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EVEREST GROUP, LTD. - Quarter Report: 2018 March (Form 10-Q)


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q

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

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED:
March 31, 2018
 
Commission file number:
1-15731

EVEREST RE GROUP, LTD.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Bermuda
 
98-0365432
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
Seon Place – 4th Floor
141 Front Street
PO Box HM 845
Hamilton HM 19, Bermuda
441-295-0006

(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code,
of registrant's principal executive office)

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 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, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company.  See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer,"  "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer
X
 
Accelerated filer
 
 
Non-accelerated filer
   
 
Smaller reporting company
 
 
(Do not check if smaller reporting company)
 
Emerging  growth company
 


Indicate by check mark if the registrant is an emerging growth company and has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange act.

YES
   
NO
X

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

YES
   
NO
X

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

   
Number of Shares Outstanding
Class
 
At May 1, 2018
Common Shares, $0.01 par value
 
40,980,477
 

EVEREST RE GROUP, LTD

Table of Contents
Form 10-Q


Page
PART I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.
Financial Statements
 
     
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets March 31, 2018 (unaudited)
 
 
and December 31, 2017
1
     
 
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the
 
 
three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 (unaudited)
2
     
 
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for the three
 
 
months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 (unaudited)
3
     
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended
 
 
March 31, 2018 and 2017 (unaudited)
4
     
 
Notes to Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (unaudited)
5
     
Item 2.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
 
 
Results of Operation
32
     
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
52
     
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
52
     

PART II

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
53
     
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
53
     
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
53
     
Item 3.
Defaults Upon Senior Securities
53
     
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures
53
     
Item 5.
Other Information
54
     
Item 6.
Exhibits
54
     

EVEREST RE GROUP, LTD.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS



   
March 31,
 
December 31,
(Dollars and share amounts in thousands, except par value per share)
 
2018
 
2017
   
(unaudited)
     
ASSETS:
           
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value
 
$
14,844,581
   
$
14,756,834
 
(amortized cost: 2018, $14,997,018; 2017, $14,689,598)
               
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at fair value
   
1,821
     
-
 
Equity securities - available for sale, at market value (cost: 2018, $0; 2017, $130,287)
   
-
     
129,530
 
Equity securities - available for sale, at fair value
   
1,169,531
     
963,572
 
Short-term investments
   
338,694
     
509,682
 
Other invested assets (cost: 2018, $1,527,701; 2017, $1,628,753)
   
1,527,701
     
1,631,850
 
Cash
   
700,586
     
635,067
 
Total investments and cash
   
18,582,914
     
18,626,535
 
Accrued investment income
   
100,129
     
97,704
 
Premiums receivable
   
1,906,427
     
1,844,881
 
Reinsurance receivables
   
1,356,888
     
1,348,226
 
Funds held by reinsureds
   
197,419
     
292,927
 
Deferred acquisition costs
   
420,724
     
411,587
 
Prepaid reinsurance premiums
   
321,203
     
288,211
 
Income taxes
   
265,228
     
299,438
 
Other assets
   
362,264
     
382,283
 
TOTAL ASSETS
 
$
23,513,196
   
$
23,591,792
 
                 
LIABILITIES:
               
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
 
$
11,793,346
   
$
11,884,321
 
Future policy benefit reserve
   
49,106
     
51,014
 
Unearned premium reserve
   
2,089,628
     
2,000,556
 
Funds held under reinsurance treaties
   
16,965
     
18,030
 
Commission reserves
   
23,251
     
30,660
 
Other net payable to reinsurers
   
244,280
     
218,017
 
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044
   
396,864
     
396,834
 
6.6% Long term notes due 5/1/2067
   
236,585
     
236,561
 
Accrued interest on debt and borrowings
   
7,668
     
2,727
 
Equity index put option liability
   
12,205
     
12,477
 
Unsettled securities payable
   
49,569
     
38,743
 
Other liabilities
   
249,549
     
332,620
 
Total liabilities
   
15,169,016
     
15,222,560
 
                 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 8)
               
                 
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
               
Preferred shares, par value: $0.01; 50,000 shares authorized;
               
no shares issued and outstanding
   
-
     
-
 
Common shares, par value: $0.01; 200,000 shares authorized; (2018) 69,187
               
and (2017) 69,044 outstanding before treasury shares
   
692
     
691
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
2,163,519
     
2,165,768
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income tax expense
               
(benefit) of ($11,933) at 2018 and $9,356 at 2017
   
(341,974
)
   
(160,891
)
Treasury shares, at cost; 28,208 shares at 2018 and 2017
   
(3,322,244
)
   
(3,322,244
)
Retained earnings
   
9,844,187
     
9,685,908
 
Total shareholders' equity
   
8,344,180
     
8,369,232
 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
$
23,513,196
   
$
23,591,792
 
                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
               

1

EVEREST RE GROUP, LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)



   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
2018
   
2017
 
   
(unaudited)
 
REVENUES:
           
Premiums earned
 
$
1,619,427
   
$
1,312,097
 
Net investment income
   
138,294
     
122,289
 
Net realized capital gains (losses):
               
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities
   
(70
)
   
(1,229
)
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities
               
transferred to other comprehensive income (loss)
   
-
     
-
 
Other net realized capital gains (losses)
   
(24,831
)
   
53,957
 
Total net realized capital gains (losses)
   
(24,901
)
   
52,728
 
Net derivative gain (loss)
   
273
     
2,630
 
Other income (expense)
   
12,064
     
(4,966
)
Total revenues
   
1,745,157
     
1,484,778
 
                 
CLAIMS AND EXPENSES:
               
Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
1,057,177
     
770,788
 
Commission, brokerage, taxes and fees
   
357,639
     
282,269
 
Other underwriting expenses
   
96,284
     
75,887
 
Corporate expenses
   
8,996
     
8,457
 
Interest, fees and bond issue cost amortization expense
   
7,418
     
8,964
 
Total claims and expenses
   
1,527,514
     
1,146,365
 
                 
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES
   
217,643
     
338,413
 
Income tax expense (benefit)
   
7,325
     
46,770
 
                 
NET INCOME (LOSS)
 
$
210,318
   
$
291,643
 
                 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
               
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities arising during the period
   
(190,624
)
   
19,548
 
Reclassification adjustment for realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)
   
(8,772
)
   
(2,199
)
Total URA(D) on securities arising during the period
   
(199,396
)
   
17,349
 
                 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
17,699
     
11,893
 
                 
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of net (gain) loss included in net income (loss)
   
1,815
     
2,004
 
Total benefit plan net gain (loss) for the period
   
1,815
     
2,004
 
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
   
(179,882
)
   
31,246
 
                 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
 
$
30,436
   
$
322,889
 
                 
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:
               
Basic
 
$
5.14
   
$
7.12
 
Diluted
   
5.11
     
7.07
 
Dividends declared
   
1.30
     
1.25
 
                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
               

2

EVEREST RE GROUP, LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF
CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY



   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands, except share and dividends per share amounts)
 
2018
   
2017
 
   
(unaudited)
 
COMMON SHARES (shares outstanding):
           
Balance, beginning of period
   
40,835,272
     
40,898,864
 
Issued during the period, net
   
143,362
     
159,127
 
Treasury shares acquired
   
-
     
-
 
Balance, end of period
   
40,978,634
     
41,057,991
 
                 
COMMON SHARES (par value):
               
Balance, beginning of period
 
$
691
   
$
689
 
Issued during the period, net
   
1
     
2
 
Balance, end of period
   
692
     
691
 
                 
ADDITIONAL PAID-IN CAPITAL:
               
Balance, beginning of period
   
2,165,768
     
2,140,783
 
Share-based compensation plans
   
(2,249
)
   
870
 
Balance, end of period
   
2,163,519
     
2,141,653
 
                 
ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS),
               
NET OF DEFERRED INCOME TAXES:
               
Balance, beginning of period
   
(160,891
)
   
(216,764
)
Net increase (decrease) during the period
   
(179,882
)
   
31,246
 
Cumulative change due to adoption of Accounting Standards Update 2016-01
   
(1,201
)
   
-
 
Balance, end of period
   
(341,974
)
   
(185,518
)
                 
RETAINED EARNINGS:
               
Balance, beginning of period
   
9,685,908
     
9,422,932
 
Net income (loss)
   
210,318
     
291,643
 
Dividends declared ($1.30 per share in 2018 and $1.25 per share in 2017)
   
(53,240
)
   
(51,281
)
Cumulative change due to adoption of Accounting Standards Update 2016-01
   
1,201
     
-
 
Balance, end of period
   
9,844,187
     
9,663,294
 
                 
TREASURY SHARES AT COST:
               
Balance, beginning of period
   
(3,322,244
)
   
(3,272,244
)
Purchase of treasury shares
   
-
     
-
 
Balance, end of period
   
(3,322,244
)
   
(3,272,244
)
                 
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY, END OF PERIOD
 
$
8,344,180
   
$
8,347,876
 
                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
               


3

EVEREST RE GROUP, LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS



   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2018
   
2017
 
   
(unaudited)
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
           
Net income (loss)
 
$
210,318
   
$
291,643
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Decrease (increase) in premiums receivable
   
(56,826
)
   
(220,367
)
Decrease (increase) in funds held by reinsureds, net
   
95,416
     
1,211
 
Decrease (increase) in reinsurance receivables
   
236
     
(30,158
)
Decrease (increase) in income taxes
   
55,905
     
37,010
 
Decrease (increase) in prepaid reinsurance premiums
   
(32,194
)
   
(23,704
)
Increase (decrease) in reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
(121,415
)
   
99,095
 
Increase (decrease) in future policy benefit reserve
   
(1,907
)
   
83
 
Increase (decrease) in unearned premiums
   
85,598
     
125,614
 
Increase (decrease) in other net payable to reinsurers
   
24,410
     
13,666
 
Increase (decrease) in losses in course of payment
   
45,919
     
113,815
 
Change in equity adjustments in limited partnerships
   
(24,596
)
   
(10,998
)
Distribution of limited partnership income
   
15,524
     
5,384
 
Change in other assets and liabilities, net
   
(142,935
)
   
12,999
 
Non-cash compensation expense
   
8,336
     
7,501
 
Amortization of bond premium (accrual of bond discount)
   
8,950
     
11,746
 
Net realized capital (gains) losses
   
24,901
     
(52,728
)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
   
195,640
     
381,812
 
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
               
Proceeds from fixed maturities matured/called - available for sale, at market value
   
512,384
     
525,873
 
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at market value
   
364,288
     
428,491
 
Proceeds from equity securities sold - available for sale, at market value
   
-
     
18,802
 
Proceeds from equity securities sold - available for sale, at fair value
   
199,875
     
140,315
 
Distributions from other invested assets
   
1,061,894
     
1,165,905
 
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at market value
   
(1,150,718
)
   
(1,552,743
)
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at fair value
   
(1,836
)
   
-
 
Cost of equity securities acquired - available for sale, at market value
   
-
     
(1,282
)
Cost of equity securities acquired - available for sale, at fair value
   
(310,426
)
   
(66,902
)
Cost of other invested assets acquired
   
(947,290
)
   
(1,184,270
)
Net change in short-term investments
   
169,705
     
(45,178
)
Net change in unsettled securities transactions
   
46,708
     
236,702
 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
   
(55,416
)
   
(334,287
)
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
               
Common shares issued during the period for share-based compensation, net of expense
   
(9,383
)
   
(6,629
)
Dividends paid to shareholders
   
(53,240
)
   
(51,281
)
Cost of shares withheld for taxes on settlements of share-based compensation awards
   
(14,245
)
   
(11,517
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
   
(76,868
)
   
(69,427
)
                 
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH
   
2,163
     
8,220
 
                 
Net increase (decrease) in cash
   
65,519
     
(13,682
)
Cash, beginning of period
   
635,067
     
481,922
 
Cash, end of period
 
$
700,586
   
$
468,240
 
                 
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
               
Income taxes paid (recovered)
 
$
(51,253
)
 
$
9,593
 
Interest paid
   
2,422
     
105
 
                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
               

4

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 and 2017

1.            GENERAL

Everest Re Group, Ltd. ("Group"), a Bermuda company, through its subsidiaries, principally provides reinsurance and insurance in the U.S., Bermuda and international markets.  As used in this document, "Company" means Group and its subsidiaries.

During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company established a new Irish insurance subsidiary, Everest Insurance Ireland, designated activity company ("Ireland Insurance"), which will write insurance business mainly in the European markets.

During the third quarter of 2016, the Company established domestic subsidiaries, Everest Premier Insurance Company ("Everest Premier") and Everest Denali Insurance Company ("Everest Denali"), which will be used in the continued expansion of the Insurance operations.

Effective July 1, 2016, the Company established a new Irish holding company, Everest Dublin Insurance Holdings Limited (Ireland) ("Everest Dublin Holdings").

2.            BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, which, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair statement of the results on an interim basis.  Certain financial information, which is normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"), has been omitted since it is not required for interim reporting purposes.  The December 31, 2017 consolidated balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by GAAP.  The results for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 are not necessarily indicative of the results for a full year.  These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 included in the Company's most recent Form 10-K filing.

The Company consolidates the results of operations and financial position of all voting interest entities ("VOE") in which the Company has a controlling financial interest and all variable interest entities ("VIE") in which the Company is considered to be the primary beneficiary. The consolidation assessment, including the determination as to whether an entity qualifies as a VIE or VOE, depends on the facts and circumstances surrounding each entity.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities (and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities) at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Ultimate actual results could differ, possibly materially, from those estimates.

All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Certain reclassifications and format changes have been made to prior years' amounts to conform to the 2018 presentation.

5


Application of Recently Issued Accounting Standard Changes.

Accounting for Deferred Taxes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (AOCI).  In February 2018, FASB issued ASU 2018-02 which outlines guidance on the treatment of trapped deferred taxes contained within AOCI on the consolidated balance sheets.  The new guidance allows the amount of trapped deferred taxes in AOCI, resulting from the change in the U.S. tax rate from 35% to 21% upon enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("TCJA"), to be reclassed as part of retained earnings in the consolidated balance sheets.  The guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, but early adoption is allowed. The Company decided to early adopt the guidance as of December 31, 2017.  The adoption has resulted in a reclass of $1,250 thousand between AOCI and retained earnings.

Accounting for Impact on Income Taxes due to Tax Reform.  In December 2017, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin ("SAB") 118 which provides guidance on the application of FASB Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 740, Income Taxes, due to the enactment of TCJA.  SAB 118 became effective upon release. The Company has adopted the provisions of SAB 118 with respect to measuring the tax effects for the modifications to the determination of tax basis loss reserves. Because of uncertainty in how the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") intends to implement the modifications and the necessary transition calculation, the Company has determined that a reasonable estimate cannot be determined and has followed the provisions of the tax laws that were in effect prior to the modifications. In 2018, the Company expects to record adjustments to the amount of tax expense it recorded in 2017 with respect to the TCJA as estimated amounts are finalized.  Further adjustments are not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

Amortization of Bond Premium.  In March 2017, FASB issued ASU 2017-08 which outlines guidance on the amortization period for premium on callable debt securities.  The new guidance requires that the premium on callable debt securities be amortized through the earliest call date rather than through the maturity date of the callable security.  The guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company does not expect the adoption of ASU 2017-08 to have a material impact on its financial statements.

Presentation and Disclosure of Net Periodic Benefit Costs.  In March 2017, FASB issued ASU 2017-07 which outlines guidance on the presentation of net periodic costs of benefit plans.  The new guidance requires that the service cost component of net periodic benefit costs be reported within the same line item of the statements of operations as other compensation costs are reported.  Other components of net periodic benefit costs should be reported separately.  Footnote disclosure is required to state within which line items of the statements of operations the components are reported. The guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017.  The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018.  The adoption of ASU 2017-07 did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

Disclosure of Restricted Cash.  In November 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-18 and in August 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-15 which outline guidance on the presentation in the statements of cash flows of changes in restricted cash. The new guidance requires that the statements of cash flows should reflect all changes in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash in total and not segregated individually.  The guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017.  The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018.  The adoption of ASU 2016-18 and ASU 2016-15 did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

Intra-Entity Asset Transfers.  In October 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-16 which outlines guidance on the tax accounting for intra-entity asset sales and transfers, other than inventory.  The new guidance requires that reporting entities recognize tax expense from the intra-entity transfer of an asset in the seller's tax jurisdiction at the time of transfer and recognize any deferred tax asset in the buyer's tax jurisdiction at the time of transfer.  The guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017.  The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018.  The adoption of ASU 2016-16 did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

6


Valuation of Financial Instruments.  In June 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-13 which outlines guidance on the valuation of and accounting for assets measured at amortized cost and available for sale debt securities. The carrying value of assets measured at amortized cost will now be presented as the amount expected to be collected on the financial asset (amortized cost less an allowance for credit losses valuation account).  Available for sale debt securities will now record credit losses through an allowance for credit losses, which will be limited to the amount by which fair value is below amortized cost.  The guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2016-13 on its financial statements.

Accounting for Share-Based Compensation. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, authoritative guidance regarding the accounting for share-based compensation.  This guidance requires that the income tax effects resulting from the change in the value of share-based compensation awards between grant and settlement will be recorded as part of the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income/(loss).  Previously, excess tax benefits have been recorded as part of the additional paid in capital within the consolidated balance sheets.  The guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within that annual reporting period.  The Company has implemented this guidance prospectively as of January 1, 2017.  The guidance also requires that the cost of employee taxes paid via shares withheld upon settlement of share-based compensation awards must be shown as a financing activity within the Statements of Cash Flows.  The Company has implemented this guidance retrospectively as of January 1, 2017.

Leases.  In February 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-02 which outlines new guidance on the accounting for leases. The new guidance requires the recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheets for most leases that were previously deemed operating leases and required only lease expense presentation in the statements of operations.  The guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2016-02 on its financial statements.

Recognition and Measurement of Financial Instruments.  In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01 which outlines revised guidance on the accounting for equity investments. The new guidance states that all equity investments in unconsolidated entities will be measured at fair value, with the change in value being recorded through the income statement rather than being recorded within other comprehensive income. The updated guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017.  The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018.  The adoption of ASU 2016-01 resulted in a cumulative change adjustment of $1,201 thousand between AOCI and retained earnings, which is disclosed separately within the consolidated statement of changes in shareholders' equity.

Disclosures about Short-Duration Contracts. In May 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-09, authoritative guidance regarding required disclosures associated with short duration insurance contracts.  The new disclosure requirements focus on information about initial claim estimates and subsequent claim estimate adjustment, methodologies in estimating claims and the timing, frequency and severity of claims related to short duration insurance contracts. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016.  The Company implemented this guidance effective in the fourth quarter of 2016.

Revenue Recognition.  In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09 and in August 2015, FASB issued ASU 2015-14 which outline revised guidance on the recognition of revenue arising from contracts with customers. The new guidance states that reporting entities should apply certain steps to determine when revenue should be recognized, based upon fulfillment of performance obligations to complete contracts. The updated guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017.  The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018.  The adoption of ASU 2014-09 and ASU 2015-14 did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

Any issued guidance and pronouncements, other than those directly referenced above, are deemed by the Company to be either not applicable or immaterial to its financial statements.

7


3.            INVESTMENTS

The amortized cost, market value and gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of available for sale, fixed maturity, equity security investments, carried at market value and other-than-temporary impairments ("OTTI") in accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") are as follows for the periods indicated:


   
At March 31, 2018
 
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Unrealized
   
Market
   
OTTI in AOCI
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Cost
   
Appreciation
   
Depreciation
   
Value
   
(a)
 
Fixed maturity securities
                             
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
                             
U.S. government agencies and corporations
 
$
1,516,251
   
$
7,019
   
$
(25,857
)
 
$
1,497,413
   
$
-
 
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions
   
523,611
     
14,630
     
(1,694
)
   
536,547
     
165
 
Corporate securities
   
5,834,818
     
50,974
     
(108,045
)
   
5,777,747
     
2,481
 
Asset-backed securities
   
511,328
     
409
     
(5,307
)
   
506,430
     
-
 
Mortgage-backed securities
                                       
Commercial
   
232,693
     
2
     
(5,396
)
   
227,299
     
-
 
Agency residential
   
2,272,215
     
8,860
     
(58,080
)
   
2,222,995
     
-
 
Non-agency residential
   
478
     
42
     
(44
)
   
476
     
-
 
Foreign government securities
   
1,283,177
     
35,703
     
(44,558
)
   
1,274,322
     
163
 
Foreign corporate securities
   
2,822,447
     
54,062
     
(75,157
)
   
2,801,352
     
618
 
Total fixed maturity securities
 
$
14,997,018
   
$
171,701
   
$
(324,138
)
 
$
14,844,581
   
$
3,427
 
Equity securities
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
 



   
At December 31, 2017
 
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Unrealized
   
Market
   
OTTI in AOCI
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Cost
   
Appreciation
   
Depreciation
   
Value
   
(a)
 
Fixed maturity securities
                             
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
                             
U.S. government agencies and corporations
 
$
1,540,952
   
$
9,816
   
$
(14,076
)
 
$
1,536,692
   
$
-
 
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions
   
563,790
     
22,123
     
(444
)
   
585,469
     
-
 
Corporate securities
   
5,658,456
     
81,724
     
(41,175
)
   
5,699,005
     
2,488
 
Asset-backed securities
   
532,473
     
869
     
(1,982
)
   
531,360
     
-
 
Mortgage-backed securities
                                       
Commercial
   
235,794
     
616
     
(2,369
)
   
234,041
     
-
 
Agency residential
   
2,236,361
     
10,379
     
(35,838
)
   
2,210,902
     
-
 
Non-agency residential
   
497
     
41
     
(44
)
   
494
     
-
 
Foreign government securities
   
1,305,070
     
43,804
     
(34,847
)
   
1,314,027
     
178
 
Foreign corporate securities
   
2,616,205
     
77,045
     
(48,406
)
   
2,644,844
     
950
 
Total fixed maturity securities
 
$
14,689,598
   
$
246,417
   
$
(179,181
)
 
$
14,756,834
   
$
3,616
 
Equity securities
 
$
130,287
   
$
2,615
   
$
(3,372
)
 
$
129,530
   
$
-
 
 
(a)  Represents the amount of OTTI recognized in AOCI.  Amount includes unrealized gains and losses on impaired securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.

Effective January 1, 2018, the Company adopted ASU 2016-01, which requires equity investments in unconsolidated entities to be measured at fair value, with any change in value being recorded within net realized capital gains/(losses) as part of the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).  Previously, changes in the market value had been recorded within AOCI as part of the consolidated balance sheets.  Therefore, effective January 1, 2018, equity security investments no longer have an impact upon the AOCI balance.

8


The amortized cost and market value of fixed maturity securities are shown in the following table by contractual maturity.  Mortgage-backed securities are generally more likely to be prepaid than other fixed maturity securities. As the stated maturity of such securities may not be indicative of actual maturities, the totals for mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities are shown separately.


   
At March 31, 2018
   
At December 31, 2017
 
   
Amortized
   
Market
   
Amortized
   
Market
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Cost
   
Value
   
Cost
   
Value
 
Fixed maturity securities – available for sale:
                       
    Due in one year or less
 
$
1,593,546
   
$
1,592,697
   
$
1,041,885
   
$
1,050,094
 
    Due after one year through five years
   
7,197,033
     
7,097,641
     
7,545,731
     
7,554,248
 
    Due after five years through ten years
   
2,314,395
     
2,283,642
     
2,214,473
     
2,231,456
 
    Due after ten years
   
875,330
     
913,401
     
882,384
     
944,239
 
Asset-backed securities
   
511,328
     
506,430
     
532,473
     
531,360
 
Mortgage-backed securities:
                               
Commercial
   
232,693
     
227,299
     
235,794
     
234,041
 
Agency residential
   
2,272,215
     
2,222,995
     
2,236,361
     
2,210,902
 
Non-agency residential
   
478
     
476
     
497
     
494
 
Total fixed maturity securities
 
$
14,997,018
   
$
14,844,581
   
$
14,689,598
   
$
14,756,834
 


The changes in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) for the Company's investments are derived from the following sources for the periods indicated:


   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2018
   
2017
 
Increase (decrease) during the period between the market value and cost
           
of investments carried at market value, and deferred taxes thereon:
           
Fixed maturity securities
 
$
(219,485
)
 
$
18,055
 
Fixed maturity securities, other-than-temporary impairment
   
(189
)
   
(4,501
)
Equity securities
   
-
     
5,999
 
Other invested assets
   
-
     
444
 
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax
   
(219,674
)
   
19,997
 
Deferred tax benefit (expense)
   
20,299
     
(3,873
)
Deferred tax benefit (expense), other-than-temporary impairment
   
(21
)
   
1,225
 
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation),
               
net of deferred taxes, included in shareholders' equity
 
$
(199,396
)
 
$
17,349
 


The Company frequently reviews all of its fixed maturity, available for sale securities for declines in market value and focuses its attention on securities whose fair value has fallen below 80% of their amortized cost at the time of review.  The Company then assesses whether the decline in value is temporary or other-than-temporary.  In making its assessment, the Company evaluates the current market and interest rate environment as well as specific issuer information.  Generally, a change in a security's value caused by a change in the market, interest rate or foreign exchange environment does not constitute an other-than-temporary impairment, but rather a temporary decline in market value.  Temporary declines in market value are recorded as unrealized losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).  If the Company determines that the decline is other-than-temporary and the Company does not have the intent to sell the security; and it is more likely than not that the Company will not have to sell the security before recovery of its cost basis, the carrying value of the investment is written down to fair value.  The fair value adjustment that is credit or foreign exchange related is recorded in net realized capital gains (losses) in the Company's consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).  The fair value adjustment that is non-credit related is recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, and is included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the Company's consolidated balance sheets.

The Company's assessments are based on the issuers' current and expected future financial position, timeliness with respect to interest and/or principal payments, speed of repayments and any applicable credit enhancements or breakeven constant default rates on mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, as well as relevant information provided by rating agencies, investment advisors and analysts.
9


Upon the adoption of ASU 2016-01 as of January 1, 2018, all equity investments in unconsolidated entities are recorded at fair value.  Prior to the adoption of ASU 2016-01, the Company classified certain equity securities as available for sale at market value.  The majority of the Company's equity securities classified as available for sale at market value prior to January 1, 2018 were primarily comprised of mutual fund investments whose underlying securities consisted of fixed maturity securities.  When a fund's value reflected an unrealized loss, the Company assessed whether the decline in value was temporary or other-than-temporary.  In making its assessment, the Company considered the composition of its portfolios and their related markets, reports received from the portfolio managers and discussions with portfolio managers.  If the Company determined that the declines were temporary and it had the ability and intent to continue to hold the investments, then the declines were recorded as unrealized losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).  If declines were deemed to be other-than-temporary, then the carrying value of the investment was written down to fair value and recorded in net realized capital gains (losses) in the Company's consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Retrospective adjustments are employed to recalculate the values of asset-backed securities. All of the Company's asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities have a pass-through structure.  Each acquisition lot is reviewed to recalculate the effective yield. The recalculated effective yield is used to derive a book value as if the new yield were applied at the time of acquisition. Outstanding principal factors from the time of acquisition to the adjustment date are used to calculate the prepayment history for all applicable securities. Conditional prepayment rates, computed with life to date factor histories and weighted average maturities, are used in the calculation of projected prepayments for pass-through security types.

The tables below display the aggregate market value and gross unrealized depreciation of fixed maturity and equity securities, by security type and contractual maturity, in each case subdivided according to length of time that individual securities had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for the periods indicated:


   
Duration of Unrealized Loss at March 31, 2018 By Security Type
 
   
Less than 12 months
   
Greater than 12 months
   
Total
 
         
Gross
         
Gross
         
Gross
 
         
Unrealized
         
Unrealized
         
Unrealized
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Market Value
   
Depreciation
   
Market Value
   
Depreciation
   
Market Value
   
Depreciation
 
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale
                                   
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
                                   
U.S. government agencies and corporations
 
$
1,193,463
   
$
(17,432
)
 
$
225,194
   
$
(8,425
)
 
$
1,418,657
   
$
(25,857
)
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions
   
48,613
     
(383
)
   
36,392
     
(1,311
)
   
85,005
     
(1,694
)
Corporate securities
   
3,466,924
     
(77,213
)
   
674,674
     
(30,832
)
   
4,141,598
     
(108,045
)
Asset-backed securities
   
337,232
     
(4,400
)
   
74,603
     
(907
)
   
411,835
     
(5,307
)
Mortgage-backed securities
                                               
Commercial
   
164,758
     
(2,555
)
   
62,303
     
(2,841
)
   
227,061
     
(5,396
)
Agency residential
   
683,971
     
(12,440
)
   
1,285,758
     
(45,640
)
   
1,969,729
     
(58,080
)
Non-agency residential
   
-
     
-
     
13
     
(44
)
   
13
     
(44
)
Foreign government securities
   
300,778
     
(12,541
)
   
351,734
     
(32,017
)
   
652,512
     
(44,558
)
Foreign corporate securities
   
1,308,105
     
(38,136
)
   
468,241
     
(37,021
)
   
1,776,346
     
(75,157
)
Total fixed maturity securities
 
$
7,503,844
   
$
(165,100
)
 
$
3,178,912
   
$
(159,038
)
 
$
10,682,756
   
$
(324,138
)
Equity securities
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Total
 
$
7,503,844
   
$
(165,100
)
 
$
3,178,912
   
$
(159,038
)
 
$
10,682,756
   
$
(324,138
)


10



   
Duration of Unrealized Loss at March 31, 2018 By Maturity
 
   
Less than 12 months
   
Greater than 12 months
   
Total
 
         
Gross
         
Gross
         
Gross
 
         
Unrealized
         
Unrealized
         
Unrealized
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Market Value
   
Depreciation
   
Market Value
   
Depreciation
   
Market Value
   
Depreciation
 
Fixed maturity securities
                                   
Due in one year or less
 
$
952,178
   
$
(3,382
)
 
$
197,004
   
$
(9,958
)
 
$
1,149,182
   
$
(13,340
)
Due in one year through five years
   
4,143,873
     
(95,121
)
   
1,208,285
     
(74,158
)
   
5,352,158
     
(169,279
)
Due in five years through ten years
   
1,021,638
     
(40,701
)
   
309,198
     
(23,485
)
   
1,330,836
     
(64,186
)
Due after ten years
   
200,194
     
(6,501
)
   
41,748
     
(2,005
)
   
241,942
     
(8,506
)
Asset-backed securities
   
337,232
     
(4,400
)
   
74,603
     
(907
)
   
411,835
     
(5,307
)
Mortgage-backed securities
   
848,729
     
(14,995
)
   
1,348,074
     
(48,525
)
   
2,196,803
     
(63,520
)
Total fixed maturity securities
 
$
7,503,844
   
$
(165,100
)
 
$
3,178,912
   
$
(159,038
)
 
$
10,682,756
   
$
(324,138
)


The aggregate market value and gross unrealized losses related to investments in an unrealized loss position at March 31, 2018 were $10,682,756 thousand and $324,138 thousand, respectively.  The market value of securities for the single issuer (the United States government) whose securities comprised the largest unrealized loss position at March 31, 2018, did not exceed 9.6% of the overall market value of the Company's fixed maturity securities.  The market value of the securities for the issuer with the second largest unrealized loss comprised less than 1.1% of the Company's fixed maturity securities.  In addition, as indicated on the above table, there was no significant concentration of unrealized losses in any one market sector.  The $165,100 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed maturity securities that have been in an unrealized loss position for less than one year were generally comprised of domestic and foreign corporate securities, foreign government securities, U.S. government agencies and corporations, and agency residential mortgage-backed securities.  Of these unrealized losses, $155,350 thousand were related to securities that were rated investment grade by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating agency.  The $159,038 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed maturity securities in an unrealized loss position for more than one year related primarily to agency residential mortgage-backed securities, foreign corporate securities, foreign government securities, domestic corporate securities and U.S. government agencies and corporations.  Of these unrealized losses, $153,293 thousand were related to securities that were rated investment grade by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating agency.  There was no gross unrealized depreciation for mortgage-backed securities related to sub-prime and alt-A loans.  In all instances, there were no projected cash flow shortfalls to recover the full book value of the investments and the related interest obligations.  The mortgage-backed securities still have excess credit coverage and are current on interest and principal payments.

The Company, given the size of its investment portfolio and capital position, does not have the intent to sell these securities; and it is more likely than not that the Company will not have to sell the security before recovery of its cost basis.  In addition, all securities currently in an unrealized loss position are current with respect to principal and interest payments.

11


The tables below display the aggregate market value and gross unrealized depreciation of fixed maturity and equity securities, by security type and contractual maturity, in each case subdivided according to length of time that individual securities had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for the periods indicated:


   
Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2017 By Security Type
 
   
Less than 12 months
   
Greater than 12 months
   
Total
 
         
Gross
         
Gross
         
Gross
 
         
Unrealized
         
Unrealized
         
Unrealized
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Market Value
   
Depreciation
   
Market Value
   
Depreciation
   
Market Value
   
Depreciation
 
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale
                                   
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
                                   
U.S. government agencies and corporations
 
$
1,077,051
   
$
(8,380
)
 
$
224,189
   
$
(5,696
)
 
$
1,301,240
   
$
(14,076
)
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions
   
4,400
     
(27
)
   
37,886
     
(417
)
   
42,286
     
(444
)
Corporate securities
   
1,779,292
     
(24,942
)
   
700,098
     
(16,233
)
   
2,479,390
     
(41,175
)
Asset-backed securities
   
301,316
     
(1,467
)
   
72,780
     
(515
)
   
374,096
     
(1,982
)
Mortgage-backed securities
                                               
Commercial
   
101,821
     
(572
)
   
64,272
     
(1,797
)
   
166,093
     
(2,369
)
Agency residential
   
610,941
     
(4,836
)
   
1,343,547
     
(31,002
)
   
1,954,488
     
(35,838
)
Non-agency residential
   
-
     
-
     
69
     
(44
)
   
69
     
(44
)
Foreign government securities
   
327,790
     
(12,811
)
   
331,432
     
(22,036
)
   
659,222
     
(34,847
)
Foreign corporate securities
   
691,865
     
(19,381
)
   
450,860
     
(29,025
)
   
1,142,725
     
(48,406
)
Total fixed maturity securities
 
$
4,894,476
   
$
(72,416
)
 
$
3,225,133
   
$
(106,765
)
 
$
8,119,609
   
$
(179,181
)
Equity securities
   
-
     
-
     
113,506
     
(3,372
)
   
113,506
     
(3,372
)
Total
 
$
4,894,476
   
$
(72,416
)
 
$
3,338,639
   
$
(110,137
)
 
$
8,233,115
   
$
(182,553
)



   
Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2017 By Maturity
 
   
Less than 12 months
   
Greater than 12 months
   
Total
 
         
Gross
         
Gross
         
Gross
 
         
Unrealized
         
Unrealized
         
Unrealized
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Market Value
   
Depreciation
   
Market Value
   
Depreciation
   
Market Value
   
Depreciation
 
Fixed maturity securities
                                   
Due in one year or less
 
$
247,927
   
$
(962
)
 
$
206,113
   
$
(7,643
)
 
$
454,040
   
$
(8,605
)
Due in one year through five years
   
2,930,977
     
(42,480
)
   
1,200,414
     
(52,143
)
   
4,131,391
     
(94,623
)
Due in five years through ten years
   
612,702
     
(20,154
)
   
292,245
     
(12,680
)
   
904,947
     
(32,834
)
Due after ten years
   
88,792
     
(1,945
)
   
45,693
     
(941
)
   
134,485
     
(2,886
)
Asset-backed securities
   
301,316
     
(1,467
)
   
72,780
     
(515
)
   
374,096
     
(1,982
)
Mortgage-backed securities
   
712,762
     
(5,408
)
   
1,407,888
     
(32,843
)
   
2,120,650
     
(38,251
)
Total fixed maturity securities
 
$
4,894,476
   
$
(72,416
)
 
$
3,225,133
   
$
(106,765
)
 
$
8,119,609
   
$
(179,181
)


The aggregate market value and gross unrealized losses related to investments in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2017 were $8,233,115 thousand and $182,553 thousand, respectively.  The market value of securities for the single issuer (the United States government) whose securities comprised the largest unrealized loss position at December 31, 2017, did not exceed 8.9% of the overall market value of the Company's fixed maturity securities.  The market value of the securities for the issuer with the second largest unrealized loss comprised less than 1.1% of the Company's fixed maturity securities.  In addition, as indicated on the above table, there was no significant concentration of unrealized losses in any one market sector.  The $72,416 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed maturity securities that have been in an unrealized loss position for less than one year were generally comprised of domestic and foreign corporate securities, foreign government securities, U.S. government agencies and corporations and agency residential mortgage-backed securities.  Of these unrealized losses, $68,107 thousand were related to securities that were rated investment grade by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating agency.  The $106,765 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed maturity securities in an unrealized loss position for more than one year related primarily to agency residential mortgage-backed securities, foreign corporate securities, foreign government securities, domestic corporate securities and U.S. government agencies and corporations.  Of these unrealized losses, $103,739 thousand were related to securities that were rated investment grade by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating agency.  There was no gross unrealized depreciation for mortgage-backed securities related to sub-prime and alt-A loans.  In all instances, there were no projected cash flow shortfalls to recover the full book value of the investments and the related
12


interest obligations.  The mortgage-backed securities still have excess credit coverage and are current on interest and principal payments.

The components of net investment income are presented in the table below for the periods indicated:


   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2018
   
2017
 
Fixed maturities
 
$
108,682
   
$
103,245
 
Equity securities
   
6,827
     
8,745
 
Short-term investments and cash
   
1,732
     
630
 
Other invested assets
               
Limited partnerships
   
23,381
     
10,998
 
Other
   
4,325
     
2,272
 
Gross investment income before adjustments
   
144,947
     
125,890
 
Funds held interest income (expense)
   
3,630
     
3,148
 
Future policy benefit reserve income (expense)
   
(209
)
   
(319
)
Gross investment income
   
148,368
     
128,719
 
Investment expenses
   
(10,074
)
   
(6,430
)
Net investment income
 
$
138,294
   
$
122,289
 


The Company records results from limited partnership investments on the equity method of accounting with changes in value reported through net investment income.  Due to the timing of receiving financial information from these partnerships, the results are generally reported on a one month or quarter lag.  If the Company determines there has been a significant decline in value of a limited partnership during this lag period, a loss will be recorded in the period in which the Company identifies the decline.

The Company had contractual commitments to invest up to an additional $777,058 thousand in limited partnerships at March 31, 2018.  These commitments will be funded when called in accordance with the partnership agreements, which have investment periods that expire, unless extended, through 2023.

The Company's other invested assets at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 included $220,241 thousand and $447,915 thousand, respectively, related to a private placement liquidity sweep facility.  The primary purpose of the facility is to enhance the Company's return on its short-term investments and cash positions.  The facility invests in high quality, short-duration securities and permits daily liquidity.

The components of net realized capital gains (losses) are presented in the table below for the periods indicated:


   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2018
   
2017
 
Fixed maturity securities, market value:
           
Other-than-temporary impairments
 
$
(70
)
 
$
(1,229
)
Gains (losses) from sales
   
10,392
     
11,373
 
Fixed maturity securities, fair value:
               
Gains (losses) from sales
   
(14
)
   
-
 
Equity securities, market value:
               
Gains (losses) from sales
   
-
     
(3,436
)
Equity securities, fair value:
               
Gains (losses) from sales
   
40
     
4,516
 
Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments
   
(35,253
)
   
41,507
 
Other invested assets
   
3
     
1
 
Short-term investments gain (loss)
   
1
     
(4
)
Total net realized capital gains (losses)
 
$
(24,901
)
 
$
52,728
 


13


The Company recorded as net realized capital gains (losses) in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) both fair value re-measurements and write-downs in the value of securities deemed to be impaired on an other-than-temporary basis as displayed in the table above.  The Company had no other-than-temporary impaired securities where the impairment had both a credit and non-credit component.

The proceeds and split between gross gains and losses, from sales of fixed maturity and equity securities, are presented in the table below for the periods indicated:


   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2018
   
2017
 
Proceeds from sales of fixed maturity securities
 
$
364,288
   
$
428,491
 
Gross gains from sales
   
13,002
     
15,473
 
Gross losses from sales
   
(2,624
)
   
(4,100
)
                 
Proceeds from sales of equity securities
 
$
199,875
   
$
159,117
 
Gross gains from sales
   
6,687
     
8,208
 
Gross losses from sales
   
(6,647
)
   
(7,128
)


4.               RESERVE FOR LOSSES, LAE AND FUTURE POLICY BENEFIT RESERVE

Activity in the reserve for losses and LAE is summarized for the periods indicated:


   
Three Months Ended
   
Twelve Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
   
December 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2018
   
2017
 
Gross reserves at beginning of period
 
$
11,884,321
   
$
10,312,313
 
      Less reinsurance recoverables
   
(1,212,649
)
   
(990,862
)
           Net reserves at beginning of period
   
10,671,672
     
9,321,451
 
                 
Incurred related to:
               
      Current year
   
957,177
     
4,815,967
 
      Prior years
   
100,000
     
(293,386
)
           Total incurred losses and LAE
   
1,057,177
     
4,522,581
 
                 
Paid related to:
               
      Current year
   
140,761
     
1,280,605
 
      Prior years
   
1,055,225
     
2,062,634
 
           Total paid losses and LAE
   
1,195,986
     
3,343,239
 
                 
Foreign exchange/translation adjustment
   
25,512
     
170,879
 
                 
Net reserves at end of period
   
10,558,375
     
10,671,672
 
      Plus reinsurance recoverables
   
1,234,971
     
1,212,649
 
           Gross reserves at end of period
 
$
11,793,346
   
$
11,884,321
 


Incurred prior years' reserves increased by $100,000 thousand for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and decreased by $293,386 thousand for the twelve months ended December 31, 2017.  The increase for the three months ended March 31, 2018, related primarily to unfavorable development on prior year catastrophes, notably the 2017 California wildfires.  The decrease for 2017 was attributable to favorable development in the reinsurance segments of $238,378 thousand, related primarily to property and short-tail business in the U.S. and Bermuda as well as favorable development on prior year catastrophe losses, partially offset by $37,137 thousand of adverse development on A&E reserves. The insurance segment also experienced favorable development on prior year reserves of $55,007 thousand mainly on its workers compensation business, which is largely written in California.

14


5.            DERIVATIVES

The Company sold seven equity index put option contracts, based on two indices, in 2001 and 2005.  The Company sold these equity index put options as insurance products with the intent of achieving a profit.  These equity index put option contracts meet the definition of a derivative under FASB guidance and the Company's position in these equity index put option contracts is unhedged.  Accordingly, these equity index put option contracts are carried at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets with changes in fair value recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).  One of these contracts expired on June 9, 2017, with no liability due under the terms of the contract.

The Company has five remaining equity index put option contracts, based on the Standard & Poor's 500 ("S&P 500") index.  Based on historical index volatilities and trends and the March 31, 2018 S&P 500 index value, the Company estimates the probability that each equity index put option contract of the S&P 500 index falling below the strike price on the exercise date to be less than 2%.  The theoretical maximum payouts under these five equity index put option contracts would occur if on each of the exercise dates the S&P 500 index value were zero.  At March 31, 2018, the present value of these theoretical maximum payouts using a 3% discount factor was $403,464 thousand.  Conversely, if the contracts had all expired on March 31, 2018, with the S&P index at $2,640.87, there would have been no settlement amount.

The Company has one equity index put option contract based on the FTSE 100 index.  Based on historical index volatilities and trends and the March 31, 2018 FTSE 100 index value, the Company estimates the probability that the equity index put option contract of the FTSE 100 index will fall below the strike price on the exercise date to be less than 17%.  The theoretical maximum payout under the equity index put option contract would occur if on the exercise date the FTSE 100 index value was zero.  At March 31, 2018, the present value of the theoretical maximum payout using a 3% discount factor and current exchange rate was $42,531 thousand.  Conversely, if the contract had expired on March 31, 2018, with the FTSE index at ₤7,056.61, there would have been no settlement amount.

At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the fair value for these equity put options was $12,205 thousand and $12,477 thousand, respectively.

The fair value of the equity index put options can be found in the Company's consolidated balance sheets as follows:


(Dollars in thousands)
               
Derivatives not designated as
 
Location of fair value
 
At
   
At
 
hedging instruments
 
in balance sheets
 
March 31, 2018
   
December 31, 2017
 
                 
Equity index put option contracts
 
Equity index put option liability
 
$
12,205
   
$
12,477
 
Total
     
$
12,205
   
$
12,477
 


The change in fair value of the equity index put option contracts can be found in the Company's statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) as follows:


(Dollars in thousands)
     
For the Three Months Ended
 
Derivatives not designated as
 
Location of gain (loss) in statements of
 
March 31,
 
hedging instruments
 
operations and comprehensive income (loss)
 
2018
   
2017
 
                 
Equity index put option contracts
 
Net derivative gain (loss)
 
$
273
   
$
2,630
 
Total
     
$
273
   
$
2,630
 


15


6.            FAIR VALUE

GAAP guidance regarding fair value measurements address how companies should measure fair value when they are required to use fair value measures for recognition or disclosure purposes under GAAP and provides a common definition of fair value to be used throughout GAAP.  It defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly fashion between market participants at the measurement date.  In addition, it establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy for the disclosure of fair value measurements.  The valuation hierarchy is based on the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability.  The level in the hierarchy within which a given fair value measurement falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the measurement, with Level 1 being the highest priority and Level 3 being the lowest priority.

The levels in the hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1:
Inputs to the valuation methodology are observable inputs that reflect unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market;

Level 2:
Inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument;

Level 3:
Inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement.

The Company's fixed maturity and equity securities are primarily managed by third party investment asset managers.  The investment asset managers obtain prices from nationally recognized pricing services.   These services seek to utilize market data and observations in their evaluation process.  They use pricing applications that vary by asset class and incorporate available market information and when fixed maturity securities do not trade on a daily basis the services will apply available information through processes such as benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings and matrix pricing.  In addition, they use model processes, such as the Option Adjusted Spread model to develop prepayment and interest rate scenarios for securities that have prepayment features.

In limited instances where prices are not provided by pricing services or in rare instances when a manager may not agree with the pricing service, price quotes on a non-binding basis are obtained from investment brokers.  The investment asset managers do not make any changes to prices received from either the pricing services or the investment brokers.  In addition, the investment asset managers have procedures in place to review the reasonableness of the prices from the service providers and may request verification of the prices.  In addition, the Company continually performs analytical reviews of price changes and tests the prices on a random basis to an independent pricing source.  No material variances were noted during these price validation procedures.  In limited situations, where financial markets are inactive or illiquid, the Company may use its own assumptions about future cash flows and risk-adjusted discount rates to determine fair value.  Due to the unavailability of prices for seventy-five private placement securities at March 31, 2018, an investment manager's valuation committee valued seventy-three of these private placement securities at $164,818 thousand.  A majority of the fair values determined by the valuation committee are substantiated by valuations from independent third parties.  In addition, the Company valued two private placement securities at $68,927 thousand, representing par value.  Due to the unavailability of prices for sixty-six private placement securities at December 31, 2017, an investment manager's valuation committee valued sixty-five of these private placement securities at $165,173 thousand.  In addition, the Company valued one private placement security at $51,965 thousand, representing par value.

The Company internally manages a public equity portfolio which had a fair value at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 of $500,330 thousand and $386,241 thousand, respectively, and all prices were obtained from publicly published sources.

16


Equity securities denominated in U.S. currency with quoted prices in active markets for identical assets are categorized as level 1 since the quoted prices are directly observable.  Equity securities traded on foreign exchanges are categorized as level 2 due to the added input of a foreign exchange conversion rate to determine fair or market value.  The Company uses foreign currency exchange rates published by nationally recognized sources.

All categories of fixed maturity securities listed in the tables below are generally categorized as level 2, since a particular security may not have traded but the pricing services are able to use valuation models with observable market inputs such as interest rate yield curves and prices for similar fixed maturity securities in terms of issuer, maturity and seniority.  For foreign government securities and foreign corporate securities, the fair values provided by the third party pricing services in local currencies, and where applicable, are converted to U.S. dollars using currency exchange rates from nationally recognized sources.

The fixed maturities with fair values categorized as level 3 result when prices are not available from the nationally recognized pricing services.  The asset managers will then obtain non-binding price quotes for the securities from brokers. The single broker quotes are provided by market makers or broker-dealers who are recognized as market participants in the markets in which they are providing the quotes.  The prices received from brokers are reviewed for reasonableness by the third party asset managers and the Company.  If the broker quotes are for foreign denominated securities, the quotes are converted to U.S. dollars using currency exchange rates from nationally recognized sources.  In limited circumstances when broker prices are not available for private placements, the Company will value the securities using comparable market information or receive fair values from investment managers.

The composition and valuation inputs for the presented fixed maturities categories are as follows:

·
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations are primarily comprised of U.S. Treasury bonds and the fair value is based on observable market inputs such as quoted prices, reported trades, quoted prices for similar issuances or benchmark yields;

·
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions are comprised of state and municipal bond issuances and the fair values are based on observable market inputs such as quoted market prices, quoted prices for similar securities, benchmark yields and credit spreads;

·
Corporate securities are primarily comprised of U.S. corporate and public utility bond issuances and the fair values are based on observable market inputs such as quoted market prices, quoted prices for similar securities, benchmark yields and credit spreads;

·
Asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities fair values are based on observable inputs such as quoted prices, reported trades, quoted prices for similar issuances or benchmark yields and cash flow models using observable inputs such as prepayment speeds, collateral performance and default spreads;

·
Foreign government securities are comprised of global non-U.S. sovereign bond issuances and the fair values are based on observable market inputs such as quoted market prices, quoted prices for similar securities and models with observable inputs such as benchmark yields and credit spreads and then, where applicable, converted to U.S. dollars using an exchange rate from a nationally recognized source;

·
Foreign corporate securities are comprised of global non-U.S. corporate bond issuances and the fair values are based on observable market inputs such as quoted market prices, quoted prices for similar securities and models with observable inputs such as benchmark yields and credit spreads and then, where applicable, converted to U.S. dollars using an exchange rate from a nationally recognized source.

The Company sold seven equity index put option contracts, based on two indices, in 2001 and 2005.  The Company sold these equity index put options as insurance products with the intent of achieving a profit.  These equity index put option contracts meet the definition of a derivative under FASB guidance and the Company's position in these equity index put option contracts is unhedged.  Accordingly, these equity index put option contracts are carried at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets with changes in fair value
17


recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).  One of these contracts expired on June 9, 2017, with no liability due under the terms of the contract.

The Company's liability for equity index put options is categorized as level 3 since there is no active market for these equity put options.  The fair values for these options are calculated by the Company using an industry accepted pricing model, Black-Scholes.  The model inputs and assumptions are: risk free interest rates, equity market indexes values, volatilities and dividend yields and duration.  The model results are then adjusted for the Company's credit default swap rate.  All of these inputs and assumptions are updated quarterly.  One of the option contacts is in British Pound Sterling so the fair value for this contract is converted to U.S. dollars using an exchange rate from a nationally recognized source.

The following table presents the fair value measurement levels for all assets and liabilities, which the Company has recorded at fair value (fair and market value) as of the periods indicated:


         
Fair Value Measurement Using:
 
         
Quoted Prices
             
         
in Active
   
Significant
       
         
Markets for
   
Other
   
Significant
 
         
Identical
   
Observable
   
Unobservable
 
         
Assets
   
Inputs
   
Inputs
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
March 31, 2018
 
(Level 1)
   
(Level 2)
   
(Level 3)
 
Assets:
                       
Fixed maturities, market value
                       
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
                       
U.S. government agencies and corporations
 
$
1,497,413
   
$
-
   
$
1,497,413
   
$
-
 
Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions
   
536,547
     
-
     
536,547
     
-
 
Corporate securities
   
5,777,747
     
-
     
5,557,192
     
220,555
 
Asset-backed securities
   
506,430
     
-
     
506,430
     
-
 
Mortgage-backed securities
                               
Commercial
   
227,299
     
-
     
227,299
     
-
 
Agency residential
   
2,222,995
     
-
     
2,222,995
     
-
 
Non-agency residential
   
476
     
-
     
476
     
-
 
Foreign government securities
   
1,274,322
     
-
     
1,274,322
     
-
 
Foreign corporate securities
   
2,801,352
     
-
     
2,789,984
     
11,368
 
Total fixed maturities, market value
   
14,844,581
     
-
     
14,612,658
     
231,923
 
                                 
Fixed maturities, fair value
   
1,821
     
-
     
-
     
1,821
 
Equity securities, fair value
   
1,169,531
     
1,123,632
     
45,899
     
-
 
                                 
Liabilities:
                               
Equity index put option contracts
 
$
12,205
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
12,205
 


There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 for the three months ended March 31, 2018.

18


The following table presents the fair value measurement levels for all assets and liabilities, which the Company has recorded at fair value (fair and market value) as of the periods indicated:


         
Fair Value Measurement Using:
 
         
Quoted Prices
             
         
in Active
   
Significant
       
         
Markets for
   
Other
   
Significant
 
         
Identical
   
Observable
   
Unobservable
 
         
Assets
   
Inputs
   
Inputs
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
December 31, 2017
 
(Level 1)
   
(Level 2)
   
(Level 3)
 
Assets:
                       
Fixed maturities, market value
                       
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
                       
U.S. government agencies and corporations
 
$
1,536,692
   
$
-
   
$
1,536,692
   
$
-
 
Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions
   
585,469
     
-
     
585,469
     
-
 
Corporate securities
   
5,699,005
     
-
     
5,488,819
     
210,186
 
Asset-backed securities
   
531,360
     
-
     
531,360
     
-
 
Mortgage-backed securities
                               
Commercial
   
234,041
     
-
     
234,041
     
-
 
Agency residential
   
2,210,902
     
-
     
2,210,902
     
-
 
Non-agency residential
   
494
     
-
     
494
     
-
 
Foreign government securities
   
1,314,027
     
-
     
1,314,027
     
-
 
Foreign corporate securities
   
2,644,844
     
-
     
2,637,892
     
6,952
 
Total fixed maturities, market value
   
14,756,834
     
-
     
14,539,696
     
217,138
 
                                 
Equity securities, market value
   
129,530
     
113,506
     
16,024
     
-
 
Equity securities, fair value
   
963,572
     
941,739
     
21,833
     
-
 
                                 
Liabilities:
                               
Equity index put option contracts
 
$
12,477
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
12,477
 


In addition, $82,902 thousand and $79,505 thousand of investments within other invested assets on the consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, are not included within the fair value hierarchy tables as the assets are valued using the NAV practical expedient guidance within ASU 2015-07.

19


The following tables present the activity under Level 3, fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs by asset type, for the periods indicated:


   
Total Fixed Maturities, Market Value
   
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
   
Corporate
   
Foreign
         
Corporate
   
Foreign
       
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Securities
   
Corporate
   
Total
   
Securities
   
Corporate
   
Total
 
Beginning balance fixed maturities at market value
 
$
210,186
   
$
6,952
   
$
217,138
   
$
65,197
   
$
2,538
   
$
67,735
 
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized)
                                               
Included in earnings
   
722
     
94
     
816
     
214
     
(24
)
   
190
 
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)
   
235
     
-
     
235
     
(29
)
   
-
     
(29
)
Purchases, issuances and settlements
   
9,412
     
4,322
     
13,734
     
18,940
     
288
     
19,228
 
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Ending balance
 
$
220,555
   
$
11,368
   
$
231,923
   
$
84,322
   
$
2,802
   
$
87,124
 
                                                 
The amount of total gains or losses for the period
                                               
included in earnings (or changes in net assets)
                                               
attributable to the change in unrealized gains
                                               
or losses relating to assets still held
                                               
 at the reporting date
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
                                                 
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
                                               

 

   
Total Fixed Maturities, Fair Value
 
   
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
   
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
 
   
Foreign
         
Foreign
       
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Corporate
   
Total
   
Corporate
   
Total
 
Beginning balance fixed maturities at fair value
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized)
                               
Included in earnings
   
(14
)
   
(14
)
   
-
 
   
-
 
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Purchases, issuances and settlements
   
1,835
     
1,835
     
-
     
-
 
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Ending balance
 
$
1,821
   
$
1,821
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
                                 
The amount of total gains or losses for the period
                               
included in earnings (or changes in net assets)
                               
attributable to the change in unrealized gains
                               
or losses relating to assets still held
                               
 at the reporting date
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
                                 
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
                               
 
There were no net transfers to/(from) level 3, during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
20


The following table presents the activity under Level 3, fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs for equity index put option contracts, for the periods indicated:


   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2018
   
2017
 
Liabilities:
           
Balance, beginning of period
 
$
12,477
   
$
22,059
 
Total (gains) or losses (realized/unrealized)
               
Included in earnings