HALLMARK FINANCIAL SERVICES INC - Quarter Report: 2016 September (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 September 30, 2016

Commission file number 001-11252

Hallmark Financial Services, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (817) 348-1600

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.

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: Common Stock, par value $.18 per share – 18,611,982 shares outstanding as of November 7, 2016.

PART I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Balance Sheets

($ in thousands, except par value)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements

Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Operations

(Unaudited)

($ in thousands, except per share amounts)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements

Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

(Unaudited)

($ in thousands)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements

Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

(Unaudited)

($ in thousands)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements

Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

($ in thousands)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements

Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. (“Hallmark” and, together with subsidiaries, “we,” “us” or “our”) is an insurance holding company engaged in the sale of property/casualty insurance products to businesses and individuals. Our business involves marketing, distributing, underwriting and servicing our insurance products, as well as providing other insurance related services.

We pursue our business activities primarily through subsidiaries whose operations are organized into product-specific operating units that are supported by our insurance company subsidiaries. Our MGA Commercial Products operating unit offers commercial insurance products and services in the excess and surplus lines market. Our Specialty Commercial operating unit offers general aviation and satellite launch insurance products and services, low and middle market commercial umbrella and primary/excess liability insurance, medical professional liability insurance products and services, and primary/excess commercial property coverages for both catastrophe and non-catastrophe exposures. Our Standard Commercial P&C operating unit offers industry-specific commercial insurance products and services in the standard market. Our Workers Compensation operating unit specializes in small and middle market workers compensation business. Effective July 1, 2015, this operating unit no longer markets or retains any risk on new or renewal policies. Our Specialty Personal Lines operating unit offers non-standard personal automobile and renters insurance products and services. Our insurance company subsidiaries supporting these operating units are American Hallmark Insurance Company of Texas (“AHIC”), Hallmark Insurance Company (“HIC”), Hallmark Specialty Insurance Company (“HSIC”), Hallmark County Mutual Insurance Company, Hallmark National Insurance Company and Texas Builders Insurance Company.

These operating units are segregated into three reportable industry segments for financial accounting purposes. The Specialty Commercial Segment includes our MGA Commercial Products operating unit and our Specialty Commercial operating unit. The Standard Commercial Segment includes our Standard Commercial P&C operating unit and our Workers Compensation operating unit. The Personal Segment consists solely of our Specialty Personal Lines operating unit.

Our unaudited consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) and include our accounts and the accounts of our subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted pursuant to rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for interim financial reporting. These unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2015 included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC.

The interim financial data as of September 30, 2016 and 2015 is unaudited. However, in the opinion of management, the interim data includes all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods. The results of operations for the period ended September 30, 2016 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results to be expected for the full year.

Business Combinations

We account for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting pursuant to Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 805, “Business Combinations.” The base cash purchase price plus the estimated fair value of any non-cash or contingent consideration given for an acquired business is allocated to the assets acquired (including identified intangible assets) and liabilities assumed based on the estimated fair values of such assets and liabilities. The excess of the fair value of the total consideration given for an acquired business over the aggregate net fair values assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. Contingent consideration is recognized as a liability at fair value as of the acquisition date with subsequent fair value adjustments recorded in the consolidated statements of operations. The valuation of contingent consideration requires assumptions regarding anticipated cash flows, probabilities of cash flows, discount rates and other factors. Significant judgment is employed in determining the propriety of these assumptions as of the acquisition date and for each subsequent period. Accordingly, future business and economic conditions, as well as changes in any of the assumptions, can materially impact the amount of contingent consideration expense we record in any given period. Indirect and general expenses related to business combinations are expensed as incurred.

Income Taxes

We file a consolidated federal income tax return. Deferred federal income taxes reflect the future tax consequences of differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their financial reporting amounts at each year end. Deferred taxes are recognized using the liability method, whereby tax rates are applied to cumulative temporary differences based on when and how they are expected to affect the tax return. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for tax rate changes in effect for the year in which these temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of the Financial Statements

Our preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect our reported amounts of assets and liabilities and our disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of our consolidated financial statements, as well as our reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Refer to “Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments” under Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 for information on accounting policies that we consider critical in preparing our consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair value estimates are made at a point in time based on relevant market data as well as the best information available about the financial instruments. Fair value estimates for financial instruments for which no or limited observable market data is available are based on judgments regarding current economic conditions, credit and interest rate risk. These estimates involve significant uncertainties and judgments and cannot be determined with precision. As a result, such calculated fair value estimates may not be realizable in a current sale or immediate settlement of the instrument. In addition, changes in the underlying assumptions used in the fair value measurement technique, including discount rate and estimates of future cash flows, could significantly affect these fair value estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents: The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for these instruments approximate their fair values.

Restricted Cash: The carrying amount for restricted cash reported in the balance sheet approximates the fair value.

Revolving Credit Facility Payable: A revolving credit facility with Frost Bank had a carried value of $30.0 million and a fair value of $30.2 million as of September 30, 2016.  The fair value is based on discounted cash flows using a discount rate derived from LIBOR spot rates plus a market spread resulting in discount rates ranging between 3.3% to 3.7% for each future payment date.  This revolving credit facility would be included in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy if it was reported at fair value.

Subordinated Debt Securities: Our trust preferred securities have a carried value of $55.7 million and a fair value of $39.7 million as of September 30, 2016. The fair value of our trust preferred securities is based on discounted cash flows using a current yield to maturity of 8.0%, which is based on similar issues to discount future cash flows. Our trust preferred securities would be included in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy if they were reported at fair value.

For reinsurance balances, premiums receivable, federal income tax payable, other assets and other liabilities, the carrying amounts approximate fair value because of the short maturity of such financial instruments.

Variable Interest Entities

On June 21, 2005, we formed Hallmark Statutory Trust I (“Trust I”), an unconsolidated trust subsidiary, for the sole purpose of issuing $30.0 million in trust preferred securities. Trust I used the proceeds from the sale of these securities and our initial capital contribution to purchase $30.9 million of subordinated debt securities from Hallmark. The debt securities are the sole assets of Trust I, and the payments under the debt securities are the sole revenues of Trust I.

On August 23, 2007, we formed Hallmark Statutory Trust II (“Trust II”), an unconsolidated trust subsidiary, for the sole purpose of issuing $25.0 million in trust preferred securities. Trust II used the proceeds from the sale of these securities and our initial capital contribution to purchase $25.8 million of subordinated debt securities from Hallmark. The debt securities are the sole assets of Trust II, and the payments under the debt securities are the sole revenues of Trust II.

We evaluate on an ongoing basis our investments in Trust I and Trust II (collectively the “Trusts”) and have determined that we do not have a variable interest in the Trusts.  Therefore, the Trusts are not included in our consolidated financial statements.

We are also involved in the normal course of business with variable interest entities (“VIE’s”) primarily as a passive investor in mortgage-backed securities and certain collateralized corporate bank loans issued by third party VIE’s. The maximum exposure to loss with respect to these investments is the investment carrying values included in the consolidated balance sheets.

New Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidance which revises the criteria for revenue recognition. Insurance contracts are excluded from the scope of the new guidance. Under the guidance, the transaction price is attributed to underlying performance obligations in the contract and revenue is recognized as the entity satisfies the performance obligations and transfers control of a good or service to the customer. Incremental costs of obtaining a contract may be capitalized to the extent the entity expects to recover those costs. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and is to be applied retrospectively. We are in the process of evaluating the impact of adoption, which is not expected to be material to our results of operations or financial position.

In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, "Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis" (Topic 810). ASU 2015-02 changes the analysis that a reporting entity must perform to determine whether entities should be consolidated if they are deemed variable interest entities. It is effective for annual reporting periods, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2015. We have adopted this standard as of the effective date, and the adoption did not impact our financial statements.

In May 2015, the FASB issued guidance which requires additional disclosures about short-duration contracts for products in effect for typically a year or less. The disclosures will focus on the liability for unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses. This guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and interim periods within annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We are in the process of evaluating the impact of the adoption, which is not expected to be material to our results of operations or financial position.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, “Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs,” which amends the guidance in Accounting Standards Codification Topic 835-30 “Interest-Imputation of Interest.” ASU 2015-03 requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. For public business entities, the guidance was effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015. We adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2016 and adjusted our prior period balances to reflect the adoption of this guidance.

During the third quarter of 2015 we paid $1.2 million to the sellers of the subsidiaries comprising our Workers Compensation operating unit pursuant to the terms of the acquisition agreement. The sellers disputed the calculation of the amount paid and, pursuant to the terms of the acquisition agreement, an independent actuary was engaged to resolve this matter. In accordance with the report of the independent actuary, we accrued during the second quarter of 2016 and paid during the third quarter of 2016 an additional $1.8 million to the sellers.

On June 30, 2015, Redpoint Comp Holdings LLC (“Purchaser”) acquired exclusive renewal rights to our current in-force Texas workers compensation policies, together with certain physical assets associated with the administration of such in-force policies. In consideration for such renewal rights and physical assets, Purchaser assumed certain office lease obligations and offered employment to certain of our employees associated with the Workers Compensation operating unit. Purchaser also agreed to administer the run-off of all of our current workers compensation policies and claims for a period of three years. In connection with the transaction, we made a one-time payment to the Purchaser of $83,000. We also agreed not to compete in the workers compensation line of insurance in the State of Texas (with certain exceptions) until after the assumed office lease obligations expire on October 31, 2017. We recorded a gain of $0.2 million during the second quarter of 2015 in connection with the transaction.

On September 15, 2015, we executed Amendment No. 1 to the sale agreement with the Purchaser. Pursuant to the Amendment, the Purchaser agreed to pay us $115,000 and administer the run-off of all of our workers compensation policies and claims in perpetuity or through final conclusion (rather than for three years as contemplated by the original agreement) in consideration of us assigning to Purchaser the commission on all unearned premiums on such policies as of July 1, 2015. We recorded an additional gain of $0.4 million during the third quarter of 2015 as a result of this Amendment No.1.

  ASC 820 defines fair value, establishes a consistent framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosure requirements about fair value measurements. ASC 820, among other things, requires us to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. In addition, ASC 820 precludes the use of block discounts when measuring the fair value of instruments traded in an active market, which were previously applied to large holdings of publicly traded equity securities.

We determine the fair value of our financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy established in ASC 820. In accordance with ASC 820, we utilize the following fair value hierarchy:

This hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available.

Under ASC 820, we determine fair value based on the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. It is our policy to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when developing fair value measurements, in accordance with the fair value hierarchy described above. Fair value measurements for assets and liabilities where there exists limited or no observable market data are calculated based upon our pricing policy, the economic and competitive environment, the characteristics of the asset or liability and other factors as appropriate. These estimated fair values may not be realized upon actual sale or immediate settlement of the asset or liability.

Where quoted prices are available on active exchanges for identical instruments, investment securities are classified within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. Level 1 investment securities include common and preferred stock.

Level 2 investment securities include corporate bonds, collateralized corporate bank loans, municipal bonds, and U.S. Treasury securities for which quoted prices are not available on active exchanges for identical instruments. We use third party pricing services to determine fair values for each Level 2 investment security in all asset classes. Since quoted prices in active markets for identical assets are not available, these prices are determined using observable market information such as quotes from less active markets and/or quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics, among other things. We have reviewed the processes used by the pricing services and have determined that they result in fair values consistent with the requirements of ASC 820 for Level 2 investment securities. We have not adjusted any prices received from the third party pricing services.

In cases where there is limited activity or less transparency around inputs to the valuation, investment securities are classified within Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy. Level 3 investments are valued based on the best available data in order to approximate fair value. This data may be internally developed and consider risk premiums that a market participant would require. Investment securities classified within Level 3 include other less liquid investment securities.

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 securities during the periods presented.

The following table presents for each of the fair value hierarchy levels, our assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 (in thousands):

Due to significant unobservable inputs into the valuation model for certain municipal bonds in illiquid markets, as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, and one equity security as of September 30, 2016, we classified these investments as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. We used an income approach in order to derive an estimated fair value of the municipal bonds classified as Level 3, which included inputs such as expected holding period, benchmark swap rate, benchmark discount rate and a discount rate premium for illiquidity. Changes in the unobservable inputs in the fair value measurement of these municipal bonds or equity security could result in a significant change in the fair value measurement.

The following table summarizes the changes in fair value for all financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands):

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investments in debt and equity securities by category is as follows (in thousands):

Major categories of net realized gains (losses) on investments are summarized as follows (in thousands):

We realized gross gains on investments of $1.4 million and $76 thousand during the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and $2.1 million and $6.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.  We realized gross losses on investments of $0.3 million and $48 thousand for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and $0.5 million and $0.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. We recorded proceeds from the sale of investment securities of $5.4 million and $0.8 million during the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and $21.3 million and $17.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Realized investment gains and losses are recognized in operations on the specific identification method.

The following schedules summarize the gross unrealized losses showing the length of time that investments have been continuously in an unrealized loss position as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 (in thousands):

At September 30, 2016, the gross unrealized losses more than twelve months old were attributable to 33 debt security positions and one equity position. At December 31, 2015, the gross unrealized losses more than twelve months old were attributable to 39 debt security positions. We consider these losses as a temporary decline in value as they are predominately on bonds that we do not intend to sell and do not believe we will be required to sell prior to recovery of our amortized cost basis. We see no other indications that the decline in values of these securities is other-than-temporary. We recognized $2.9 million of other-than-temporary impairments for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 related to six municipal bond securities and two bank loans in the energy sector.

We complete a detailed analysis each quarter to assess whether any decline in the fair value of any investment below cost is deemed other-than-temporary. All securities with an unrealized loss are reviewed. We recognize an impairment loss when an investment's value declines below cost, adjusted for accretion, amortization and previous other-than-temporary impairments, and it is determined that the decline is other-than-temporary.

Debt Investments:   We assess whether we intend to sell, or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell, a fixed maturity investment before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current period credit losses.  For fixed maturity investments that are considered other-than-temporarily impaired and that we do not intend to sell and will not be required to sell, we separate the amount of the impairment into the amount that is credit related (credit loss component) and the amount due to all other factors.  The credit loss component is recognized in earnings and is the difference between the investment’s amortized cost basis and the present value of its expected future cash flows.  The remaining difference between the investment’s fair value and the present value of future expected cash flows is recognized in other comprehensive income.

Equity Investments:  Some of the factors considered in evaluating whether a decline in fair value for an equity investment is other-than-temporary include: (1) our ability and intent to retain the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for an anticipated recovery in value; (2) the recoverability of cost; (3) the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than cost; and (4) the financial condition and near-term and long-term prospects for the issuer, including the relevant industry conditions and trends, and implications of rating agency actions and offering prices. When it is determined that an equity investment is other-than-temporarily impaired, the security is written down to fair value, and the amount of the impairment is included in earnings as a realized investment loss. The fair value then becomes the new cost basis of the investment, and any subsequent recoveries in fair value are recognized at disposition. We recognize a realized loss when impairment is deemed to be other-than-temporary even if a decision to sell an equity investment has not been made. When we decide to sell a temporarily impaired available-for-sale equity investment and we do not expect the fair value of the equity investment to fully recover prior to the expected time of sale, the investment is deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired in the period in which the decision to sell is made.

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities at September 30, 2016 by contractual maturity are as follows. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without penalties.

We have pledged certain of our securities for the benefit of various state insurance departments and reinsurers. These securities are included with our available-for-sale debt securities because we have the ability to trade these securities. We retain the interest earned on these securities. These securities had a carrying value of $21.2 million and $17.6 million at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

We recorded $2.0 million of unfavorable prior years’ net loss development during the three months ended September 30, 2016. We recorded $0.8 million of favorable prior years’ net loss development during the nine months ended September 30, 2016. For the year to date, the $0.8 million of net favorable development was attributable to $8.6 million net favorable development on claims incurred in the 2015 accident year, $0.2 million net favorable development on claims incurred in the 2012 accident year, $1.0 million net favorable development on claims incurred in the 2011 accident year and $0.8 million net favorable development on claims incurred in the 2010 accident year, partially offset by $2.8 million net unfavorable development on claims incurred during the 2014 accident year, $5.7 million net unfavorable development on claims incurred during the 2013 accident year and $1.3 million net unfavorable development on claims incurred in the 2009 and prior accident years. During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, our Standard Commercial P&C operating unit accounted for $3.3 million of the net favorable development, our Workers Compensation operating unit accounted for $3.0 million of the net favorable development, and our Specialty Commercial operating unit accounted for $0.4 million of the net favorable development. These favorable developments were partially offset by net unfavorable development of $3.6 million in our Specialty Personal Lines operating unit and $2.3 million of net unfavorable development in our MGA Commercial Products operating unit.

The net favorable development for our Standard Commercial P&C operating unit of $3.3 million was driven primarily by net favorable claims development in our general liability line of business in the 2015 and prior accident years, partially offset by net unfavorable claims development in our occupational accident line of business in the 2015, 2014 and 2013 accident years. The net favorable development of $3.0 million for our Workers Compensation operating unit was attributable to the 2015 and prior accident years. The net favorable development of $0.4 million in our Specialty Commercial operating unit consisted of $0.2 million of net favorable development in our general aviation line of business, $0.1 million of net favorable development in our commercial excess liability line of business and $0.1 million of net favorable development in our medical professional liability line of business. The net unfavorable development for our Specialty Personal Lines operating unit of $3.6 million was mostly attributable to the 2015, 2014 and 2013 accident years. The net unfavorable development of $2.3 million in our MGA Commercial Products operating unit was primarily driven by net unfavorable development in our commercial auto liability and general liability lines of business in the 2014, 2013, 2012, 2009 and prior accident years, partially offset by net favorable development in the 2015, 2011 and 2010 accident years.

We recorded $3.1 million of favorable prior years’ net loss development during the three months ended September 30, 2015. We recorded $4.6 million of favorable prior years’ net loss development during the nine months ended September 30, 2015. For the year to date, the $4.6 million of net favorable development was attributable to $4.0 million net favorable development on claims incurred in the 2014 accident year and $2.1 million net favorable development on claims incurred during the 2011 and prior accident years, partially offset by $0.5 million net unfavorable development on claims incurred in the 2013 accident year and $1.0 million net unfavorable development on claims incurred in the 2012 accident year. During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, our Standard Commercial P&C operating unit accounted for $4.0 million of the net favorable development, our Workers Compensation operating unit accounted for $0.8 million of the net favorable development, our MGA Commercial Products operating unit accounted for $0.5 million of the net favorable development and our Specialty Commercial operating unit accounted for $1.3 million of the net favorable development. These favorable developments were partially offset by net unfavorable development of $2.0 million in our Specialty Personal Lines operating unit.

The net favorable development for our Standard Commercial P&C operating unit of $4.0 million was driven primarily by our general liability and commercial property lines of business in the 2014 and prior accident years. The net favorable development of $0.8 million for our Workers Compensation operating unit was primarily attributable to the 2014 through 2011 accident years. The net favorable development of $0.5 million in our MGA Commercial Products operating unit was primarily driven by net favorable development in our commercial auto liability and general liability lines of business. The net favorable development of $1.3 million in our Specialty Commercial operating unit consisted of $0.3 million of net favorable development in our commercial excess liability line of business, $0.3 million in our professional medical liability products and $0.7 million of net favorable development in our general aviation line of business. The net unfavorable development of $2.0 million in our Specialty Personal Lines operating unit was primarily attributable to the 2014 and prior accident years.

Our 2005 Long Term Incentive Plan (“2005 LTIP”) is a stock compensation plan for key employees and non-employee directors that was initially approved by the shareholders on May 26, 2005 and expired by its terms on May 27, 2015. As of September 30, 2016, there were outstanding incentive stock options to purchase 447,574 shares of our common stock, non-qualified stock options to purchase 289,157 shares of our common stock and restricted stock units representing the right to receive up to 156,404 shares of our common stock. The exercise price of all such outstanding stock options is equal to the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant.

Our 2015 Long Term Incentive Plan (“2015 LTIP”) was approved by shareholders on May 29, 2015. There are 2,000,000 shares authorized for issuance under the 2015 LTIP. As of September 30, 2016, restricted stock units representing the right to receive up to 319,572 shares of our common stock were outstanding under the 2015 LTIP. There were no stock option awards granted under the 2015 LTIP as of September 30, 2016.

Stock Options:

Incentive stock options granted under the 2005 LTIP prior to 2009 vest 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% on the first, second, third and fourth anniversary dates of the grant, respectively, and terminate five to ten years from the date of grant. Incentive stock options granted in 2009 vest in equal annual increments on each of the first seven anniversary dates and terminate ten years from the date of grant. One grant of 25,000 incentive stock options in 2010 vests in equal annual increments on each of the first three anniversary dates and terminates ten years from the date of grant. Non-qualified stock options granted under the 2005 LTIP generally vest 100% six months after the date of grant and terminate ten years from the date of grant. One grant of 200,000 non-qualified stock options in 2009 vests in equal annual increments on each of the first seven anniversary dates and terminates ten years from the date of grant.

A summary of the status of our stock options as of September 30, 2016 and changes during the nine months then ended is presented below:

The following table details the intrinsic value of options exercised, total cost of share-based payments charged against income before income tax benefit and the amount of related income tax benefit recognized in income for the periods indicated (in thousands):

As of September 30, 2016, there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options granted under our plans which is expected to be recognized in the future.

The fair value of each stock option granted is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Expected volatilities are based on the historical volatility of Hallmark’s and similar companies’ common stock for a period equal to the expected term. The risk-free interest rates for periods within the contractual term of the options are based on rates for U.S. Treasury Notes with maturity dates corresponding to the options’ expected lives on the dates of grant. Expected term is determined based on the simplified method as we do not have sufficient historical exercise data to provide a basis for estimating the expected term. There were no stock options granted during the first nine months of 2016 or 2015.

Restricted Stock Units:

The 2005 LTIP was amended by the stockholders on May 30, 2013 to authorize the grant of restricted stock units, in addition to the other types of awards available thereunder. Restricted stock units awarded under the 2005 LTIP represent the right to receive shares of common stock upon the satisfaction of vesting requirements, performance criteria and other terms and conditions. On July 27, 2012 and April 10, 2013, an aggregate of 129,463 and 122,823 restricted stock units, respectively, were conditionally granted to certain of our employees subject to shareholder approval of the amendments to the 2005 LTIP at the May 30, 2013 shareholder meeting. One conditional grant of 9,280 restricted stock units was forfeited prior to approval at the shareholder meeting. Subsequently on September 8, 2014, an aggregate of 175,983 restricted stock units were granted to certain employees. On May 29, 2015, an aggregate of 103,351 restricted stock units were granted to certain employees under the 2015 LTIP. Subsequently on July 22, 2016, an aggregate of 122,770 restricted stock units were granted to certain employees under the 2015 LTIP.

The performance criteria for all restricted stock units require that we achieve certain compound average annual growth rates in book value per share over the vesting period in order to receive shares of common stock in amounts ranging from 50% to 150% of the number of restricted stock units granted. In addition, certain restricted stock units contain an additional performance criteria related to the attainment of an average combined ratio percentage over the vesting period. Grantees of restricted stock units do not have any rights of a stockholder, and do not participate in any distributions to our common stockholders, until the award fully vests upon satisfaction of the vesting schedule, performance criteria and other conditions set forth in their award agreement. Therefore, unvested restricted stock units are not considered participating securities under ASC 260, “Earnings Per Share,” and are not included in the calculation of basic or diluted earnings per share.

On April 1, 2015, 8,616 shares of common stock were issued with respect to 8,616 restricted stock units which were granted on July 27, 2012 and vested on March 31, 2015. On April 1, 2016, 7,144 shares of common stock were issued with respect to 7,144 restricted stock units which were granted on April 10, 2013 and vested on March 31, 2016. If and to the extent specified performance criteria have been achieved, the restricted stock units granted on September 8, 2014 (except for one grant) will vest on March 31, 2017, one grant of restricted stock units granted on September 8, 2014 will vest on March 31, 2018, the restricted stock units granted on May 29, 2015 will vest on March 31, 2018 and the restricted stock units granted on July 22, 2016 will vest on March 31, 2019.

Compensation cost is measured as an amount equal to the fair value of the restricted stock units on the date of grant and is expensed over the vesting period if achievement of the performance criteria is deemed probable, with the amount of the expense recognized based on our best estimate of the ultimate achievement level. The grant date fair value of the restricted stock units granted in 2012 and 2013 is $9.20 per unit. The grant date fair value of the restricted stock units granted in 2014 is $9.66 per unit. The grant date fair value of the restricted stock units granted in 2015 is $11.10 per unit. The grant date fair value of the restricted stock units granted in 2016 is $11.41 per unit. We incurred compensation (benefit) expense of ($249) thousand and ($59) thousand related to restricted stock units during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016. We incurred compensation (benefit) expense of ($49) thousand and $408 thousand related to restricted stock units during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015. We recorded income tax (expense) benefit of ($88) thousand and ($21) thousand related to restricted stock units during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016. We recorded income tax (expense) benefit of ($17) thousand and $143 thousand related to restricted stock units during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015.

A summary of the status of our restricted stock units as of September 30, 2016 and changes during the nine months then ended is presented below:

As of September 30, 2016, there was $1.4 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted stock units granted under our 2005 LTIP and 2015 LTIP, of which $0.2 million is expected to be recognized during the remainder of 2016, $0.6 million is expected to be recognized in 2017, $0.5 million is expected to be recognized in 2018 and $0.1 million is expected to be recognized in 2019.

The following is business segment information for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands):

The following is additional business segment information as of the dates indicated (in thousands):

We reinsure a portion of the risk we underwrite in order to control the exposure to losses and to protect capital resources. We cede to reinsurers a portion of these risks and pay premiums based upon the risk and exposure of the policies subject to such reinsurance. Ceded reinsurance involves credit risk and is generally subject to aggregate loss limits. Although the reinsurer is liable to us to the extent of the reinsurance ceded, we are ultimately liable as the direct insurer on all risks reinsured. Reinsurance recoverables are reported after allowances for uncollectible amounts. We monitor the financial condition of reinsurers on an ongoing basis and review our reinsurance arrangements periodically. Reinsurers are selected based on their financial condition, business practices and the price of their product offerings. In order to mitigate credit risk to reinsurance companies, most of our reinsurance recoverable balance as of September 30, 2016 was with reinsurers that had an A.M. Best rating of “A–” or better.

The following table shows earned premiums ceded and reinsurance loss recoveries by period (in thousands):

Our Second Restated Credit Agreement with Frost Bank (“Frost”) dated June 30, 2015, reinstated the credit facility with Frost which expired by its terms on April 30, 2015. The Second Restated Credit Agreement also amended certain provisions of the credit facility and restated the agreement with Frost in its entirety.  The Second Restated Credit Agreement provides a $15.0 million revolving credit facility (“Facility A’), with a $5.0 million letter of credit sub-facility. The outstanding balance of the Facility A bears interest at a rate equal to the prime rate or LIBOR plus 2.5%, at our election. We pay an annual fee of 0.25% of the average daily unused balance of Facility A and letter of credit fees at the rate of 1.00% per annum.  As of September 30, 2016, we had no outstanding borrowings under Facility A.

On December 17, 2015, we entered into a First Amendment to Second Restated Credit Agreement and a Revolving Facility B Agreement (the “Facility B Agreement”) with Frost to provide a new $30.0 million revolving credit facility (“Facility B”), in addition to Facility A. On November 1, 2016, we amended the Facility B Agreement with Frost to extend by one year the termination date for draws under Facility B and the maturity date for amounts outstanding thereunder. We paid Frost a commitment fee of $75,000 when Facility B was established and an additional $30,000 fee when Facility B was extended.

We may use Facility B loan proceeds solely for the purpose of making capital contributions to AHIC and HIC. As amended, we may borrow, repay and reborrow under Facility B until December 17, 2018, at which time all amounts outstanding under Facility B are converted to a term loan. Through December 17, 2018, we pay Frost a quarterly fee of 0.25% per annum of the average daily unused balance of Facility B. Facility B bears interest at a rate equal to the prime rate or LIBOR plus 3.00%, at our election. Until December 17, 2018, interest only on amounts from time to time outstanding under Facility B are payable quarterly. Any amounts outstanding on Facility B as of December 17, 2018 are converted to a term loan payable in quarterly installments over five years based on a seven year amortization of principal plus accrued interest. All remaining principal and accrued interest on Facility B become due and payable on December 17, 2023. As of September 30, 2016, we had $30.0 million outstanding under Facility B.

The obligations under both Facility A and Facility B are secured by a security interest in the capital stock of AHIC and HIC.  Both Facility A and Facility B contain covenants that, among other things, require us to maintain certain financial and operating ratios and restrict certain distributions, transactions and organizational changes. As of September 30, 2016, we were in compliance with all of these covenants.

On June 21, 2005, we entered into a trust preferred securities transaction pursuant to which we issued $30.9 million aggregate principal amount of subordinated debt securities due in 2035. To effect the transaction, we formed Trust I as a Delaware statutory trust. Trust I issued $30.0 million of preferred securities to investors and $0.9 million of common securities to us. Trust I used the proceeds from these issuances to purchase the subordinated debt securities. The initial interest rate on our Trust I subordinated debt securities was 7.725% until June 15, 2015, after which interest adjusts quarterly to the three-month LIBOR rate plus 3.25 percentage points. Trust I pays dividends on its preferred securities at the same rate. Under the terms of our Trust I subordinated debt securities, we pay interest only each quarter and the principal of the note at maturity. The subordinated debt securities are uncollaterized and do not require maintenance of minimum financial covenants. As of September 30, 2016, the principal balance of our Trust I subordinated debt was $30.9 million and the interest rate was 4.10% per annum.

On August 23, 2007, we entered into a trust preferred securities transaction pursuant to which we issued $25.8 million aggregate principal amount of subordinated debt securities due in 2037. To effect the transaction, we formed Trust II as a Delaware statutory trust. Trust II issued $25.0 million of preferred securities to investors and $0.8 million of common securities to us. Trust II used the proceeds from these issuances to purchase the subordinated debt securities. Our Trust II subordinated debt securities bear an initial interest rate of 8.28% until September 15, 2017, at which time interest will adjust quarterly to the three-month LIBOR rate plus 2.90 percentage points. Trust II pays dividends on its preferred securities at the same rate. Under the terms of our Trust II subordinated debt securities, we pay interest only each quarter and the principal of the note at maturity. The subordinated debt securities are uncollaterized and do not require maintenance of minimum financial covenants. As of September 30, 2016, the principal balance of our Trust II subordinated debt was $25.8 million.

The following table shows total deferred and amortized policy acquisition cost activity by period (in thousands):

The following table sets forth basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding for the periods indicated (in thousands):

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, 385,000 shares of common stock potentially issuable upon the exercise of employee stock options were excluded from the weighted average number of shares outstanding on a diluted basis because the effect of such options would be anti-dilutive. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, 504,999 shares of common stock potentially issuable upon the exercise of employee stock options were excluded from the weighted average number of shares outstanding on a diluted basis because the effect of such options would be anti-dilutive.

The following table details the net periodic pension cost incurred by period (in thousands):

Refer to Note 14 to the consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 for more discussion of our retirement plans.

Our effective income tax rate for the first nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was 30.5% and 31.3%, respectively. The rates varied from the statutory tax rate primarily due to the amount of tax exempt income in relation to total pre-tax income.  

We are engaged in various legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business, none of which, either individually or in the aggregate, are believed likely to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations, in the opinion of management. The various legal proceedings to which we are a party are routine in nature and incidental to our business.

In November 2015, one of the subsidiaries in our MGA Commercial operating unit, Hallmark Specialty Underwriters, Inc. (“HSU”), was informed by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts that a surplus lines tax audit covering the period January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2013 was complete. HSU frequently acts as a managing general underwriter (“MGU”) authorized to underwrite policies on behalf of Republic Vanguard Insurance Company and HSIC, both Texas eligible surplus lines insurance carriers. In its role as the MGU, HSU underwrites policies on behalf of these carriers while other agencies located in Texas (generally referred to as “producing agents”) deliver the policies to the insureds and collect all premiums due from the insureds. During the period under audit, the producing agents also collected the surplus lines premium taxes due on the policies from the insureds, held them in trust, and timely remitted those taxes to the Comptroller. We believe this system for collecting and paying the required surplus lines premium taxes complies in all respects with the Texas Insurance Code and other regulations, which clearly require that the same party who delivers the policies and collects the premiums will also collect premium taxes, hold premium taxes in trust, and pay premium taxes to the Comptroller. It also complies with long standing industry practice. In addition, effective January 1, 2012 the Texas legislature enacted House Bill 3410 (HB3410) which allows an MGU to contractually pass the collection, payment and administration of surplus lines taxes down to another Texas licensed surplus line agent.

The Comptroller has asserted that HSU is liable for the surplus lines premium taxes related to policy transactions and premiums collected from surplus lines insureds during January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2011, the period prior to the passage of HB3410, and that HSU therefore owes $2.5 million in premium taxes, as well as $0.7 million in penalties and interest for the audit period.

We disagree with the Comptroller and intend to vigorously fight their assertion that HSU is liable for the surplus lines premium taxes. We are currently in negotiations with the Comptroller to settle the matter. However, we are presently unable to reasonably estimate the possible loss or legal costs that are likely to arise out of the surplus lines tax audit or any future proceedings relating to this matter. Therefore we have not accrued any amount as of September 30, 2016 related to this matter.

The changes in accumulated other comprehensive income balances as of September 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (in thousands):

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

The following discussion should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto. This discussion contains forward-looking statements. Please see “Risks Associated with Forward-Looking Statements in this Form 10-Q” for a discussion of some of the uncertainties, risks and assumptions associated with these statements.

Introduction

Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. (“Hallmark” and, together with subsidiaries, “we,” “us” or “our”) is an insurance holding company that, through its subsidiaries, engages in the sale of property/casualty insurance products to businesses and individuals. Our business involves marketing, distributing, underwriting and servicing our insurance products, as well as providing other insurance related services. Our business is geographically concentrated in the south central and northwest regions of the United States, except for our Specialty Commercial business which is written on a national basis. We pursue our business activities through subsidiaries whose operations are organized into product-specific operating units, which are supported by our insurance company subsidiaries.

Our non-carrier insurance activities are segregated by operating units into the following reportable segments:

The retained premium produced by these reportable segments is supported by our American Hallmark Insurance Company of Texas (“AHIC”), Hallmark Specialty Insurance Company (“HSIC”), Hallmark Insurance Company (“HIC”), Hallmark National Insurance Company (“HNIC”) and Texas Builders Insurance Company (“TBIC”) insurance subsidiaries. In addition, control and management of Hallmark County Mutual (“HCM”) is maintained through our wholly owned subsidiary, CYR Insurance Management Company (“CYR”). CYR has as its primary asset a management agreement with HCM which provides for CYR to have management and control of HCM. HCM is used to front certain lines of business in our Specialty Commercial and Personal Segments in Texas. HCM does not retain any business.

AHIC, HIC, HSIC and HNIC have entered into a pooling arrangement pursuant to which AHIC retains 34% of the total net premiums written by any of them, HIC retains 32% of our total net premiums written by any of them, HSIC retains 24% of our total net premiums written by any of them and HNIC retains 10% of our total net premiums written by any of them. Neither HCM nor TBIC is a party to the intercompany pooling arrangement.

Results of Operations

Management overview. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, our total revenues were $97.6 million and $278.7 million, representing an increase of 4% and a decrease of 1%, respectively, from the $93.7 million and $282.3 million in total revenues for the same periods of 2015.  During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, our income before tax was $7.2 million and $14.7 million, representing a decrease of $2.6 million and $12.1 million from the $9.8 million and $26.8 million reported during the same periods the prior year.

The increase in revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2016 was primarily attributable to realized gains recognized on our investment portfolio during the current quarter as compared to realized losses recognized during the same period the prior year. Also contributing to the increase in revenue were higher net premiums earned, higher net investment income and higher commission and fee revenue partially offset by lower finance charge revenue and lower other income. The higher net premiums earned were driven by higher net premiums written in our Specialty Commercial Segment and Personal Segment.

The decrease in income before tax for the three months ended September 30, 2016 was due primarily to increased loss and loss adjustment expenses (“LAE”) of $6.3 million and higher interest expense of $0.4 million partially offset by the increase in revenue discussed above and lower other operating expenses of $0.1 million. The increase in loss and LAE was primarily the result of unfavorable net prior year loss reserve development in our Specialty Commercial Segment and Personal Segment, as well as higher current accident year loss trends in our Personal Segment and Standard Commercial Segment that was partially offset by higher favorable net prior year loss reserve development in our Standard Commercial Segment. The increase in interest expense was due to interest on our Facility B revolving credit facility entered into during the fourth quarter of 2015. (See, “Financial Condition and Liquidity-Credit Facilities.”)

The decrease in revenue during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 was primarily attributable to realized losses recognized on our investment portfolio during the current period as compared to realized gains recognized during the same period the prior year. Also contributing to the lower revenue was lower net premiums earned, finance charges and other income, partially offset by higher net investment income and higher commission and fee revenue. The decrease in net premiums earned was primarily attributable to the adverse impact on the Standard Commercial Segment of ceding substantially all unearned workers’ compensation premiums effective July 1, 2015, partially offset by the favorable impact of increased retention under a quota share reinsurance agreement in our Personal Segment effective October 1, 2014.

The decrease in income before tax for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 was due primarily to increased loss and LAE of $4.4 million, increased other operating expense of $3.7 million, decreased revenue discussed above and increased interest expense of $0.4 million. The increase in loss and LAE was primarily the result of an increase in retained losses in our Personal Segment under the renewed quota share reinsurance agreement discussed above and higher current accident year loss trends. We incurred an aggregate of $10.4 million of net catastrophe losses during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to $5.3 million for the same period the prior year. We incurred net favorable loss reserve development of $0.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to $4.6 million of favorable loss reserve development for the same period in the prior year. Other operating expenses increased during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 primarily as the result of increased salary and related expenses in our Specialty Commercial Segment and a $1.8 million payment to settle the earn-out related to the previous acquisition of TBIC accrued during the second quarter of 2016, partially offset by lower production related expenses predominately in our Specialty Commercial Segment. The increase in interest expense was due to interest on Facility B.

We reported net income of $5.0 million and $10.2 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to net income of $6.7 million and $18.4 million for the same periods of 2015. On a diluted basis per share, we reported net income of $0.27 per share for the three months ended September 30, 2016, as compared to net income of $0.35 per share for the same period in 2015.  On a diluted basis per share, we reported net income of $0.54 per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, as compared to net income of $0.95 per share for the same period in 2015. 

Third Quarter 2016 as Compared to Third Quarter 2015

The following is additional business segment information for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands):

Specialty Commercial Segment

Gross premiums written for the Specialty Commercial Segment were $104.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016, which was $12.6 million, or 14%, more than the $91.4 million reported for the same period of 2015. Net premiums written were $66.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to $63.2 million for the same period of 2015. The increases in gross and net premiums written were primarily the result of increased premium production in our Specialty Commercial operating unit.

The $65.9 million of total revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2016 was $2.5 million more than the $63.4 million reported by the Specialty Commercial Segment for the same period in 2015. This increase in revenue was primarily due to higher net premiums earned of $2.0 million due mostly to increased production in our Specialty Commercial operating unit, higher net investment income of $0.4 million and higher other income of $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to the same period of 2015.

Pre-tax income for the Specialty Commercial Segment of $8.2 million for the third quarter of 2016 was $3.0 million lower than the $11.3 million reported for the same period in 2015. The decrease in pre-tax income was primarily the result of higher loss and LAE expenses of $5.3 million and higher operating expenses of $0.2 million, partially offset by the increased revenue discussed above.

Our MGA Commercial Products operating unit reported a $4.8 million increase in loss and LAE due largely to $3.5 million unfavorable prior year net loss reserve development recognized during the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to $1.6 million favorable prior year net loss reserve development during the same period of 2015. Our Specialty Commercial operating unit reported a $0.5 million increase in loss and LAE which consisted of (a) a $0.4 million increase in loss and LAE attributable to our medical professional liability insurance products, (b) a $0.3 million increase in loss and LAE in our commercial umbrella and primary/excess liability line of business, (c) a $0.2 million increase in loss and LAE attributable to our primary/excess property insurance products due to increase premium production, partially offset by (d) a $0.4 million decrease in loss and LAE in our general aviation line of business due primarily to lower current accident year loss trends. The $0.2 million increase in operating expense was the combined result of increased salary and related expenses of $1.1 million, increased occupancy and other expenses of $0.3 million, partially offset by lower production related expenses of $1.2 million due primarily to increased ceding commissions in our Specialty Commercial operating unit.

The Specialty Commercial Segment reported a net loss ratio of 66.5% for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to 60.0% for the same period during 2015. The gross loss ratio before reinsurance was 64.3% for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to 59.8% for the same period in 2015. The higher gross and net loss ratios were primarily the result of $3.5 million of unfavorable prior year net loss reserve development for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to favorable prior year net loss reserve development of $2.0 million for the same period of 2015. The Specialty Commercial Segment reported a net expense ratio of 25.3% for the third quarter of 2016 as compared to 26.1% for the same period of 2015. The decrease in the expense ratio was due predominately to the impact of higher net premiums earned.

Standard Commercial Segment

Gross premiums written for the Standard Commercial Segment were $18.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016, which was $0.6 million, or 3%, less than the $19.2 million reported for the same period in 2015. The decrease in gross premium was primarily due to lower premium production in our Workers Compensation operating unit due to the transfer of renewal rights during the second quarter of 2015. Net premiums written were $16.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to $15.1 million reported for the same period in 2015. The increase in net premiums written was primarily attributable to reduced net premiums written in the Workers’ Compensation operating unit during the third quarter of 2015 as a result of ceding substantially all unearned premiums as of July 1, 2015 and the sale of our renewal rights to this business, as well as increased premium production in our Standard Commercial P&C Operating unit in the third quarter of 2016.

Total revenue for the Standard Commercial Segment of $18.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016, was $0.2 million, or 1%, less than the $18.5 million reported for the same period in 2015. This decrease in total revenue was mostly due to the Workers Compensation operating unit experiencing both a $0.4 million gain in the third quarter of 2015 and a $0.3 million decrease in net premiums earned in the third quarter of 2016, in both cases as a result of the ceding of substantially all unearned premiums as of July 1, 2015, partially offset by higher commission and fees of $0.5 million.

Our Standard Commercial Segment reported pre-tax income of $3.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 which was $0.3 million, or 10%, more than the $2.9 million reported for the same period of 2015. The increase in pre-tax income was the result of lower loss and LAE of $0.5 million, partially offset by the decreased revenue discussed above.

The Standard Commercial Segment reported a net loss ratio of 56.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to 58.8% for the same period of 2015. The gross loss ratio before reinsurance for the three months ended September 30, 2016 was 54.6% as compared to the 55.3% reported for the same period of 2015. The lower gross and net loss ratios resulted primarily from higher favorable net loss reserve development, partially offset by higher current accident year loss trends. During the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, the Standard Commercial Segment reported favorable net loss reserve development of $2.7 million and $1.8 million, respectively. The gross and net loss ratios for the three months ended September 30, 2016 include $1.6 million of catastrophe related losses. The gross and net loss ratios for the three months ended September 30, 2015 include $1.4 million of catastrophe related losses. The Standard Commercial Segment reported a net expense ratio of 32.3% for the third quarter of 2016 as compared to 32.2% for the same period of 2015.

Personal Segment

Gross premiums written for the Personal Segment were $24.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to $21.5 million for the same period in the prior year. Net premiums written for our Personal Segment were $13.0 million in the third quarter of 2016, which was an increase of $1.4 million, or 12%, from the $11.6 million reported for the third quarter of 2015.

Total revenue for the Personal Segment was $12.8 million for the third quarter of 2016 as compared to $12.7 million for the same period in 2015. Increased revenue was primarily the result of higher net premiums earned of $0.6 million due mostly to increased premiums written, partially offset by lower finance charges of $0.5 million.

Pre-tax loss for the Personal Segment was $1.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to pre-tax loss of $0.2 million for the same period of 2015. The increase in the pre-tax loss was primarily the result of increased losses and LAE of $1.5 million and increased operating expenses of $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to the same period during 2015, partially offset by the increased revenue discussed above.

The Personal Segment reported a net loss ratio of 97.5% for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to 89.2% for the same period of 2015. The gross loss ratio before reinsurance was 95.2% for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to 81.6% for the same period in 2015. The higher gross and net loss ratios were primarily the result of higher current accident year loss trends as well as higher unfavorable prior year loss reserve development. The Personal Segment reported $1.1 million of unfavorable prior year net loss reserve development for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to $0.8 million of net unfavorable development for the same period in the prior year. Operating expenses increased $0.1 million due to the combined result of a $0.1 million increase in salary and related expenses and a $0.1 million increase in other operating expenses, partially offset by a $0.1 million decrease in production related expenses. The Personal Segment reported a net expense ratio of 21.9% for the third quarter of 2016 as compared to 16.1% for the same period of 2015. The increase in the expense ratio was due predominately to the lower finance charges referenced above.

Corporate

Total revenue for Corporate increased by $1.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to the same period the prior year. This increase in total revenue was due predominately to net realized gains recognized on our investment portfolio of $1.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to net realized losses of $0.3 million for the same period of 2015 and higher net investment income of $0.2 million.

Corporate pre-tax loss was $2.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to pre-tax loss of $4.1 million for the same period of 2015. The decrease in pre-tax loss was primarily due to the increased revenue discussed above and lower operating expenses of $0.3 million, partially offset by higher interest expense of $0.4 million. The lower operating expenses of $0.3 million were a combined result of lower salary and related expenses of $0.5 million due primarily to a reduction in incentive compensation accruals during the third quarter of 2016 and lower travel and entertainment expenses of $0.1 million, partially offset by higher other expenses of $0.2 million and higher professional service fees of $0.1 million. The higher interest expense of $0.4 million was due primarily to the additional interest expense from borrowings under Facility B.

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 as Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015

The following is additional business segment information for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands):