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KINGSTONE COMPANIES, INC. - Quarter Report: 2013 June (Form 10-Q)

kins_10q.htm


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
 
(Mark one)
   
þ
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2013
 
OR
   
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the transition period from _________to _________

Commission File Number 0-1665

KINGSTONE COMPANIES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
Delaware
 
36-2476480
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)
 
15 Joys Lane
Kingston, NY 12401
(Address of principal executive offices)

(845) 802-7900
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No o

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 þ No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of  “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer”, and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
             
Large accelerated filer o
 
Accelerated filero
 
Non-accelerated filer o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Smaller reporting company þ

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

As of August 14, 2013, there were 3,810,899 shares of the registrant’s common stock outstanding.
 


 
 

 
KINGSTONE COMPANIES, INC.
INDEX
         
     
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  Signatures        
           
  EXHIBIT 3(a)        
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  EXHIBIT 31.2        
  EXHIBIT 32        
           
  EXHIBIT 101.INS XBRL Instance Document        
  EXHIBIT 101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema        
  EXHIBIT 101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase        
  EXHIBIT 101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase        
  EXHIBIT 101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase        
  EXHIBIT 101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase        

 
 

 
 
Forward-Looking Statements
 
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the federal securities laws. The events described in forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report may not occur. Generally, these statements relate to business plans or strategies, projected or anticipated benefits or other consequences of our plans or strategies, projected or anticipated benefits from acquisitions to be made by us, or projections involving anticipated revenues, earnings or other aspects of our operating results. The words "may," "will," "expect," "believe," "anticipate," "project," "plan," "intend," "estimate," and "continue," and their opposites and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance or events and are subject to a number of uncertainties, risks and other influences, many of which are beyond our control that may influence the accuracy of the statements and the projections upon which the statements are based. Factors which may affect our results include, but are not limited to, the risks and uncertainties discussed in Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 under “Factors That May Affect Future Results and Financial Condition”.
 
Any one or more of these uncertainties, risks and other influences could materially affect our results of operations and whether forward-looking statements made by us ultimately prove to be accurate. Our actual results, performance and achievements could differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether from new information, future events or otherwise.
 
 
PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
 
 
   
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
           
   
June 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2013
   
2012
 
   
(unaudited)
       
Assets
           
Fixed-maturity securities, held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $702,063 at
           
June 30, 2013 and $779,026 at December 31, 2012)
  $ 606,292     $ 606,281  
Fixed-maturity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $21,974,185
               
at June 30, 2013 and $24,847,097 at December 31, 2012)
    22,395,861       26,181,938  
Equity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (cost of $6,875,848
               
at June 30, 2013 and $5,073,977 at December 31, 2012)
    7,190,415       5,290,242  
Total investments
    30,192,568       32,078,461  
Cash and cash equivalents
    4,384,700       2,240,012  
Premiums receivable, net of provision for uncollectible amounts
    8,367,010       7,766,825  
Reinsurance receivables, net of provision for uncollectible amounts
    34,533,032       38,902,782  
Deferred acquisition costs
    6,206,252       5,569,878  
Intangible assets, net
    2,947,101       3,184,958  
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation
    1,961,852       1,868,422  
Other assets
    1,183,968       1,887,060  
Total assets
  $ 89,776,483     $ 93,498,398  
                 
Liabilities
               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses
  $ 28,357,468     $ 30,485,532  
Unearned premiums
    29,435,926       26,012,363  
Advance premiums
    841,922       610,872  
Reinsurance balances payable
    5,338,056       1,820,527  
Advance payments from catastrophe reinsurers
    -       7,358,391  
Deferred ceding commission revenue
    5,464,760       4,877,030  
Notes payable (includes payable to related parties of $378,000
               
at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012)
    877,000       1,197,000  
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
    2,600,978       3,067,586  
Deferred income taxes
    1,281,494       1,787,281  
Total liabilities
    74,197,604       77,216,582  
                 
Commitments and Contingencies
               
                 
Stockholders' Equity
               
Preferred stock, $.01 par value; authorized 1,000,000 shares;
               
-0- shares issued and outstanding
  $ -     $ -  
Common stock, $.01 par value; authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued 4,730,357
               
shares at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012;
               
outstanding 3,810,899 shares at June 30, 2013 and 3,840,899 shares at December 31, 2012
    47,304       47,304  
Capital in excess of par
    13,863,974       13,851,036  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    485,919       1,023,729  
Retained earnings
    2,739,127       2,787,292  
      17,136,324       17,709,361  
Treasury stock, at cost, 919,458 shares at June 30, 2013 and 889,458 shares
               
at December 31, 2012
    (1,557,445 )     (1,427,545 )
Total stockholders' equity
    15,578,879       16,281,816  
                 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
  $ 89,776,483     $ 93,498,398  
 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
 
                         
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)
             
   
For the Three Months Ended
   
For the Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2013
   
2012
   
2013
   
2012
 
                         
Revenues
                       
Net premiums earned
  $ 4,676,282     $ 4,164,572     $ 9,299,497     $ 8,137,107  
Ceding commission revenue
    2,334,431       2,910,858       4,628,142       5,814,514  
Net investment income
    275,031       229,879       558,318       497,396  
Net realized gain on sale of investments
    249,893       6,160       355,018       45,560  
Other income
    243,825       222,691       457,815       461,746  
Total revenues
    7,779,462       7,534,160       15,298,790       14,956,323  
                                 
Expenses
                               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses
    3,241,797       2,408,505       5,711,438       4,687,019  
Commission expense
    2,079,084       1,805,810       4,194,904       3,477,417  
Other underwriting expenses
    1,931,611       1,994,576       4,144,956       3,852,322  
Other operating expenses
    227,833       287,442       471,143       574,329  
Depreciation and amortization
    153,985       150,472       306,971       297,021  
Interest expense
    17,890       20,111       39,105       40,896  
Total expenses
    7,652,200       6,666,916       14,868,517       12,929,004  
                                 
Income from operations before taxes
    127,262       867,244       430,273       2,027,319  
Income tax expense
    59,161       306,928       171,164       701,585  
Net income
    68,101       560,316       259,109       1,325,734  
                                 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
                               
Gross unrealized investment holding (losses)
                               
gains arising during period
    (1,260,607 )     294,590       (814,864 )     741,755  
                                 
Income tax benefit (expense) related to items of
                               
other comprehensive income
    428,607       (100,161 )     277,054       (252,197 )
Comprehensive (loss) income
  $ (763,899 )   $ 754,745     $ (278,701 )   $ 1,815,292  
                                 
Earnings per common share:
                               
Basic
  $ 0.02     $ 0.15     $ 0.07     $ 0.35  
Diluted
  $ 0.02     $ 0.15     $ 0.07     $ 0.35  
                                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
                               
Basic
    3,827,712       3,789,592       3,834,269       3,780,351  
Diluted
    3,906,432       3,883,779       3,911,650       3,780,351  
                                 
Dividends declared and paid per common share
  $ 0.04     $ 0.03     $ 0.08     $ 0.06  
 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
 

 
                                                             
Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity
 
Six months ended June 30, 2013 (unaudited)
 
                                                             
                                 
Accumulated
                         
                                 
Other
                         
                           
Capital
   
Comprehensive
                         
   
Preferred Stock
   
Common Stock
   
in Excess
   
Income
   
Retained
   
Treasury Stock
       
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
of Par
   
(Loss)
   
Earnings
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Total
 
Balance, January 1, 2013
    -     $ -       4,730,357     $ 47,304     $ 13,851,036     $ 1,023,729     $ 2,787,292       889,458     $ (1,427,545 )   $ 16,281,816  
Stock-based compensation
    -       -       -       -       12,938       -       -       -       -       12,938  
Acquisition of treasury stock
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       30,000       (129,900 )     (129,900 )
Dividends
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (307,274 )     -       -       (307,274 )
Net income
    -       -       -       -       -       -       259,109       -       -       259,109  
Change in unrealized gains on available
                                                                               
for sale securities, net of tax
    -       -       -       -       -       (537,810 )     -       -       -       (537,810 )
Balance, June 30, 2013
    -     $ -       4,730,357     $ 47,304     $ 13,863,974     $ 485,919     $ 2,739,127       919,458     $ (1,557,445 )   $ 15,578,879  
 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
 

 
             
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
           
Six months ended June 30,
 
2013
   
2012
 
             
Cash flows provided by operating activities:
           
Net income
  $ 259,109     $ 1,325,734  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Net realized gain on sale of investments
    (355,018 )     (45,560 )
Depreciation and amortization
    306,971       297,021  
Amortization of bond premium, net
    89,558       66,998  
Stock-based compensation
    12,938       30,111  
Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options
    -       (63,988 )
Deferred income tax expense
    (228,734 )     (91,107 )
(Increase) decrease in operating assets:
               
Premiums receivable, net
    (600,185 )     (1,172,197 )
Receivables - reinsurance contracts
    -       (1,689,224 )
Reinsurance receivables, net
    4,369,750       (2,285,592 )
Deferred acquisition costs
    (636,374 )     (556,662 )
Other assets
    686,387       (348,303 )
(Decrease) increase in operating liabilities:
               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses
    (2,128,064 )     2,317,377  
Unearned premiums
    3,423,563       2,649,487  
Advance premiums
    231,050       5,309  
Reinsurance balances payable
    3,517,529       795,091  
Advance payments from catastrophe reinsurers
    (7,358,391 )     -  
Deferred ceding commission revenue
    587,730       485,115  
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
    (466,608 )     (1,255,201 )
Net cash flows provided by operating activities
    1,711,211       464,409  
                 
Cash flows provided by investing activities:
               
Purchase - fixed-maturity securities available-for-sale
    (1,649,667 )     (915,228 )
Purchase - equity securities
    (4,298,630 )     (853,000 )
Sale or maturity - fixed-maturity securities available-for-sale
    4,557,745       1,837,698  
Sale - equity securities
    2,727,084       559,993  
Other investing activities
    (145,881 )     (10,676 )
Net cash flows provided by investing activities
    1,190,651       618,787  
                 
Cash flows used in financing activities:
               
Proceeds from line of credit
    230,000       50,000  
Principal payments on line of credit
    (550,000 )     (100,000 )
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
    -       47,073  
Withholding taxes paid on net exercise of stock options
    -       (56,630 )
Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options
    -       63,988  
Purchase of treasury stock
    (129,900 )     (8,200 )
Dividends paid
    (307,274 )     (226,829 )
Net cash flows used in financing activities
    (757,174 )     (230,598 )
 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
KINGSTONE COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
           
Six months ended June 30,
 
2013
   
2012
 
             
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
  $ 2,144,688     $ 852,598  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
    2,240,012       173,126  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
  $ 4,384,700     $ 1,025,724  
                 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
               
Cash paid for income taxes
  $ 564,000     $ 1,505,000  
Cash paid for interest
  $ 39,087     $ 41,202  
 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
KINGSTONE COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)

Note 1 - Nature of Business and Basis of Presentation
 
Kingstone Companies, Inc. (referred to herein as "Kingstone" or the “Company”), through its subsidiary Kingstone Insurance Company (“KICO”), underwrites property and casualty insurance to small businesses and individuals exclusively through independent agents and brokers. KICO is a licensed insurance company in the State of New York. In February 2011, KICO’s application for an insurance license to write insurance in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania was approved; however, KICO has only nominally commenced writing business in Pennsylvania. Kingstone, through its subsidiary, Payments, Inc., a licensed premium finance company in the State of New York, receives fees for placing contracts with a third party licensed premium finance company.
 
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included in this report have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and the instructions to Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Form 10-Q and Article 8-03 of SEC Regulation S-X. The principles for condensed interim financial information do not require the inclusion of all the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. Therefore, these financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012 and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on April 1, 2013. The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have not been audited by an independent registered public accounting firm in accordance with standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) but, in the opinion of management, such financial statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the Company’s financial position and results of operations. The results of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2013 may not be indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2013.
 
Note 2 – Accounting Policies
 
Use of Estimates

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 consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Such estimates and assumptions, which include the reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses, are subject to considerable estimation error due to the inherent uncertainty in projecting ultimate claim amounts that will be reported and settled over a period of several years. In addition, estimates and assumptions associated with receivables under reinsurance contracts related to contingent ceding commission revenue require considerable judgment by management. On an on-going basis, management reevaluates its assumptions and the methods of calculating its estimates. Actual results may differ significantly from the estimates and assumptions used in preparing the consolidated financial statements.

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements consist of Kingstone and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. Subsidiaries include KICO and its subsidiaries, CMIC Properties, Inc. and 15 Joys Lane, LLC, which together own the land and building from which KICO operates. All significant inter-company transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
 
 
Accounting Pronouncements
 
In February 2013, Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2013-02, Reporting of Amounts Reclassified out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income ("ASU 2013-02"). ASU 2013-02 supersedes and replaces the presentation requirements for the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income. None of the other requirements of previously issued ASUs related to comprehensive income are affected by ASU 2013-02. The Company adopted ASU 2013-02 on January 1, 2013 and the implementation of the standard did not have a material impact on the Company's results of operations, financial position or liquidity.

The Company has determined that all other recently issued accounting pronouncements will not have a material impact on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows, or do not apply to its operations.

Note 3 - Investments 

Available-for-Sale Securities

The amortized cost and fair value of investments in available-for-sale fixed-maturity securities and equity securities as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are summarized as follows:

   
June 30, 2013
 
                                 
Net
 
 
 
Cost or
   
Gross
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
         
Unrealized
 
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Less than 12
   
More than 12
   
Fair
   
Gains/
 
Category
 
Cost
   
Gains
   
Months
   
Months
   
Value
   
(Losses)
 
   
(unaudited)
 
Fixed-Maturity Securities:
                                   
Political subdivisions of States,
                                   
Territories and Possessions
  $ 5,192,989     $ 164,220     $ (80,990 )   $ (11,909 )   $ 5,264,309     $ 71,320  
                                                 
Corporate and other bonds
                                               
Industrial and miscellaneous
    16,781,196       598,017       (247,662 )     -       17,131,552       350,356  
Total fixed-maturity securities
    21,974,185       762,237       (328,652 )     (11,909 )     22,395,861       421,676  
                                                 
Equity Securities:
                                               
Preferred stocks
    3,493,001       9,239       (89,440 )     -       3,412,800       (80,201 )
Common stocks
    3,382,847       434,290       (39,522 )     -       3,777,615       394,768  
Total equity securities
    6,875,848       443,529       (128,962 )     -       7,190,415       314,567  
                                                 
Total
  $ 28,850,033     $ 1,205,766     $ (457,614 )   $ (11,909 )   $ 29,586,276     $ 736,243  
 

   
December 31, 2012
 
                                 
Net
 
   
Cost or
   
Gross
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
         
Unrealized
 
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Less than 12
   
More than 12
   
Fair
   
Gains/
 
Category
 
Cost
   
Gains
   
Months
   
Months
   
Value
   
(Losses)
 
                                     
Fixed-Maturity Securities:
                                   
Political subdivisions of States,
                                   
Territories and Possessions
  $ 5,219,092     $ 257,298     $ (1,574 )   $ -     $ 5,474,816     $ 255,724  
                                                 
Corporate and other bonds
                                               
Industrial and miscellaneous
    19,628,005       1,123,392       (43,553 )     (722 )     20,707,122       1,079,117  
Total fixed-maturity securities
    24,847,097       1,380,690       (45,127 )     (722 )     26,181,938       1,334,841  
                                                 
Equity Securities:
                                               
Preferred stocks
    1,475,965       19,512       (11,130 )     -       1,484,347       8,382  
Common stocks
    3,598,012       353,782       (145,899 )     -       3,805,895       207,883  
Total equity securities
    5,073,977       373,294       (157,029 )     -       5,290,242       216,265  
                                                 
Total
  $ 29,921,074     $ 1,753,984     $ (202,156 )   $ (722 )   $ 31,472,180     $ 1,551,106  
 
A summary of the amortized cost and fair value of the Company’s investments in available-for-sale fixed-maturity securities by contractual maturity as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 is shown below:

   
June 30, 2013
   
December 31, 2012
 
   
Amortized
         
Amortized
       
Remaining Time to Maturity
 
Cost
   
Fair Value
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
   
(unaudited)
       
Less than one year
  $ 522,532     $ 515,556     $ 546,952     $ 560,162  
One to five years
    8,029,987       8,396,602       9,031,248       9,569,943  
Five to ten years
    10,436,021       10,612,222       12,605,798       13,306,033  
More than 10 years
    2,985,645       2,871,481       2,663,099       2,745,800  
Total
  $ 21,974,185     $ 22,395,861     $ 24,847,097     $ 26,181,938  
 
The actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain borrowers have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without penalties.

Held-to-Maturity Securities

The amortized cost and fair value of investments in held-to-maturity fixed-maturity securities as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are summarized as follows:

   
June 30, 2013
 
                                 
Net
 
 
 
Cost or
   
Gross
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
         
Unrealized
 
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Less than 12
   
More than 12
   
Fair
   
Gains/
 
Category
 
Cost
   
Gains
   
Months
   
Months
   
Value
   
(Losses)
 
   
(unaudited)
 
                                                 
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 606,292     $ 95,771     $ -     $ -     $ 702,063     $ 95,771  
 
 
   
December 31, 2012
 
                                 
Net
 
 
 
Cost or
   
Gross
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
         
Unrealized
 
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Less than 12
   
More than 12
   
Fair
   
Gains/
 
Category
 
Cost
   
Gains
   
Months
   
Months
   
Value
   
(Losses)
 
                                                 
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 606,281     $ 172,745     $ -     $ -     $ 779,026     $ 172,745  

All held-to-maturity securities are held in trust pursuant to the New York State Department of Financial Services’ minimum funds requirement.

Contractual maturities of all held-to-maturity securities are greater than ten years.

Investment Income

Major categories of the Company’s net investment income are summarized as follows:

   
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2013
   
2012
   
2013
   
2012
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
 
Income:
             
 
   
 
 
Fixed-maturity securities
  $ 234,977     $ 226,777     $ 495,012     $ 461,270  
Equity securities
    93,389       62,310       179,844       148,239  
Cash and cash equivalents
    -       (1,347 )     29       59  
Other
    11,817       2       11,817       4  
Total
    340,183       287,742       686,702       609,572  
Expenses:
                               
Investment expenses
    65,152       57,863       128,384       112,176  
Net investment income
  $ 275,031     $ 229,879     $ 558,318     $ 497,396  
 
Proceeds from the sale and maturity of fixed-maturity securities were $4,557,745 and $1,837,698 for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Proceeds from the sale of equity securities were $2,727,084 and $559,993 for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 

The Company’s net realized gains and losses on investments are summarized as follows:

   
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2013
   
2012
   
2013
   
2012
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
 
Fixed-maturity securities:
                       
Gross realized gains
  $ 104,241     $ 55,004     $ 181,217     $ 95,150  
Gross realized losses
    (56,471 )     (54,404 )     (56,471 )     (54,404 )
      47,770       600       124,746       40,746  
                                 
Equity securities:
                               
Gross realized gains
    218,204       25,215       289,989       32,284  
Gross realized losses
    (16,081 )     (19,655 )     (59,717 )     (27,470 )
      202,123       5,560       230,272       4,814  
                                 
Net realized gains
  $ 249,893     $ 6,160     $ 355,018     $ 45,560  

Impairment Review
 
The Company regularly reviews its fixed-maturity securities and equity securities portfolios to evaluate the necessity of recording impairment losses for other-than-temporary declines in the fair value of investments. In evaluating potential impairment, management considers, among other criteria: (i) the current fair value compared to amortized cost or cost, as appropriate; (ii) the length of time the security’s fair value has been below amortized cost or cost; (iii) specific credit issues related to the issuer such as changes in credit rating, reduction or elimination of dividends or non-payment of scheduled interest payments; (iv) management’s intent and ability to retain the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in value to cost; and (v) current economic conditions.

OTTI losses are recorded in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income as net realized losses on investments and result in a permanent reduction of the cost basis of the underlying investment. The determination of OTTI is a subjective process and different judgments and assumptions could affect the timing of loss realization. There are 46 securities at June 30, 2013 that account for the gross unrealized loss. The Company determined that none of the unrealized losses were deemed to be OTTI for its portfolio of fixed maturity investments and equity securities for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012. Significant factors influencing the Company’s determination that unrealized losses were temporary included the magnitude of the unrealized losses in relation to each security’s cost, the nature of the investment and management’s intent and ability to retain the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for an anticipated recovery of fair value to the Company’s cost basis.

The Company held securities with unrealized losses representing declines that were considered temporary at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 as follows:
 

   
June 30, 2013
 
   
Less than 12 months
   
12 months or more
   
Total
 
 
             
No. of
               
No. of
   
Aggregate
       
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
   
Positions
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
   
Positions
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
 
Category
 
Value
   
Losses
   
Held
   
Value
   
Losses
   
Held
   
Value
   
Losses
 
   
(unaudited)
 
Fixed-Maturity Securities:
                                           
Political subdivisions of
                                           
States, Territories and
                                               
Possessions
  $ 1,065,409     $ (80,990 )     5     $ 254,051     $ (11,909 )     3     $ 1,319,460     $ (92,899 )
                                                                 
Corporate and other
                                                               
bonds industrial and
                                                               
miscellaneous
    4,921,387       (247,662 )     24       -       -       -       4,921,387       (247,662 )
                                                                 
Total fixed-maturity
                                                               
securities
  $ 5,986,796     $ (328,652 )     29     $ 254,051     $ (11,909 )     3     $ 6,240,847     $ (340,561 )
                                                                 
Equity Securities:
                                                               
Preferred stocks
  $ 2,704,500     $ (89,440 )     10     $ -     $ -       -     $ 2,704,500     $ (89,440 )
Common stocks
    577,170       (39,522 )     4       -       -       -       577,170       (39,522 )
                                                                 
Total equity securities
  $ 3,281,670     $ (128,962 )     14     $ -     $ -       -     $ 3,281,670     $ (128,962 )
                                                                 
Total
  $ 9,268,466     $ (457,614 )     43     $ 254,051     $ (11,909 )     3     $ 9,522,517     $ (469,523 )


   
December 31, 2012
 
   
Less than 12 months
   
12 months or more
   
Total
 
               
No. of
               
No. of
   
Aggregate
       
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
   
Positions
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
   
Positions
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
 
Category
 
Value
   
Losses
   
Held
   
Value
   
Losses
   
Held
   
Value
   
Losses
 
                                                 
Fixed-Maturity Securities:
                                           
Political subdivisions of
                                           
States, Territories and
                                               
Possessions
  $ 202,798     $ (1,574 )     1     $ -     $ -       -     $ 202,798     $ (1,574 )
                                                                 
Corporate and other
                                                               
bonds industrial and
                                                               
miscellaneous
    4,025,551       (43,553 )     19       128,125       (722 )     1       4,153,676       (44,275 )
                                                                 
Total fixed-maturity
                                                               
securities
  $ 4,228,349     $ (45,127 )     20     $ 128,125     $ (722 )     1     $ 4,356,474     $ (45,849 )
                                                                 
Equity Securities:
                                                               
Preferred stocks
  $ 387,925     $ (11,130 )     3     $ -     $ -       -     $ 387,925     $ (11,130 )
Common stocks
    1,536,860       (145,899 )     9       -       -       -       1,536,860       (145,899 )
                                                                 
Total equity securities
  $ 1,924,785     $ (157,029 )     12     $ -     $ -       -     $ 1,924,785     $ (157,029 )
                                                                 
Total
  $ 6,153,134     $ (202,156 )     32     $ 128,125     $ (722 )     1     $ 6,281,259     $ (202,878 )

 
Note 4 - Fair Value Measurements

The Company follows GAAP guidance regarding fair value measurements. The valuation technique used to fair value the financial instruments is the market approach, which uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets.
 
This guidance establishes a three-level hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). If the inputs used to measure the assets or liabilities fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement of the asset or liability. Classification of assets and liabilities within the hierarchy considers the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded, including during period of market disruption, and the reliability and transparency of the assumptions used to determine fair value. The hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available. The levels of the hierarchy and those investments included in each are as follows:
 
Level 1—Inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities traded in active markets. Included are those investments traded on an active exchange, such as the NASDAQ Global Select Market, U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies, together with corporate debt securities that are generally investment grade.
 
Level 2—Inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability and market-corroborated inputs.  Municipal and corporate bonds that are traded in less active markets are classified as Level 2.  These securities are valued using market price quotations for recently executed transactions.

Level 3—Inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable for the asset or liability and are significant to the fair value measurement. Material assumptions and factors considered in pricing investment securities and other assets may include appraisals, projected cash flows, market clearing activity or liquidity circumstances in the security or similar securities that may have occurred since the prior pricing period.
 
The availability of observable inputs varies and is affected by a wide variety of factors. When the valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires significantly more judgment. The degree of judgment exercised by management in determining fair value is greatest for investments categorized as Level 3. For investments in this category, the Company considers prices and inputs that are current as of the measurement date. In periods of market dislocation, as characterized by current market conditions, the observability of prices and inputs may be reduced for many instruments. This condition could cause a security to be reclassified between levels.
 
  
The Company’s investments are allocated among pricing input levels at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 as follows:

   
June 30, 2013
 
($ in thousands)
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
   
(unaudited)
 
Fixed-maturity securities
                       
U.S. Treasury securities
                       
and obligations of U.S.
                       
government corporations
                       
and agencies
  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  
                                 
Political subdivisions of
                               
States, Territories and
                               
Possessions
    -       5,264       -       5,264  
                                 
Corporate and other
                               
bonds industrial and
                               
miscellaneous
    8,765       8,367       -       17,132  
Total fixed maturities
    8,765       13,631       -       22,396  
Equity securities
    7,190       -       -       7,190  
Total investments
  $ 15,955     $ 13,631     $ -     $ 29,586  
 
   
December 31, 2012
 
($ in thousands)
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
       
Fixed-maturity securities
                       
U.S. Treasury securities
                       
and obligations of U.S.
                       
government corporations
                       
and agencies
  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  
                                 
Political subdivisions of
                               
States, Territories and
                               
Possessions
    -       5,475       -       5,475  
                                 
Corporate and other
                               
bonds industrial and
                               
miscellaneous
    11,600       9,107       -       20,707  
Total fixed maturities
    11,600       14,582       -       26,182  
Equity securities
    5,290       -       -       5,290  
Total investments
  $ 16,890     $ 14,582     $ -     $ 31,472  
 
 
Note 5 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments

GAAP requires all entities to disclose the fair value of financial instruments, both assets and liabilities recognized and not recognized in the balance sheet, for which it is practicable to estimate fair value. The Company uses the following methods and assumptions in estimating its fair value disclosures for financial instruments:
 
Equity securities and fixed income securities:  Fair value disclosures for these investments are included in “Note 3 - Investments.”

Cash and cash equivalents: The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents approximate their fair values because of the short maturity of these instruments.

Premiums receivable, reinsurance receivables:  The carrying values reported in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets for these financial instruments approximate their fair values due to the short term nature of the assets.

Notes receivable: The carrying amount of notes receivable related to the sale of businesses approximates fair value because of the recently negotiated interest rates based on term of the loan, risk and guaranty.

Real Estate: The fair value of the land and building included in property and equipment, which is used in the Company’s operations, approximates the carrying value. The fair value was based on an appraisal prepared using the sales comparison approach, and accordingly the real estate is a Level 3 asset under the fair value hierarchy.

Reinsurance balances payable:  The carrying value reported in the condensed consolidated balance sheets for these financial instruments approximates fair value.

Notes payable (including related parties): The Company estimates that the carrying amount of notes payable approximates fair value because of the recently negotiated interest rates based on term of the loan, risk and guaranty.

The estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments are as follows:

   
June 30, 2013
   
December 31, 2012
 
   
Carrying Value
   
Fair Value
   
Carrying Value
   
Fair Value
 
   
(unaudited)
             
Fixed-maturity investments held to maturity
  $ 606,292     $ 702,063     $ 606,281     $ 779,026  
Cash and cash equivalents
    4,384,700       4,384,700       2,240,012       2,240,012  
Premiums receivable
    8,367,010       8,367,010       7,766,825       7,766,825  
Reinsurance receivables
    34,533,032       34,533,032       38,902,782       38,902,782  
Notes receivable-sale of business
    306,478       306,478       323,141       323,141  
Real estate, net of accumulated depreciation
    1,771,251       1,816,122       1,696,924       1,720,000  
Reinsurance balances payable
    5,338,056       5,338,056       1,820,527       1,820,527  
Advance payments from catastrophe reinsurers
    -       -       7,358,391       7,358,391  
Notes payable (including related parties)
    877,000       877,000       1,197,000       1,197,000  
 

Note 6 – Property and Casualty Insurance Activity
 
Earned Premiums

Premiums written, ceded and earned are as follows:
 
   
Direct
   
Assumed
   
Ceded
   
Net
 
                         
Six months ended June 30, 2013 (unaudited)
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Premiums written
  $ 28,725,957     $ 20,047     $ (17,781,254 )   $ 10,964,750  
Change in unearned premiums
    (3,452,133 )     28,569       1,758,311       (1,665,253 )
Premiums earned
  $ 25,273,824     $ 48,616     $ (16,022,943 )   $ 9,299,497  
                                 
Six months ended June 30, 2012 (unaudited)
                         
Premiums written
  $ 23,674,526     $ 3,199     $ (14,480,602 )   $ 9,197,123  
Change in unearned premiums
    (2,653,399 )     3,912       1,589,471       (1,060,016 )
Premiums earned
  $ 21,021,127     $ 7,111     $ (12,891,131 )   $ 8,137,107  
                                 
Three months ended June 30, 2013 (unaudited)
                         
Premiums written
  $ 15,881,121     $ 10,232     $ (9,897,589 )   $ 5,993,764  
Change in unearned premiums
    (2,873,166 )     1,128       1,554,556       (1,317,482 )
Premiums earned
  $ 13,007,955     $ 11,360     $ (8,343,033 )   $ 4,676,282  
                                 
Three months ended June 30, 2012 (unaudited)
                         
Premiums written
  $ 12,438,801     $ 1,799     $ (7,623,640 )   $ 4,816,960  
Change in unearned premiums
    (1,681,258 )     2,333       1,026,537       (652,388 )
Premiums earned
  $ 10,757,543     $ 4,132     $ (6,597,103 )   $ 4,164,572  
 
Premium receipts in advance of the policy effective date are recorded as advance premiums.  The balance of advance premiums as of June 30, 2013 (unaudited) and December 31, 2012 was approximately $842,000 and $611,000, respectively.

Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses

The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses (“LAE”):
 
 
   
Six months ended
 
   
June 30,
 
   
2013
   
2012
 
   
(unaudited)
 
Balance at beginning of period
  $ 30,485,532     $ 18,480,717  
Less reinsurance recoverables
    (18,419,694 )     (10,001,060 )
Net balance, beginning of period
    12,065,838       8,479,657  
                 
Incurred related to:
               
Current year
    5,175,229       4,359,416  
Prior years
    536,209       327,603  
Total incurred
    5,711,438       4,687,019  
                 
Paid related to:
               
Current year
    1,416,181       933,939  
Prior years
    2,675,112       2,586,898  
Total paid
    4,091,293       3,520,837  
 
               
Net balance at end of period
    13,685,983       9,645,839  
Add reinsurance recoverables
    14,671,485       11,152,255  
Balance at end of period
  $ 28,357,468     $ 20,798,094  

Incurred losses and LAE are net of reinsurance recoveries under reinsurance contracts of $8,275,782 and $4,626,575 for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Prior year incurred loss and LAE development is based upon numerous estimates by line of business and accident year. The Company’s management continually monitors claims activity to assess the appropriateness of carried case and IBNR reserves, giving consideration to Company and industry trends.

Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves

The reserving process for loss adjustment expense reserves provides for the Company’s best estimate at a particular point in time of the ultimate unpaid cost of all losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred, including settlement and administration of losses, and is based on facts and circumstances then known and including losses that have been incurred but not yet been reported. The process includes using actuarial methodologies to assist in establishing these estimates, judgments relative to estimates of future claims severity and frequency, the length of time before losses will develop to their ultimate level and the possible changes in the law and other external factors that are often beyond the Company’s control. The loss ratio projection method is used to estimate loss reserves. The process produces carried reserves set by management based upon the actuaries’ best estimate and is the result of numerous best estimates made by line of business, accident year, and loss and loss adjustment expense. The amount of loss and loss adjustment expense reserves for reported claims is based primarily upon a case-by-case evaluation of coverage, liability, injury severity, and any other information considered pertinent to estimating the exposure presented by the claim. The amounts of loss and loss adjustment expense reserves for unreported claims are determined using historical information by line of insurance as adjusted to current conditions. Since this process produces loss reserves set by management based upon the actuaries’ best estimate, there is no explicit or implicit provision for uncertainty in the carried loss reserves.

Due to the inherent uncertainty associated with the reserving process, the ultimate liability may differ, perhaps substantially, from the original estimate. Such estimates are regularly reviewed and updated and any resulting adjustments are included in the current year’s results. Reserves are closely monitored and are recomputed periodically using the most recent information on reported claims and a variety of statistical techniques. Specifically, on at least a quarterly basis, the Company reviews, by line of business, existing reserves, new claims, changes to existing case reserves and paid losses with respect to the current and prior years.
 

Reinsurance
 
The Company’s reinsurance treaties for both its Personal Lines business, which primarily consists of homeowners’ policies, and Commercial Lines business were renewed effective July 1, 2013. The treaties are annual, except for personal lines described below, and provide for the following material terms as of July 1, 2013:

        Personal Lines

The personal lines treaty was renewed with a two year term expiring on June 30, 2015. Personal lines business, which includes homeowners, dwelling fire and canine legal liability insurance, is reinsured under a 75% quota share treaty, which provides coverage with respect to losses of up to $1,200,000 per occurrence. An excess of loss contract provides 100% of coverage for the next $1,700,000 of losses for a total reinsurance coverage of $2,600,000 with respect to losses of up to $2,900,000 per occurrence. Effective as of July 1, 2014, the Company has the option to increase the quota share percentage to a maximum of 85% or decrease the quota share percentage to a minimum of 55% by giving no less than 30 days advance notice. See “Catastrophe Reinsurance” below for a discussion of the Company’s reinsurance coverage with respect to its Personal Lines business in the event of a catastrophe.

Personal umbrella policies are reinsured under a 90% quota share treaty limiting the Company to a maximum of $100,000 per occurrence for the first $1,000,000 of coverage. The second $1,000,000 of coverage is 100% reinsured. 

        Commercial Lines

General liability commercial policies written by the Company, except for commercial auto policies, are reinsured under a 25% quota share treaty, which provides coverage with respect to losses of up to $400,000 per occurrence. Excess of loss contracts provide 100% of coverage for the next $2,500,000 of losses for a total reinsurance coverage of $2,600,000 with respect to losses of up to $2,900,000 per occurrence.

Commercial Auto

Commercial auto policies are covered by an excess of loss reinsurance contract, which provides $1,700,000 of coverage in excess of $300,000.

Catastrophe Reinsurance

The Company has catastrophe reinsurance coverage with regard to losses of up to $90,000,000.  The initial $4,000,000 of losses in a catastrophe are subject to a 75% quota share treaty, such that the Company retains $1,000,000 per catastrophe occurrence With respect to any additional catastrophe losses of up to $86,000,000, the Company is 100% reinsured under its catastrophe reinsurance program.
 

The reinsurance treaties which were in effect as of June 30, 2013, provided for the following material terms:

        Personal Lines

Personal Lines business, which includes homeowners, dwelling fire and canine legal liability insurance, was reinsured under a 75% quota share treaty, which provided coverage with respect to losses of up to $1,000,000 per occurrence. An excess of loss contract provided 100% of coverage for the next $1,900,000 of losses for a total reinsurance coverage of $2,650,000 with respect to losses of up to $2,900,000 per occurrence. See “Catastrophe Reinsurance” below for a discussion of the Company’s reinsurance coverage with respect to its Personal Lines business in the event of a catastrophe.

Personal umbrella policies were reinsured under a 90% quota share treaty limiting the Company to a maximum of $100,000 per occurrence for the first $1,000,000 of coverage. The second $1,000,000 of coverage was 100% reinsured. 

        Commercial Lines

General liability commercial policies written by the Company, except for commercial auto policies, were reinsured under a 40% quota share treaty, which provided coverage with respect to losses of up to $500,000 per occurrence.   Excess of loss contracts provided 100% of coverage for the next $2,400,000 of losses for a total reinsurance coverage of $2,600,000 with respect to losses of up to $2,900,000 per occurrence.

Commercial Auto

Commercial auto policies were covered by an excess of loss reinsurance contract which provided $1,750,000 of coverage in excess of $250,000.

Catastrophe Reinsurance

The Company had catastrophe reinsurance coverage with regard to losses of up to $73,000,000.  The initial $3,000,000 of losses in a catastrophe were subject to a 75% quota share treaty, such that the Company retained $750,000 per catastrophe occurrence With respect to any additional catastrophe losses of up to $70,000,000, the Company was 100% reinsured under its catastrophe reinsurance program.

The Company’s reinsurance program is structured to enable the Company to significantly grow its premium volume while maintaining regulatory capital and other financial ratios generally within or below the expected ranges used for regulatory oversight purposes. The reinsurance program also provides income as a result of ceding commissions earned pursuant to the quota share reinsurance contracts. The Company’s participation in reinsurance arrangements does not relieve the Company from its obligations to policyholders.

The Company received advance payments from catastrophe reinsurers related to Superstorm Sandy. As of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the balance of advance payments from catastrophe reinsurers which will be applied against unpaid losses when paid was $-0- and $7,358,391, respectively, and are included in “Advance payments from catastrophe reinsurers” in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
 
 
Ceding Commission Revenue
 
The Company earns ceding commission revenue under its quota share reinsurance agreements based on: (i) a fixed provisional commission rate at which provisional ceding commissions are earned, and (ii) a sliding scale of commission rates and ultimate treaty year loss ratios on the policies reinsured under each of these agreements based upon which contingent ceding commissions are earned. The sliding scale includes minimum and maximum commission rates in relation to specified ultimate loss ratios.  The commission rate and contingent ceding commissions earned increases when the estimated ultimate loss ratio decreases and, conversely, the commission rate and contingent ceding commissions earned decreases when the estimated ultimate loss ratio increases.
 
As of June 30, 2013, the Company’s estimated ultimate loss ratios are attributable to contracts for the July 1, 2012/June 30, 2013 treaty year (“2012/2013 Treaty”). As of June 30, 2013, the Company’s estimated ultimate loss ratios attributable to the 2012/2013 Treaty are greater than the contractual ultimate loss ratios at which the provisional ceding commissions are earned. Accordingly, for the six months and three months ended June 30, 2013, the Company has recorded negative contingent ceding commissions earned with respect to the 2012/2013 Treaty.

As of June 30, 2012, the Company’s estimated ultimate loss ratios are attributable to contracts for the July 1, 2011/June 30, 2012 treaty year (“2011/2012 Treaty”). As of June 30, 2012, the Company’s estimated ultimate loss ratios attributable to contracts for the 2011/2012 Treaty are lower than the contractual ultimate loss ratios at which the provisional ceding commissions are earned. Accordingly, for the six months and three months ended June 30, 2012, the Company has recorded contingent ceding commissions earned with respect to the 2011/2012 Treaty.

Ceding commissions earned consists of the following:

   
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2013
   
2012
   
2013
   
2012
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
 
Provisional ceding commissions earned
  $ 2,502,845     $ 2,074,732     $ 4,895,709     $ 4,059,715  
Contingent ceding commissions earned
    (168,414 )     836,126       (267,567 )     1,754,799  
    $ 2,334,431     $ 2,910,858     $ 4,628,142     $ 5,814,514  

Provisional ceding commissions are settled monthly. Balances due from reinsurers for contingent ceding commissions on quota share treaties are settled annually based on the loss ratio of each treaty year that ends on June 30. As discussed above, as of June 30, 2013, the Company has recorded negative contingent ceding commissions earned with respect to the 2012/2013 Treaty, which results in ceding commissions payable to reinsurers. Net contingent ceding commissions payable to reinsurers as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 was $860,408 and $807,415, respectively, and is included in “Reinsurance balances payable” in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
 
 
Note 7 – Long-Term Debt
 
Long-term debt consists of:
 
   
June 30, 2013
   
December 31, 2012
 
         
Less
               
Less
       
   
Total
   
Current
   
Long-Term
   
Total
   
Current
   
Long-Term
 
   
Debt
   
Maturities
   
Debt
   
Debt
   
Maturities
   
Debt
 
   
(unaudited)
                   
                                     
Notes payable
  $ 747,000     $ -     $ 747,000     $ 747,000     $ -     $ 747,000  
Bank line of credit
    130,000       130,000       -       450,000       450,000       -  
    $ 877,000     $ 130,000     $ 747,000     $ 1,197,000     $ 450,000     $ 747,000  
 
Notes Payable
 
From June 2009 through March 2010, the Company borrowed $1,450,000 (including $785,000 from related parties as disclosed below) and issued promissory notes in such aggregate principal amount (the “2009/2010 Notes”).  The 2009/2010 Notes provided for interest at the rate of 12.625% per annum through the maturity date of July 10, 2011. During the quarter the ended June 30, 2011, the Company prepaid $703,000 (including $407,000 to related parties) of the principal amount of the 2009/2010 Notes. In June 2011, the remaining note holders agreed to extend the maturity date for a period of three years from July 10, 2011 to July 10, 2014, and, effective July 11, 2011, reduce the interest rate from 12.625% to 9.5% per annum. The remaining 2009/2010 Notes, as extended, can be prepaid without premium or penalty. The reduction in the interest rate and the extension of the maturity date did not significantly change the fair value of the 2009/2010 Notes.
 
Interest expense on the 2009/2010 Notes for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 was approximately $35,000 each period. Interest expense on the 2009/2010 Notes for the three months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 was approximately $18,000 for each period.
 
Related party balances as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, under the 2009/2010 Notes are as follows:

Barry Goldstein IRA (Mr. Goldstein is Chairman of the Board, President
     
 and Chief Executive Officer, and principal stockholder of the Company)
  $ 90,000  
 Jay Haft, a director of the Company
    30,000  
 A member of the family of Michael Feinsod, a director of the Company
    60,000  
 Mr. Yedid and members of his family
    156,000  
 A member of the family of Floyd Tupper, a director of KICO
    42,000  
 Total related party transactions
  $ 378,000  

Interest expense on related party borrowings for each of the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 was approximately $18,000. Interest expense on related party borrowings for each of the three months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 was approximately $9,000.
 
 
Bank Line of Credit
 
On December 27, 2011, Kingstone executed a Promissory Note pursuant to a line of credit (together, the “Trustco Agreement”) with Trustco Bank (“Lender”). Under the Trustco Agreement, Kingstone may receive advances from Lender not to exceed an unpaid principal balance of $500,000 (the “Credit Limit”). On January 25, 2013, the Credit Limit was increased to $600,000.  Advances extended under the Trustco Agreement will bear interest at a floating rate based on the Lender’s prime rate.
 
Interest only payments are due monthly. The principal balance is payable on demand, and must be reduced to zero for a minimum of thirty consecutive days during each year of the term of the Trustco Agreement. Lender may set off any depository accounts maintained by Kingstone that are held by Lender. Payment of amounts due pursuant to the Trustco Agreement is secured by all of Kingstone’s cash and deposit accounts, receivables, inventory and  fixed assets, and is guaranteed by Kingstone’s subsidiary, Payments, Inc.
 
The line of credit is being used for general corporate purposes.
 
The weighted average interest rate on the amount outstanding as of June 30, 2013 was 3.75%. There are no other fees in connection with this credit line.
 
Note 8 – Stockholders’ Equity
 
Preferred Stock

On May 14, 2013 the Board of Directors approved, subject to stockholder approval (which was received on August 13, 2013), an amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company to increase the number of authorized shares of Preferred Stock from 1,000,000 to 2,500,000.

Common Stock

On May 14, 2013 the Board of Directors approved, subject to stockholder approval (which was received on August 13, 2013), an amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company to increase the number of authorized shares of Common Stock from 10,000,000 to 20,000,000.

Dividend Declared

Dividends declared and paid on Common Stock were $307,274 and $226,829 for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Dividends declared and paid on Common Stock were $153,637 and $113,432 for the three months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The Company’s Board of Directors approved a quarterly dividend on August 13, 2013 of $.04 per share payable in cash on September 13, 2013 to stockholders of record as of August 30, 2013.

Stock Options

Pursuant to the Company’s 2005 Equity Participation Plan (the “2005 Plan”), which provides for the issuance of incentive stock options, non-statutory stock options and restricted stock, a maximum of 550,000 shares of Common Stock are permitted to be issued pursuant to options granted and restricted stock issued.  On May 14, 2013 the Board of Directors approved, subject to stockholder approval (which was received on August 13, 2013), an increase in the number of shares authorized to be issued pursuant to the 2005 Plan from 550,000 to 700,000. Incentive stock options granted under the 2005 Plan expire no later than ten years from date of grant (except no later than five years for a grant to a 10% stockholder). The Board of Directors or the Stock Option Committee determines the expiration date with respect to non-statutory options, and the vesting provisions for restricted stock, granted under the 2005 Plan.
 
 
The results of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 include share-based stock option compensation expense totaling approximately $13,000 and $30,000, respectively. The results of operations for the three months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 include share-based stock option compensation expense totaling approximately $4,000 and $10,000, respectively. Stock-based compensation expense related to stock options is net of estimated forfeitures of 21% for the six months and three months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012. Such amounts have been included in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income within other operating expenses.

Stock option compensation expense in 2013 and 2012 is the estimated fair value of options granted amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire portion of the award. No stock options were granted during the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012.

A summary of option activity under the Company’s 2005 Plan for the six months ended June 30, 2013 is as follows:
 
Stock Options
 
Number of
Shares
   
Weighted Average Exercise Price
per Share
   
Weighted Average Remaining
Contractual Term
   
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
 
                         
Outstanding at January 1, 2013
    235,115     $ 2.58       2.24     $ 539,485  
                                 
Granted
    -     $ -       -     $ -  
Exercised
    -     $ -       -     $ -  
Forfeited
    -     $ -       -     $ -  
                                 
Outstanding at June 30, 2013
    235,115     $ 2.58       1.75     $ 631,775  
                                 
Vested and Exercisable at June 30, 2013
    212,615     $ 2.48       1.66     $ 581,875  
 
The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding and options exercisable at June 30, 2013 is calculated as the difference between the exercise price of the underlying options and the market price of the Company’s Common Stock for the options that had exercise prices that were lower than the $5.22 closing price of the Company’s Common Stock on June 30, 2013.
 
Participants in the 2005 Plan may exercise their outstanding vested options, in whole or in part, by having the Company reduce the number of shares otherwise issuable by a number of shares having a fair market value equal to the exercise price of the option being exercised (“Net Exercise”). No options were exercised during the six months ended June 30, 2013.

As of June 30, 2013, the fair value of unamortized compensation cost related to unvested stock option awards was approximately $13,000. Unamortized compensation cost as of June 30, 2013 is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average vesting period of 1.98 years.
 

Note 9 – Income Taxes

Income taxes for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 were computed using the effective tax rate estimated to be applicable for the full year, which is subject to ongoing review and evaluation by management. The Company files a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return that includes all wholly-owned subsidiaries. State tax returns are filed on a consolidated or separate basis depending on applicable laws. The Company records adjustments related to prior years’ taxes during the period when they are identified, generally when the tax returns are filed.   The effect of these adjustments on the current and prior periods (during which the differences originated) is evaluated based upon quantitative and qualitative factors and are considered in relation to the financial statements taken as a whole for the respective periods. The Company has evaluated this year’s amounts in relation to the current and prior reporting periods and determined that a restatement of those prior reporting periods is not appropriate. The Company’s effective tax rate from operations for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 was 39.8% and 34.6%, respectively.

 
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined using the enacted tax rates applicable to the period the temporary differences are expected to be recovered. Accordingly, the current period income tax provision can be affected by the enactment of new tax rates. The net deferred income taxes on the balance sheet reflect temporary differences between the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and income tax purposes, tax effected at a various rates depending on whether the temporary differences are subject to federal taxes, state taxes, or both. Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:

   
June 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2013
   
2012
 
   
(unaudited)
       
Deferred tax asset:
           
Net operating loss carryovers (1)
  $ 266,800     $ 264,648  
Claims reserve discount
    355,646       313,544  
Unearned premium
    940,362       811,413  
Deferred ceding commission revenue
    1,858,019       1,658,190  
Other
    -       10,921  
Total deferred tax assets
    3,420,827       3,058,716  
                 
Deferred tax liability:
               
Investment in KICO (2)
    1,169,000       1,169,000  
Deferred acquisition costs
    2,110,126       1,893,759  
Intangibles
    1,002,014       1,082,886  
Depreciation and amortization
    153,947       152,576  
Reinsurance recoverable
    -       20,400  
Net unrealized appreciation of securities - available for sale
    250,426       527,376  
Other
    16,808       -  
Total deferred tax liabilities
    4,702,321       4,845,997  
                 
Net deferred income tax liability
  $ (1,281,494 )   $ (1,787,281 )
 
(1)
The deferred tax assets from net operating loss carryovers are as follows:
 
   
June 30,
   
December 31,
   
Type of NOL
 
2013
   
2012
 
Expiration
State only (A)
  $ 405,725     $ 380,810  
December 31, 2033
Valuation allowance
    (166,125 )     (146,762 )  
State only, net of valuation allowance
    239,600       234,048    
Amount subject to Annual Limitation, federal only (B)
    27,200       30,600  
December 31, 2019
Total deferred tax asset from net operating loss carryovers
  $ 266,800     $ 264,648    
 

(A) Kingstone generates operating losses for state purposes and has prior year net operating loss carryovers available. The state net operating loss carryover as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 was approximately $4,888,000 and $4,588,000, respectively. KICO, the Company’s insurance underwriting subsidiary, is not subject to state income taxes. KICO’s state tax obligations are paid through a gross premiums tax which is included in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income within other underwriting expenses. A valuation allowance has been recorded due to the uncertainty of generating enough state taxable income to utilize 100% of the available state net operating loss carryovers over their remaining lives which expire between 2027 and 2033.
 
(B) The Company has an NOL of $80,000 that is subject to Internal Revenue Code Section 382, which places a limitation on the utilization of the federal net operating loss to approximately $10,000 per year (“Annual Limitation”) as a result of a greater than 50% ownership change of the Company in 1999. The losses subject to the Annual Limitation will be available for future years, expiring through December 31, 2019.
 
(2)
Deferred tax liability -  investment in KICO
 
On July 1, 2009, the Company completed the acquisition of 100% of the issued and outstanding common stock of KICO (formerly known as Commercial Mutual Insurance Company (“CMIC”)) pursuant to the conversion of CMIC from an advance premium cooperative to a stock property and casualty insurance company. Pursuant to the plan of conversion, the Company acquired a 100% equity interest in KICO, in consideration for the exchange of $3,750,000 principal amount of surplus notes of CMIC. In addition, the Company forgave all accrued and unpaid interest on the surplus notes as of the date of conversion. As of the date of acquisition, unpaid accrued interest on the surplus notes along with the accretion of the discount on the original purchase of the surplus notes totaled $2,921,319 (together “Untaxed Interest”). As of the date of acquisition, the deferred tax liability on the Untaxed Interest was $1,169,000. Under GAAP guidance for business combinations, a temporary difference with an indefinite life exists when the parent has a lower carrying value of its subsidiary for income tax purposes. The Company is required to maintain its deferred tax liability of $1,169,000 related to this temporary difference until the stock of KICO is sold, or the assets of KICO are sold or KICO and the parent are merged.
 
In assessing the valuation of deferred tax assets, the Company considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. No valuation allowance against deferred tax assets has been established, except for NOL limitations, as the Company believes it is more likely than not the deferred tax assets will be realized based on the historical taxable income of KICO, or by offset to deferred tax liabilities.
 
The Company had no material unrecognized tax benefit and no adjustments to liabilities or operations were required. There were no interest or penalties related to income taxes that have been accrued or recognized as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012. If any had been recognized these would be reported in income tax expense.

Note 10 - Net Income Per Common Share
 
Basic net earnings per common share is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share reflect, in periods in which they have a dilutive effect, the impact of common shares issuable upon exercise of stock options.  The computation of diluted earnings per share excludes those options with an exercise price in excess of the average market price of the Company’s common shares during the periods presented.
 
The computation of diluted earnings per share excludes outstanding options in periods where the exercise of such options would be anti-dilutive. For the six months and three months ended June 30, 2013, the inclusion of 10,000 options in the computation of diluted earnings per share would have been anti-dilutive for the periods and, as a result, the weighted average number of common shares used in the calculation of diluted earnings per common has not been adjusted for the effect of such options.
 
 
The reconciliation of the weighted average number of shares of Common Stock used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per common share follows:
 
   
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2013
   
2012
   
2013
   
2012
 
             
Weighted average number of shares outstanding     3,827,712       3,789,592       3,834,269       3,780,351  
Effect of dilutive securities, common share equivalents     78,720       94,187       77,381       -  
                                 
Weighted average number of shares outstanding used for computing diluted earnings per share     3,906,432       3,883,779       3,911,650       3,780,351  
 
Note 11 - Commitments and Contingencies

Litigation

From time to time, the Company is involved in various legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business. For example, to the extent a claim asserted by a third party in a law suit against one of the Company’s insureds covered by a particular policy, the Company may have a duty to defend the insured party against the claim. These claims may relate to bodily injury, property damage or other compensable injuries as set forth in the policy. Such proceedings are considered in estimating the liability for loss and LAE expenses. The Company is not subject to any other pending legal proceedings that management believes are likely to have a material adverse effect on the financial statements.

State Insurance Regulation

In the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, the New York State Department of Financial Services has adopted various regulations that affect insurance companies that operate in the state of New York.  Included among the regulations are accelerated claims investigation and settlement requirements and mandatory participation in non-binding mediation proceedings funded by the insurer. Further, in February 2013, the state of New York announced that the Department of Financial Services has commenced an investigation into the claims practices of three insurance companies, including KICO, in connection with Superstorm Sandy claims.  The Department of Financial Services stated that the three insurers had a much larger than average consumer complaint rate with regard to Superstorm Sandy claims and indicated that the three insurers were being investigated for (i) failure to send adjusters in a timely manner; (ii) failure to process claims in a timely manner; and (iii) inability of homeowners to contact insurance company representatives.  KICO has received a letter from the Department of Financial Services seeking information and data with regard to the foregoing.  KICO is cooperating with the Department of Financial Services in connection with its investigation and believes that such matter will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
 
 
Note 12 – Subsequent Event
 
Preferred Stock

On August 13, 2013, the Company received stockholder approval of an amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company to increase the number of authorized shares of Preferred Stock from 1,000,000 to 2,500,000.

Common Stock

On August 13, 2013, the Company received stockholder approval of an amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company to increase the number of authorized shares of Common Stock from 10,000,000 to 20,000,000.

Stock Options

On August 13, 2013, the Company received stockholder approval of an amendment to the 2005 Plan to increase the number of shares authorized to be issued pursuant to the 2005 Plan from 550,000 to 700,000.

Dividends Declared and Paid

On August 13, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a dividend of $.04 per share, or $153,637, payable in cash on September 13, 2013 to stockholders of record as of August 30, 2013.
 
 
 
Overview
 
We offer property and casualty insurance products to small businesses and individuals in New York State through our subsidiary, Kingstone Insurance Company (“KICO”). KICO’s insureds are located primarily in downstate New York, consisting of New York City, Long Island and Westchester County.
 
We derive 99% of our revenue from KICO, which includes revenues from earned premiums, ceding commissions from quota share reinsurance, net investment income generated from our portfolio, and net realized gains and losses on investment securities.  All of our policies are for a one year period. Earned premiums represent premiums received from insureds, which are recognized as revenue over the period of time that insurance coverage is provided (i.e., ratably over the one year life of the policy). A significant period of time normally elapses between the receipt of insurance premiums and the payment of insurance claims. During this time, KICO invests the premiums, earns investment income and generates net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses on investments.
 
Our expenses include the insurance underwriting expenses of KICO and other operating expenses. Insurance companies incur a significant amount of their total expenses from policyholder losses, which are commonly referred to as claims. In settling policyholder losses, various loss adjustment expenses (“LAE”) are incurred such as insurance adjusters’ fees and litigation expenses. In addition, insurance companies incur policy acquisition expenses. Policy acquisition costs include commissions paid to producers, premium taxes, and other expenses related to the underwriting process, including employees’ compensation and benefits.
 
Other operating expenses include the corporate expenses of our holding company, Kingstone Companies, Inc. These expenses include legal and auditing fees, occupancy costs related to our corporate office, executive employment costs, and other costs directly associated with being a public company.
 
Key Measures
 
We utilize the following key measures in analyzing the results of our insurance underwriting business:
 
Net loss ratio. The net loss ratio is a measure of the underwriting profitability of an insurance company’s business.  Expressed as a percentage, this is the ratio of net losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred to net premiums earned.
 
Net underwriting expense ratio.  The net underwriting expense ratio is a measure of an insurance company’s operational efficiency in administering its business. Expressed as a percentage, this is the ratio of the sum of acquisition costs (the most significant being commissions paid to our producers) and other underwriting expenses less ceding commission revenue less other income to net premiums earned.
 
 
Net combined ratio.  The net combined ratio is a measure of an insurance company’s overall underwriting profit. This is the sum of the net loss and net underwriting expense ratios. If the net combined ratio is at or above 100 percent, an insurance company cannot be profitable without investment income, and may not be profitable if investment income is insufficient.
 
Underwriting income. Underwriting income is net pre-tax income attributable to our insurance underwriting business except for net investment income, net realized gains from investments, and depreciation and amortization (net premiums earned less expenses included in combined ratio). Underwriting income is a measure of an insurance company’s overall operating profitability before items such as investment income, depreciation and amortization, interest expense and income taxes.
 
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
 
Our condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Kingstone Companies, Inc. and all majority-owned and controlled subsidiaries. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires our management to make estimates and assumptions in certain circumstances that affect amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements and related notes. In preparing these financial statements, our management has utilized information available including our past history, industry standards and the current economic environment, among other factors, in forming its estimates and judgments of certain amounts included in the consolidated financial statements, giving due consideration to materiality. It is possible that the ultimate outcome as anticipated by our management in formulating its estimates inherent in these financial statements might not materialize. However, application of the critical accounting policies involves the exercise of judgment and use of assumptions as to future uncertainties and, as a result, actual results could differ from these estimates. In addition, other companies may utilize different estimates, which may impact comparability of our results of operations to those of companies in similar businesses.
 
We believe that the most critical accounting policies relate to the reporting of reserves for loss and LAE, including losses that have occurred but have not been reported prior to the reporting date, amounts recoverable from third party reinsurers, deferred ceding commission revenue, deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred income taxes, the impairment of investment securities, intangible assets and the valuation of stock-based compensation. See Note 2 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - “Accounting Policies” for information related to updated accounting policies.
 
 
Consolidated Results of Operations
 
Six Months Ended June 30, 2013 Compared to Six Months Ended June 30, 2012
 
The following table summarizes the changes in the results of our operations (in thousands) for the periods indicated:
 
   
Six months ended June 30,
 
($ in thousands)
 
2013
   
2012
   
Change
   
Percent
 
Revenues
                       
Direct written premiums
  $ 28,726     $ 23,675     $ 5,051       21.3 %
Assumed written premiums
    20       3       17       566.7 %
      28,746       23,678       5,068       21.4 %
Ceded written premiums
                               
Ceded to quota share treaties
    15,863       13,473       2,390       17.7 %
Ceded to excess of loss treaties
    597       422       175       41.5 %
Ceded to catastrophe treaties
    996       586       410       70.0 %
Catastrophe reinstatement (1)
    325       -       325       n/a  
Total ceded written premiums
    17,781       14,481       3,300       22.8 %
                                 
Net written premiums
    10,965       9,197       1,768       19.2 %
Change in net unearned premiums
    (1,666 )     (1,060 )     (606 )     57.2 %
Net premiums earned
    9,299       8,137       1,162       14.3 %
                                 
Ceding commission revenue
                               
Excluding the effect of catastrophes
    6,475       6,968       (493 )     (7.1 ) %
Effect of catastrophes (1)
    (1,847 )     (1,153 )     (694 )     60.2 %
Total ceding commission revenue
    4,628       5,815       (1,187 )     (20.4 ) %
Net investment income
    558       497       61       12.3 %
Net realized gain on investments
    355       46       309       671.7 %
Other income
    458       461       (3 )     (0.7 ) %
Total revenues
    15,298       14,956       (342 )     2.3 %
                                 
Expenses
                               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses
                               
Direct and assumed:
                               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses excluding the effect of catastrophes
    13,762       9,314       4,448       47.8 %
Losses from catastrophes (1)
    225       -       225    
na
 
Total direct and assumed loss and loss adjustment expenses
    13,987       9,314       4,673       50.2 %
                                 
Ceded loss and loss adjustment expenses:
                               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses excluding the effect of catastrophes
    8,207       4,627       3,580       77.4 %
Losses from catastrophes (1)
    69       -       69    
na
 
Total ceded loss and loss adjustment expenses
    8,276       4,627       3,649       78.9 %
                                 
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses:
                               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses excluding the effect of catastrophes
    5,555       4,687       868       18.5 %
Losses from catastrophes (1)
    156       -       156    
na
 
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses
    5,711       4,687       1,024       21.8 %
                                 
Commission expense
    4,195       3,477       718       20.6 %
Other underwriting expenses
    4,145       3,852       293       7.6 %
Other operating expenses
    471       574       (103 )     (17.9 ) %
Depreciation and amortization
    307       297       10       3.4 %
Interest expense
    39       41       (2 )     (4.9 ) %
Total expenses
    14,868       12,928       1,940       15.0 %
                                 
Income from operations before taxes
    430       2,028       1,598       (78.8 ) %
Provision for income tax
    171       702       (531 )     (75.6 ) %
Net income
  $ 259     $ 1,326     $ (1,067 )     (80.5 ) %
 
(1) For the six months ended June 30, 2013, includes the effects of Superstorm Sandy (which we define as a catastrophe), which occurred on October 29, 2012. For the six months ended June 30, 2012, includes the effects of Tropical Storm Irene (which we define as a catastrophe), which occurred between August 27, 2011 and August 29, 2011. We define a “catastrophe” as an event that involves multiple first party policyholders, or an event that produces a number of claims in excess of a preset, per-event threshold of average claims in a specific area, occurring within a certain amount of time constituting the event.  Catastrophes are caused by various natural events including high winds, excessive rain, winter storms, tornadoes, hailstorms, wildfires, tropical storms, and hurricanes.
 
 
Direct written premiums during the six months ended June 30, 2013 (“2013”) were $28,726,000 compared to $23,675,000 during the six months ended June 30, 2012 (“2012”). The increase of $5,051,000, or 21.3%, was primarily due to an increase in policies in-force during 2013 as compared to 2012. We wrote more policies as a result of an increase in demand for the products in the markets that we serve. Policies in-force increased by 21% as of June 30, 2013 compared to June 30, 2012. In addition to the increase of policies in-force, we are also writing more policies which have higher premiums. State regulations enacted to protect victims of Superstorm Sandy prohibited us from cancelling policies or non-renewing existing policies beginning in the fourth quarter of 2012 and extending through various dates during the quarter ended March 31, 2013 (the “Moratorium Period”). These regulations delayed cancellations and increased the amount of direct written premiums during the Moratorium Period in the fourth quarter of 2012. After the expiration of the Moratorium Period in 2013, the additional cancellations and non-renewal of existing policies reduced our growth rate in 2013.
 
Net written premiums increased $1,768,000, or 19.2%, to $10,965,000 in 2013 from $9,197,000 in 2012. Net written premiums include direct and assumed premiums, less the amount of written premiums ceded under our reinsurance treaties (quota share, excess of loss and catastrophe). As we increase our written premiums in our personal and commercial lines of business, which are both subject to quota shares, our written premiums ceded to quota shares will increase, which will result in a corresponding reduction to net written premiums. A reduction to the quota share percentage will reduce our ceded written premiums, which will result in a corresponding increase to our net written premiums. Effective July 1, 2012, we decreased the quota share percentage in our commercial lines quota share treaty from 60% to 40%. Much of the premiums written under our personal lines is also subject to our catastrophe treaty. The increase in our personal lines business results in an increase in premiums ceded to our catastrophe treaty, resulting in a decrease in net written premiums. In 2013, we also incurred reinstatement premiums for catastrophe coverage as a result of Superstorm Sandy. An increase in written premiums will also increase the premiums ceded under our excess of loss treaties, which will result in a corresponding decrease to our net written premiums.
 
 Net premiums earned increased $1,162,000, or 14.3%, to $9,299,000 in 2013 from $8,137,000 in 2012. As premiums written earn ratably over a twelve month period, the increase was a result of higher net written premiums for the twelve months ended June 30, 2013 compared to the twelve months ended June 30, 2012.
 
The following table summarizes the changes in the components of ceding commission revenue (in thousands) for the periods indicated:

   
Six months ended June 30,
 
($ in thousands)
 
2013
   
2012
   
Change
   
Percent
 
                         
 Provisional ceding commissions earned
  $ 4,896     $ 4,060     $ 836       20.6 %
                                 
 Contingent ceding commissions earned
                               
 Contingent ceding commissions earned excluding
                               
 the effect of catastrophes
    1,579       2,908       (1,329 )     (45.7 )  %
 Effect of catastrophes on ceding commisions earned
    (1,847 )     (1,153 )     (694 )     60.2 %
 Contingent ceding commissions earned
    (268 )     1,755       (2,023 )     (115.3 )  %
                                 
 Total ceding commission revenue
  $ 4,628     $ 5,815     $ (1,187 )     (20.4 )  %
 
 
Ceding commission revenue was $4,628,000 in 2013 compared to $5,815,000 in 2012. The decrease of $1,187,000, or 20.4%, was due to a decrease in contingent ceding commissions earned, offset by an increase provisional ceding commissions earned. We received a provisional ceding commission based on ceded written premiums. Our ceded written premiums under our personal lines quota share reinsurance treaty in 2013 totaled $13,699,000, and our provisional ceding commission was $4,818,000. The term of our previous personal lines reinsurance quota share treaty covered the period from July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013 (“2012/2013 Treaty”). The treaty provided for contingent ceding commissions based on a sliding scale whereby we were entitled receive between 31% - 52% of a portion of the ceded earned premiums; the lower the ceded loss ratio, the higher the percentage we were entitled to receive.   For the six months ended June 30, 2013, the computation to arrive at contingent ceding commission revenue includes direct catastrophe losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred from Superstorm Sandy on October 29, 2012. Such losses increased our ceded loss ratio in our 2012/2013 Treaty, which reduced our contingent ceding commission revenue by $1,847,000.  The $836,000 increase in provisional ceding commissions earned is due to a net increase in the amount of premiums ceded. The $2,023,000 decrease in contingent ceding commissions earned is due to: (1) the effects of the additional losses resulting from Superstorm Sandy on our ceded net loss ratio in the 2012/2013 Treaty, which reduced our contingent ceding commission revenue by $1,847,000, in accordance with the sliding scale discussed above, and (2) an increase in losses incurred under our personal lines and commercial auto quota share reinsurance treaties from prior year claims.
 
Net investment income was $558,000 in 2013 compared to $497,000 in 2012. The increase of $61,000, or 12.3%, was due to an increase in average invested assets in 2013 as compared to 2012 and an increased allocation to preferred shares, which generally carry a higher yield than debt, and receive advantageous tax treatment as compared to debt instruments from the same issuer. The increase in cash and invested assets resulted primarily from increased operating cash flows. The tax equivalent investment yield, excluding cash, was 5.56% and 5.27% at June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses were $5,711,000 in 2013 compared to $4,687,000 in 2012. The net loss ratio was 61.4% in 2013 compared to 57.6% in 2012, an increase of 3.8 percentage points. The increase of 3.8 percentage points in our net loss ratio for 2013 as compared to 2012 is primarily due to an increase in loss ratios in our commercial auto line of business and underwriting pools for which we retain more of the earned premiums and losses.
 
Commission expense was $4,195,000 in 2013 or 16.6% of direct earned premiums. Commission expense was $3,477,000 in 2012 or 16.5% of direct earned premiums. The increase of $718,000 is due to the increase in direct written premiums in 2013 as compared to 2012.
 
Other underwriting expenses were $4,145,000 in 2013 compared to $3,852,000 in 2012. The increase of $293,000, or 7.6%, in other underwriting expenses was primarily due to expenses directly related to the increase in direct written premiums and additional salaries due to the hiring of additional staff needed to service our growth in written premiums and rate increases in annual salaries, offset by a reduction in profit sharing compensation based on profitability due to lower profitability in 2013 compared to 2012. Other underwriting expenses as a percentage of direct written premiums was 14.4% in 2013 and 16.3% in 2012.
 
Other operating expenses, related to the corporate expenses of our holding company, were $471,000 in 2013 compared to $574,000 in 2012. The decrease in 2013 of $103,000, or 17.9%, was primarily due to decreases in employment costs.
 
Income tax expense in 2013 was $171,000 which resulted in an effective tax rate of 39.8%. Income tax expense in 2012 was $702,000, which resulted in an effective tax rate of 34.6%. Income before taxes was $430,000 in 2013 compared to $2,028,000 in 2012. The increase in the effective tax rate by 5.2% in 2013 is a result of permanent differences and state net operating loss valuation allowance having a greater impact on the effective tax rate in 2013 due to a lesser amount of book income in 2013 compared to 2012.
 
Net income was $259,000 in 2013 compared to $1,326,000 in 2012. The decrease in net income of $1,067,000 was due to the circumstances described above that caused the decrease in contingent ceding commission revenues, increases in our net loss ratio, other commission expense and underwriting expenses related to premium growth, offset by an increase in our net premiums earned.
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30, 2013 Compared to Three Months Ended June 30, 2012
 
The following table summarizes the changes in the results of our operations (in thousands) for the periods indicated:
 
   
Three months ended June 30,
 
($ in thousands)
 
2013
   
2012
   
Change
   
Percent
 
Revenues
                       
Direct written premiums
  $ 15,881     $ 12,439     $ 3,442       27.7 %
Assumed written premiums
    11       2       9       450.0 %
      15,892       12,441       3,451       27.7 %
Ceded written premiums
                               
Ceded to quota share treaties
    8,821       7,093       1,728       24.4 %
Ceded to excess of loss treaties
    335       220       115       52.3 %
Ceded to catastrophe treaties
    557       311       246       79.1 %
Catastrophe reinstatement (1)
    185       -       185       n/a  
Total ceded written premiums
    9,898       7,624       2,274       29.8 %
                                 
Net written premiums
    5,994       4,817       1,177       24.4 %
Change in net unearned premiums
    (1,318 )     (652 )     (666 )     102.1 %
Net premiums earned
    4,676       4,165       511       12.3 %
                                 
Ceding commission revenue
                               
Excluding the effect of catastrophes
    3,265       3,797       (532 )     (14.0 ) %
Effect of catastrophes (1)
    (931 )     (886 )     (45 )     5.1 %
Total ceding commission revenue
    2,334       2,911       (577 )     (19.8 ) %
Net investment income
    275       230       45       19.6 %
Net realized gain on investments
    250       6       244       4,066.7 %
Other income
    244       222       22       9.9 %
Total revenues
    7,779       7,534       245       3.3 %
                                 
Expenses
                               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses
                               
Direct and assumed:
                               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses excluding the effect of catastrophes
    6,237       4,347       1,890       43.5 %
Losses from catastrophes (1)
    225       -       225    
na
 
Total direct and assumed loss and loss adjustment expenses
    6,462       4,347       2,115       48.7 %
                                 
Ceded loss and loss adjustment expenses:
                               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses excluding the effect of catastrophes
    3,152       1,938       1,214       62.6 %
Losses from catastrophes (1)
    69       -       69    
na
 
Total ceded loss and loss adjustment expenses
    3,221       1,938       1,283       66.2 %
                                 
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses:
                               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses excluding the effect of catastrophes
    3,085       2,409       676       28.1 %
Losses from catastrophes (1)
    156       -       156    
na
 
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses
    3,241       2,409       832       34.5 %
                                 
Commission expense
    2,079       1,806       273       15.1 %
Other underwriting expenses
    1,932       1,995       (63 )     (3.2 ) %
Other operating expenses
    228       287       (59 )     (20.6 ) %
Depreciation and amortization
    154       150       4       2.7 %
Interest expense
    18       20       (2 )     (10.0 ) %
Total expenses
    7,652       6,667       985       14.8 %
                                 
Income from operations before taxes
    127       867       (740 )     (85.4 ) %
Provision for income tax
    59       307       (248 )     (80.8 ) %
Net income
  $ 68     $ 560     $ (492 )     (87.9 ) %
 
(1) For the three months ended June 30, 2013, includes the effects of Superstorm Sandy (which we define as a catastrophe), which occurred on October 29, 2012. For the six months ended June 30, 2012, includes the effects of Tropical Storm Irene (which we define as a catastrophe), which occurred between August 27, 2011 and August 29, 2011. We define a “catastrophe” as an event that involves multiple first party policyholders, or an event that produces a number of claims in excess of a preset, per-event threshold of average claims in a specific area, occurring within a certain amount of time constituting the event.  Catastrophes are caused by various natural events including high winds, excessive rain, winter storms, tornadoes, hailstorms, wildfires, tropical storms, and hurricanes.
 
 
Direct written premiums during the three months ended June 30, 2013 (“Q2 2013”) were $15,881,000 compared to $12,439,000 during the three months ended June 30, 2012 (“Q2 2012”). The increase of $3,442,000, or 27.7%, was primarily due to an increase in policies in-force during Q2 2013 as compared to Q2 2012. We wrote more policies as a result of an increase in demand for the products in the markets that we serve. Policies in-force increased by 21% as of June 30, 2013 compared to June 30, 2012. In addition to the increase of policies in-force, we are also writing more policies which have higher premiums.
 
Net written premiums increased $1,177,000, or 24.4%, to $5,994,000 in Q2 2013 from $4,817,000 in Q2 2012. Net written premiums include direct and assumed premiums, less the amount of written premiums ceded under our reinsurance treaties (quota share, excess of loss and catastrophe). As we increase our written premiums in our personal and commercial lines of business, which are both subject to quota shares, our written premiums ceded to quota shares will increase, which will result in a corresponding reduction to net written premiums. A reduction to the quota share percentage will reduce our ceded written premiums, which will result in a corresponding increase to our net written premiums. Effective July 1, 2012, we decreased the quota share percentage in our commercial lines quota share treaty from 60% to 40%. Much of the premiums written under our personal lines is also subject to our catastrophe treaty. The increase in our personal lines business results in an increase in premiums ceded to our catastrophe treaty, resulting in a decrease in net written premiums. In 2013, we also incurred reinstatement premiums for catastrophe coverage as a result of Superstorm Sandy. An increase in written premiums will also increase the premiums ceded under our excess of loss treaties, which will result in a corresponding decrease to our net written premiums.
 
Net premiums earned increased $511,000, or 12.3%, to $4,676,000 in Q2 2013 from $4,165,000 in Q2 2012. As premiums written earn ratably over a twelve month period, the increase was a result of higher net written premiums for the twelve months ended June 30, 2013 compared to the twelve months ended June 30, 2012.
 
The following table summarizes the changes in the components of ceding commission revenue (in thousands) for the periods indicated:
 
   
Three months ended June 30,
 
($ in thousands)
 
2013
   
2012
   
Change
   
Percent
 
                         
Provisional ceding commissions earned
  $ 2,503     $ 2,075     $ 428       20.6 %
                                 
Contingent ceding commissions earned
                               
Contingent ceding commissions earned excluding
                               
the effect of catastrophes
    762       1,722       (960 )     (55.7 ) %
Effect of catastrophes on ceding commisions earned
    (931 )     (886 )     (45 )     5.1 %
Contingent ceding commissions earned
    (169 )     836       (1,005 )     (120.2 ) %
                                 
Total ceding commission revenue
  $ 2,334     $ 2,911     $ (577 )     (19.8 ) %

Ceding commission revenue was $2,334,000 in Q2 2013 compared to $2,911,000 in Q2 2012. The decrease of $577,000, or 19.8%, was due to a decrease in contingent ceding commissions earned, offset by an increase provisional ceding commissions earned. We received a provisional ceding commission based on ceded written premiums. Our ceded written premiums under our personal lines quota share reinsurance treaty in Q2 2013 totaled $7,580,000, and our provisional ceding commission was $2,662,000. The term of our previous personal lines reinsurance quota share treaty covered the period from July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013 (“2012/2013 Treaty”). The treaty provided for contingent ceding commissions based on a sliding scale whereby we were entitled to receive between 31% - 52% of a portion of the ceded earned premiums; the lower the ceded loss ratio, the higher the percentage we were entitled to receive. For the three months ended June 30, 2013, the computation to arrive at contingent ceding commission revenue includes direct catastrophe losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred from Superstorm Sandy on October 29, 2012. Such losses increased our ceded loss ratio in our 2012/2013 Treaty, which reduced our contingent ceding commission revenue by $931,000.  The $428,000 increase in provisional ceding commissions earned is due to a net increase in the amount of premiums ceded. The $1,005,000 decrease in contingent ceding commissions earned is due to: (1) the effects of the additional losses resulting from Superstorm Sandy on our ceded net loss ratio in the 2012/2013 Treaty, which reduced our contingent ceding commission revenue by $931,000, in accordance with the sliding scale as discussed above, and (2) an increase in losses incurred under our personal lines and commercial auto quota share reinsurance treaties from prior year claims.
 
 
Net investment income was $275,000 in Q2 2013 compared to $230,000 in Q2 2012. The increase of $45,000, or 19.6%, was due to an increase in average invested assets in Q2 2013 as compared to Q2 2012 and an increased allocation to preferred shares, which generally carry a higher yield than debt, and receive advantageous tax treatment as compared to debt instruments from the same issuer. The increase in cash and invested assets resulted primarily from increased operating cash flows. The tax equivalent investment yield, excluding cash, was 5.56% and 5.27% at June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses were $3,241,000 in Q2 2013 compared to $2,409,000 in Q2 2012. The net loss ratio was 69.3% in Q2 2013 compared to 57.8% in Q2 2012, an increase of 11.5 percentage points. The increase of 11.5 percentage points in our net loss ratio for Q2 2013 as compared to Q2 2012 is primarily due to an increase in loss ratios in our commercial auto line of business and underwriting pools for which we retain more of the earned premiums and losses.
 
Commission expense was $2,079,000 in Q2 2013 or 16.0% of direct earned premiums. Commission expense was $1,806,000 in Q2 2012 or 16.8% of direct earned premiums. The increase of $273,000 is due to the increase in direct written premiums in Q2 2013 as compared to Q2 2012.
 
Other underwriting expenses were $1,932,000 in Q2 2013 compared to $1,995,000 in Q2 2012. The decrease of $63,000, or 3.2%, in other underwriting expenses was primarily due to a decrease in profit sharing compensation based on profitability due to lower profitability in Q2 2013 compared to Q2 2012, offset by an increase in expenses directly related to the increase in direct written premiums and additional salaries due to the hiring of additional staff needed to service our growth in written premiums and rate increases in annual salaries. Other underwriting expenses as a percentage of direct written premiums was 12.2% in Q2 2013 and 16.0% in Q2 2012.
 
Other operating expenses, related to the corporate expenses of our holding company, were $228,000 in Q2 2013 compared to $287,000 in Q2 2012. The decrease in Q2 2013 of $59,000, or 20.6%, was primarily due to decreases in employment costs.
 
Income tax expense in Q2 2013 was $59,000 which resulted in an effective tax rate of 46.5%. Income tax expense in Q2 2012 was $307,000, which resulted in an effective tax rate of 35.4%. Income before taxes was $127,000 in Q2 2013 compared to $867,000 in Q2 2012. The increase in the effective tax rate by 11.1% in Q2 2013 is a result of permanent differences and state net operating loss valuation allowance having a greater impact on the effective tax rate in Q2 2013 due to a lesser amount of book income in Q2 2013 compared to Q2 2012.
 
Net income was $68,000 in Q2 2013 compared to $560,000 in Q2 2012. The decrease in net income of $492,000 was due to the circumstances described above that caused the decrease in contingent ceding commission revenues, increases in our net loss ratio, and other commission expense, offset by an increase in our net premiums earned and decrease in underwriting and other operating expenses.
 
 
Insurance Underwriting Business on a Standalone Basis
 
Our insurance underwriting business reported on a standalone basis for the periods indicated is as follows:
 
    Three months ended June 30,     Six months ended June 30,  
    2013     2012     2013     2012  
                         
Revenues
                       
Net premiums earned
  $ 4,676,282     $ 4,164,572     $ 9,299,497     $ 8,137,107  
Ceding commission revenue
    2,334,431       2,910,858       4,628,142       5,814,514  
Net investment income
    275,031       229,879       558,318       497,396  
Net realized gain on investments
    249,893       6,160       355,018       45,560  
Other income
    152,111       124,247       268,792       239,297  
Total revenues
    7,687,748       7,435,716       15,109,767       14,733,874  
                                 
Expenses
                               
Loss and loss adjustment expenses
    3,241,797       2,408,505       5,711,438       4,687,019  
Commission expense
    2,079,084       1,805,810       4,194,904       3,477,417  
Other underwriting expenses
    1,931,611       1,994,576       4,144,956       3,852,321  
Depreciation and amortization
    153,139       150,183       305,278       296,442  
Total expenses
    7,405,631       6,359,074       14,356,576       12,313,199  
                                 
Income from operations
    282,117       1,076,642       753,191       2,420,675  
Income tax expense
    96,161       353,760       252,164       770,597  
Net income
  $ 185,956     $ 722,882     $ 501,027     $ 1,650,078  
                                 
Key Measures:
                               
Net loss ratio
    69.3 %     57.8 %     61.4 %     57.6 %
Net underwriting expense ratio
    32.6 %     18.4 %     37.0 %     15.7 %
Net combined ratio
    101.9 %     76.2 %     98.4 %     73.3 %
                                 
Reconciliation of net underwriting expense ratio:
                         
Acquisition costs and other
                               
underwriting expenses
  $ 4,010,695     $ 3,800,386     $ 8,339,860     $ 7,329,738  
Less: Ceding commission revenue
    (2,334,431 )     (2,910,858 )     (4,628,142 )     (5,814,514 )
Less: Other income
    (152,111 )     (124,247 )     (268,792 )     (239,297 )
 
  $ 1,524,153     $ 765,281     $ 3,442,926     $ 1,275,927  
                                 
Net earned premium
  $ 4,676,282     $ 4,164,572     $ 9,299,497     $ 8,137,107  
                                 
Net Underwriting Expense Ratio
    32.6 %     18.4 %     37.0 %     15.7 %
 
 
An analysis of our direct, assumed and ceded earned premiums, loss and loss adjustment expenses, and loss ratios is shown below:
 
   
Direct
   
Assumed
   
Ceded
   
Net
 
                         
Six months ended June 30, 2013 (unaudited)
                       
Written premiums
  $ 28,725,957     $ 20,047     $ (17,781,254 )   $ 10,964,750  
Unearned premiums
    (3,452,133 )     28,569       1,758,311       (1,665,253 )
Earned premiums
  $ 25,273,824     $ 48,616     $ (16,022,943 )   $ 9,299,497  
                                 
Loss and loss adjustment expenses exluding
                               
the effect of catastrophes
  $ 13,719,897     $ 41,999     $ (8,207,099 )   $ 5,554,797  
Catastrophe loss
    225,324       -       (68,683 )     156,641  
Loss and loss adjustment expenses
  $ 13,945,221     $ 41,999     $ (8,275,782 )   $ 5,711,438  
                                 
Loss ratio excluding the effect of catastrophes
    54.3 %     86.4 %     51.2 %     59.7 %
Catastrophe loss
    0.9 %     0.0 %     0.4 %     1.7 %
Loss ratio
    55.2 %     86.4 %     51.6 %     61.4 %
                                 
Six months ended June 30, 2012 (unaudited)
                               
Written premiums
  $ 23,674,526     $ 3,199     $ (14,480,602 )   $ 9,197,123  
Unearned premiums
    (2,653,399 )     3,912       1,589,471       (1,060,016 )
Earned premiums
  $ 21,021,127     $ 7,111     $ (12,891,131 )   $ 8,137,107  
                                 
Loss and loss adjustment expenses exluding
                               
the effect of catastrophes
  $ 9,298,687     $ 14,907     $ (4,626,575 )   $ 4,687,019  
Catastrophe loss
    -       -       -       -  
Loss and loss adjustment expenses
  $ 9,298,687     $ 14,907     $ (4,626,575 )   $ 4,687,019  
                                 
Loss ratio excluding the effect of catastrophes
    44.2 %     209.6 %     35.9 %     57.6 %
Catastrophe loss
    0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %
Loss ratio
    44.2 %     209.6 %     35.9 %     57.6 %
                                 
Three months ended June 30, 2013 (unaudited)
                         
Written premiums
  $ 15,881,121     $ 10,232     $ (9,897,589 )   $ 5,993,764  
Unearned premiums
    (2,873,166 )     1,128       1,554,556       (1,317,482 )
Earned premiums
  $ 13,007,955     $ 11,360     $ (8,343,033 )   $ 4,676,282  
                                 
Loss and loss adjustment expenses exluding
                               
the effect of catastrophes
  $ 6,213,188     $ 23,572     $ (3,151,604 )   $ 3,085,156  
Catastrophe loss
    225,324       -       (68,683 )     156,641  
Loss and loss adjustment expenses
  $ 6,438,512     $ 23,572     $ (3,220,287 )   $ 3,241,797  
                                 
Loss ratio excluding the effect of catastrophes
    47.8 %     207.5 %     37.8 %     66.0 %
Catastrophe loss
    1.7 %     0.0 %     0.8 %     3.3 %
Loss ratio
    49.5 %     207.5 %     38.6 %     69.3 %
                                 
Three months ended June 30, 2012 (unaudited)
                         
Written premiums
  $ 12,438,801     $ 1,799     $ (7,623,640 )   $ 4,816,960  
Unearned premiums
    (1,681,258 )     2,333       1,026,537       (652,388 )
Earned premiums
  $ 10,757,543     $ 4,132     $ (6,597,103 )   $ 4,164,572  
                                 
Loss and loss adjustment expenses exluding
                               
the effect of catastrophes
  $ 4,342,618     $ 3,810     $ (1,937,923 )   $ 2,408,505  
Catastrophe loss
    -       -       -       -  
Loss and loss adjustment expenses
  $ 4,342,618     $ 3,810     $ (1,937,923 )   $ 2,408,505  
                                 
Loss ratio excluding the effect of catastrophes
    40.4 %     92.2 %     29.4 %     57.8 %
Catastrophe loss
    0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %
Loss ratio
    40.4 %     92.2 %     29.4 %     57.8 %
 
 
The key measures for our insurance underwriting business for the periods indicated are as follows:
 
    Three months ended June 30,     Six months ended June 30,  
    2013     2012     2013     2012  
                         
Net premiums earned
  $ 4,676,282     $ 4,164,572     $ 9,299,497     $ 8,137,107  
Ceding commission revenue (1)
    2,334,431       2,910,858       4,628,142       5,814,514  
Other income
    152,111       124,247       268,792       239,297  
                                 
Loss and loss adjustment expenses (2)
    3,241,797       2,408,505       5,711,438       4,687,019  
                                 
Acquistion costs and other underwriting expenses:
                               
Commission expense
    2,079,084       1,805,810       4,194,904       3,477,417  
Other underwriting expenses
    1,931,611       1,994,576       4,144,956       3,852,322  
Total acquistion costs and other
                               
underwriting expenses
    4,010,695       3,800,386       8,339,860       7,329,739  
                                 
Underwriting income
  $ (89,668 )   $ 990,786     $ 145,133     $ 2,174,160  
                                 
Key Measures:
                               
Net loss ratio excluding the effect of catastrophes
    66.0 %     57.8 %     59.7 %     57.6 %
Effect of catastrophe loss on loss ratio (2)
    3.3 %     0.0 %     1.7 %     0.0 %
Net loss ratio
    69.3 %     57.8 %     61.4 %     57.6 %
                                 
Net underwriting expense ratio excluding the
                               
effect of catastrophes
    12.7 %     -2.9 %     17.2 %     1.5 %
Effect of catastrophe loss on net underwriting
                               
expense ratio (1) (2)
    19.9 %     21.3 %     19.8 %     14.2 %
Net underwriting expense ratio
    32.6 %     18.4 %     37.0 %     15.7 %
                                 
Net combined ratio excluding the effect
                               
of catastrophes
    78.7 %     54.9 %     76.9 %     59.1 %
Effect of catastrophe loss on net combined
                               
ratio (1) (2)
    23.3 %     21.3 %     21.5 %     14.2 %
Net combined ratio
    101.9 %     76.2 %     98.4 %     73.3 %
                                 
Reconciliation of net underwriting expense ratio:
                               
Acquisition costs and other
                               
underwriting expenses
  $ 4,010,695     $ 3,800,386     $ 8,339,860     $ 7,329,739  
Less: Ceding commission revenue (1)
    (2,334,431 )     (2,910,858 )     (4,628,142 )     (5,814,514 )
Less: Other income
    (152,111 )     (124,247 )     (268,792 )     (239,297 )
 
  $ 1,524,153     $ 765,281     $ 3,442,926     $ 1,275,928  
 
(1) The effect of Superstorm Sandy, which occurred on October 29, 2012, reduced contingent ceding commission revenue by $1,846,882 and $930,770 for the six months and three months ended June 30, 2013, respectively. The effect of Tropical Storm Irene, which occurred from August 27, 2011 to August 29, 2011, reduced contingent ceding commission revenue by $1,152,627 and $886,062 for the six months and three months ended June 30, 2012, respectively.
 
(2) Includes the sum of net catastrophe losses and loss adjustment expenses of $156,641 resulting from Superstorm Sandy for the six months and three months ended June 30, 2013. There were no net catastrophe losses and loss adjustment expenses for the six months and three months ended June 30, 2012.
 
 
Investments
 
Portfolio Summary
 
The following table presents a breakdown of the amortized cost, aggregate fair value and unrealized gains and losses by investment type as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

Available for Sale Securities

   
June 30, 2013
 
                                     
 
 
Cost or
   
Gross
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
   
Aggregate
   
% of
 
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Less than 12
   
More than 12
   
Fair
   
Fair
 
Category
 
Cost
   
Gains
   
Months
   
Months
   
Value
   
Value
 
   
(unaudited)
 
                                     
Political subdivisions of States,
                                   
Territories and Possessions
  $ 5,192,989     $ 164,220     $ (80,990 )   $ (11,909 )   $ 5,264,309       17.8 %
                                                 
Corporate and other bonds
                                               
Industrial and miscellaneous
    16,781,196       598,017       (247,662 )     -       17,131,552       57.9 %
Total fixed-maturity securities
    21,974,185       762,237       (328,652 )     (11,909 )     22,395,861       75.7 %
Equity Securities
    6,875,848       443,529       (128,962 )     -       7,190,415       24.3 %
Total
  $ 28,850,033     $ 1,205,766     $ (457,614 )   $ (11,909 )   $ 29,586,276       100.0 %
 
   
December 31, 2012
 
                                     
 
 
Cost or
   
Gross
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
   
Aggregate
   
% of
 
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Less than 12
   
More than 12
   
Fair
   
Fair
 
Category
 
Cost
   
Gains
   
Months
   
Months
   
Value
   
Value
 
                                     
Political subdivisions of States,
                                   
Territories and Possessions
  $ 5,219,092     $ 257,298     $ (1,574 )   $ -     $ 5,474,816       17.4 %
                                                 
Corporate and other bonds
                                               
Industrial and miscellaneous
    19,628,005       1,123,392       (43,553 )     (722 )     20,707,122       65.8 %
Total fixed-maturity securities
    24,847,097       1,380,690       (45,127 )     (722 )     26,181,938       83.2 %
Equity Securities
    5,073,977       373,294       (157,029 )     -       5,290,242       16.8 %
Total
  $ 29,921,074     $ 1,753,984     $ (202,156 )   $ (722 )   $ 31,472,180       100.0 %
 
 
Held to Maturity Securities

   
June 30, 2013
 
   
(unaudited)
 
                                     
 
 
Cost or
   
Gross
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
         
% of
 
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Less than 12
   
More than 12
   
Fair
   
Fair
 
Category
 
Cost
   
Gains
   
Months
   
Months
   
Value
   
Value
 
       
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 606,292     $ 95,771     $ -     $ -     $ 702,063       100.0 %
 
   
December 31, 2012
 
                                     
 
 
Cost or
   
Gross
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
         
% of
 
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Less than 12
   
More than 12
   
Fair
   
Fair
 
Category
 
Cost
   
Gains
   
Months
   
Months
   
Value
   
Value
 
                                                 
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 606,281     $ 172,745     $ -     $ -     $ 779,026       100.0 %

All held to maturity securities are held in trust pursuant to the New York State Department of Financial Services’ minimum funds requirement.

Contractual maturities of all held to maturity securities are greater than ten years.

Credit Rating of Fixed-Maturity Securities
 
The table below summarizes the credit quality of our available for sale fixed-maturity securities as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 as rated by Standard and Poor’s (or, if unavailable from Standard and Poor’s, then Moody’s or Fitch):
 
     
June 30, 2013
   
December 31, 2012
 
           
Percentage of
         
Percentage of
 
     
Fair Market
   
Fair Market
   
Fair Market
   
Fair Market
 
     
Value
   
Value
   
Value
   
Value
 
     
(unaudited)
             
                                   
Rating
                                 
U.S. Treasury securities
    $ -       0.0 %   $ -       0.0 %
AAA
      1,549,171       6.9 %     2,226,603       8.5 %
AA
      3,981,714       17.8 %     4,088,304       15.6 %
A         6,103,165       27.3 %     6,963,380       26.6 %
BBB
      10,761,811       48.0 %     12,903,651       49.3 %
Total
    $ 22,395,861       100.0 %   $ 26,181,938       100.0 %
 
 
The table below summarizes the average duration by type of fixed-maturity security as well as detailing the average yield as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
 
   
June 30, 2013
   
December 31, 2012
 
         
Weighted
         
Weighted
 
         
Average
         
Average
 
   
Average
   
Duration in
   
Average
   
Duration in
 
Category
 
Yield %
   
Years
   
Yield %
   
Years
 
U.S. Treasury securities and
                       
obligations of U.S. government
                       
corporations and agencies
    3.70 %     27.3       3.33 %     27.8  
                                 
Political subdivisions of States,
                               
Territories and Possessions
    4.28 %     6.2       4.06 %     6.1  
                                 
Corporate and other bonds
                               
Industrial and miscellaneous
    4.91 %     7.1       4.74 %     7.3  
 
Fair Value Consideration
 
As disclosed in Note 4 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, with respect to “Fair Value Measurements,” we define fair value under GAAP guidance as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants (an “exit price”). This GAAP guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between inputs based on market data from independent sources (“observable inputs”) and a reporting entity’s internal assumptions based upon the best information available when external market data is limited or unavailable (“unobservable inputs”). The fair value hierarchy in GAAP prioritizes fair value measurements into three levels based on the nature of the inputs. Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets have the highest priority (“Level 1”), followed by observable inputs other than quoted prices including prices for similar but not identical assets or liabilities (“Level 2”), and unobservable inputs, including the reporting entity’s estimates of the assumption that market participants would use, having the lowest priority (“Level 3”). As of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, 54% of the investment portfolio recorded at fair value was priced based upon quoted market prices.
 
As more fully described in Note 3 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, “Investments—Impairment Review,” we completed a detailed review of all our securities in a continuous loss position as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, and concluded that the unrealized losses in these asset classes are the result of a decrease in value due to technical spread widening and broader market sentiment, rather than fundamental collateral deterioration, and are temporary in nature.
 
The table below summarizes the gross unrealized losses of our fixed-maturity securities available for sale and equity securities by length of time the security has continuously been in an unrealized loss position as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
 
 
   
June 30, 2013
 
   
Less than 12 months
   
12 months or more
   
Total
 
 
             
No. of
               
No. of
   
Aggregate
       
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
   
Positions
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
   
Positions
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
 
Category
 
Value
   
Losses
   
Held
   
Value
   
Losses
   
Held
   
Value
   
Losses
 
   
(unaudited)
 
Fixed-Maturity Securities:
                                               
Political subdivisions of
                                               
States, Territories and
                                               
Possessions
  $ 1,065,409     $ (80,990 )     5     $ 254,051     $ (11,909 )     3     $ 1,319,460     $ (92,899 )
                                                                 
Corporate and other
                                                               
bonds industrial and
                                                               
miscellaneous
    4,921,387       (247,662 )     24       -       -       -       4,921,387       (247,662 )
                                                                 
Total fixed-maturity
                                                               
securities
  $ 5,986,796     $ (328,652 )     29     $ 254,051     $ (11,909 )     3     $ 6,240,847     $ (340,561 )
                                                                 
Equity Securities:
                                                               
Preferred stocks
  $ 2,704,500     $ (89,440 )     10     $ -     $ -       -     $ 2,704,500     $ (89,440 )
Common stocks
    577,170       (39,522 )     4       -       -       -       577,170       (39,522 )
                                                                 
Total equity securities
  $ 3,281,670     $ (128,962 )     14     $ -     $ -       -     $ 3,281,670     $ (128,962 )
                                                                 
Total
  $ 9,268,466     $ (457,614 )     43     $ 254,051     $ (11,909 )     3     $ 9,522,517     $ (469,523 )
 
 
   
December 31, 2012
 
   
Less than 12 months
   
12 months or more
   
Total
 
 
             
No. of
               
No. of
   
Aggregate
       
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
   
Positions
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
   
Positions
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
 
Category
 
Value
   
Losses
   
Held
   
Value
   
Losses
   
Held
   
Value
   
Losses
 
                                                 
Fixed-Maturity Securities:
                                               
Political subdivisions of
                                               
States, Territories and
                                               
Possessions
  $ 202,798     $ (1,574 )     1     $ -     $ -       -     $ 202,798     $ (1,574 )
                                                                 
Corporate and other
                                                               
bonds industrial and
                                                               
miscellaneous
    4,025,551       (43,553 )     19       128,125       (722 )     1       4,153,676       (44,275 )
                                                                 
Total fixed-maturity
                                                               
securities
  $ 4,228,349     $ (45,127 )     20     $ 128,125     $ (722 )     1     $ 4,356,474     $ (45,849 )
                                                                 
Equity Securities:
                                                               
Preferred stocks
  $ 387,925     $ (11,130 )     3     $ -     $ -       -     $ 387,925     $ (11,130 )
Common stocks
    1,536,860       (145,899 )     9       -       -       -       1,536,860       (145,899 )
                                                                 
Total equity securities
  $ 1,924,785     $ (157,029 )     12     $ -     $ -       -     $ 1,924,785     $ (157,029 )
                                                                 
Total
  $ 6,153,134     $ (202,156 )     32     $ 128,125     $ (722 )     1     $ 6,281,259     $ (202,878 )
 
 
There were 46 securities at June 30, 2013 that accounted for the gross unrealized loss, none of which were deemed by us to be other than temporarily impaired. There were 33 securities at December 31, 2012 that accounted for the gross unrealized loss, none of which were deemed by us to be other than temporarily impaired. Significant factors influencing our determination that unrealized losses were temporary included the magnitude of the unrealized losses in relation to each security’s cost, the nature of the investment and management’s intent not to sell these securities and it being not more likely than not that we will be required to sell these investments before anticipated recovery of fair value to our cost basis.
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
Cash Flows
 
The primary sources of cash flow are from our insurance underwriting subsidiary, KICO, and include direct premiums written, ceding commissions from our quota share reinsurers, loss recovery payments from our reinsurers, investment income and proceeds from the sale or maturity of investments. Funds are used by KICO for ceded premium payments to reinsurers, which are paid on a net basis after subtracting losses paid on reinsured claims and reinsurance commissions. KICO also uses funds for loss payments and loss adjustment expenses on our net business, commissions to producers, salaries and other underwriting expenses as well as to purchase investments and fixed assets.
 
The primary sources of cash flow for our holding company operations are in connection with the fee income we receive from the premium finance loans and collection of principal and interest income from the notes received by us upon the sale of businesses that were included in our former discontinued operations. We may also receive cash dividends from KICO, subject to statutory restrictions. For the six months ended June 30, 2013, KICO paid dividends of $350,000 to us.
 
In December 2011, we entered into an agreement with a bank for a $500,000 line of credit to be used for general corporate needs. In January 2013, the line of credit was increased to $600,000. The principal balance is payable on demand, and must be reduced to zero for a minimum of 30 consecutive days during each year of the term of the credit line. The principal balance was reduced to zero in accordance with the terms of the credit line in 2013. The outstanding balance was $130,000 as of June 30, 2013. If the aforementioned is insufficient to cover our holding company cash requirements, we will seek to obtain additional financing.
 
As of June 30, 2013, the outstanding principal balance of our notes payable was $747,000; such notes bear interest at the rate of 9.5% per annum and mature on July 10, 2014. We believe that our present cash flows as described above will be sufficient on a short-term basis and over the next 12 months to fund our company-wide working capital requirements.
 
 
Our reconciliation of net income to cash provided by (used in) operations is generally influenced by the collection of premiums in advance of paid losses, the timing of reinsurance, issuing company settlements and loss payments.
 
Cash flow and liquidity are categorized into three sources: (1) operating activities; (2) investing activities; and (3) financing activities, which are shown in the following table:
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2013
   
2012
 
             
Cash flows provided by (used in):
           
Operating activities
  $ 1,711,211     $ 464,409  
Investing activities
    1,190,651       618,787  
Financing activities
    (757,174 )     (230,598 )
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
    2,144,688       852,598  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
    2,240,012       173,126  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
  $ 4,384,700     $ 1,025,724  
 
Net cash provided by operating activities was $1,711,000 in 2013 as compared to $464,000 provided in 2012. The $1,247,000 increase in cash flows provided by operating activities in 2013 was primarily a result of the fluctuations in assets and liabilities relating to operating activities of KICO as affected by the growth in its operations which are described above, offset by a decrease in net income (adjusted for non-cash items) of $1,498,000.
 
 Net cash provided by investing activities was $1,191,000 in 2013 compared to $619,000 provided in 2012. The $572,000 increase in cash flows provided by investing activities is a result of the increase in sales of invested assets, offset by an increase in acquisitions of invested assets.
 
Net cash used in financing activities was $757,000 in 2013 compared to $231,000 used in 2012. The $526,000 increase in cash flows used in financing activities is a result of net repayments of $320,000 on our credit line in 2013 compared to no such payments in 2012, and increases of $122,000 in the purchase of treasury stock and $80,000 of dividends paid in 2013 compared to 2012.
 
 
Reinsurance
 
Our reinsurance treaties were renewed effective July 1, 2013. The single maximum risks to which we are subject under these treaties per occurence are as follows:
 
Treaty
 
Range of Loss
 
Risk Retained
Personal Lines
 
Initial $1,200,000
 
$300,000
   
$1,200,000 - $2,900,000
 
None
   
Over $2,900,000
 
100%
         
Personal Umbrella
 
Initial $1,000,000
 
$100,000
   
$1,000,000 - $2,000,000
 
None
   
Over $2,000,000
 
100%
         
Commercial Lines
 
Initial $400,000
 
$300,000
   
$400,000- $2,900,000
 
None
   
Over $2,900,000
 
100%
         
Commercial Auto
 
Initial $300,000
 
$300,000
   
$300,000 - $2,000,000
 
None
   
Over $2,000,000
 
100%
         
Catastrophe
 
Initial $4,000,000
 
$1,000,000
   
$4,000,000 - $90,000,000
 
None
   
Over $90,000,000
 
100%
 
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
We have no off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that is material to investors.
 
ITEM  3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.

Not applicable
 

 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)) that are designed to assure that information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.
 
As required by Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(b), as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures.  Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of June 30, 2013.
 
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting during our most recently completed fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION
 
 
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

None


Not applicable.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.
 
(a)  
  None

(b)  
  Not applicable
 
(c)  
  The following table sets forth certain information with respect to purchases of common stock made by us or any “affiliated purchaser” during the quarter ended June 30, 2013:
 
Period
 
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
   
Average Price
Paid per Share
   
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly Announced Plans
or Programs
   
Maximum Number
of Shares that
May Be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs
 
                         
4/1/13-4/30/13
    -       -       -       -  
5/1/13-5/31/13
    820 (1)   $ 5.24 (1)     -       -  
6/1/13-6/30/13
    31,680 (2)   $ 4.38 (2)     -       -  
Total
    32,500 (1)(2)   $ 4.40 (1)(2)     -       -  

 
Shares purchased by “affiliated purchaser”.
 
Includes 1,680 shares purchased by “affiliated purchaser” at an average price per share of $5.22.


None


Not applicable

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION.

None
 
 
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS.

3(a)
 
Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended1
     
3(b)
 
By-laws, as amended2
     
 
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
     
 
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
     
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
     
101.INS
 
XBRL Instance Document
     
101.SCH
 
101.SCH  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema.
     
101.CAL
 
101.CAL   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase.
     
101.DEF
 
101.DEF   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase.
     
101.LAB
 
101.LAB   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase.
     
101.PRE
 
101.PRE  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase.

__________________________
1  Denotes document filed as an exhibit to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference.
2   Denotes document filed as an exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K for an event dated November 5, 2009 and incorporated herein by reference.

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

  KINGSTONE COMPANIES, INC.  
       
Dated: August 14, 2013
By:
/s/ Barry B. Goldstein
 
   
Barry B. Goldstein
President
 
       
Dated: August 14, 2013
By:
/s/ Victor Brodsky
 
    Victor Brodsky
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
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