien provide that upon any event of default by RGA Reinsurance, the FHLB’s recovery is limited to the amount of RGA Reinsurance’s liability under the outstanding funding agreements. The amount of the Company’s liability for the funding agreements with the FHLB under guaranteed investment contracts was $500.0 million at both March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, which is included in interest sensitive contract liabilities. The advances on these agreements are collateralized primarily by commercial and residential mortgage-backed securities and commercial mortgage loans. The amount of collateral exceeds the liability and is dependent on the type of assets collateralizing the guaranteed investment contracts.

Investments

Management of Investments

The Company’s investment and derivative strategies involve matching the characteristics of its reinsurance products and other obligations and to seek to closely approximate the interest rate sensitivity of the assets with estimated interest rate sensitivity of the reinsurance liabilities. The Company achieves its income objectives through strategic and tactical asset allocations, security and derivative strategies within an asset/liability management and disciplined risk management framework. Derivative strategies are employed within the Company’s risk management framework to help manage duration, currency, and other risks in assets and/or liabilities and to replicate the credit characteristics of certain assets. For a discussion of the Company’s risk management process see “Market Risk” in the “Enterprise Risk Management” section below.

The Company’s portfolio management groups work with the Enterprise Risk Management function to develop the investment policies for the assets of the Company’s domestic and international investment portfolios. All investments held by the Company, directly or in a funds withheld at interest reinsurance arrangement, are monitored for conformance with the

 

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Company’s stated investment policy limits as well as any limits prescribed by the applicable jurisdiction’s insurance laws and regulations. See Note 4 – “Investments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the Company’s investments.

Portfolio Composition

The Company had total cash and invested assets of $34.0 billion and $34.2 billion at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively, as illustrated below (dollars in thousands):

 

           March 31, 2013                December 31, 2012      

Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale

   $ 22,401,659       $ 22,291,614   

Mortgage loans on real estate

     2,325,191         2,300,587   

Policy loans

     1,245,812         1,278,175   

Funds withheld at interest

     5,698,594         5,594,182   

Short-term investments

     180,707         288,082   

Other invested assets

     1,129,651         1,159,543   

Cash and cash equivalents

     1,001,841         1,259,892   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total cash and invested assets

   $ 33,983,455       $ 34,172,075   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment Yield

The following table presents consolidated average invested assets at amortized cost, net investment income and investment yield, excluding funds withheld at interest and spread related business. Funds withheld at interest assets and other spread related business are primarily associated with the reinsurance of annuity contracts on which the Company earns an interest rate spread between assets and liabilities. Fluctuations in the yield on funds withheld assets and other spread related business are substantially offset by a corresponding adjustment to the interest credited on the liabilities (dollars in thousands).

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2013      2012        Increase/  
  (Decrease)  
 

Average invested assets at amortized cost

    $      17,992,152         $      16,342,741         10.1%   

Net investment income

     213,322         202,603         5.3%   

Investment yield (ratio of net investment income to average invested assets)

     4.83%         5.05%         (22) bps   

The current low U.S. interest rate environment is negatively affecting the Company’s earnings through reinvestment of maturing assets and investment of new liability cash flows. Investment yield decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2013 due primarily to slightly lower yields on several asset classes, including fixed maturity securities, mortgage loans and policy loans. The lower yields are due primarily to a lower interest rate environment which decreases the yield on new investment purchases.

Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale

See “Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale” in Note 4 – “Investments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for tables that provide the amortized cost, unrealized gains and losses, estimated fair value of fixed maturity and equity securities, and other-than-temporary impairments in AOCI by sector as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

The Company’s fixed maturity securities are invested primarily in corporate bonds, mortgage- and asset-backed securities, and U.S. and Canadian government securities. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, approximately 93.4% and 94.2%, respectively, of the Company’s consolidated investment portfolio of fixed maturity securities were investment grade.

Important factors in the selection of investments include diversification, quality, yield, total rate of return potential and call protection. The relative importance of these factors is determined by market conditions and the underlying product or portfolio characteristics. Cash equivalents are primarily invested in high-grade money market instruments. The largest asset class in which fixed maturity securities were invested was corporate securities, which represented approximately 55.5% of total fixed maturity securities as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012. See “Corporate Fixed Maturity Securities” in Note 4 – “Investments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for tables showing the major industry types, which comprise the corporate fixed maturity holdings at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

As of March 31, 2013, the Company’s investments in Canadian and Canadian provincial government securities represented 17.6% of the fair value of total fixed maturity securities compared to 18.2% of the fair value of total fixed maturity securities at December 31, 2012. These assets are primarily high quality, long duration provincial strips whose valuation is closely

 

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linked to the interest rate curve. The Company’s holdings in Canadian securities were the largest contributor to the net unrealized gain reported in the accumulated other comprehensive income reflected in the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets. These assets are longer in duration and held primarily for asset/liability management to meet Canadian regulatory requirements. See “Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale” in Note 4 – “Investments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for tables showing the various sectors as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

The creditworthiness of Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal and Spain, commonly referred to as “Europe’s peripheral region,” and Cyprus is under ongoing stress and uncertainty due to high debt levels and economic weakness. The Company did not have material exposure to sovereign fixed maturity securities, which includes global government agencies, from Europe’s peripheral region and Cyprus, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012. In addition, the Company did not purchase or sell credit protection, through credit default swaps, referenced to sovereign entities of Europe’s peripheral region and Cyprus.

The tables below show the Company’s exposure to fixed maturity securities and equity securities, based on the security’s country of issuance, from Europe’s peripheral region and Cyprus as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

March 31, 2013:                     Estimated              
            Amortized Cost                   Fair Value                  % of Total          

Sovereign:

     

Ireland

  $ 5,000        4,997        3.3%      

Spain

    9,969        9,922        6.6        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total sovereign

    14,969        14,919        9.9        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Financial institutions:

     

Ireland

    6,877        7,304        4.8        

Italy

    11,466        11,140        7.4        

Spain

    40,903        43,173        28.5        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total financial institutions

    59,246        61,617        40.7        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other:

     

Ireland

    39,556        41,939        27.6        

Italy

    6,356        6,551        4.3        

Spain

    24,505        26,432        17.5        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other

    70,417        74,922        49.4        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 144,632      $ 151,458        100.0%      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
December 31, 2012:                     Estimated              
            Amortized Cost                   Fair Value                 % of Total          

Financial institutions:

     

Ireland

  $ 4,093      $ 4,520        3.8%      

Spain

    38,422        39,920        33.7        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total financial institutions

    42,515        44,440        37.5        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other:

     

Ireland

    38,852        41,019        34.6        

Italy

    6,434        6,653        5.6        

Spain

    24,725        26,547        22.3        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other

    70,011        74,219        62.5        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 112,526      $ 118,659        100.0%      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Strong improvement in European financial markets, as the governments of the European Union have demonstrated willingness to negotiate a solution to the region’s debt problems during 2013, has resulted in unrealized gains in both financial institutions and all other fixed maturity and equity securities held by the Company that were issued within the region with the exception of the Company’s sovereign exposure to Greece and Spain which had fair values slightly below amortized cost.

The tables below show the Company’s exposure to sovereign fixed maturity securities originated in countries other than Europe’s peripheral region, included in “Other foreign government, supranational and foreign government-sponsored enterprises,” in Note 4 – “Investments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

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March 31, 2013:                     Estimated              
            Amortized Cost                   Fair Value                  % of Total        

Australia

  $ 466,464      $ 475,498        30.9%    

Japan

    264,152        272,823        17.7      

United Kingdom

    133,207        141,893        9.2      

South Africa

    75,057        75,785        4.9      

New Zealand

    60,889        61,631        4.0      

Cayman Islands

    48,235        55,246        3.6      

South Korea

    51,196        54,546        3.5      

France

    50,309        53,683        3.5      

Germany

    48,255        51,312        3.3      

Other

    272,196        297,769        19.4      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 1,469,960      $ 1,540,186        100.0%    
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
December 31, 2012:                     Estimated              
            Amortized Cost                       Fair Value                 % of Total        

Australia

  $ 472,188      $ 483,629        30.9%    

Japan

    291,955        297,025        19.0      

United Kingdom

    130,792        139,826        8.9      

Cayman Islands

    69,172        77,912        5.0      

South Africa

    63,721        66,372        4.2      

South Korea

    52,613        55,563        3.5      

Germany

    51,413        54,602        3.5      

New Zealand

    53,593        54,092        3.5      

France

    45,342        48,761        3.1      

Other

    258,578        287,421        18.4      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 1,489,367      $ 1,565,203        100.0%    
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

As of March 31, 2013, the Company’s investment in sovereign fixed maturity securities represented 6.9% of the fair value of total fixed maturity securities compared to 7.0% of the fair value of total fixed maturity securities at December 31, 2012.

The Company references rating agency designations in some of its investment disclosures. These designations are based on the ratings from nationally recognized rating organizations, primarily those assigned by S&P. In instances where a S&P rating is not available, the Company will reference the rating provided by Moody’s and in the absence of both the Company will assign equivalent ratings based on information from the NAIC. The NAIC assigns securities quality ratings and uniform valuations called “NAIC Designations” which are used by insurers when preparing their statutory filings. The NAIC assigns designations to publicly traded as well as privately placed securities. The designations assigned by the NAIC range from class 1 to class 6, with designations in classes 1 and 2 generally considered investment grade (BBB or higher rating agency designation). NAIC designations in classes 3 through 6 are generally considered below investment grade (BB or lower rating agency designation).

The quality of the Company’s available-for-sale fixed maturity securities portfolio, as measured at fair value and by the percentage of fixed maturity securities invested in various ratings categories, relative to the entire available-for-sale fixed maturity security portfolio, at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 was as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

        March 31, 2013     December 31, 2012  

NAIC
  Designation  

 

Rating Agency

Designation

   Amortized Cost      Estimated
Fair Value
         % of Total            Amortized Cost      Estimated
     Fair  Value     
         % of Total       
1   AAA/AA/A      $      12,332,953         $      14,419,490         64.3%          $      12,059,154         $      14,300,571        64.2%    
2   BBB     6,058,221        6,524,007         29.1           6,186,536        6,692,929        30.0      
3   BB     731,136        757,948         3.4           694,349        712,712        3.2      
4   B     497,504        507,879         2.3           444,996        444,035        2.0      
5   CCC and lower     98,290        79,039         0.4           118,738        95,906        0.4      
6   In or near default     120,845        113,296         0.5           55,659        45,461        0.2      
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
 

Total

    $ 19,838,949          $ 22,401,659         100.0%          $      19,559,432         $ 22,291,614        100.0%    
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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The Company’s fixed maturity portfolio includes structured securities. The following table shows the types of structured securities the Company held at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

    March 31, 2013     December 31, 2012  
          Estimated           Estimated  
        Amortized Cost        

 

        Fair Value        

        Amortized Cost        

 

        Fair Value        

 

Residential mortgage-backed securities:

       

 

Agency

    $ 520,081        $ 575,274        $ 497,918        $ 555,535   

 

Non-agency

    485,151        501,496        471,349        486,529   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total residential mortgage-backed securities

    1,005,232        1,076,770        969,267        1,042,064   

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

    1,596,659        1,698,144        1,608,376        1,698,903   

Asset-backed securities

    752,280        756,544        700,455        691,555   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 3,354,171        $ 3,531,458        $ 3,278,098        $ 3,432,522   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The residential mortgage-backed securities include agency-issued pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations. A majority of the agency-issued pass-through securities are guaranteed or otherwise supported by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, Federal National Mortgage Association, or the Government National Mortgage Association. The weighted average credit rating was A and “A+” as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The principal risks inherent in holding mortgage-backed securities are prepayment and extension risks, which will affect the timing of when cash will be received and are dependent on the level of mortgage interest rates. Prepayment risk is the unexpected increase in principal payments, primarily as a result of owner refinancing. Extension risk relates to the unexpected slowdown in principal payments. In addition, non-agency mortgage-backed securities face credit risk should the borrower be unable to pay the contractual interest or principal on their obligation. The Company monitors its mortgage-backed securities to mitigate exposure to the cash flow uncertainties associated with these risks.

As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company had exposure to commercial mortgage-backed securities with amortized costs totaling $1,965.8 million and $1,969.4 million, and estimated fair values of $2,095.8 million and $2,090.0 million, respectively. Those amounts include exposure to commercial mortgage-backed securities held directly in the Company’s investment portfolios within fixed maturity securities, as well as securities held by ceding companies that support the Company’s funds withheld at interest investment. The securities are generally highly rated with weighted average S&P credit ratings of approximately “A+” at both March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012. Approximately 30.2% and 30.3%, based on estimated fair value, were classified in the “AAA” category at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The Company did not record any other-than-temporary impairments in its direct investments in commercial mortgage-backed securities for the first three months ended March 31, 2013. The Company recorded $12.1 million of other-than-temporary impairments in its direct investments in commercial mortgage-backed securities for the first three months ended March 31, 2012. The following tables summarize the commercial mortgage-backed securities by rating and underwriting year at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (dollars in thousands):

 

March 31, 2013:   AAA     AA     A  
    Amortized     Estimated     Amortized     Estimated     Amortized     Estimated  
Underwriting Year   Cost     Fair Value     Cost     Fair Value     Cost     Fair Value  

2006 & Prior

    $             308,039        $             337,453        $             179,472        $             196,947        $             181,203        $             194,364   

2007

    170,423        187,147        32,850        37,343        68,910        76,582   

2008

    --        --        53,671        66,143        18,677        21,049   

2009

    1,653        1,806        12,346        13,672        3,476        5,680   

2010

    27,988        29,651        47,138        52,872        19,321        21,007   

2011

    15,746        16,262        18,157        20,876        40,504        43,494   

2012

    28,334        28,686        35,130        36,159        58,334        60,064   

2013

    32,060        32,029        4,118        4,115        --        --   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 584,243        $ 633,034        $ 382,882        $ 428,127        $ 390,425        $ 422,240   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
    BBB     Below Investment Grade     Total  
    Amortized     Estimated     Amortized     Estimated     Amortized     Estimated  
Underwriting Year   Cost     Fair Value     Cost     Fair Value     Cost     Fair Value  

2006 & Prior

    $ 193,417        $ 199,964        $ 102,560        $ 99,160        $ 964,691        $ 1,027,888   

2007

    93,610        109,051        115,537        101,711        481,330        511,834   

2008

    --        --        22,642        18,935        94,990        106,127   

2009

    3,941        5,516        --        --        21,416        26,674   

2010

    --        --        --        --        94,447        103,530   

2011

    33,198        34,035        --        --        107,605        114,667   

2012

    43,354        43,993        --        --        165,152        168,902   

2013

    --        --        --        --        36,178        36,144   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 367,520        $ 392,559        $ 240,739        $ 219,806        $ 1,965,809        $ 2,095,766   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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December 31, 2012:   AAA     AA     A  
    Amortized     Estimated     Amortized     Estimated     Amortized     Estimated  
Underwriting Year   Cost     Fair Value     Cost     Fair Value     Cost     Fair Value  

2005 & Prior

    $             69,810        $             75,706        $             129,430        $             141,189        $             99,840        $             103,112   

2006

    243,222        270,756        59,773        66,862        85,198        93,688   

2007

    182,456        201,131        32,810        37,542        69,266        77,657   

2008

    7,674        7,672        53,510        67,624        14,387        17,098   

2009

    1,655        1,820        17,399        19,483        3,463        5,599   

2010

    27,984        29,956        47,085        53,027        13,273        14,405   

2011

    15,748        16,411        16,069        18,184        40,546        42,726   

2012

    28,324        29,080        36,340        36,925        58,376        59,595   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 576,873        $ 632,532        $ 392,416        $ 440,836        $ 384,349        $ 413,880   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
    BBB     Below Investment Grade     Total  
Underwriting Year   Amortized Cost     Estimated
Fair Value
    Amortized Cost     Estimated
Fair Value
    Amortized Cost     Estimated
Fair Value
 

2005 & Prior

    $             110,887        $             113,801        $             42,838        $             37,720        $             452,805        $             471,528   

2006

    83,565        84,689        67,131        65,645        538,889        581,640   

2007

    93,414        108,902        115,028        91,505        492,974        516,737   

2008

    --        --        22,416        17,386        97,987        109,780   

2009

    3,880        5,547        --        --        26,397        32,449   

2010

    --        --        --        --        88,342        97,388   

2011

    33,242        33,757        --        --        105,605        111,078   

2012

    43,346        43,811        --        --        166,386        169,411   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 368,334        $ 390,507        $ 247,413        $ 212,256        $ 1,969,385        $ 2,090,011   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Asset-backed securities include credit card and automobile receivables, sub-prime mortgage-backed securities, home equity loans, manufactured housing bonds and collateralized debt obligations. The Company’s asset-backed securities are diversified by issuer and contain both floating and fixed rate securities and had a weighted average credit rating of “A+” and “AA-” at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The Company owns floating rate securities that represent approximately 15.3% and 15.0% of the total fixed maturity securities at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. These investments have a higher degree of income variability than the other fixed income holdings in the portfolio due to the floating rate nature of the interest payments. The Company holds these investments to match specific floating rate liabilities primarily reflected in the consolidated balance sheets as collateral finance facility. In addition to the risks associated with floating rate securities, principal risks in holding asset-backed securities are structural, credit and capital market risks. Structural risks include the securities’ cash flow priority in the capital structure and the inherent prepayment sensitivity of the underlying collateral. Credit risks include the adequacy and ability to realize proceeds from the collateral. Credit risks are mitigated by credit enhancements which include excess spread, over-collateralization and subordination. Capital market risks include general level of interest rates and the liquidity for these securities in the marketplace.

Since the financial crisis of 2008, the Company has continued to monitor its exposure in other structured security investments that includes subprime mortgage securities as well as Alt-A securities, a classification of mortgage loans where the risk profile of the borrower falls between prime and subprime. At March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company directly held investments in asset-backed securities with subprime mortgage exposure and also within the portfolios supporting the Company’s funds withheld at interest with amortized costs totaling $117.2 million and $122.6 million, and estimated fair values of $106.9 million and $103.0 million, respectively. While ratings and vintage year are important factors to consider, the tranche seniority and evaluation of forecasted future losses within a tranche is critical to the valuation of these types of securities. At March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company’s Alt-A securities had an amortized cost of $180.3 million and $169.0 million, and estimated fair values of $188.3 million and $174.4 million, respectively. The Alt-A securities are held directly as well as within the portfolios supporting the Company’s funds withheld at interest. The Company did not record any other-than-temporary impairments in its direct subprime or Alt-A portfolios during the first quarter of 2013 or 2012.

The Company does not invest in the common equity securities of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, both government sponsored entities; however, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company held in its general portfolio $66.0 million and $64.7 million, respectively, at amortized cost with direct exposure in the form of senior unsecured agency and preferred securities. Additionally, as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the portfolios held by the Company’s ceding companies that support its funds withheld asset contain approximately $309.7 million and $307.2 million, respectively, in amortized cost of unsecured agency bond holdings and no equity exposure. As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, indirect exposure in the form of secured, structured mortgaged securities issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac totaled approximately $721.8 million and $700.9 million, respectively, in amortized cost across the Company’s general and funds

 

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withheld portfolios.

The Company monitors its fixed maturity and equity securities to determine impairments in value and evaluates factors such as financial condition of the issuer, payment performance, the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been below amortized cost, compliance with covenants, general market and industry sector conditions, current intent and ability to hold securities, and various other subjective factors. See “Investments – Other-than-Temporary Impairment” in Note 2 – “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2012 Annual Report for additional information. The Company recorded $0.2 million in other-than-temporary impairments in its fixed maturity securities, none of which related to Subprime/Alt-A/Other structured securities in the first quarter of 2013. The Company recorded $15.7 million in other-than-temporary impairments in its fixed maturity and equity securities, including $12.8 million of other-than-temporary impairment losses on Subprime / Alt-A / Other structured securities, in the first quarter of 2012, primarily due to a decline in value of structured securities with exposure to mortgages and general credit deterioration in select corporate and foreign securities. The increase in other impairments was primarily due to impairments in the limited partnership asset class in the first quarter of 2013. The table below summarizes other-than-temporary impairments for the first quarter of 2013 and 2012 (dollars in thousands).

 

      Asset Class    Three Months Ended  
         March 31, 2013                   March 31, 2012        

Subprime / Alt-A / Other structured securities

     $ --         $ 12,790   

Corporate / Other fixed maturity securities

     202         2,038   

Equity securities

     --         839   

Other impairments (primarily mortgage loans and limited partnerships)

     1,626         5,843   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     $ 1,828         $ 21,510   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

At March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company had $122.5 million and $133.6 million, respectively, of gross unrealized losses related to its fixed maturity and equity securities. The distribution of the gross unrealized losses related to these securities is shown below.

                 March 31,                           December 31,          
     2013      2012  

Sector:

     

Corporate securities

     38.3 %             30.4 %       

Canadian and Canada provincial governments

     0.9                0.1          

Residential mortgage-backed securities

     3.3                2.8          

Asset-backed securities

     15.6                21.6          

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

     34.2                38.8          

State and political subdivisions

     4.7                4.3          

U.S. government and agencies

     0.1                --           

Other foreign government supranational and
foreign government-sponsored enterprises

     2.9                2.0          
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     100.0 %             100.0 %       
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Industry:

     

Finance

     16.7 %             18.0 %       

Asset-backed

     15.6                21.6          

Industrial

     17.0                9.0          

Mortgage-backed

     37.6                41.6          

Government

     8.6                6.4          

Utility

     4.5                3.4          
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     100.0 %             100.0 %       
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

See “Unrealized Losses for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale” in Note 4 – “Investments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a table that presents the total gross unrealized losses for fixed maturity and equity securities at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively, where the estimated fair value had declined and remained below amortized cost by less than 20% or more than 20%.

The Company’s determination of whether a decline in value is other-than-temporary includes analysis of the underlying credit and the extent and duration of a decline in value. The Company’s credit analysis of an investment includes determining whether the issuer is current on its contractual payments, evaluating whether it is probable that the Company will be able to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the security and analyzing the overall ability of the Company to recover the amortized cost of the investment. The Company continues to consider valuation declines as a potential indicator of credit deterioration. The Company believes that due to fluctuating market conditions and an extended period of economic uncertainty, the extent and duration of a decline in value have become less indicative of when there has been credit deterioration with respect to a fixed maturity security since it may not have an impact on the ability of the issuer

 

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to service all scheduled payments and the Company’s evaluation of the recoverability of all contractual cash flows or the ability to recover an amount at least equal to amortized cost. In the Company’s impairment review process, the duration and severity of an unrealized loss position for equity securities are given greater weight and consideration given the lack of contractual cash flows and deferability features of these securities.

See “Unrealized Losses for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale” in Note 4 – “Investments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for tables that present the estimated fair values and gross unrealized losses, including other-than-temporary impairment losses reported in AOCI, for fixed maturity and equity securities that have estimated fair values below amortized cost as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

As of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively, the Company classified approximately 10.4% and 10.0% of its fixed maturity securities in the Level 3 category (refer to Note 6 – “Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information). These securities primarily consist of private placement corporate securities, below investment grade commercial and residential mortgage-backed securities and sub-prime asset-backed securities with inactive trading markets.

Mortgage Loans on Real Estate

Mortgage loans represented approximately 6.8% and 6.7% of the Company’s cash and invested assets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The Company’s mortgage loan portfolio consists principally of investments in U.S.-based commercial offices, light industrial properties and retail locations. The mortgage loan portfolio is diversified by geographic region and property type as discussed further in Note 4 – “Investments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Valuation allowances on mortgage loans are established based upon losses expected by management to be realized in connection with future dispositions or settlement of mortgage loans, including foreclosures. The valuation allowances are established after management considers, among other things, the value of underlying collateral and payment capabilities of debtors. Any subsequent adjustments to the valuation allowances will be treated as investment gains or losses.

See “Mortgage Loans on Real Estate” in Note 4 – “Investments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding for information regarding valuation allowances and impairments.

Policy Loans

Policy loans comprised approximately 3.7% of the Company’s cash and invested assets as of both March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, substantially all of which are associated with one client. These policy loans present no credit risk because the amount of the loan cannot exceed the obligation due the ceding company upon the death of the insured or surrender of the underlying policy. The provisions of the treaties in force and the underlying policies determine the policy loan interest rates. Because policy loans represent premature distributions of policy liabilities, they have the effect of reducing future disintermediation risk. In addition, the Company earns a spread between the interest rate earned on policy loans and the interest rate credited to corresponding liabilities.

Funds Withheld at Interest

Funds withheld at interest comprised approximately 16.8% and 16.4% of the Company’s cash and invested assets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. For reinsurance agreements written on a modified coinsurance basis and certain agreements written on a coinsurance basis, assets equal to the net statutory reserves are withheld and legally owned and managed by the ceding company, and are reflected as funds withheld at interest on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. In the event of a ceding company’s insolvency, the Company would need to assert a claim on the assets supporting its reserve liabilities. However, the risk of loss to the Company is mitigated by its ability to offset amounts it owes the ceding company for claims or allowances with amounts owed by the ceding company. Interest accrues to these assets at rates defined by the treaty terms. Additionally, under certain treaties the Company is subject to the investment performance on the withheld assets, although it does not directly control them. These assets are primarily fixed maturity investment securities and pose risks similar to the fixed maturity securities the Company owns. To mitigate the risk, the Company helps set the investment guidelines followed by the ceding company and monitors compliance. Ceding companies with funds withheld at interest had an average rating of “A” at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012. Certain ceding companies maintain segregated portfolios for the benefit of the Company.

Other Invested Assets

Other invested assets include equity securities, collateral, limited partnership interests, real estate joint ventures, real estate held-for-investment, structured loans and derivative contracts. Other invested assets represented approximately 3.3% and 3.4% of the Company’s cash and invested assets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. See “Other Invested Assets” in Note 4 – “Investments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a table that presents the carrying value of the Company’s other invested assets by type as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

 

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The Company did not record any other-than-temporary impairments on equity securities in the first three months of 2013. In the first three months of 2012, the Company recorded $0.8 million of impairments on equity securities. The Company recorded $2.4 million and $0.8 million of other-than-temporary impairments on limited partnership interests in the first quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively.

The Company may be exposed to credit-related losses in the event of non-performance by counterparties to derivative financial instruments. Generally, the credit exposure of the Company’s derivative contracts is limited to the fair value at the reporting date plus or minus any collateral pledged to or from the Company. The Company had credit exposure related to its derivative contracts, excluding futures, of $9.5 million and $7.1 million at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. See “Credit Risk” in Note 5 – “Derivative Instruments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Contractual Obligations

From December 31, 2012 to March 31, 2013, the Company’s obligation related to its collateral finance facility, including interest, was reduced by $169.9 million due to the repurchase of a portion of the outstanding notes as previously discussed. There were no other material changes in the Company’s contractual obligations from those reported in the 2012 Annual Report.

Enterprise Risk Management

RGA maintains an Enterprise Risk Management (“ERM”) program to consistently identify, assess, mitigate, monitor, and communicate all material risks facing the organization in order to effectively manage all risks, increasing protection of RGA’s clients, shareholders, employees, and other stakeholders. RGA’s ERM framework provides a platform to assess the risk / return profiles of risks throughout the organization, thereby enabling enhanced decision making. This includes development and implementation of mitigation strategies to reduce exposures to these risks to acceptable levels. Risk management is an integral part of the Company’s culture and is interwoven in day to day activities. It includes guidelines, risk appetites, risk targets, risk limits, and other controls in areas such as mortality, morbidity, longevity, pricing, underwriting, currency, administration, investments, asset liability management, counterparty exposure, geographic exposure, financing, asset leverage, regulatory change, business continuity planning, human resources, liquidity, collateral, sovereign risks and information technology development.

The Chief Risk Officer (“CRO”), aided by the Risk Management Steering Committee (“RMSC”), Business Unit Chief Risk Officers, Risk Management Officers and a dedicated ERM function, is responsible for ensuring, on an ongoing basis, that objectives of the ERM framework are met; this includes ensuring proper risk controls are in place, risks are effectively identified, assessed and managed, and key risks to which the Company is exposed are disclosed to appropriate stakeholders. For each Business Unit and key risk, a Risk Management Officer is assigned. A Risk Officer is also assigned to take overall responsibility of a specific risk across all markets to monitor and assess this risk consistently. In addition to this network of Risk Management Officers, the Company also has risk focused committees such as the Business Continuity and Information Governance Steering Committee, Consolidated Investment Committee, Derivatives Risk Oversight Committee, Asset and Liability Management Committee, Hedging Oversight Committee, Collateral and Liquidity Committee, and the Currency Risk Management Committee. These committees are comprised of various risk experts and have overlapping membership, enabling consistent and holistic management of risks. These committees report directly or indirectly to the RMSC. The RMSC, which includes senior management executives, including the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Operating Officer (“COO”) and the CRO, is the primary risk management oversight for the Company.

The RMSC approves both targets and limits for each material risk and reviews these limits annually. Exposure to these risks is calculated and presented to the RMSC at least quarterly. Any exception to established risk limits or waiver needs to be approved by the RMSC.

The CRO, reports regularly to the Finance, Investment and Risk Management (“FIRM”) Committee, a sub-committee of the Board of Directors responsible, among other duties, for overseeing the management of RGA’s ERM programs and policies. An extensive ERM report is presented to the FIRM quarterly. The report contains information on all risks as well as qualitative and quantitative assessments. A list of all breaches, exceptions and waivers is also included in the report. The Board of Directors has other committees, such as the Audit Committee, whose responsibilities include aspects of risk management. The CRO reports to the COO and has direct access to the RGA Board of Directors, through the FIRM Committee.

The Company has devoted significant resources to develop its ERM program, and expects continuing to do so in the future. Nonetheless, the Company’s policies and procedures to identify, manage and monitor risks may not be fully effective. Many of the Company’s methods for managing risk are based on historical information, which may not be a good predictor of

 

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future risk exposures, such as the risk of a pandemic causing a large number of deaths. Management of operational, legal and regulatory risk rely on policies and procedures which may not be fully effective under all scenarios.

The Company categorizes its main risks as follows:

 

   

Insurance Risk

   

Liquidity Risk

   

Market Risk

   

Credit Risk

   

Operational Risk

Specific risk assessments and descriptions can be found below and in Item 1A – “Risk Factors” of the 2012 Annual Report.

Insurance Risk

The risk of loss due to experience deviating adversely from expectations for mortality, morbidity, and policyholder behavior or lost future profits due to treaty recapture by clients. This category is further divided into mortality, morbidity, longevity, policyholder behavior, and client recapture. The Company uses multiple approaches to managing insurance risk: active insurance risk assessment and pricing appropriately for the risks assumed, transferring undesired risks, and managing the retained exposure prudently. These strategies are explained below.

Insurance Risk Assessment and Pricing

The Company has developed extensive expertise in assessing insurance risks which ultimately forms an integral part of ensuring that it is compensated commensurately for the risks it assumes and that it does not overpay for the risks it transfers to third parties. This expertise includes a vast array of market and product knowledge supported by a large information database of historical experience which is closely monitored. Analysis and experience studies derived from this database help form the basis for the Company’s pricing assumptions which are used in developing rates for new risks. If actual mortality or morbidity experience is materially adverse, some reinsurance treaties allow for increases to future premium rates.

Misestimation of any key risk can threaten the long term viability of the enterprise. Further, the pricing process is a key operational risk and significant effort is applied to ensuring the appropriateness of pricing assumptions. Some of the safeguards the Company uses to ensure proper pricing are: experience studies, strict underwriting, sensitivity and scenario testing, pricing guidelines and controls, authority limits and internal and external pricing reviews. In addition, the Global ERM function provides additional pricing oversight which includes periodic pricing audits.

Risk Transfer

To minimize volatility in financial results and reduce the impact of large losses, the Company transfers some of its insurance risk to third parties using vehicles such as retrocession and catastrophe coverage.

Retrocession

In the normal course of business, the Company seeks to limit its exposure to loss on any single insured and to recover a portion of claims paid by ceding reinsurance to other insurance enterprises (or retrocessionaires) under excess coverage and coinsurance contracts. In individual life markets, the Company retains a maximum of $8.0 million of coverage per individual life. In certain limited situations the Company has retained more than $8.0 million per individual life. The Company enters into agreements with other reinsurers to mitigate the residual risk related to the over-retained policies. Additionally, due to some lower face amount reinsurance coverages provided by the Company in addition to individual life, such as group life, disability and health, under certain circumstances, the Company could potentially incur claims totaling more than $8.0 million per individual life.

Catastrophe Coverage

The Company accesses the markets each year for annual catastrophic coverages and reviews current coverage and pricing of current and alternate designs. Purchases vary from year to year based on the Company’s perceived value of such coverages. The current policy covers events involving 10 or more insured deaths from a single occurrence and covers $100 million of claims in excess of the Company’s $50 million deductible.

Mitigation of Retained Exposure

The Company retains most of the inbound insurance risk. The Company manages the retained exposure proactively using various mitigating factors such as diversification and limits. Diversification is the primary mitigating factor of short term volatility risk, but it also mitigates adverse impacts of changes in long term trends and catastrophic events. The Company’s insured populations are dispersed globally, diversifying the insurance exposure because factors that cause actual experience to deviate materially from expectations do not affect all areas uniformly and synchronously or in close sequence. A variety of

 

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limits mitigate retained insurance risk. Examples of these limits include geographic exposure limits, which set the maximum amount of business that can be written in a given locale, and jumbo limits, which prevent excessive coverage on a given individual.

In the event that mortality or morbidity experience develops in excess of expectations, some reinsurance treaties allow for increases to future premium rates. Other treaties include experience refund provisions, which may also help reduce RGA’s mortality risk.

Liquidity Risk

Liquidity risk is the risk that cash resources are insufficient to meet the Company’s cash demands without incurring unacceptable costs.

Liquidity demands come primarily from payment of claims, expenses and investment purchases, all of which are known or can be reasonably forecasted. Contingent liquidity demands exist and require the Company to inventory and estimate likely and potential liquidity demands stemming from stress scenarios.

The Company maintains cash, cash equivalents, credit facilities, and short-term liquid investments to support its current and future anticipated liquidity requirements. The Company may also borrow via the reverse repo market, and holds a large pool of unrestricted, FHLB-eligible collateral that may be pledged to support any FHLB advances needed to provide additional liquidity.

The amount of liquidity available both within 24 hours and within 72 hours is reviewed and reported at least weekly.

Market Risk

Market risk is the risk that net asset and liability values or revenue will be affected adversely by changes in market conditions such as market prices, exchange rates, and nominal interest rates The Company is primarily exposed to interest rate, equity and currency risks.

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk is the potential for loss, on a net asset and liability basis, due to changes in interest rates, including both normal rate changes and credit spread changes. This risk arises from many of the Company’s primary activities, as the Company invests substantial funds in interest-sensitive assets and also has certain interest-sensitive contract liabilities. The Company manages interest rate risk to maximize the return on the Company’s capital effectively and to preserve the value created by its business operations. As such, certain management monitoring processes are designed to minimize the effect of sudden and/or sustained changes in interest rates on fair value, cash flows, and net interest income. The Company manages its exposure to interest rates principally by matching floating rate liabilities with corresponding floating rate assets and by matching fixed rate liabilities with corresponding fixed rate assets. On a limited basis, the Company uses equity options to minimize its exposure to movements in equity markets that have a direct correlation with certain of its reinsurance products.

The Company’s exposure to interest rate price risk and interest rate cash flow risk is reviewed on a quarterly basis. Interest rate price risk exposure is measured using interest rate sensitivity analysis to determine the change in fair value of the Company’s financial instruments in the event of a hypothetical change in interest rates. Interest rate cash flow risk exposure is measured using interest rate sensitivity analysis to determine the Company’s variability in cash flows in the event of a hypothetical change in interest rates.

In order to reduce the exposure of changes in fair values from interest rate fluctuations, the Company has developed strategies to manage the interest rate sensitivity of its asset base. From time to time, the Company has utilized the swap market to manage the volatility of cash flows to interest rate fluctuations.

Foreign Currency Risk

The Company is subject to foreign currency translation, transaction, and net income exposure. The Company manages its exposure to currency principally by matching invested assets with the underlying liabilities to the extent possible. The Company has in place net investment hedges for a portion of its investments in its Canadian and Australian operations to reduce excess exposure to these currencies. Translation differences resulting from translating foreign subsidiary balances to U.S. dollars are reflected in stockholders’ equity on the condensed consolidated balance sheets.

The Company generally does not hedge the foreign currency exposure of its subsidiaries transacting business in currencies other than their functional currency (transaction exposure). However, the Company has entered into certain interest rate swaps in which the cash flows are denominated in different currencies, commonly referred to as cross currency swaps. Those interest rate swaps have been designated as cash flow hedges. The majority of the Company’s foreign currency transactions are denominated in Australian dollars, British pounds, Canadian dollars, Euros, Japanese yen, Korean won, and the South African rand.

 

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The maximum amount of assets held in a specific currency (with the exception of the U.S. Dollar) is measured relative to risk targets and is monitored regularly.

Inflation Risk

The primary direct effect on the Company of inflation is the increase in operating expenses. A large portion of the Company’s operating expenses consists of salaries, which are subject to wage increases at least partly affected by the rate of inflation. The rate of inflation also has an indirect effect on the Company. To the extent that a government’s policies to control the level of inflation result in changes in interest rates, the Company’s investment income is affected.

Equity Risk

Equity risk is the risk that net asset and liability (e.g. variable annuities or other equity linked exposures) values or revenues will be affected adversely by changes in equity markets. The Company assumes equity risk from embedded derivatives in alternative investments, fixed indexed annuities and variable annuities.

Alternative Investments

Alternative Investments are investments in non-traditional asset classes that are most commonly backing capital and surplus and not liabilities. The Company generally restricts the alternative investments portfolio to non-liability supporting assets: that is, free surplus. For (re)insurance companies, alternative investments generally encompass: hedge funds, owned commercial real estate, emerging markets debt, distressed debt, commodities, infrastructure, tax credits, and equities, both public and private. The Company mitigates its exposure to alternative investments by limiting the size of the alternative investments holding.

Fixed Indexed Annuities

Credits for fixed indexed annuities are affected by changes in equity markets. Thus the fair value of the benefit is a function of primarily index returns and volatility. The Company hedges some of the underlying equity exposure.

Variable Annuities

The Company reinsures variable annuities including those with guaranteed minimum death benefits (“GMDB”), guaranteed minimum income benefits (“GMIB”), guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits (“GMAB”) and guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits (“GMWB”). Strong equity markets, increases in interest rates and decreases in volatility will generally decrease the fair value of the liabilities underlying the benefits. Conversely, a decrease in the equity markets along with a decrease in interest rates and an increase in volatility will generally result in an increase in the fair value of the liabilities underlying the benefits, which has the effect of increasing reserves and lowering earnings. The Company maintains a customized dynamic hedging program that is designed to substantially mitigate the risks associated with income volatility around the change in reserves on guaranteed benefits, ignoring the Company’s own credit risk assessment. However, the hedge positions may not fully offset the changes in the carrying value of the guarantees due to, among other things, time lags, high levels of volatility in the equity and derivative markets, extreme swings in interest rates, unexpected contract holder behavior, and divergence between the performance of the underlying funds and hedging indices. These factors, individually or collectively, may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s net income, financial condition or liquidity. The table below provides a summary of variable annuity account values and the fair value of the guaranteed benefits as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

 

(dollars in millions)             March 31, 2013                       December 31, 2012         

No guarantee minimum benefits

     $ 960         $ 948   

GMDB only

     80         79   

GMIB only

             

GMAB only

     54         54   

GMWB only

     1,707         1,662   

GMDB / WB

     465         455   

Other

     32         31   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total variable annuity account values

     $ 3,304         $ 3,235   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Fair value of liabilities associated with living benefit riders

     $ 121         $ 172   

There has been no significant change in the Company’s quantitative or qualitative aspects of market risk during the quarter ended March 31, 2013 from that disclosed in the 2012 Annual Report.

Credit Risk

Credit risk is the risk of loss due to counterparty (obligor, client, retrocessionaire, or partner) credit deterioration or unwillingness to meet its obligations. Credit risk has two forms: investment credit risk (asset default and credit migration) and insurance counterparty risk.

 

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Investment Credit Risk

Investment credit risk, which includes default risk, is risk of loss due to credit quality deterioration of an individual financial investment, derivative or non-derivative contract or instrument. Credit quality deterioration may or may not be accompanied by a ratings downgrade. Generally, the investment credit exposure is limited to the fair value, net of any collateral received, at the reporting date.

The creditworthiness of Europe’s peripheral region is under ongoing stress and uncertainty due to high debt levels and economic weakness. The Company does not have material exposure to sovereign fixed maturity securities, which includes global government agencies, from Europe’s peripheral region and Cyprus. However, the Company does have exposure to non-sovereign fixed maturity and equity securities issued from Europe’s peripheral region. The Company increased its exposure to fixed maturity and equity securities in Europe’s peripheral region and Cyprus from an estimated fair value of $118.7 million at December 31, 2012 to $151.5 million as of March 31, 2013, primarily due to sovereign security investments in Ireland and Spain. The Company believes it has adequately evaluated and is appropriately managing this additional risk. See “Investments” above for additional information on the Company’s exposure related to investment securities.

The Company manages investment credit risk using per-issuer investments limits. In addition to per-issuer limits, the Company also limits the total amounts of investments per rating category. An automated compliance system checks for compliance for all investment positions and sends warning messages when there is a breach. The Company manages its credit risk related to over-the-counter derivatives by entering into transactions with creditworthy counterparties, maintaining collateral arrangements and through the use of master agreements that provide for a single net payment to be made by one counterparty to another at each due date and upon termination. Because exchange-traded futures are affected through regulated exchanges, and positions are marked to market on a daily basis, the Company has minimal exposure to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to such derivative instruments.

The Company enters into various collateral arrangements, which require both the posting and accepting of collateral in connection with its derivative instruments. Collateral agreements contain attachment thresholds that vary depending on the posting party’s financial strength ratings. Additionally, a decrease in the Company’s financial strength rating to a specified level results in potential settlement of the derivative positions under the Company’s agreements with its counterparties. The Collateral and Liquidity Committee sets rules, approves and oversees all deals requiring collateral. See “Credit Risk” in Note 5 – “Derivative Instruments” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on credit risk related to derivatives.

Insurance Counterparty Risk

Insurance counterparty risk is the potential for the Company to incur losses due to a client, retrocessionaire, or partner becoming distressed or insolvent. This includes run-on-the-bank risk and collection risk.

Run-on-the-Bank

The risk that a client’s in force block incurs substantial surrenders and/or lapses due to credit impairment, reputation damage or other market changes affecting the counterparty. Severely higher than expected surrenders and/or lapses could result in inadequate in force business to recover cash paid out for acquisition costs.

Collection Risk

For clients and retrocessionaires, this includes their inability to satisfy a reinsurance agreement because the right of offset is disallowed by the receivership court; the reinsurance contract is rejected by the receiver, resulting in a premature termination of the contract; and/or the security supporting the transaction becomes unavailable to RGA.

The Company manages insurance counterparty risk by limiting the total exposure to a single counterparty and by only initiating contracts with creditworthy counterparties. In addition, some of the counterparties have set up trusts and letters of credit, reducing the Company’s exposure to these counterparties.

Generally, RGA’s insurance subsidiaries retrocede amounts in excess of their retention to RGA Reinsurance, Parkway Re, RGA Barbados, RGA Americas, Rockwood Re, Manor Re, RGA Worldwide or RGA Atlantic. External retrocessions are arranged through the Company’s retrocession pools for amounts in excess of its retention. As of March 31, 2013, all retrocession pool members in this excess retention pool rated by the A.M. Best Company were rated “A-” or better except for one pool member that was rated “B++.” A rating of “A-” is the fourth highest rating out of fifteen possible ratings. For a majority of the retrocessionaires that were not rated, letters of credit or trust assets have been given as additional security. In addition, the Company performs annual financial and in force reviews of its retrocessionaires to evaluate financial stability and performance.

 

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The Company has never experienced a material default in connection with retrocession arrangements, nor has it experienced any material difficulty in collecting claims recoverable from retrocessionaires; however, no assurance can be given as to the future performance of such retrocessionaires or as to the recoverability of any such claims.

Aggregate Counterparty Limits

In addition to investment credit limits and insurance counterparty limits, there are aggregate counterparty risk limits which include counterparty exposures from reinsurance, financing and investment activities at an aggregated level to control total exposure to a single counterparty. Counterparty risk aggregation is important because it enables the Company to capture risk exposures at a comprehensive level and under more extreme circumstances compared to analyzing the components individually.

All counterparty exposures are calculated on a quarterly basis, reviewed by management and monitored by the ERM function.

Operational Risk

Operational risk is the risk of loss due to inadequate or failed internal processes, people or systems, or external events. These risks are sometimes residual risks after insurance, market and credit risks have been identified. Operational risk is further divided into: Process, Legal/Regulatory, Financial, and Intangibles. In order to effectively manage operational risks, management primarily relies on:

Risk Culture

Risk management is embedded in RGA’s business processes in accordance with RGA’s risk philosophy. As the cornerstone of the ERM framework, risk culture plays a preeminent role in the effective management of risks assumed by RGA. At the heart of RGA’s risk culture is prudent risk management. Senior management sets the tone for RGA risk culture, inculcating positive risk attitudes so as to entrench sound risk management practices into day-to-day activities.

Structural Controls

Structural controls provide additional safeguards against undesired risk exposures. Examples of structural controls include: pricing and underwriting reviews, standard treaty language, etc.

Risk Monitoring and Reporting

Proactive risk monitoring and reporting enable early detection and mitigation of emerging risks. For example, there is elevated regulatory activity in the wake of the global financial crisis and RGA is actively monitoring regulatory proposals in order to respond optimally. Risk escalation channels coupled with open communication lines enhance the mitigants explained above.

New Accounting Standards

See Note 14 — “New Accounting Standards” in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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ITEM 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

See “Item 2 – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Market Risk” which is included herein.

ITEM 4.  Controls and Procedures

The Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

There was no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f) during the quarter ended March 31, 2013, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  Legal Proceedings

The Company is subject to litigation in the normal course of its business. The Company currently has no material litigation. A legal reserve is established when the Company is notified of an arbitration demand or litigation or is notified that an arbitration demand or litigation is imminent, it is probable that the Company will incur a loss as a result and the amount of the probable loss is reasonably capable of being estimated.

ITEM 1A.  Risk Factors

There have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in the 2012 Annual Report.

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

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

The following table summarizes RGA’s repurchase activity of its common stock during the quarter ended March 31, 2013:

 

     Total Number of Shares
Purchased (1)
        Average Price Paid per   
Share
     Total Number of Shares
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced  Plans
or Programs (1)
     Maximum Number (or
Approximate Dollar
Value) of Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased Under
the Plan or Program
 

February 1, 2013 -

February 28, 2013

     96,735          $ 57.64         96,724       $ 194,424,790   

March 1, 2013 -

March 31, 2013

     718,311          $ 58.56         718,287       $ 152,359,595   

 

(1)

On January 24, 2013, RGA’s board of directors authorized a share repurchase program for up to $200.0 million of RGA’s outstanding common stock. RGA repurchased 96,724 and 718,287 shares of common stock under this program for $5.6 million and $42.1 million during February and March 2013, respectively. In February 2013, the Company net settled - issuing 135 shares from treasury and repurchasing from recipients 35 shares in settlement of income tax withholding requirements incurred by the recipients of an equity incentive award.

 

During April 2013, the Company repurchased an additional 892,047 shares of common stock under its board of directors authorized share repurchase program for $52.4 million. On April 18, 2013, RGA’s board of directors authorized an increase of $100.0 million to the share repurchase program previously authorized on January 24, 2013. With this authorization, the total amount of the Company’s outstanding common stock authorized for repurchase is $300.0 million.

ITEM 6.  Exhibits

See index to exhibits.

 

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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.

 

 

 

 

Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated

 

 

     Date: May 6, 2013   By:    /s/ A. Greig Woodring
    A. Greig Woodring
    President & Chief Executive Officer
   

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

 

 

 

     Date: May 6, 2013   By:   /s/ Jack B. Lay
    Jack B. Lay
    Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
    (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

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INDEX TO EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit
Number

  

Description

3.1   

Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 25, 2008.

3.2   

Amended and Restated Bylaws, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 25, 2008.

31.1   

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2   

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1   

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2   

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

101.INS   

XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.LAB   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.PRE   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

101.DEF   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

 

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