Maiden Holdings, Ltd. - Annual Report: 2020 (Form 10-K)
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
☒ | ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2020
☐ | 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: 001-34042
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
(Exact Name of Registrant As Specified in Its Charter)
Bermuda | 98-0570192 | ||||
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
94 Pitts Bay Road
Pembroke HM 08, Bermuda
Pembroke HM 08, Bermuda
(Address of Principal Executive Offices and Zip Code)
(441) 298-4900
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class | Trading symbol(s) | Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered | ||||||||||||
Common Shares, par value $0.01 per share | MHLD | NASDAQ Capital Market | ||||||||||||
Series A Preference Shares, par value $0.01 per share | MH.PA | New York Stock Exchange | ||||||||||||
Series C Preference Shares, par value $0.01 per share | MH.PC | New York Stock Exchange | ||||||||||||
Series D Preference Shares, par value $0.01 per share | MH.PD | New York Stock Exchange |
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☐ No ☒
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐ No ☒
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 ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large Accelerated Filer | ☐ | Accelerated Filer | ☒ | ||||||||
Non-Accelerated Filer | ☐ | Smaller Reporting Company | ☒ | ||||||||
Emerging growth company | ☐ |
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ☐ No ☒
Aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common shares held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2020 (the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter) was approximately $85.9 million based on the closing sale price of the registrant’s common shares on the NASDAQ Capital Market on that date. As of March 9, 2021, 86,132,060 common shares were outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the registrant's definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A with respect to the annual general meeting of the shareholders of the registrant scheduled to be held on May 6, 2021 are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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PART I
Special Note About Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, other than purely historical information, including estimates, projections, statements relating to our business plans, objectives and expected operating results and the assumptions upon which those statements are based are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements include general statements both with respect to us and the insurance industry and generally are identified with the words "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "predict", "estimate", "intend", "plan", "project", "seek", "potential", "possible", "could", "might", "may", "should", "will", "would", "will be", "will continue", "will likely result" and similar expressions. In light of the risks and uncertainties inherent in all forward-looking statements, the inclusion of such statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K should not be considered as a representation by us or any other person that our objectives or plans or other matters described in any forward-looking statement will be achieved. These statements are based on current plans, estimates, assumptions and expectations. Actual results may differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements and therefore, you should not place undue reliance on them. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements are set forth in Item 1A "Risk Factors" in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
We caution that the list of important risk factors is not intended to be and is not exhaustive. We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law, and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or individuals acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this paragraph. If one or more risks or uncertainties materialize, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, our actual results may vary materially from what we projected. Any forward-looking statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K reflect our current view with respect to future events and are subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth, strategy and liquidity. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements which speak only as of the dates of the documents in which such statements were made.
References in this Annual Report on Form 10-K to the terms "we","us","our","the Company" or other similar terms mean the consolidated operations of Maiden Holdings, Ltd. and our consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context requires otherwise. References in this Annual Report on Form 10-K to the term "Maiden Holdings" means Maiden Holdings, Ltd. only. References in this Annual Report on Form 10-K to $ are to the lawful currency of the United States, unless otherwise indicated. Any discrepancies in the tables included herein between the amounts listed and the totals thereof are due to rounding.
Risk Factor Summary
We are subject to various risks that could have a material adverse impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. The following is a summary of the principal factors that make investing in our securities risky and may cause our actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The following is only a summary of the principal risks that may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows and should be read in conjunction with the more complete discussion of the risk factors we face, which are set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A. in this report:
• we have incurred volatile operating results in recent years and there can be no assurance that we will return to active underwriting or maintain operating profitability;
• there can be no assurance that our shareholders’ equity will improve;
• management may not successfully implement its business strategy which could result in a decline of capital or adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations;
• our actual losses may be greater than our reserve for loss and loss adjustment expenses ("loss and LAE");
• our internal control and reporting systems might not be effective in the future, which could increase the risk that we would become subject to restatements of our financial results or to regulatory action or litigation;
• our reinsurers may not pay losses in a timely fashion, or at all, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition;
• the failure of any of the loss limitation methods we have employed or could employ in the future could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition;
• our efforts to develop products, expand in targeted markets or modify our business and strategic plans may not be successful and may create enhanced risks;
• we depend on the policies, procedures and expertise of ceding companies for the business we have written in the past; these companies may have failed to accurately assess and price the risks they have underwritten, which may lead us to inaccurately assess and price the risks we assumed;
• the inherent uncertainty of models and the use of such models as a tool to evaluate risk in our underwriting process may have an adverse impact on our financial results;
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• the failure of our underwriting process could have an adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition;
• failure of our information technology systems or breaches to our technology systems as a result of cyber-attacks could disrupt our business and adversely impact our profitability;
• we may not have sufficient unrestricted liquidity to meet our obligations and favorable terms to obtain additional capital may not be available;
• a significant amount of our invested assets are subject to changes in interest rates and market volatility. If we are unable to realize our investment objectives, our financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected;
• the determination of the fair values of our investments and whether a decline in the fair value of an investment is other-than-temporary are based on management’s judgment and may prove to be incorrect;
• our investments in alternative investments and our investments in joint ventures and/or entities accounted for using the equity method may be illiquid and volatile in terms of value and returns, which could negatively affect our investment income and liquidity;
• we do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common shares for the foreseeable future and there can be no assurance that dividends on the preference shares will resume;
• we may not be able to comply with restrictive covenants contained in the documents governing our Senior Notes or any future credit facility which could trigger prepayment obligations;
• if we are unable to maintain appropriate regulatory capital ratios, it could lead to regulatory restrictions;
• our industry is highly regulated, the regulatory requirements are expensive and we are subject to significant legal restrictions and these restrictions may have a material adverse effect on us;
• our holding company structure and certain regulatory and other constraints affect our ability to pay dividends and make other payments;
• we have risks related to our Preference Shares and Senior Notes;
• a few significant shareholders may influence or control the direction of our business. If the ownership of our common shares continues to be highly concentrated, it may limit your ability and the ability of other shareholders to influence significant corporate decisions;
• the market price for our ordinary shares has been and may continue to be highly volatile, and if there is a further sustained decline in our share price there could be limited liquidity for our ordinary shares;
• provisions in our bye-laws could change voting rights of our shares, impede an attempt to replace or remove our directors, and/or make it difficult for a third party to acquire us which could diminish the value of our common shares;
• significant changes in our reinsurance relationship with AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. ("AmTrust") have reduced our current and future revenues and create significant uncertainty for sources of future liquidity;
• our initial arrangements with AmTrust were negotiated while we were its affiliate and as such the arrangements could be challenged as not reflecting terms that we would agree to in arm’s-length negotiations with an independent third party;
• our non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors (the "Board") currently holds the positions of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of AmTrust. These dual positions may present, and make us vulnerable to, difficult conflicts of interest and related legal challenges;
• we may not be able to attract and retain key employees or successfully implement our newly formulated business strategy; and
• our employee attrition recently has been high and may affect our ability to adequately manage our business.
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Item 1. Business.
General Overview
Maiden Holdings is a Bermuda-based holding company, previously focused on serving the needs of regional and specialty insurers in the United States ("U.S."), Europe and select other global markets. As a result of a series of actions we have taken in recent years discussed below under "Recent Developments", we now create shareholder value by actively managing and allocating our assets and capital, including through ownership and management of businesses and assets mostly in the insurance and related financial services industries where we can leverage our deep knowledge of those markets. We also provide a full range of legacy services to small insurance companies, particularly those in run-off or with blocks of reserves that are no longer core, working with clients to develop and implement finality solutions including acquiring entire companies. We expect our legacy solutions business to contribute to our active asset and capital management strategies.
Short-term income protection business is written on a primary basis by our wholly owned subsidiaries Maiden Life Försäkrings AB ("Maiden LF") and Maiden General Försäkrings AB ("Maiden GF") in the Scandinavian and Northern European markets. Insurance support services are provided to Maiden LF and Maiden GF by our United Kingdom ("U.K.") services company, Maiden Global Holdings Ltd. (“Maiden Global”) which is also a licensed intermediary in the U.K. Maiden Global had previously operated internationally by providing branded auto and credit life insurance products through insurer partners, particularly those in the European Union ("EU") and other global markets. These products also produced reinsurance programs which were underwritten by our indirect wholly owned subsidiary Maiden Reinsurance Ltd. ("Maiden Reinsurance").
We are not actively underwriting reinsurance business but have some historic reinsurance programs underwritten by Maiden Reinsurance which are in run-off. We continue to run-off the liabilities associated with AmTrust contracts, which we terminated in early 2019 as discussed below. We have also entered into a retroactive reinsurance agreement and a commutation agreement that further reduces our exposure to and limits the potential volatility related to these AmTrust liabilities, which are discussed in "Note 8 — Reinsurance" of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data".
As discussed below, the sale of our indirect wholly owned subsidiary Maiden Reinsurance North America, Inc. ("Maiden US") and the termination of our two quota share contracts with AmTrust materially reduced our gross and net premiums written since 2018. We have significantly reduced our operating expenses and continue to take steps to reduce these costs further.
Recent Developments
Since the third quarter of 2018, we have engaged in a series of transactions that dramatically reduced the regulatory capital required to operate our business, materially strengthened our solvency ratios, and ceased active reinsurance underwriting. During that time, we significantly increased our estimate of ultimate losses and loss reserves while purchasing reinsurance protection against further loss reserve volatility, and as a result, have improved the ultimate economic value of the Company.
The measures we have taken were initiated in early 2018, when our Board initiated a review of strategic alternatives ("Strategic Review") to evaluate ways to increase shareholder value after a period of continuing higher than targeted combined ratios and lower returns on equity than expected. Details of the transactions completed under the Strategic Review and other capital transactions are also discussed in the "Recent Developments" section of Item 7 "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" as well as the related discussion in our Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements specifically "Note 10 — Related Party Transactions" and "Note 13 — Shareholders’ Equity" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10–K.
Our future results, and our ability to generate an improved risk-adjusted return on capital, may be impacted by risks and trends set forth in Item 1A, "Risk Factors", and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Business Strategy
We continued to re–evaluate our operating strategy during 2020 while leveraging the significant assets and capital we retain. In addition to restoring operating profitability, our strategic focus centers on creating the greatest risk-adjusted shareholder returns, whether via asset and capital management or active reinsurance underwriting of new risks, or a combination of both. Further details are discussed in the "Business Strategy" section of Item 7 "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Overview" of this Annual Report on Form 10–K.
Our Principal Operating Subsidiaries
Maiden Reinsurance, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Maiden Holdings, is an affiliated reinsurance company licensed in the State of Vermont in the U.S. which commenced operations in June 2007. Effective March 16, 2020, the re-domestication of Maiden Reinsurance from Bermuda to the U.S. was completed. Maiden Reinsurance is now subject to the statutes and regulations of Vermont in the ordinary course of business. The re-domestication did not apply to Maiden Holdings which remains a Bermuda-based holding company.
Maiden Holdings North America, Ltd. ("Maiden NA") is our wholly owned U.S. holding company and is domiciled in the State of Delaware.
Maiden Global, a wholly owned subsidiary of Maiden Holdings, operates an insurance services company. Maiden Global is organized under the laws of England and Wales. Maiden LF and Maiden GF, both wholly owned subsidiaries of Maiden Holdings, are insurance companies organized under the laws of Sweden and write income protection insurance on a primary basis in the Scandinavian and Northern European market.
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Our Reportable Segments
Our business currently consists of two reportable segments: Diversified Reinsurance and AmTrust Reinsurance. As a result of the strategic decision to divest all our U.S. treaty reinsurance operations in 2018, we revised the composition of our reportable segments in the fourth quarter of 2018. Our Diversified Reinsurance segment consists of a portfolio of predominantly property and casualty reinsurance business focusing on regional and specialty property and casualty insurance companies located primarily in Europe. Our AmTrust Reinsurance segment includes all business ceded to Maiden Reinsurance by AmTrust, primarily the quota share reinsurance agreement (“AmTrust Quota Share”) between Maiden Reinsurance and AmTrust’s wholly owned subsidiary, AmTrust International Insurance, Ltd. (“AII”) and the European hospital liability quota share reinsurance contract ("European Hospital Liability Quota Share") with AmTrust’s wholly owned subsidiaries AmTrust Europe Limited ("AEL") and AmTrust International Underwriters DAC ("AIU DAC"), which are both in run-off effective January 1, 2019.
Financial data relating to our two reportable segments is included in Item 7. "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and in "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 3. Segment Information" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The table below compares net premiums earned, by reportable segment, reconciled to the total consolidated net premiums earned for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Net Premiums Earned | % of Total | Net Premiums Earned | % of Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Diversified Reinsurance | $ | 47,847 | 45.1 | % | $ | 83,691 | 18.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
AmTrust Reinsurance | 58,234 | 54.9 | % | 364,071 | 81.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 106,081 | 100.0 | % | $ | 447,762 | 100.0 | % |
Financial data relating to the geographical areas in which we operate and relating to our principal products by line of business may be found in "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 3. Segment Information" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Diversified Reinsurance Segment
In this segment, Maiden Reinsurance wrote treaties on both a quota share basis and excess of loss basis outside the U.S. whereas Maiden LF and Maiden GF write business within Europe on a primary basis. Maiden Reinsurance has a limited number of in-force reinsurance contracts that are renewals of existing contracts. Net premiums written by our Diversified Reinsurance segment's operating subsidiaries, after intercompany reinsurance, for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 included:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Net Premiums Written | % of Total | Net Premiums Written | % of Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Maiden Reinsurance | $ | 21,073 | 56.6 | % | $ | 36,074 | 73.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Maiden LF | 9,421 | 25.3 | % | 7,412 | 15.1 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Maiden GF | 6,764 | 18.1 | % | 5,665 | 11.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 37,258 | 100.0 | % | $ | 49,151 | 100.0 | % |
Please refer to Item 7. "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" for a discussion on the performance of our Diversified Reinsurance segment for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Maiden Reinsurance was previously focused on developing a portfolio of assumed reinsurance within Europe and globally since the advent of Solvency II (referred to as "European Capital Solutions"). As a result of our A.M. Best rating being downgraded to B++ (Good) with negative outlook and implications in November 2018, the European Capital Solutions business was adversely affected and a significant amount of this business was either non–renewed at January 1, 2019 or terminated pursuant to contractual provisions in the underlying reinsurance contracts. The net premiums written in European Capital Solutions for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Net premiums written | $ | 68 | $ | (1,519) |
Additionally, Maiden Global’s business development teams partner with automobile manufacturers, dealer associations and local primary insurers to design and implement point of sale insurance programs which generate revenue for the auto manufacturer and insurance premiums for the primary insurer ("IIS business"). Typically, the primary insurer agrees to reinsure an agreed upon percentage of the underlying business to Maiden Reinsurance as part of the overall arrangement. Maiden Reinsurance is generally not obligated to underwrite the original equipment automobile manufacturers' (the "OEMs") programs that Maiden Global designs.
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The IIS premiums by line of business for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 included:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Net Premiums Written | % of Total | Net Premiums Written | % of Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Personal Auto - Quota Share Reinsurance | $ | 20,596 | 55.3 | % | $ | 31,081 | 61.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Credit Life - Insurance | 16,630 | 44.7 | % | 19,631 | 38.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 37,226 | 100.0 | % | $ | 50,712 | 100.0 | % |
For the years ended December 31, 2020, the Company's net written premiums for Personal Auto on a quota share reinsurance basis decreased compared to 2019 primarily due to a lower quota share cession percentage which declined from 65% in 2018 to 50% in 2019 and 35% in 2020 in the German Auto programs.
We previously generated fee income when Maiden Global participated in transactions and collected a fee for designing and facilitating the sale of insurance programs; prior to 2019, a significant portion of our fee income was generated by AVS Automotive VersicherungsService GmbH ("AVS") and its subsidiaries in Germany and Austria through its point of sale producers in select OEMs dealerships. On January 10, 2019, we completed the sale of AVS and related European subsidiaries to Allianz Partners ("Allianz"). In addition to a fee for the sale of AVS, we entered into a three–year quota share reinsurance agreement with Allianz for certain German automobile policies that we have historically reinsured. In 2021, the parties have agreed not to renew the reinsurance contracts for the third year. For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, this fee income was earned within the following locations:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Fee Income | % of Total | Fee Income | % of Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
United Kingdom | $ | 913 | 79.7 | % | $ | 952 | 56.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Australia | 232 | 20.3 | % | 721 | 43.1 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 1,145 | 100.0 | % | $ | 1,673 | 100.0 | % |
AmTrust Reinsurance Segment
General
AmTrust is a multinational specialty property and casualty insurance holding company with operations in the U.S., Europe and Bermuda. Effective January 1, 2019 (a) the AmTrust Quota Share, and (b) the European Hospital Liability Quota Share were terminated on a run-off basis. These transactions are broadly referred to herein as the "Final AmTrust QS Terminations". Apart from certain unearned premiums in the AmTrust Quota Share and the European Hospital Liability Quota Share that were earned subsequent to December 31, 2018, there was no new premium written within this segment during 2020 and 2019.
Information relating to our founding shareholders that are affiliated with AmTrust may be found in "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 10. Related Party Transactions" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Through our reinsurance agreements with AmTrust, we reinsured specific lines of business within the following AmTrust business segments:
•Small commercial business insurance, which includes U.S. workers’ compensation, commercial package and other low-hazard property and casualty insurance products;
•Specialty risk and extended warranty coverage for consumer and commercial goods and custom designed coverages, such as accidental damage plans and payment protection plans offered in connection with the sale of consumer and commercial goods, in the U.S., U.K. and certain other global markets and European hospital liability; and
•Specialty program which includes package products, general liability, commercial auto liability, excess and surplus lines programs and other specialty commercial property and casualty insurance to a narrowly defined, homogeneous group of small and middle market companies.
AmTrust Quota Share
Under the AmTrust Quota Share with AII, effective July 1, 2007 and through 2018, we reinsured 40% of AmTrust’s premium written, net of reinsurance with unaffiliated reinsurers, relating to all lines of business that existed on the effective date. We also had the option to reinsure additional programs, in addition to the original lines of business entered into by AmTrust since the effective date of the AmTrust Quota Share. As AmTrust expanded into new lines of business, pursuant to the terms of the AmTrust Quota Share, we had selectively added some of those lines and opted not to participate in others. Consequently our share of AmTrust's overall gross premiums written declined below 40% over time.
As a result of the Final AmTrust QS Terminations described above, our active reinsurance contracts with AmTrust were terminated effective January 1, 2019. Also, effective July 31, 2019, Maiden Reinsurance and AII entered into a Commutation and Release Agreement (which is broadly referred to herein as the "AmTrust WC Commutation") effective July 31, 2019, which provided for AII to assume all reserves ceded by AII to Maiden Reinsurance with respect to its proportional 40% share of the ultimate net loss under the AmTrust Quota Share related to: (a) all losses incurred in Accident Year 2017 and Accident Year 2018 under California workers' compensation policies and as defined in the AmTrust Quota Share ("Commuted California
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Business"); and (b) all losses incurred in Accident Year 2018 under New York workers' compensation policies ("Commuted New York Business" and together with the Commuted California Business, "Commuted Business") in exchange for the release and full discharge of Maiden Reinsurance of all of its obligations to AII with respect to the Commuted Business. The Commuted Business did not include any business classified by AII as Specialty Program or Specialty Risk business.
European Hospital Liability Quota Share
On April 1, 2011, Maiden Reinsurance entered into the European Hospital Liability Quota Share with AEL and AIU DAC to cover those entities' medical liability business within Europe, primarily in Italy and France. These contracts were terminated on a run-off basis effective January 1, 2019 as part of the Final AmTrust QS Terminations.
For more information, please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 10. Related Party Transactions" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Risk Management
Our Enterprise Risk Management ("ERM") framework reflects the ‘three lines of defense’ approach to risk management, which involves (1) individual functions having responsibility for identifying and managing risks; (2) the ERM Committee providing oversight and guidance to individual functions; and (3) internal audit performing independent reviews. Our Board has overall responsibility for oversight of the ERM program and has delegated this oversight to its Audit Committee.
Our ERM Committee monitors and oversees the risk environment and provides direction to mitigate, to an acceptable level, the most significant and material risks that may adversely affect our ability to achieve our goals. The ERM Committee continually reviews factors that may impact our organizational risk and develops and implements strategies and action plans to mitigate key risks.
Our ERM program is designed to achieve the following:
•Establish a process to assess strategies and business decisions on a risk/reward basis;
•Establish a risk governance structure with clearly defined roles and responsibilities;
•Identify and assess all material risks from internal and external sources;
•Manage risks within our risk appetite; and
•Effective review and reporting of major loss events.
The first line of defense assists with the identification of risks, creation of appropriate responses to risks, and maintains them within the risk appetite and tolerances that the ERM Committee believes are necessary to achieve our business strategies and objectives. The mitigation of risks is achieved through the application and operation of controls, transferring of risk or tolerating risks within risk appetite.
Our internal audit department assesses the adequacy and effectiveness of our risk management framework and mitigating controls and coordinates risk-based audits to evaluate and address risk within targeted areas of our business. The core functions of this department are to (1) assess the adequacy and effectiveness of our internal control systems; (2) coordinate risk-based audits and compliance reviews; and (3) carry out other initiatives to evaluate and address risk within targeted areas of our business. Internal audit integrates testing of the risk management framework into its annual test plans.
Our Audit Committee, comprised solely of independent directors, meets at least quarterly to assess whether management is addressing risk issues in a timely and appropriate manner. The Audit Committee receives a quarterly update on capital and risk management. Our risk appetite and tolerances have been formally approved by the Audit Committee.
As a property and casualty holding company, our insurance subsidiaries are in the business of assuming risk, although we are not currently actively underwriting new risks. Our primary risks are categorized as follows:
•Strategic risk – the risk that strategic decisions have an unexpected or adverse impact on future earnings or capital adequacy. This includes the ability to deploy capital in order to maximize risk adjusted returns in the most efficient way, without adversely impacting the adequacy of our capital position;
•Insurance risk - the risk that insured losses are higher than our expectations. This includes losses arising from inadequate loss reserves, losses from larger than expected non-catastrophe current accident year losses, and catastrophe losses that exceed our expectation or our reinsurance limits. Maiden Reinsurance is not engaged in active reinsurance underwriting and as a result our insurance risk from premiums is immaterial;
•Investment risk - the risk of loss in our investment portfolio potentially caused by fluctuations in interest rates, credit spreads, foreign exchange rates and inflation on both assets and liabilities;
•Liquidity risk - the risk that the group does not have sufficient unrestricted or liquid funds to pay losses or meet contractual obligations as they become due; and
•Operational risk - the risk of loss from inadequate or failed internal processes, people, systems and/or external events, which also includes legal risks.
Our Financial Strength Ratings
A.M. Best has developed a rating system to provide an opinion of an insurer’s or reinsurer’s financial strength and ability to meet ongoing obligations to its policyholders. Each rating reflects that rating agency’s independent opinion of the capitalization, management and sponsorship of the entity to which it relates, and is neither an evaluation directed to investors in
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our common shares nor a recommendation to buy, sell or hold our common shares. A.M. Best maintains a letter scale rating system ranging from "A++" (Superior) to "F" (In Liquidation).
In February 2019, we requested A.M. Best to withdraw our financial strength rating. On February 28, 2019, A.M. Best approved the withdrawal with a final rating as "B++" (Good) with negative outlook and implications. As a result, we do not have a financial strength rating from any of the major rating agencies that cover our industry.
As presently constituted, we believe that our current business operations neither require a financial strength rating nor inhibit us from pursuing or achieving our strategic objectives. However, as we continue to evaluate our ongoing business strategy, the lack of a financial strength rating from one of the major rating agencies may limit or negatively impact our ability to market and sell our products in the future. It may also require us to use collateral more frequently to secure client relationships, which could impact our unrestricted liquidity. Both of these factors would be key considerations as to whether and when we would resume active underwriting.
Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses
General
We are required by applicable insurance laws and regulations in the U.S. and Sweden and by U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("U.S. GAAP") to establish loss reserves to cover our estimated liability for the payment of all loss and LAE incurred with respect to premiums earned on the policies and treaties that we write. These reserves are balance sheet liabilities presenting estimates of loss and LAE which we are ultimately required to pay for insured or reinsured claims that have occurred as of or before the balance sheet date. The loss and LAE reserves on our balance sheet represent management’s best estimate of the outstanding liabilities associated with our premium earned. In developing this estimate, management considers the results of internal and external actuarial analyses, trends in those analyses as well as industry trends. Our opining independent actuary certifies that the reserves established by management make a reasonable provision for our unpaid loss and LAE obligations.
These amounts include case reserves and provisions for Incurred But Not Reported ("IBNR") reserves. Case reserves are established for losses that have been reported to us, and not yet paid. IBNR reserves represent the estimated cost of losses that have occurred but have not been reported to us and include a provision for additional development on case reserves. We establish case reserves based on information from the ceding company, reinsurance intermediaries, and when appropriate, consultations with independent legal counsel. The IBNR reserves are established by management based on reported loss and LAE and actuarially determined estimates of ultimate loss and LAE.
A variety of standard actuarial methods are calculated to estimate ultimate loss and LAE. The majority of our business is reserved individually by cedant and line of business, with the remainder reserved in homogeneous groupings. Ultimate loss selections are accumulated across the reserve segments, and appropriate actuarial judgment is applied to determine the final selection of estimated ultimate losses. Ultimate losses are converted to IBNR reserves by subtracting inception to date paid losses and case reserves from those amounts. The combined total of case and IBNR results in indicated reserves which are the basis for the carried reserves for financial statements. Ultimate losses are also used to estimate premium and commission accruals for accounts with adjustable features.
Loss reserves do not represent an exact calculation of liability; rather, loss reserves are estimates of what we expect the ultimate resolution and administration of claims will cost. These estimates are based on actuarial and statistical projections and on our assessment of currently available data, as well as estimates of trends in claims severity and frequency, judicial theories of liability and other factors. Loss reserve estimates are refined as experience develops and as claims are reported and resolved. Establishing an appropriate level of loss reserves is an inherently uncertain process. In addition, the relatively long reporting periods between when a loss occurs and when it may be reported to our claims department for our casualty lines of business also increase the uncertainties of our reserve estimates in such lines. To assist us in establishing appropriate reserves for loss and LAE, we analyze a significant amount of internal data and external insurance industry information with respect to the pricing environment and loss settlement patterns. In combination with our individual account pricing analyses and our internal loss settlement patterns, this industry information is used to guide our loss and LAE estimates. These estimates are reviewed quarterly, at a high level of detail, and any adjustments are reflected in earnings in the periods in which they are determined.
For additional information concerning our reserves, see Item 7,"Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Critical Accounting Policies — Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses" and "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 9 — Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses" included under Item 8 "Financial Statement and Supplementary Data", for further information regarding the specific actuarial models we utilize and the uncertainties in establishing the reserve for loss and LAE.
Our Employees
On March 9, 2021, we had approximately 52 full-time and part-time employees who are located in Bermuda, the U.S., the U.K., Germany, Ireland and Sweden. We believe that our employee relations are good. None of our employees are subject to collective bargaining agreements.
Regulatory Matters
General
The insurance and reinsurance industry are subject to regulatory and legislative oversight and regulation in various markets in which we operate.
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U.S. Insurance Regulation
Until its re-domestication to Vermont, Maiden Reinsurance was regulated as a registered Class 3B general business insurer under the Insurance Act 1978 of Bermuda, as amended, and related regulations. As of March 16, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance is an affiliated reinsurer organized under the laws of the state of Vermont. Regulatory, supervisory and administrative authority over insurance companies is primarily delegated to the states with the exception of federal authority over boycott, coercion and intimidation, federal antitrust laws and where federal law is enacted specifically to regulate the business of insurance. Among other things, state insurance departments regulate insurer solvency standards, insurer and agent licensing, authorized investments, loss and loss expense reserves and provisions for unearned premiums, and deposits of securities for the benefit of policyholders. Maiden Reinsurance is required to file detailed financial statements and other reports with the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation ("Vermont DFR"). These financial statements are subject to the supervision, regulation and periodic examination by the Vermont DFR.
State Insurance Department Examinations
Maiden Reinsurance is subject to the financial supervision and regulation of the Vermont DFR. As part of their regulatory oversight process, state insurance departments conduct periodic detailed examinations of the financial reporting of insurance companies domiciled in their states, not less frequently than once every five years. Examinations may be carried out in cooperation with the insurance departments of other states under guidelines promulgated by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC").
Statutory Accounting Principles
Statutory accounting principles ("SAP") are a basis of accounting developed to assist insurance regulators in monitoring and regulating the solvency of insurance companies. SAP is primarily concerned with measuring an insurer's surplus to policyholders. Accordingly, statutory accounting focuses on valuing assets and liabilities of insurers at financial reporting dates in accordance with appropriate insurance law and regulatory provisions applicable in each insurer's domiciliary state.
U.S. GAAP is concerned with a company's solvency, but is also concerned with other financial measurements, principally income and cash flows. Accordingly, U.S. GAAP gives more consideration to appropriate matching of revenue and expenses and accounting for management's stewardship of assets than does SAP. As a direct result, different assets and liabilities and different amounts of assets and liabilities will be reflected in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP compared to SAP. Statutory accounting practices established by the NAIC and adopted in part by Vermont will determine, among other things, the amount of statutory surplus and statutory net income of Maiden Reinsurance, and thus determine, in part, the amount of funds that could be available to pay as dividends.
Holding Company Regulation
Maiden Reinsurance is subject to the U.S. statutory holding company laws of Vermont. The insurance holding company laws and regulations apply directly to individual insurers, indirectly to non-insurance entities, and provide regulators the ability to look at any entity within an insurance holding company system. State regulations generally provide that each insurance company in an insurance holding company system must register with the insurance department of its state of domicile. These laws vary from state to state, but each state has enacted legislation which requires licensed insurers that are subsidiaries of insurance holding companies to register and file with state regulatory authorities certain reports including information concerning their capital structure, ownership, financial condition and general business operations. All transactions involving the insurers in a holding company system and their affiliates must be fair and reasonable and, if material, require prior notice and non-disapproval by the state insurance department of their domicile. Further, state insurance holding company laws typically place limitations on the amounts of dividends or other distributions payable by insurers. Any capital distribution of any kind out of Maiden Reinsurance would be done consistent with Vermont regulations or as required, with the prior approval of the Vermont DFR.
State insurance holding company laws also require prior notice and state insurance department approval of changes in control of an insurer or its holding company. "Control" is generally defined as the possession, direct or indirect, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of the company, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract (except a commercial contract for goods or non-management services) or otherwise. Maiden Reinsurance is domiciled in Vermont where any beneficial owner of 10% or more of the outstanding voting securities of an insurance company or its holding company is presumed to have acquired control, unless this presumption is rebutted. Therefore, an investor who intends to acquire beneficial ownership of 10% or more of our outstanding voting securities may need to comply with these laws and would be required to file notices and reports with the Vermont DFR and receive approval from the Vermont DFR or rebut the presumption of control before such acquisition.
Additionally, the Model Holding Company Act and Model Holding Company Regulation address “enterprise” risk - the risk that an activity, circumstance, event, or series of events involving one or more affiliates of an insurer that, if not remedied promptly, is likely to have a material adverse effect upon the financial condition or liquidity of the insurer or its insurance holding company system as a whole. The Vermont DFR adopted the requirement for a holding company to annually submit an Enterprise Risk Report with the state commissioner.
In 2012, the NAIC adopted the Risk Management and Own Risk and Solvency Assessment (“ORSA”) Model Act (the “ORSA Model Act”), which requires domestic insurers to maintain a risk management framework and establishes a legal requirement for domestic insures to conduct an ORSA in accordance with NAIC’s ORSA Guidance Manual. The ORSA Model Act provides that domestic insurers, or their insurance group, must regularly conduct an ORSA consistent with a process comparable to the ORSA Guidance Manual process. The ORSA Model Act also provides that, no more than once a year, an insurer's domiciliary regulator may request that an insurer submit an ORSA summary report, or any combination of reports that together contain the information described in the ORSA Guidance Manual, with respect to the insurer and/or the insurance
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group of which it is a member. Vermont has adopted its version of the ORSA Model Act and the Company believes that a Vermont statutory exemption (8 V.S.A. Section 3586) presently exempts the Company from the requirements of Vermont’s version of the ORSA Model Act.
Risk-Based Capital
U.S. insurers are also subject to risk-based capital ("RBC") guidelines that provide a method to measure the total adjusted capital (statutory capital and surplus plus other adjustments) of insurance companies taking into account the risk characteristics of a company's investments and products. The RBC formulas establish capital requirements for four categories of risk: asset risk, insurance risk, interest rate risk and business risk. For each category, the capital requirement is determined by applying factors to asset, premium and reserve items, with higher factors applied to items with greater underlying risk and lower factors for less risky items. Insurers that have less statutory capital than the RBC calculation required are considered to have inadequate capital and are subject to varying degrees of regulatory action depending upon the level of capital inadequacy. Maiden Reinsurance filed its first RBC reports in March 2021 for the 2020 calendar year, and the reported RBC levels exceed Vermont's RBC requirements and believes that these ratios should further improve as the amount of capital required to operate Maiden Reinsurance continues to decline based on our current expected business strategy.
Reinsurance
The ability of an insurer to take credit for the reinsurance purchased from reinsurance companies is a significant component of reinsurance regulation. Typically, an insurer will only enter into a reinsurance agreement if it can obtain credit to its reserves on its statutory financial statements for the reinsurance ceded to the reinsurer. With respect to U.S. domiciled reinsurers that reinsure U.S. insurers, credit is usually granted when the reinsurer is licensed, certified or accredited in a state where the primary insurer is domiciled or, in some instances, in a state in which the primary insurer is licensed. States also generally permit primary insurers to take credit for reinsurance if the reinsurer is (i) domiciled in a state with a credit for reinsurance law that is substantially similar to the standards in the primary insurer's state of domicile, and (ii) meets certain financial requirements. Credit for reinsurance purchased from a reinsurer that does not meet the foregoing conditions is generally allowed to the extent that such reinsurer secures its obligations with qualified collateral. We are able to take credit for all reinsurance purchased and all cedants are able to take credit for reinsurance they purchase from us.
NAIC Ratios
The NAIC Insurance Regulatory Information System ("IRIS") was developed to help state regulators identify companies that may require special attention. IRIS is comprised of statistical and analytical phases consisting of key financial ratios whereby financial examiners review annual statutory basis statements and financial ratios. Each ratio has an established "usual range" of results and assists state insurance departments in executing their statutory mandate to oversee the financial condition of insurance companies. A ratio result falling outside the usual range of IRIS ratios is not considered a failing result; rather unusual values are viewed as part of the regulatory early monitoring system. Furthermore, in some years, it may not be unusual for financially sound companies to have several ratios with results outside the usual ranges. An insurance company may fall out of the usual range for one or more ratios because of specific transactions that are in themselves immaterial. Generally, an insurance company will become subject to regulatory scrutiny and may be subject to regulatory action if it falls outside the usual ranges of four or more of the ratios. Because Maiden Reinsurance recently completed its re-domestication to Vermont in 2020, it is possible that it may produce unusual ratios outside the usual ranges for more than four tests, principally due to the lack of prior year statutory data which is required for many of the ratios to be computed.
State Legislative and Regulatory Changes
From time to time, various regulatory and legislative changes are proposed in the insurance industry. Among the proposals that have in the past been or are at present being considered are proposals in various state legislatures (some of which proposals have been enacted) to conform portions of their insurance laws and regulations to various model acts adopted by the NAIC.
While we are not actively underwriting reinsurance business, our insurance subsidiaries are required to comply with a wide variety of laws and regulations applicable to insurance or reinsurance companies, both in the jurisdictions in which they are organized and where they may sell insurance and reinsurance products. The insurance and regulatory environment, in particular for offshore insurance and reinsurance companies, has become subject to increased scrutiny in many jurisdictions, including the U.S., various states within the U.S. and the EU. In the past, there have been Congressional and other initiatives in the U.S. regarding increased supervision and regulation of the insurance industry. It is not possible to predict the future impact of changes in laws and regulations on our operations. The cost of complying with any new legal requirements affecting our subsidiaries could have a material adverse effect on our business.
In addition, our subsidiaries may not always be able to obtain or maintain necessary licenses, permits, authorizations or accreditations. They also may not be able to fully comply with, or to obtain appropriate exemptions from, the laws and regulations applicable to them. Any failure to comply with applicable law or to obtain appropriate exemptions could result in restrictions on either the ability of the company in question, as well as potentially its affiliates, to do business in one or more of the jurisdictions in which they operate or on brokers on which we rely to produce business for us. In addition, any such failure to comply with applicable laws or to obtain appropriate exemptions could result in the imposition of fines or other sanctions. Any of these sanctions could have a material adverse effect on our business. To date, no material fine, penalty or restriction has been imposed on us for failure to comply with any insurance law or regulation.
International Standards
U.S. federal and state regulators have committed in principle to adopting international standards with respect to basic regulatory issues such as accounting, risk management and corporate governance. International regulatory considerations are increasingly being deliberated by the NAIC and could increase regulatory burdens for Maiden Reinsurance and have the potential to negatively impact all U.S. insurers, regardless of size. Various trade associations and industry participants are
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aggressively working to impact the NAIC adoption of these standards. However, the final outcome of these deliberations is unknown at this time.
Federal
Although the regulation of the business of insurance and reinsurance is predominantly performed by the states, federal initiatives, such as the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act ("Dodd-Frank"), often have an impact on the insurance industry. From time to time, various federal regulatory and legislative changes have been proposed in the insurance and reinsurance industry. While we cannot predict the exact nature, timing or scope of possible governmental initiatives, there may be increased regulatory intervention in our industry in the future.
On January 13, 2017, the U.S. Department of the Treasury ("U.S. Treasury Department") and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative, ("USTR"), announced the successful completion of negotiations for a "covered agreement" in the meaning of the Dodd-Frank Act for the U.S. and an Agreement under Article 218 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union for the EU ("Covered Agreement"). The agreement covers three areas of prudential oversight: (1) reinsurance; (2) group supervision; and (3) the exchange of information between insurance supervisors.
On September 22, 2017, the U.S. Treasury Department, USTR, and the EU formally signed the Covered Agreement. The agreement requires states to eliminate reinsurance collateral within 5 years or risk preemption. In exchange, the EU will not impose local presence requirements on U.S. firms operating in the EU, and effectively must defer to U.S. group capital regulation for U.S. entities of EU-based firms. The U.S. Treasury Department and USTR also released a U.S. policy statement clarifying their interpretation of the Covered Agreement in several key areas including capital, group supervision and reinsurance. Over the coming months, state regulators working through the NAIC will make key decisions on whether and how to modify state laws and regulations to comport with the provisions of the Covered Agreement. Bermuda is not covered under this agreement.
Sweden Insurance Regulation
Maiden LF and Maiden GF are subject to regulation and supervision by Finansinpektionen, the Swedish financial supervisory authority (the “Swedish FSA”). As Sweden is a member of the EU, the Swedish FSA supervision is recognized across all locations within the EU. Generally, the Swedish FSA has broad supervisory and administrative powers over such matters as licenses, standards of solvency, investments, methods of accounting, form and content of financial statements, minimum capital and surplus requirements, passporting permissions, approval of directors and officers, and annual and other report filings. In general, such regulation is for the protection of policyholders rather than shareholders. The Company believes that it is in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations pertaining to its business that would have a material effect on its financial position in the event of non-compliance.
Certain Bermuda Law Considerations
Maiden Holdings has been designated as non-resident for exchange control purposes by the Bermuda Monetary Authority ("BMA") and is required to obtain the permission of the BMA for the issue and transfer of all of its shares. The BMA has given its consent for: (a) the issue and transfer of Maiden Holdings' common shares, up to the amount of its authorized capital from time to time, to and among persons that are non-residents of Bermuda for exchange control purposes; and (b) the issue and transfer of up to 20% of Maiden Holdings' common shares in issue from time to time to and among persons resident in Bermuda for exchange control purposes.
Transfers and issues of Maiden Holdings' common shares to any resident in Bermuda for exchange control purposes may require specific prior approval under the Exchange Control Act 1972. Because we are designated as non-resident for Bermuda exchange control purposes, we are allowed to engage in transactions, and to pay dividends to Bermuda non-residents who are holders of our common shares, in currencies other than the Bermuda Dollar.
The Economic Substance Act 2018, as amended (“ESA”) came into force in Bermuda on January 1, 2019 and impacts every Bermuda registered entity engaged in a “relevant activity” to maintain a substantial economic presence in Bermuda and to satisfy economic substance requirements. Under the ESA, holding entity activities (as defined in the ESA and the Economic Substance Regulations 2018, as amended) are deemed a relevant activity. To the extent that the ESA applies to Maiden Holdings, we are required to demonstrate compliance with economic substance requirements that we have “adequate” economic substance in Bermuda, and we must file an annual economic substance declaration with the Bermuda Registrar of Companies. Any entity that must satisfy economic substance requirements but fails to do so could face penalties, restriction or regulation of its business activities and may be struck off as a registered entity in Bermuda for failure to satisfy economic substance requirements.
The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2015
Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002 ("TRIA"), which was previously amended and extended in 2005, 2007, 2015 and again in 2019 by the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2019 ("TRIPRA"), was enacted to ensure the availability of insurance coverage for terrorist acts in the U.S. This law renewed the prior federal terrorism risk insurance program. It was extended through December 31, 2027 with certain modifications in the provisions of the expiring program.
TRIA does not apply to reinsurers directly but does apply directly to insurers and to excess and surplus lines insurers. The TRIPRA has had some impact on our reinsurance clients, but not all due to the lines of business covered by TRIA. Also, in general, our reinsurance contracts contain inuring language regarding any potential recoveries from TRIA. Additional material addressing TRIA and TRIPRA, including U.S. Treasury Department issued interpretive letters, are contained on the U.S. Treasury Department’s website.
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Taxation of the Company and its Subsidiaries
The following summary of certain taxation matters is based upon current law. Legislative, judicial or administrative changes may be forthcoming that could affect this summary. Certain subsidiaries are subject to taxation related to operations in Australia, Germany, Sweden, the U.K. and the U.S. The discussion below covers only the principal locations in which the Company or its subsidiaries are subject to taxation.
Bermuda
Maiden Holdings has received from the Minister of Finance an assurance under The Exempted Undertakings Tax Protection Act, 1966 to the effect that in the event that there is any legislation enacted in Bermuda imposing tax computed on profits or income, or computed on any capital asset, gain or appreciation, or any tax in the nature of estate duty or inheritance tax, then the imposition of any such tax shall not be applicable to Maiden Holdings or to any of its operations or the shares, debentures or other obligations of Maiden Holdings until March 31, 2035. These assurances are subject to the proviso that they are not construed to prevent the application of any tax or duty to such persons as are ordinarily resident in Bermuda (Maiden Holdings is not currently so designated) or to prevent the application of any tax payable in accordance with the provisions of The Land Tax Act, 1967 of Bermuda or otherwise payable in relation to the property leased to us.
Sweden
Maiden LF and Maiden GF are subject to Swedish taxation on net profits irrespective of whether the profits are generated through business in general or capital. To the extent that net profits are generated, profits are taxed at a rate of 21.4%. Foreign entities are subject to tax in Sweden only to the extent they have a permanent establishment in Sweden or if the income is related to certain types of assets, typically real estate, or partnership income. Dividends paid to foreign shareholders may be subject to withholding tax with a maximum of 30% although in many cases tax is reduced as a result of a tax treaty or under domestic legislation. A foreign entity is deemed to have a permanent establishment in Sweden under the rules very similar to those applied by The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development ("OECD"). Other than Maiden LF and Maiden GF, we believe that the Company has operated and will continue to operate its business in a manner that will not cause it to be treated as having a permanent establishment in Sweden. There is no withholding tax on interest paid by a Swedish borrower to a foreign lender.
United Kingdom
Maiden Global is tax resident in the U.K. and is currently subject to corporation tax in the U.K. on its trading and other taxable profits. The main rate of U.K. corporation tax is currently 19%. Non-U.K. resident corporations are within the scope of corporation tax in the U.K. if they carry on a trade in the U.K. through a permanent establishment. Reinsurance business developed by Maiden Global is underwritten by Maiden Reinsurance. Other than in respect of Maiden Global, we believe that the Company has operated and will continue to operate its business in a manner that will not cause it to be treated as carrying on a trade within the U.K. Any U.K. source income of non-U.K. resident corporations may be subject to U.K. withholding tax, subject to the availability of treaty relief or any other applicable exemptions. Dividends paid by Maiden Global are not subject to U.K. withholding tax. Interest paid by Maiden Global may be subject to U.K. withholding tax at a rate of up to 20%, subject to the availability of treaty relief or any other applicable exemptions.
United States of America
Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "2017 Act"), which was signed into law on December 22, 2017, the corporate U.S. tax rate is 21%, the alternative minimum tax was eliminated and the deductibility of interest expense was limited, among other things. In the context of the taxation of U.S. property/casualty insurance companies such as the Company, the 2017 Act also modified the loss reserve discounting rules and the proration rules that apply to reduce reserve deductions to reflect the lower corporate income tax rate. In addition, the 2017 Act included certain provisions intended to eliminate certain perceived tax advantages of companies (including insurance companies) that have legal domiciles outside the U.S. but have certain U.S. connections and U.S. persons investing in such companies. For example, the 2017 Act includes a base erosion anti-avoidance tax (the "BEAT") that could make affiliate reinsurance between U.S. and non-U.S. members of our group economically unfeasible. As discussed in more detail below, the 2017 Act also revised the rules applicable to passive foreign investment companies ("PFICs") and controlled foreign corporations ("CFCs"). We are currently unable to predict the ultimate impact of the 2017 Act on our business, shareholders and results of operations. Further, it is possible that other legislation could be introduced and enacted by the current Congress or future Congresses that could have an adverse impact on us. Additionally, tax laws and interpretations regarding whether a company is engaged in a U.S. trade or business or whether a company is a CFC or a PFIC or has related person insurance income ("RPII") are subject to change, possibly on a retroactive basis. New regulations or pronouncements interpreting or clarifying such rules may be forthcoming. The Company cannot be certain if, when or in what form such regulations or pronouncements may be provided and whether such guidance will have a retroactive effect.
Maiden NA and its subsidiaries (collectively, the "Maiden NA Companies") transact business in and are subject to taxation in the U.S., and Maiden Reinsurance is subject to taxation in the U.S. since the effective date of its re-domestication. Other than the Maiden NA Companies, and Maiden Reinsurance following its re-domestication, we believe that we have operated and will continue to operate our business in a manner that will not cause us to be treated as engaged in a trade or business within the U.S. On this basis, other than the Maiden NA Companies, and Maiden Reinsurance following its re-domestication, we do not expect to be required to pay U.S. corporate income taxes (other than withholding and excise taxes as described below). The maximum federal corporate income tax rate has been reduced by the 2017 Act to 21% for a foreign corporation’s income that is effectively connected with a trade or business in the U.S. In addition, U.S. branches of foreign corporations may be subject to the branch profits tax, which imposes a tax on U.S. branch after-tax earnings that are deemed repatriated out of the U.S., for a potential maximum effective federal tax rate of approximately 44% on the net income connected with a U.S. trade or business.
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Foreign corporations not engaged in a trade or business in the U.S. are subject to U.S. income tax, effected through withholding by the payer, on certain fixed or determinable annual or periodic gains, profits and income derived from sources within the U.S. as enumerated in Section 881(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, such as dividends and interest on certain investments. The U.S. also imposes an excise tax on insurance and reinsurance premiums paid to foreign insurers or reinsurers with respect to risks of a U.S. person located wholly or partly within the U.S. or risks of a foreign person engaged in the conduct of a U.S. trade or business located in the U.S. The rate of tax applicable to reinsurance premiums paid to Maiden Reinsurance by U.S. insurance companies was 1% of gross premiums.
Where You Can Find More Information
We maintain our principal website at www.maiden.bm. The information on our websites is not incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We make available, free of charge through our principal website, our financial information, including the information contained in our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish such material to, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). We also make available, free of charge through our principal website, our Audit Committee Charter, Compensation Committee Charter, Nominating & Corporate Governance Committee Charter, and Code of Business Conduct and Ethics. Such information is also available in print for any shareholder who sends a request to Maiden Holdings, Ltd., Ideation House, 94 Pitts Bay Road, Pembroke HM 08, Bermuda, Attention: Secretary. Reports and other information we file with the SEC may also be viewed at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or viewed or obtained at the SEC Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, DC 20549.
Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 800-SEC-0330. Any shareholder or other interested party who desires to contact any member of the Board (or our Board as a group) may do so in writing to the following address: Maiden Holdings, Ltd., Ideation House, 94 Pitts Bay Road, Pembroke HM 08, Bermuda, Attention: Secretary. Communications are distributed to the Board, or to any individual directors as appropriate, depending on the facts and circumstances outlined in the communication.
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Item 1A. Risk Factors.
Introduction
Investing in our securities carries risk. Managing risk effectively is critical to our success, and our organization is built around intelligent risk assumptions and prudent risk management. We have identified what we believe reflect key significant risks to the organization, and in turn to our shareholders, which are outlined below. Any of the risks described below could result in a significant or material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition. In addition to these enumerated risks, we face numerous other strategic, operational and emerging risks that could in the aggregate lead to shortfalls to our long-term goals or add to short-term volatility in our earnings. The following review of important risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with other cautionary statements that are included herein or elsewhere. The words or phrases believe, anticipate, estimate, project, plan, expect, intend, hope, forecast, evaluate, will likely result or will continue or words or phrases of similar import generally involve forward-looking statements. All of the risks that may affect our financial or operating performance may not be material at this time but may become material in the future. As used in these Risk Factors, the terms "we", "our" or "us" may, depending upon the context, refer to the Company, to one or more of the Company’s consolidated subsidiaries or to all of them taken as a whole.
Business
We have incurred volatile operating results in recent years. There can be no assurance that we will return to active underwriting or maintain operating profitability.
We produced net income of $41.8 million in 2020, which improved from a net loss of $131.9 million during 2019 which was the result of loss reserve strengthening and adverse prior year loss development of loss reserves. We have taken significant actions since the second half of 2018 to strengthen our loss reserve and capital position, and restructure our business by disposing of unprofitable operations and terminating reinsurance agreements in both of our reporting segments while significantly reducing headcount and overhead expenses. We have also purchased additional reinsurance protection to eliminate potential volatility of loss reserves from this legacy business. While we believe these actions will help restore operating profitability, there can be no assurance that these actions will achieve their intended effects or that such reinsurance will be sufficient to protect us against further adverse loss reserve development. Further, as our insurance liabilities continue to run-off, our investment income will continue to decrease which may adversely affect our profitability. While we continue to reduce our operating expenses and make additional investments which we believe will produce enhanced investment returns, there can be no assurance that these measures will overcome the expected decline in investment income. Finally, we have not as yet determined if and when we may resume active underwriting of risks which would result in increased revenue.
Our shareholders’ equity has improved in the most recent year, however, there can be no assurance these improvements will continue.
Due to our return to profitable results of operations in 2020, our shareholders' equity increased by 4.0% during 2020. We have taken significant actions since the second half of 2018 to improve our capital position, and restructure our business by disposing of unprofitable operations and terminating reinsurance agreements while significantly reducing headcount and overhead expenses. While we believe these actions will continue to increase shareholders' equity, there can be no assurance that these actions will achieve their intended effects. We have also purchased additional reinsurance protection to eliminate potential volatility of loss reserves from this legacy business. There can be no assurance that this reinsurance or that the timing and accounting recognition of recoveries under that reinsurance agreement will be sufficient to protect us against further declines in shareholders’ equity. While we continue to believe we will operate as a going concern, there can be no assurance that this will continue to be the case if future significant declines in our shareholders’ equity occur.
The inability of management to successfully implement its business strategy could result in a further decline of capital or materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Management continues to evaluate various operating strategies that are likely to be significantly different than our prior strategic business focus. In 2020, this included expanded investment activities and the formation of a business dedicated to "legacy" insurance transactions that involve acquiring business or reinsuring transactions that are in run-off. This may involve changes to our approaches to asset and capital management and we may or may not resume active reinsurance underwriting in the future. Further, as part of its re-domestication to the State of Vermont in the U.S., Maiden Reinsurance would closely consult with the Vermont DFR before it considers resuming active reinsurance underwriting and on any matters related to capital management and business strategy. There can be no assurance that the implementation of the new business plan will succeed or will be satisfactory to the Vermont DFR which could have a material adverse effect on our business, operations and financial condition.
Our actual losses may be greater than our reserve for loss and LAE, which would negatively impact our financial condition and results of operations.
Our success depends upon our ability to assess accurately the risks associated with the businesses that we will reinsure. Significant periods of time often elapse between the occurrence of an insured loss, the reporting of the loss to an insurer and the reporting of the loss by the insurer to its reinsurer and the ultimate disposition of that loss. The reserves we establish represent estimates of amounts needed to pay reported losses and unreported losses and the related loss adjustment expense. Loss reserves are only an estimate of what an insurer or reinsurer anticipates the ultimate costs of claims to be and do not represent an exact calculation of liability. Estimating loss reserves is a difficult and complex process involving many variables, inherent uncertainty, statistical modeling, and subjective judgments. As part of our reserving process, we review historical data as well as perform actuarial and statistical projections using proprietary models and consider the impact of various factors such as: trends in claim frequency and severity; changes in operations; emerging economic and social trends; inflation; and changes in the regulatory and litigation environments.
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This process assumes that past experience, adjusted for the effects of current developments and anticipated trends, is an appropriate basis for predicting future events. In addition, reserving models that are capable of estimating reserves using a variety of methodologies are utilized during the reserving process. There is no precise method, however, for evaluating the impact of any specific factor on the adequacy of reserves, and actual results are likely to differ from original estimates. Reserve models can introduce further process and parameter risk when data and methodologies are interpreted or utilized in a manner which is inconsistent with the actual underlying characteristics of the reinsured exposure. These risks could arise due to incorrect use of the models, or the use of a model or methodology that is inappropriate. In addition, unforeseen losses, the type or magnitude of which we cannot predict, may emerge in the future. Given the inherent uncertainty in the reserving process and models used for reserve estimation, we may not accurately react to the reporting and payment of loss in the projection of our reserve for loss and LAE.
We will establish or adjust reserves for our insurance subsidiaries in part based upon loss data received from the ceding companies with which we do business. There is a time delay that elapses between the receipt and recording of claims results by the ceding insurance companies and the receipt and recording of those results by us. Accordingly, establishment and adjustment of reserves for our insurance subsidiaries is dependent upon timely and accurate estimate reporting from cedants and agents.
In addition, during 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted established claims adjudication and settlement processes. These disruptions could impact the consistency of data received from our cedants and agents. While we do not believe these disruptions have materially impacted our ability to appropriately evaluate the exposures, it could potentially impact the judgments we make in setting reserves.
While we have established our reserves to a level we believe to be sufficient to cover losses assumed by us when we recognize prior period development, there can be no assurance that losses will not deviate from our reserves, possibly by material amounts. We have experienced significant adverse development of our loss reserves in prior years. Further, the additional reinsurance protection we have purchased to protect against further adverse development in loss reserves may be insufficient compared to the actual losses that emerge and we may need to recognize adverse development which would reduce our results of operations and shareholders' equity, possibly materially. To the extent our actual reported losses exceed expected losses, the carried estimate of the ultimate losses will be increased, which would represent unfavorable reserve development, and in turn could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition.
Our internal control and reporting systems might not be effective in the future, which could increase the risk that we would become subject to restatements of our financial results or to regulatory action or litigation or other developments that could adversely affect our business.
Our ability to produce accurate financial statements and comply with applicable laws, rules and regulations is largely dependent on our maintenance of internal control and reporting systems, as well as on our ability to attract and retain qualified management and accounting and actuarial personnel to further develop our internal accounting function and control policies. If we fail to effectively establish and maintain such reporting and accounting systems or fail to attract and retain personnel who are capable of designing and operating such systems, these failures will increase the likelihood that we may be required to restate our financial results to correct errors or that we will become subject to legal and regulatory infractions, which may entail civil litigation and investigations by regulatory agencies including the SEC. In addition, if our management team were to conclude that our internal control over financial reporting was not effective, investors could lose confidence in our reported financial information, and our financial flexibility and the value of our common shares could be adversely impacted.
The effects of emerging claim and coverage issues on our business are uncertain.
As industry practices and legal, judicial, social and other environmental conditions change, unexpected issues related to claims and coverage may emerge. These issues may adversely affect our business by either extending coverage beyond our underwriting intent or by increasing the number or size of claims. In some instances, these changes may not become apparent until sometime after we have issued insurance or reinsurance contracts that are affected by the changes. As a result, the full extent of liability under our reinsurance contracts may not be known for many years after a contract is issued. Our exposure to these uncertainties could be exacerbated by an increase in insurance and reinsurance contract disputes, arbitration and litigation.
Our business is subject to risks related to litigation. Losses from legal and regulatory actions may have a material adverse effect on our reputation, operating results, cash flows, financial condition and prospects.
We may from time to time be subject to litigation or other legal or regulatory actions in the ordinary course of business relating to our current and past business operations, including, but not limited to, disputes over coverage or claims adjudication, including claims alleging that we have acted in bad faith in the administration of claims by our policyholders, disputes with our agents, producers and termination of contracts and related claims and disputes with former employees. We also cannot determine with any certainty what new theories of recovery may evolve or what their impact may be on our business.
We also may be subject to litigation from security holders due to the diminution in value of our securities as a result of our operating results and financial condition. Defending against these actions may require us to utilize significant resources in our defense as well as result in a significant amount of time by our senior management.
An adverse resolution of one or more lawsuits or arbitration could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations in a particular fiscal quarter or year.
Our reinsurers may not pay losses in a timely fashion, or at all, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition.
At December 31, 2020, we had a net balance due to us from one reinsurer, Cavello Bay Reinsurance Limited ("Cavello"), of $587.9 million, consisting of losses due from Cavello under the retrocession agreement of $68.0 million and reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses under the retroactive reinsurance agreement of $519.9 million. Cavello has provided collateral in the form of a letter of credit in the amount of $445.0 million to AmTrust under the loss portfolio and adverse development
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cover agreement ("LPT/ADC Agreement') with Enstar Group Limited ("Enstar") on July 31, 2019, pursuant to which Cavello assumed the loss reserves as of December 31, 2018 associated with the AmTrust Quota Share subject to additional collateral funding requirements.
We may or may not use retrocessional and reinsurance coverage to limit our exposure to risks. Any retrocessional or reinsurance coverage that we obtain may be limited, and credit and other risks associated with our retrocessional and reinsurance arrangements may result in losses which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
We have provided reinsurance to our clients and in turn we may or may not retrocede reinsurance we have assumed to other insurers and reinsurers. If we do not use retrocessional coverage or reinsurance, our exposure to losses will be greater than if we did obtain such coverage. If we do obtain retrocessional or reinsurance coverage, some of the insurers or reinsurers to whom we may retrocede coverage or reinsure with may be domiciled in Bermuda or other non-U.S. locations. We would be subject to credit and other risks that depend upon the financial strength of these reinsurers. Further, we will be subject to credit risk with respect to any retrocessional or reinsurance arrangements because the ceding of risk to reinsurers and retrocessionaires would not relieve us of our liability to the clients or companies we insure or reinsure. Our failure to establish adequate reinsurance or retrocessional arrangements or the failure of any retrocessional arrangements to protect us from overly concentrated risk exposure could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operation. We may attempt to mitigate such risks by retaining collateral or trust accounts for premium and claims receivables, but nevertheless we cannot be assured that reinsurance will be fully collectable in the case of all potential claims outcomes.
The failure of any of the loss limitation methods we have employed or could employ in the future could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition.
We seek to limit loss exposure through loss limitation provisions in policies we write, such as limitations on the amount of losses that can be claimed under a policy, limitations or exclusions from coverage and provisions relating to choice of forum, which are intended to assure that our policies are legally interpreted as intended. There can be no assurance that these contractual provisions will be enforceable in the manner expected or that disputes relating to coverage will be resolved in our favor. If the loss limitation provisions in the policies are not enforceable or disputes arise concerning the application of such provisions, the losses we incur could be materially higher than expected and our financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.
Our efforts to develop products, expand in targeted markets or modify our business and strategic plans may not be successful and may create enhanced risks.
As noted, we are not presently actively underwriting reinsurance business. However, any new business initiatives involving the development of new products or expanding existing products in new or historically targeted markets may involve substantial capital and operating expenditures, which may negatively impact our results of operations and shareholders' equity. In addition, the demand for new products or in new markets may not meet our expectations. To the extent we are able to market new products or expand in new markets, our risk exposures may change and the data and models we use to manage such exposures may not be as sophisticated as those we use in existing markets or with existing products. This, in turn, could lead to losses in excess of expectations. Additionally, the re-domestication of Maiden Reinsurance to the U.S. may limit our ability to reinsure risk outside of the U.S. and may have an adverse effect on our capital and ability to write new business.
As part of our ongoing efforts to continually improve our performance, we regularly evaluate our business plans and strategies, which may result in changes to our business plans and initiatives, some of which may be material. We are subject to increasing risks related to our ability to successfully implement our evolving plans and strategies. Changing plans and strategies requires significant management of time and effort, and may divert management’s attention from our core operations and competencies, and our efforts to improve our capital position and solvency. Moreover, modifications we undertake to our operations may not immediately result in improved financial performance. In November 2020, we formed Genesis Legacy Solutions (“GLS”) which specializes in providing a full range of legacy services to small insurance entities, particularly those in run-off or with blocks of reserves that are no longer core, working with clients to develop and implement finality solutions including acquiring entire companies. We believe the formation of GLS is highly complementary to our overall longer-term strategy. However, it may take some time for GLS to gain sufficient scale to achieve its objectives, and its results may not reach the objectives we expect to establish for it over time.
Therefore, risks associated with implementing or changing our business strategies and initiatives, including risks related to developing or enhancing the operations, controls and other infrastructure required for these strategies and initiatives, may not have a positive impact on our publicly reported results until many years after implementation. The risk that we may fail to have the ability to carry out our business plans may have an adverse effect on our long-term results of operations and financial condition.
We depend on the policies, procedures and expertise of ceding companies for the business we have written in the past; these companies may have failed to accurately assess and price the risks they have underwritten, which may lead us to inaccurately assess and price the risks we assumed.
While we are not presently engaged in active reinsurance underwriting, our participation in property and casualty reinsurance markets means the success of our prior underwriting efforts depends, in part, upon the policies, procedures and expertise of the ceding companies making the original underwriting decisions. As common among reinsurers, we do not separately evaluate each of the individual risks assumed under reinsurance treaties. We face the risk that these ceding companies may have failed to accurately assess the risks that they assumed initially, which, in turn, may lead us to inaccurately assess the risks we assumed.
If we have failed to establish and receive appropriate pricing or failed to contractually limit our exposure to such risks, we could face significant losses on these contracts, which could have a material adverse impact on our financial results.
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The inherent uncertainty of models and the use of such models as a tool to evaluate risk may have an adverse impact on our financial results.
We use our own proprietary models to provide us with an objective risk assessment relating to risks in our reinsurance portfolio. These models help us to inform management and other stakeholders of capital requirements and to improve the risk/return profile or minimize the amount of capital required to cover the risks in each reinsurance contract in our overall portfolio of reinsurance contracts. However, given the inherent uncertainty of modeling techniques and the application of such techniques, these models and databases may not accurately address the emergence of a variety of matters which might be deemed to impact certain of our coverages. Accordingly, these models may understate the exposures we are assuming and our financial results may be adversely impacted, perhaps significantly.
The failure of our underwriting process could have an adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition.
As noted, we are not presently engaged in active reinsurance underwriting. Previously, we sought to manage our loss exposure by maintaining a disciplined underwriting process throughout our (re)insurance operations. Underwriting is a matter of judgment, involving important assumptions about matters that are inherently unpredictable and beyond our control, and for which historical experience and probability analysis may not provide sufficient guidance. The failure of any of the underwriting risk management strategies that we employ could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Prior to ceasing active reinsurance underwriting, we relied on internal controls and underwriting guidelines to limit our risk exposure within prescribed parameters. However, our controls and monitoring efforts may have been ineffective, permitting one or more underwriters to exceed underwriting authority and causing us to (re)insure risks outside the agreed upon guidelines. To the extent that our underwriters exceeded their authorities, agreed to inappropriate contract terms and conditions or were influenced by broker incentives, or if there was inaccurate underwriting data captured and reported leading to licensing and sanction breaches, our financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
We may be required to accelerate the amortization of deferred acquisition costs or establish premium deficiency reserves.
Deferred acquisition costs represent incremental direct costs related to the successful acquisition of new or renewal insurance contracts. The balances of such costs are capitalized as an asset and amortized into income over the expected lives of the underlying insurance contracts. On an ongoing basis, we test these assets recorded on our balance sheet to determine whether the amounts are recoverable under current assumptions. To date, we have concluded that no such premium deficiency exists. If facts and circumstances change, these tests and reviews could lead to the establishment of a premium deficiency reserve which would require a write down in the carried value of our deferred acquisition costs. Such results could have an adverse effect on the results of our operations and our financial condition.
Failure of our information technology systems could disrupt our business and adversely impact our profitability.
We believe our information technology and application systems are critical to our business and reputation. We have licensed certain systems and data from third parties. We cannot be certain that we will have access to these, or comparable service providers, or that our technology or applications will continue to operate as intended. A major defect or failure in our internal controls or information technology and application systems could result in management distraction, harm to our reputation, a loss or delay of revenues or increased expense.
Technology breaches or failures, including, but not limited to, those resulting from cyber-attacks on us or our business partners and service providers, could disrupt or otherwise negatively impact our business.
Information technology and application systems can streamline many business processes and ultimately reduce the cost of operations, however, technology initiatives present certain risks. Our business is dependent upon our employees and outsources ability to perform, in an efficient and uninterrupted fashion, necessary business functions. Like all companies, our information technology systems are vulnerable to data breaches, interruptions or failures due to events that may be beyond our control, including, but not limited to, natural disasters, theft, terrorist attacks, computer viruses, hackers and general technology failures. Our information technology systems include the Internet and third-party hosted services. We use information systems to process financial information and results of operations for internal reporting purposes and for regulatory financial reporting, legal and tax requirements. We also use information systems for electronic communications with customers and our various locations.
A shutdown or inability to access one or more of our facilities, a power outage, a security breach, or a failure of one or more of our information technology, telecommunications or other systems could significantly impair our ability to perform such functions on a timely basis. These incidents could be caused by malicious or disruptive software, computer hackers, rogue employees, cyber-attacks, failures of telecommunications systems or other catastrophic events. If sustained or repeated, such a business interruption, system failure or service denial could result in a deterioration of our ability to write and process business, provide customer service, pay claims in a timely manner or perform other necessary business functions. Furthermore, a significant portion of the communications between our employees and our business, banking and investment partners depends on information technology and electronic information exchange. In addition, we may suffer financial and reputational damage because of lost or misappropriated confidential information belonging to us, and may become subject to legal action and increased regulatory oversight. We could also be required to spend significant financial and other resources to remedy any damage caused to repair or replace information systems.
We believe that we have established and implemented appropriate security measures, controls and procedures to safeguard our information technology systems and to prevent unauthorized access to such systems and any data processed and/or stored in
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such systems, and we periodically employ third parties to evaluate and test the adequacy of such systems, controls and procedures. In addition, we have established a business continuity plan which is designed to ensure that we are able to maintain all aspects of our key business processes functioning in the midst of certain disruptive events, including any disruptions to or breaches of our information technology systems. We continue to make investments in technologies, cyber-insurance and training. Our business continuity plans are tested and evaluated for adequacy. Despite these safeguards, disruptions to and breaches of our information technology systems are possible and may negatively impact our business.
Like most major corporations, the Company’s information systems are a target of attacks. Although we have experienced no known material or threatened cases involving unauthorized access to our information technology systems and data or unauthorized appropriation of such data to date, we have no assurance that such technology breaches will not occur in the future.
Ongoing economic uncertainty could materially and adversely affect our business, our liquidity and financial condition.
Global economies and financial markets have, from time to time, experienced significant disruption or deterioration and likely will experience periods of disruption or deterioration in the future. In addition, U.S. federal and state governments continue to experience significant structural fiscal deficits, creating uncertainty as to levels of taxation, inflation, regulation and other economic fundamentals that may impact future growth prospects. Significantly greater economic, fiscal and monetary uncertainty remains in Europe, due to the combination of poor economic growth, high unemployment and significant sovereign deficits which have called into question the future of the common currency used across most of Europe. European economic activity appears likely to remain volatile in the near future and to potentially have a continuing impact on the U.S. economy. The spread of COVID-19 around the world has created significant economic uncertainty which may have a material effect on the global economy and financial markets. Continuation of these conditions may potentially affect (among other aspects of our business) the demand for and claims made under our products, the ability of clients, counterparties and others to establish or maintain their relationships with us, our ability to access and efficiently use internal and external capital resources and our investment performance.
Our agency mortgage-backed securities ("Agency MBS") constitute 23.2% of our fixed maturity investments at December 31, 2020. As with other fixed income investments, the fair value of these securities fluctuates depending on market and other general economic conditions and the interest rate environment. Changes in interest rates can expose us to changes in the prepayment rate on these investments. In periods of declining interest rates, mortgage prepayments generally increase and mortgage-backed securities ("MBS") are prepaid more quickly, requiring us to reinvest the proceeds at lower market rates. Conversely, in periods of rising rates, mortgage prepayments generally fall, preventing us from taking full advantage of the higher level of rates. However, economic conditions may curtail prepayment activity on the underlying mortgages if refinancing is difficult, thus limiting prepayments on the MBS portfolio. In the event that these conditions persist and result in a prolonged period of economic uncertainty, our results of operations, our financial condition and/or liquidity, and our prospects could be materially and adversely affected.
We may face substantial exposure to losses from terrorism, acts of war and political instability.
We may have exposure to losses resulting from acts of terrorism, acts of war and political instability as a reinsurer of U.S. domiciled insurers. U.S. insurers are required by state and federal law to offer coverage for terrorism in certain commercial lines. These risks are inherently unpredictable, although recent events may lead to increased frequency and severity. It is difficult to predict the occurrence of these perils with statistical certainty or to estimate the amount of loss an occurrence will generate. We closely monitor the amount and types of coverage we provide for terrorism risk under insurance policies and reinsurance treaties. We often seek to exclude or limit terrorism when we cannot reasonably evaluate the risk of loss or charge an appropriate premium for such risk. Even in cases where we have deliberately sought to exclude coverage, we may not be able to eliminate our exposure to terrorist acts, and thus it is possible that these acts could have a material adverse effect on us.
Liquidity, Capital Resources and Investments
We may not have sufficient unrestricted liquidity to meet our obligations.
Maiden Holdings is a holding company. As a result, we do not have, and will not have, any significant operations or assets other than our ownership of the shares of our subsidiaries. Dividends and other permitted payments from our operating subsidiaries are expected to be our sole source of funds to meet ongoing cash requirements at Maiden Holdings, including debt service payments and other expenses. As of December 31, 2020 and as of the date hereof, our insurance subsidiaries' ability to make distributions are limited by regulatory restrictions. Maiden Holdings may need to borrow funds from its subsidiaries if funds from dividends are not available to meet ongoing cash requirements. The impact of applicable regulatory capital requirements such as risk based capital ratios under U.S. law could impact the ability of Maiden Reinsurance to pay future cash dividends.
Maiden Reinsurance uses trust accounts, loan to related party, funds withheld and letters of credit to meet collateral requirements. Consequently, cash and cash equivalents and investments are pledged in favor of ceding companies in order to comply with relevant insurance regulations or contractual requirements. At December 31, 2020, restricted cash and cash equivalents and fixed maturity investments used as collateral were $1.1 billion and represents 80.0% of the fair value of our total fixed maturity investments and cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash and cash equivalents) at that date. At December 31, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance had $205.6 million in unrestricted cash and cash equivalents and fixed maturity investments. On a consolidated basis, the Company had $269.2 million in unrestricted cash and cash equivalents and fixed maturity investments at December 31, 2020.
Based on our current estimate of 2021 financial projections, we believe we will have sufficient liquidity to meet and fulfill our obligations including payments due under our 2013 Senior Notes issued by Maiden NA in the principal amount of $152.5 million, all of which is currently outstanding and is subject to a guarantee by Maiden Holdings, and the 2016 Senior Notes in the principal amount of $110.0 million, all of which is currently outstanding (the 2016 Senior Notes collectively with the 2013
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Senior Notes, the "Senior Notes"). However, should our operating results deteriorate, or should additional collateral be required under our contractual arrangements with reinsureds prior to the receipt of recoveries under reinsurance agreements we have entered into, we cannot assure that we will maintain sufficient unrestricted liquidity to meet those obligations.
A significant amount of our invested assets are subject to changes in interest rates and market volatility. If we are unable to realize our investment objectives, our financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected.
Investment income is an important component of our consolidated net income. At December 31, 2020, total investments of $1.3 billion represented 90.7% of our total cash and investments. Total investments included other investments of $67.0 million or 5.1% comprised of a combination of investments in limited partnerships, private equity, hedge funds and investments made by special purpose vehicles ("SPV") related to lending activities. As a result of market conditions prevailing at a particular time, the allocation of our portfolio to various asset types may vary. The fair market value of these assets and the investment income from these assets will fluctuate depending on general economic and market conditions. We classify our fixed maturity investments as available-for-sale ("AFS") and therefore changes in the market value are reflected in our shareholders’ equity through accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI").
Our Board has established our investment policies, including the purchase of affiliated securities, approved by the Vermont DFR, and our executive management is implementing our investment strategy with the assistance of our investment managers. Although these guidelines stress diversification and capital preservation, our investment results will be subject to a variety of risks, including risks related to changes in the business, financial condition or results of operations of the entities in which we invest, as well as changes in general economic conditions and overall market conditions, interest rate fluctuations and market volatility. Given our reliance on external investment managers, we are also exposed to operational risks, which may include, but are not limited to, a failure of these managers to follow our investment policy guidelines, a failure to maintain proper internal controls, technological and staffing deficiencies and inadequate disaster recovery plans.
Our investment portfolio consists of substantially all interest rate-sensitive instruments, such as bonds, which may be adversely affected by changes in interest rates. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors, including governmental monetary policies and domestic and international economic and political conditions and other factors beyond our control. Changes in interest rates could have an adverse effect on the value of our fixed maturity investment portfolio and future investment income. For example, changes in interest rates can expose us to prepayment risks on U.S. Government Agency MBS included in our investment portfolio (all Agency MBS are currently "AA+" rated by S&P). Increases in interest rates will decrease the fair market value of our investments in fixed-income securities. If increases in interest rates occur during periods when we sell investments to satisfy liquidity needs, we may experience investment losses. In addition, a declining interest rate environment can result in reductions in our investment yield as new funds and proceeds from sales and maturities of fixed income securities are reinvested at lower rates which reduces our overall profitability.
Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors, including governmental monetary policies, inflation, domestic and international economic and political conditions and other factors beyond our control. To limit our exposure to unexpected interest rate increases which would reduce the value of our fixed income securities and reduce our shareholders' equity, we attempt to maintain the duration of our fixed maturity investment portfolio combined with our cash and cash equivalents, both restricted and unrestricted, within a reasonable range of the duration of our loss reserves. As a result of the LPT/ADC Agreement, our liability duration will be materially shortened and if we do not correspondingly shorten the duration of the investments in our fixed maturity investment portfolio, our risk of exposure to unexpected changes in interest rates could adversely affect our operations and financial condition.
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, these respective durations in years were as follows:
At December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Fixed maturities and cash and cash equivalents | 2.1 | 3.0 | ||||||||||||
Reserve for loss and LAE(1) | 3.9 | 4.2 |
(1) The duration regarding our reserve for loss and LAE at December 31, 2020 and 2019 is gross of LPT/ADC Agreement reserves. On a net basis, the duration of our reserve for loss and LAE is 0.9 years at December 31, 2020 (2019 - 1.7 years).
The differential in duration between these assets and liabilities may fluctuate over time and in the case of fixed maturities, is affected by factors such as market conditions, asset allocations and prepayment speeds in the case of Agency MBS.
We believe we have historically mitigated our exposure to liquidity risk through prudent duration management and strong operating cash flow. Our business has undergone significant changes in the last year. As previously noted, the Strategic Review resulted in a series of transactions that have transformed our operations and materially reduced the risk on our balance sheet. As a result of the transactions that transpired from the Strategic Review, our gross and net premiums written will continue to be materially lower going forward and investment income will continue to be a significantly larger portion of our revenues. We believe this will significantly reduce our operating cash flow.
However, we generally expect negative operating cash flows to be met or exceeded by positive investing cash flows. Overall, we expect our cash flows, together with our existing capital base and unrestricted cash and investments to be sufficient to meet cash requirements and to operate our business. The LPT/ADC Agreement has shortened the duration of our liabilities which in turn may require us to adjust the duration of our fixed maturities which could lower our investment income. We also have very limited property catastrophe exposures which could cause an immediate need for cash. However, if we do not structure our investment portfolio so that it is appropriately matched with our reinsurance liabilities or our operating cash flow declines, we may be forced to liquidate investments prior to maturity at a significant loss to cover such liabilities. For this or any of the other reasons discussed above, investment losses could significantly decrease our asset base, which would adversely
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affect our ability to conduct business. Any significant decline in our investment income would adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The determination of the fair values of our investments and whether a decline in the fair value of an investment is other-than-temporary are based on management’s judgment and may prove to be incorrect.
We hold a significant amount of assets without readily available, active, quoted market prices or for which fair value cannot be measured from actively quoted prices. These assets are generally deemed to require a higher degree of judgment used in measuring fair value. The assumptions used by management to measure fair values could turn out to be inaccurate and the actual amounts that may be realized in an orderly transaction with a willing market participant could be either lower or higher than our estimates of fair value. We review our investment portfolio for factors that may indicate that a decline in the fair value of an investment is other-than-temporary. This evaluation is based on subjective factors, assumptions and estimates and may prove to be materially incorrect, which may result in us recognizing additional losses in the future as new information emerges or recognizing losses in the current period that may never materialize in the future in an orderly transaction with a willing market participant.
Our investments in alternative investments and our investments in joint ventures and/or entities accounted for using the equity method may be illiquid and volatile in terms of value and returns, which could negatively affect our investment income and liquidity.
In addition to fixed maturity securities, we have invested, and may from time to time continue to invest, in alternative investments such as hedge funds, fixed income funds, equity funds, privately held investments, private equity and private credit funds and co-investments, real estate funds and co-investments and other alternative investments. During 2020, we increased the amount allocated to such investments, and as of December 31, 2020, 7.3% of our total Cash and Investments were categorized as "Other Investments" and "Equity Method Investments" compared to 1.6% as of December 31, 2019. We expect to continue to increase this allocation over future periods. These and other similar investments may be illiquid due to restrictions on sales, transfers and redemption terms, may have different, more significant risk characteristics than our investments in fixed maturity securities and may also have more volatile values and returns, all of which could negatively affect our investment income and overall portfolio liquidity.
We have also invested, and from time to time may continue to make investments in joint ventures and in other entities that we do not control. In these investments, many of which are accounted for using the equity method, we may lack management and operational control over the entities in which we are invested, which may limit our ability to take actions that could protect or increase the value of our investment. In addition, these investments may be illiquid due to contractual provisions, and our lack of operational control may prevent us from obtaining liquidity through distributions from these investments in a timely manner or on favorable terms.
Alternative or "other" investments may not meet regulatory admissibility requirements or may result in increased regulatory capital charges to our insurance subsidiaries that hold these investments, which could limit those subsidiaries’ ability to make capital distributions to us and, consequently, negatively impact our liquidity. For more information on our alternative investments, please see Item 7. "Management's Discussion & Analysis: Liquidity and Capital Resources - Cash & Investments".
We may require additional capital in the future, which may not be available on favorable terms or at all.
Our future capital requirements will depend on many factors. We also may not be able to grow significantly without additional capital. Our future business needs are uncertain and we may need to raise additional funds to further capitalize Maiden Reinsurance or our IIS business. We anticipate that any such additional funds would be raised through equity, debt, hybrid financings or entering into reinsurance agreements. While we currently have no commitment from any lender with respect to a credit facility or a loan facility, we may enter into an unsecured revolving credit facility or a term loan facility with one or more syndicates of lenders. Any equity, debt or hybrid financing, if available at all, may be on terms that are not favorable to us. Recent turbulence in the financial markets due to the spread of COVID-19 may limit our ability to access the credit or equity markets. If we are able to raise capital through equity financings, the interest of shareholders in our Company would be diluted, and the securities we issue may have rights, preferences and privileges that are senior to those of our common shares.
We no longer have an S&P rating or A.M. Best rating. The absence of credit ratings on our outstanding securities could impact our ability to obtain additional debt or hybrid capital at reasonable terms or at all. Credit ratings are an opinion by third parties of our financial strength and ability to meet ongoing obligations to our future policyholders. The lack of a credit rating may make it difficult for investors to evaluate an investment in our securities and for us to raise additional capital in the future on acceptable terms or at all. Similarly, our access to funds may be impaired if regulatory authorities take negative actions against us. Finally, our operating results in the last several years may make investors reluctant to commit capital to us at reasonable valuations and/or pricing. Our internal sources of liquidity may prove to be insufficient, and in such case, we may not be able to successfully obtain additional financing on favorable terms, or at all.
The availability of additional financing will also depend on a variety of other factors such as market conditions, the general availability of capital, the volume of trading activities and the overall availability of capital to the financial services industry. As such, we may be forced to delay raising capital, issue shorter maturity securities than we prefer, or bear an unattractive cost of capital which could decrease our profitability and significantly reduce our financial flexibility. If we cannot obtain adequate capital, our business prospects, results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.
We do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common shares for the foreseeable future and there can be no assurance that dividends on the preference shares will resume.
We currently intend to retain our future earnings, if any, to strengthen our regulatory capital and solvency ratios, improve our liquidity and working capital and for other general corporate purposes. The insurance laws and regulations of our insurance
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subsidiaries generally contain restrictions on the ability to pay dividends or distributions to Maiden Holdings, which may restrict our ability to pay dividends on common or preferred shares. Any capital distribution of any kind out of Maiden Reinsurance would be done consistent with Vermont regulation or as may be required, with the prior approval of the Vermont DFR. Any future determination to pay dividends on our common shares will be at the discretion of our Board, subject to applicable laws, and will depend on our financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, general business conditions, and other factors that our Board considers relevant.
Maiden Holdings has issued a total of $630.0 million in Preference Shares since 2012, of which $465.0 million remains outstanding at December 31, 2020. Excluding the preference shares held by Maiden Reinsurance, $394.3 million are held by non-affiliates as at December 31, 2020. Holders of our Preference Shares may receive dividends on a non-cumulative basis and are required to be paid before common shareholders are eligible for dividend payments. Our Board has not declared dividends on the Preference Shares since the fourth quarter of 2018 and there can be no assurance that the authorization and declaration of dividends on the Preference Shares will resume.
As part of the capital management pillar of our strategy, on March 15, 2021, Maiden Reinsurance accepted for purchase via private negotiation with certain security holders, (i) 2,561,636 shares of the Company's 8.25% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series A at an average price of $14.88 per share, (ii) 2,003,204 shares of the Company's 7.125% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series C at an average price of $14.66 per share, and (iii) 2,017,103 shares of the Company's 6.7% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series D at an average price of $14.60 per share. There can be no assurance that our insurance liabilities will run-off at levels that will permit future capital management activities, which we expect to continually review as part of our strategy.
Our failure to comply with restrictive covenants contained in the documents governing our Senior Notes or any future credit facility could trigger prepayment obligations, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The indentures governing our Senior Notes contain covenants that impose restrictions on us and certain of our subsidiaries with respect to, among other things, the incurrence of liens and the disposition of capital stock of these subsidiaries. In addition, any future credit facility may require us and/or certain of our subsidiaries to comply with certain covenants, which may include the maintenance of a minimum consolidated net tangible worth and restrictions on the payment of dividends. Our failure to comply with these covenants could result in an event of default under the indentures or any future credit facility, which, if not cured or waived, could result in us being required to repay the notes or any amounts outstanding under such credit facility prior to maturity. We believe we are in compliance with all of the covenants in the Indentures governing the Senior Notes. However, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected if we were found to be in default of these covenants.
For more details on our indebtedness, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" included under Item 7 and "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - "Note 7 — Long-Term Debt" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
We may be adversely impacted by claims inflation.
Our operations, like those of other property and casualty insurers and reinsurers, are susceptible to the effects of claims inflation because premiums are established before the ultimate amounts of loss and LAE are known. Although we consider the potential effects of claims inflation when setting premium rates, our premiums may not fully offset the effects of inflation and essentially result in our underpricing the risks we insure and reinsure. Our reserve for loss and LAE includes assumptions about future payments for settlement of claims and claims handling expenses, such as the value of replacing property and associated labor costs for the property business we write, the value of medical treatments and litigation costs. To the extent claims inflation causes these costs to increase above reserves established for these claims, we will be required to increase our loss reserves with a corresponding reduction in our net income in the period in which the deficiency is identified, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.
A decrease in the fair value of our subsidiaries may result in future impairments.
The determination of impairments taken on our investments and loans varies by type of asset and is based upon our periodic evaluation and assessment of known and inherent risks associated with the respective asset class. Such evaluations and assessments are revised as conditions change and new information becomes available. Management updates its evaluations regularly and reflects impairments in operations as such evaluations are revised. There can be no assurance that our management has accurately assessed the level of impairments taken in our financial statements. Furthermore, additional impairments may need to be taken in the future, which could materially impact our financial position or results of operations. Historical trends may not be indicative of future impairments.
Regulation
Our capital ratios continued to significantly improve in 2020; however if we are unable to sustain this improvement, it could lead to regulatory restrictions.
Prior to the re-domestication of Maiden Reinsurance from Bermuda to Vermont, the Company cured a breach of the enhanced capital requirements ("ECR") (based on the Bermuda regulations applicable at that time) on both a group basis and for Maiden Reinsurance by significantly reducing the amount of required capital necessary to operate our business through a series of measures and by purchasing additional reinsurance protection for our loss reserves via the LPT/ADC Agreement with Enstar during 2019. However, while the Company has and expects to continue to maintain satisfactory capital ratios as proscribed by the Vermont DFR for both the Group and Maiden Reinsurance, there can be no assurance that the actions we have taken to improve our capital position can be maintained or will be considered satisfactory by the Vermont DFR, which may have a material adverse effect on our business.
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There can also be no assurance that the re-formulation of our longer-term business plan will produce sufficient operating profitability to sustain the recent improvements in our capital position that we have achieved. This could lead to imposition of regulatory restrictions by the Vermont DFR if such circumstances were to occur.
Compliance by our insurance subsidiaries with the legal and regulatory requirements to which they are subject is expensive. Any failure to comply could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Our insurance subsidiaries are required to comply with a wide variety of laws and regulations applicable to insurance or reinsurance companies, both in the jurisdictions in which they are organized and where they sell their insurance and reinsurance products. The insurance and regulatory environment has become subject to increased scrutiny in many jurisdictions, including the U.S., various states within the U.S. and the EU. In the past, there have been Congressional and other initiatives in the U.S. regarding increased supervision and regulation of the insurance industry. It is not possible to predict the future impact of changes in laws and regulations on our operations. The cost of complying with any new legal requirements affecting our subsidiaries could have a material adverse effect on our business.
In addition, our subsidiaries may not always be able to obtain or maintain necessary licenses, permits, authorizations or accreditations. They also may not be able to fully comply with, or to obtain appropriate exemptions from, the laws and regulations applicable to them. Any failure to comply with applicable law or to obtain appropriate exemptions could result in restrictions on either the ability of the company in question, as well as potentially its affiliates, to do business in one or more of the jurisdictions in which they operate or on brokers on which we rely to produce business for us. In addition, any such failure to comply with applicable laws or to obtain appropriate exemptions could result in the imposition of fines or other sanctions. Any of these sanctions could have a material adverse effect on our business. To date, no fine, penalty or restriction has been imposed on us for failure to comply with any insurance law or regulation.
Our industry is highly regulated and we are subject to significant legal restrictions and these restrictions may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, cash flows and prospects.
The financial services industry is the focus of increased regulatory scrutiny as various state and federal governmental agencies and self-regulatory organizations conduct inquiries and investigations into the products and practices of the companies within this industry. Governmental authorities in the U.S. and worldwide have become increasingly interested in potential risks posed by the insurance industry as a whole, and to commercial and financial systems in general. Among the proposals that are being considered is the possible introduction of global regulatory standards for the amount of capital that insurance groups must maintain across the group, such as the development of the risk-based global insurance capital standard for internationally active insurance groups being developed by the International Association of Insurance Supervisors as well as the U.S. group capital calculation being developed by the NAIC. Please see Item 1. "Business - Regulatory Matters" for further discussion. While we cannot predict the exact nature, timing or scope of possible governmental initiatives, there may be increased regulatory intervention in the insurance and financial services industry in the future.
Europe
Under EU Freedom of Services, a firm authorized in a European Economic Area ("EEA"), state can offer certain products or services in other EEA states if it has the relevant passport. Maiden LF and Maiden GF are established in an EEA state (Sweden) and have passports for a number of EEA states. Maiden LF is licensed by the Swedish financial regulator (Finansinspektionen) to write insurance and reinsurance of short-term life insurance (Class 1a) and supplementary insurance to Class 1a (Class 1b). Maiden GF is licensed by Finansinspektionen to write insurance and reinsurance of other miscellaneous financial losses (Class 16). We cannot predict the impact laws and regulations adopted in the EU or other non-U.S. jurisdictions may have on the financial markets generally or on our businesses, results of operations or cash flows. It is possible that changes in such laws and regulations may alter our business practices. They may also limit our ability to engage in capital or liability management, require us to raise additional capital, and impose burdensome requirements and additional costs. It is possible that the laws and regulations adopted in foreign jurisdictions will differ from one another, and that they could be inconsistent with the laws and regulations of other jurisdictions including the U.S.
United States
Our U.S. subsidiaries are subject to a complex and extensive array of laws and regulations that are administered and enforced by state insurance regulators, state securities administrators, state banking authorities, the SEC, FINRA, the DOL, the IRS and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. See Item 1. “Business - Regulatory Matters” for a summary of certain U.S. state and federal laws and regulations applicable to our business. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations could subject us to administrative penalties imposed by a particular governmental or self-regulatory authority, unanticipated costs associated with remedying such failure or other claims, harm to our reputation, or interruption of our operations, any of which could have a material and adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
In addition, these statutes and regulations may, in effect, restrict the ability of our subsidiaries to write new business or, as indicated below, distribute funds to Maiden Holdings. In recent years, some U.S. state legislatures have considered or enacted laws that may alter or increase state authority to regulate insurance companies and insurance holding companies. Moreover, the NAIC and state insurance regulators regularly re-examine existing laws and regulations and interpretations of existing laws and develop new laws. The new interpretations or laws may be more restrictive or may result in higher costs to us than current statutory requirements.
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act ("Dodd-Frank") impacts the reinsurance industry in several areas, including tort reform, corporate governance and the taxation of reinsurance companies. Dodd-Frank prohibits a state from denying credit for reinsurance if the state of domicile of the insurer purchasing the reinsurance recognizes credit for reinsurance.
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Changes in accounting principles and financial reporting requirements could result in material changes to our reported results of operations and financial condition.
U.S. GAAP and related financial reporting requirements are complex, continually evolving and may be subject to varied interpretation by the relevant authoritative bodies. Such varied interpretations could result from differing views related to specific facts and circumstances. Changes in U.S. GAAP and financial reporting requirements, or in the interpretation of U.S. GAAP or those requirements, could result in material changes to our reported results and financial condition.
Legislation enacted in Bermuda in response to the EU’s review of harmful tax competition could adversely affect our operations.
During 2017, the EU Economic and Financial Affairs Council released a list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes. The stated aim of this list, and accompanying report, was to promote good governance worldwide in order to maximize efforts to prevent tax fraud and tax evasion. Bermuda was not on the list of non-cooperative jurisdictions but did feature in the report (along with approximately 40 other jurisdictions) as having committed to address concerns relating to economic substance by December 31, 2018. In accordance with that commitment, Bermuda enacted the Economic Substance Act 2018 (as amended) of Bermuda (the “ESA”) that came into force on January 1, 2019. As noted above under “Regulatory Matters – Certain Bermuda Law Regulations” the ESA requires an in-scope registered entity (other than an entity which is resident for tax purposes in certain jurisdictions outside Bermuda) that carries on as a business any one or more of the “relevant activities” referred to in the ESA, to comply with economic substance requirements.
Under the ESA, holding entity activities (as defined in the ESA and the Economic Substance Regulations 2018, as amended) satisfy the requirement of undertaking a “relevant activity”. To the extent that the ESA applies to Maiden Holdings, we will be required to demonstrate compliance with the ESA that we have “adequate” economic substance in Bermuda.
The ESA may require in-scope Bermuda entities which are engaged in such “relevant activities” to be directed and managed in Bermuda, have an adequate level of qualified employees in Bermuda, incur an adequate level of annual expenditure in Bermuda, maintain adequate physical presence in Bermuda or perform core income-generating activities in Bermuda.
However, the meaning of “adequate” in this context remains unclear. Further, given that the legislation is new and remains subject to further clarification and interpretation, it is not currently possible to ascertain the steps required to ensure our continued compliance with the ESA and makes it difficult to predict its future impact. Any entity that must satisfy economic substance requirements but fails to do so could face financial penalties or could be ordered by a court to take action to remedy such failure. It may also be faced with a restriction of its business activities, automatic reporting by the Bermuda authorities to competent authorities in the EU on an entity's non-compliance or may be struck off as a registered entity in Bermuda. If any one of the foregoing were to occur it may adversely impact the business operations of Maiden Holdings.
Corporate Governance and Risks Related to an Investment in our Securities
Our holding company structure and certain regulatory and other constraints affect our ability to pay dividends and make other payments.
Maiden Holdings is a holding company. As a result, we do not have, and will not have, any significant operations or assets other than our ownership of the shares of our subsidiaries. We expect that dividends and other permitted distributions from Maiden Reinsurance, Maiden Global (and its subsidiaries), Maiden LF, Maiden GF and Maiden NA (and its subsidiaries) will be our sole source of funds to pay any dividends to common and preference shareholders and meet ongoing cash requirements, including debt service payments, if any, and other expenses. The inability of our subsidiaries to pay dividends in an amount sufficient to enable us to meet our cash requirements at the holding company level could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Any capital distribution of any kind out of Maiden Reinsurance would be done consistent with Vermont regulation or as may be required, with the prior approval of the Vermont DFR.
The timing and amount of any cash dividends on our common and preference shares are at the discretion of the Board and will depend upon the results of operations and cash flows, our financial position and capital requirements, and any other factors that our Board deems relevant. Our Board has not declared dividends on the Preference Shares since the fourth quarter of 2018 and there can be no assurance that the authorization and declaration of dividends on the Preference Shares will resume.
Our common shares may be at risk for delisting from the NASDAQ Capital Market in the future. Delisting could adversely affect the liquidity of our common shares and the market price of our common shares could decrease.
On October 25, 2019, Maiden Holdings transferred the listing of its common shares from the NASDAQ Global Select Market to the NASDAQ Capital Market. NASDAQ Capital Market is a continuous trading market that operates in substantially the same manner as the NASDAQ Global Select Market and listed companies must meet certain financial requirements and comply with the NASDAQ corporate governance requirements. The Company’s common shares continue to trade under the symbol “MHLD”. There can be no assurance that the bid price of the common shares of Maiden Holdings will remain above the applicable listing standards in the future.
If our common shares were to be delisted, the liquidity of our common shares would be adversely affected and the market price of our common shares could decrease further. Our failure to be listed on NASDAQ or another established securities market could have a material adverse effect on the value of your investment in our Company.
The Preference Shares are equity and are subordinate to our existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities.
The Preference Shares are equity interests and do not constitute indebtedness. As such, the Preference Shares will rank junior to all of our indebtedness and other non-equity claims of our creditors with respect to assets available to satisfy the claims during liquidation. At December 31, 2020, our total consolidated principal amount of debt was $262.5 million and our total consolidated liabilities were $2.4 billion. We may incur additional debt and liabilities in the future. Our existing and future indebtedness may restrict payments of dividends on the Preference Shares. Additionally, unlike indebtedness, where principal
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and interest would customarily be payable on specified due dates, in the case of preference shares, dividends are payable only if declared by our Board (or a duly authorized committee of the Board). Our Board has not declared dividends on the Preference Shares since the fourth quarter of 2018 and there can be no assurance that the authorization and declaration of dividends on the Preference Shares will resume.
We have risks related to the Company’s Senior Notes.
Maiden NA issued the 2013 Senior Notes and Maiden Holdings issued the 2016 Senior Notes, both of which are currently outstanding. If we are unable to maintain a level of cash flows from operating and investment activities, our ability to pay our obligations on our Senior Notes could be adversely affected.
We may also incur additional indebtedness in the future. The level of debt outstanding could adversely affect our financial flexibility. Our indebtedness could have adverse consequences, including:
•limiting our ability to pay dividends to our common and preference shareholders;
•limiting our subsidiaries’ ability to pay dividends;
•increasing our vulnerability to changing economic, regulatory and industry conditions;
•limiting our ability to compete and our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry;
•limiting our ability to borrow additional funds;
•requiring us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our debt, thereby, reducing funds available for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other purposes; and
•impacting regulators assessment of our capital position, adequacy and flexibility and therefore, the financial strength ratings of rating agencies and regulators' assessment of our solvency.
A few significant shareholders may influence or control the direction of our business. If the ownership of our common shares continues to be highly concentrated, it may limit your ability and the ability of other shareholders to influence significant corporate decisions.
The interests of our significant shareholders may not be fully aligned with our interests, and this may lead to a strategy that is not in our best interest. Although they do not have any voting agreements or arrangements, our Founding Shareholders or other significant shareholders could exercise significant influence over matters requiring shareholder approval, and their concentrated holdings may delay or deter possible changes in control of Maiden Holdings, which may reduce the market price of our common shares.
Dividends on the Series A, Series C and Series D Preference Shares are non-cumulative.
Dividends on the Series A, Series C and Series D Preference Shares are non-cumulative and payable only out of lawfully available funds of the Company under Bermuda law. Consequently, if our Board (or a duly authorized committee of the Board) does not authorize and declare a dividend for any dividend period with respect to the Series A, Series C and Series D Preference Shares, holders of the Series A, Series C and Series D Preference Shares would not be entitled to receive any such dividend, and such unpaid dividend will not accumulate and will never be payable. We will have no obligation to pay dividends for a dividend period on or after the dividend payment date for such period if the Board (or a duly authorized committee of the Board) has not declared such dividend before the related dividend payment date. If dividends on the Series A, Series C and Series D Preference Shares are authorized and declared with respect to any subsequent dividend period, we will be free to pay dividends on any other series of preference shares and/or our common shares. Under Bermuda law, we will not be permitted to pay dividends on the Preference Shares (even if such dividends have been previously declared) if there are reasonable grounds for believing that we are, or would after the payment be, unable to pay our liabilities as they become due; or the realizable value of our assets would thereby be less than our liabilities.
Voting Rights for Shareholders of Series A, Series C and Series D Preference Shares have been invoked.
Whenever dividends on any Series A, Series C and Series D Preference Shares have not been declared and paid for the equivalent of six or more dividend periods, whether or not for consecutive dividend periods (a “nonpayment event”), the holders of the Series A, Series C and Series D Preference Shares will be entitled to vote for the election of a total of two additional members of the Board of Maiden Holdings, provided that the election of any such directors shall not cause us to violate the corporate governance requirement of any exchange, on which our securities may be listed or quoted, that listed or quoted companies must have a majority of independent directors.
Our Board has not authorized or declared a dividend since the dividend period starting on December 1, 2018 with respect to the Series A, Series C and Series D Preference Shares. At March 15, 2020, because preference share dividends were not declared and paid for six quarterly dividend periods, holders of record with at least 20% of voting power of any of the Preference Shares Series A, C and D were collectively entitled to vote for the election of a total of two additional members of the Company's Board. On December 15, 2020, holders of the Company's Preference Share Series A, C and D collectively elected two additional members to the Company's Board. There can be no assurance as to the impact on our operations due to the recent election of such additional board members.
Our revenues and results of operations may fluctuate as a result of factors beyond our control, which may cause the price of our shares to be volatile.
The revenues and results of operations of reinsurance companies historically have been subject to significant fluctuations and uncertainties. In addition, we are not in engaged in active reinsurance underwriting currently and may not do so for the
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foreseeable future. This has resulted in a significant reduction in our revenues. Our profitability can also be affected significantly by:
•fluctuations in interest rates, inflationary pressures and other changes in the investment environment that impact returns on invested assets;
•changes in the frequency or severity of claims;
•volatile and unpredictable developments, including man-made, weather-related and other natural catastrophes, terrorist attacks or pandemics, such as the spread of the COVID-19 virus;
•price competition;
•inadequate loss and LAE reserves;
•cyclical nature of the property and casualty insurance market; and
•negative developments in the specialty property and casualty reinsurance sectors in which we operate.
These factors may cause the price of the Company's shares to be volatile.
The market price for our ordinary shares has been and may continue to be highly volatile, and if there is a further sustained decline in our share price there could be limited liquidity for our ordinary shares.
The market price for our ordinary shares has fluctuated significantly. Future sales of our common shares by our shareholders or us, or the perception that such sales may occur, could adversely affect the market price of our common shares. As of March 9, 2021, 86,132,060 common shares were outstanding. In addition, we have reserved 9,348,183 common shares for issuance under our 2019 Omnibus Incentive Plan. As of March 9, 2021, the total options outstanding was 264,500 and the total restricted shares outstanding was 1,470,982. Sales of substantial amounts of our shares, or the perception that such sales could occur, could adversely affect the prevailing price of the shares and may make it more difficult for us to sell our equity securities in the future, or for shareholders to sell their shares, at a time and price that they deem appropriate.
Provisions in our bye-laws may reduce or increase the voting rights of our shares.
In general, and except as provided under our bye-laws and as provided below, the common shareholders have one vote for each common share held by them and are entitled to vote, on a non-cumulative basis, at all meetings of shareholders. However, if, and so long as, the shares of a shareholder are treated as "controlled shares" (as determined pursuant to Sections 957 and 958 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "IRS Code")) of any U.S. Person (as that term is defined in the risk factors under the section captioned "Taxation" within this Item that owns shares directly or indirectly through non-U.S. entities) and such controlled shares constitute 9.5% or more of the votes conferred by our issued shares, the voting rights with respect to the controlled shares owned by such U.S. Person will be limited, in the aggregate, to a voting power of less than 9.5%, under a formula specified in our bye-laws. The formula is applied repeatedly until the voting power of all 9.5% U.S. Shareholders has been reduced to less than 9.5%. In addition, our Board may limit a shareholder’s voting rights when it deems it appropriate to do so to (i) avoid the existence of any 9.5% U.S. Shareholder; and (ii) avoid certain material adverse tax, legal or regulatory consequences to us, to any of our subsidiaries or any direct or indirect shareholder or its affiliates. "Controlled shares" include, among other things, all shares that a U.S. Person is deemed to own directly, indirectly or constructively (within the meaning of section 958 of the IRS Code). The amount of any reduction of votes that occurs by operation of the above limitations will generally be reallocated proportionately among our other shareholders whose shares were not "controlled shares" of the 9.5% U.S. Shareholder so long as such reallocation does not cause any person to become a 9.5% U.S. Shareholder.
Under these provisions, certain shareholders may have their voting rights limited, while other shareholders may have voting rights in excess of one vote per share. Moreover, these provisions could have the effect of reducing the votes of certain shareholders who would not otherwise be subject to the 9.5% limitation by virtue of their direct share ownership.
We are authorized under our bye-laws to request information from any shareholder for the purpose of determining whether a shareholder’s voting rights are to be reallocated under the bye-laws. If any holder fails to respond to this request or submits incomplete or inaccurate information, we may, in our sole discretion, eliminate or adjust the shareholder’s voting rights.
Anti-takeover provisions in our bye-laws could impede an attempt to replace or remove our directors, which could diminish the value of our common shares.
Our bye-laws contain provisions that may entrench directors and make it more difficult for shareholders to replace directors even if the shareholders consider it beneficial to do so. In addition, these provisions could delay or prevent a change of control that a shareholder might consider favorable. For example, these provisions may prevent a shareholder from receiving the benefit from any premium over the market price of our common shares offered by a bidder in a potential takeover. Even in the absence of an attempt to effect a change in management or a takeover attempt, these provisions may adversely affect the prevailing market price of our common shares if they are viewed as discouraging changes in management and takeover attempts in the future.
Examples of provisions in our bye-laws that could have such an effect include the following:
•our Board may reduce the total voting power of any shareholder to avoid adverse tax, legal or regulatory consequences to us or any direct or indirect holder of our shares or its affiliates; and
•our Board may, in their discretion, decline to record the transfer of any common shares on our share register, if they are not satisfied that all required regulatory approvals for such transfer have been obtained or if they determine such transfer may result in a non-de minimis adverse tax, legal or regulatory consequence to us or any direct or indirect holder of shares or its affiliates.
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It may be difficult for a third party to acquire us.
Provisions of our organizational documents may discourage, delay or prevent a merger, amalgamation, tender offer or other change of control that holders of our shares may consider favorable. These provisions impose various procedural and other requirements that could make it more difficult for shareholders to effect various corporate actions. These provisions could:
•have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of us;
•discourage bids for our securities at a premium over the market price;
•adversely affect the price of, and the voting and other rights of the holders of our securities; or
•impede the ability of the holders of our securities to change our management.
U.S. persons who own our shares may have more difficulty in protecting their interests than U.S. persons who are shareholders of a U.S. corporation.
The Companies Act, which applies to us, differs in certain material respects from laws generally applicable to U.S. corporations and their shareholders. As a result of these differences, U.S. persons who own our shares may have more difficulty protecting their interests than U.S. persons who own shares of a U.S. corporation. Set forth below is a summary of certain significant provisions of the Companies Act, including modifications adopted pursuant to our bye-laws, applicable to us which differ in certain respects from provisions of Delaware corporate law. Because the following statements are summaries, they do not discuss all aspects of Bermuda law that may be relevant to us and our shareholders.
Interested Directors. Bermuda law provides that if a director has a personal interest in a transaction to which the company is also a party and if the director discloses the nature of this personal interest at the first opportunity, either at a meeting of directors or in writing to the directors, then the company will not be able to declare the transaction void solely due to the existence of that personal interest and the director will not be liable to the company for any profit realized from the transaction. In addition, Bermuda law and our bye-laws provide that, after a director has made the declaration of interest referred to above, he is allowed to be counted for purposes of determining whether a quorum is present and to vote on a transaction in which he has an interest, unless disqualified from doing so by the chairman of the relevant board meeting.
Under Delaware law, such transaction would not be voidable if:
•the material facts as to such interested director’s relationship or interests are disclosed or are known to the board of directors and the board in good faith authorizes the transaction by the affirmative vote of a majority of the disinterested directors;
•such material facts are disclosed or are known to the shareholders entitled;
•to vote on such transaction and the transaction is specifically approved in good faith by vote of the majority of shares entitled to vote thereon; or
•the transaction is fair as to the corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved or ratified.
Under Delaware law, such interested director could be held liable for a transaction in which such director derived an improper personal benefit.
Mergers and Similar Arrangements. The amalgamation or merger of a Bermuda company with another company or corporation (other than certain affiliated companies) requires the amalgamation agreement to be approved by the company’s board of directors and by its shareholders. Under our bye-laws, we may, with the approval of a majority of votes cast at a general meeting of our shareholders at which a quorum is present, amalgamate or merge with another Bermuda company or with a body incorporated outside Bermuda. In the case of an amalgamation or merger, a shareholder that did not vote in favor of the amalgamation or merger may apply to a Bermuda court for a proper valuation of such shareholder’s shares if such shareholder is not satisfied that fair value has been paid for such shares. Under Delaware law, with certain exceptions, a merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all the assets of a corporation must be approved by the board of directors and a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon. Under Delaware law, a shareholder of a corporation participating in certain major corporate transactions may, under certain circumstances, be entitled to appraisal rights pursuant to which such shareholder may receive cash in the amount of the fair value of the shares held by such shareholder (as determined by a court) in lieu of the consideration such shareholder would otherwise receive in the transaction.
Shareholders’ Suit. The rights of shareholders under Bermuda law are not as extensive as the rights of shareholders under legislation or judicial precedent in many U.S. jurisdictions. Class actions and derivative actions are generally not available to shareholders under the laws of Bermuda. However, the Bermuda courts ordinarily would be expected to follow English case law precedent, which would permit a shareholder to commence an action in the name of the company to remedy a wrong done to the company where the act complained of is alleged to be beyond the corporate power of the company, is illegal or would result in the violation of our memorandum of association or bye-laws. Furthermore, consideration would be given by the court to acts that are alleged to constitute a fraud against the minority shareholders or where an act requires the approval of a greater percentage of our shareholders than actually approved it. The winning party in such an action generally would be able to recover a portion of attorneys’ fees incurred in connection with such action. Our bye-laws provide that shareholders waive all claims or rights of action that they might have, individually or in the right of the company, against any director or officer for any act or failure to act in the performance of such director’s or officer’s duties, except with respect to any fraud or dishonesty of such director or officer. Class actions and derivative actions generally are available to shareholders under Delaware law for, among other things, breach of fiduciary duty, corporate waste and actions not taken in accordance with applicable law. In such actions, the court has discretion to permit the winning party to recover attorneys’ fees incurred in connection with such action.
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Indemnification of Directors. We may indemnify our directors or officers in their capacity as directors or officers of any loss arising or liability attaching to them by virtue of any rule of law in respect of any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust of which a director or officer may be guilty in relation to the company other than in respect of his or her own fraud or dishonesty. Under Delaware law, a corporation may indemnify a director or officer of the corporation against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred in defense of an action, suit or proceeding by reason of such position if such director or officer acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, such director or officer had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. In addition, we have entered into indemnification agreements with our directors and officers.
We are a Bermuda company and it may be difficult for you to enforce judgments against us or our directors and executive officers.
We are incorporated under the laws of Bermuda and our holding company is based in Bermuda. In addition, all of our directors and officers reside outside Bermuda and a substantial portion of our assets will be and the assets of these persons are, and will continue to be, located in jurisdictions outside Bermuda. As such, it may be difficult or impossible to effect service of process within the U.S. upon us or those persons or to recover against us or them on judgments of U.S. courts, including judgments predicated upon civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws. Further, no claim may be brought in Bermuda against us or our directors and officers in the first instance for violation of U.S. federal securities laws because these laws have no extraterritorial jurisdiction under Bermuda law and do not have force of law in Bermuda. A Bermuda court may, however, impose civil liability, including the possibility of monetary damages, on us or our directors and officers if the facts alleged in a complaint constitute or give rise to a cause of action under Bermuda law.
We have been previously advised by Conyers Dill & Pearman Limited, our Bermuda counsel, that there is doubt as to whether the courts of Bermuda would enforce judgments of U.S. courts obtained in actions against us or our directors and officers, as well as the experts named in this Report, predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws or original actions brought in Bermuda against us or these persons predicated solely upon U.S. federal securities laws. Further, we have been advised by Conyers Dill & Pearman Limited that there is no treaty in effect between the U.S. and Bermuda providing for the enforcement of judgments of U.S. courts, and there are grounds upon which Bermuda courts may not enforce judgments of U.S. courts. Some remedies available under the laws of U.S. jurisdictions, including some remedies available under the U.S. federal securities laws, may not be allowed in Bermuda courts as contrary to that jurisdiction’s public policy. Because judgments of U.S. courts are not automatically enforceable in Bermuda, it may be difficult for you to recover against us based upon such judgments.
Relationship with AmTrust
Significant changes in our reinsurance relationship with AmTrust have reduced our current and future revenues and create significant uncertainty for sources of future liquidity.
During 2019, we, through our subsidiary Maiden Reinsurance, executed the partial termination amendment ("Partial Termination Amendment") effective January 1, 2019 which amended the AmTrust Quota Share, the Final AmTrust QS Termination, the WC Commutation and several post-termination endorsements. These transactions served to eliminate all new premium revenues from AmTrust, return certain unearned premiums to AmTrust, commuted and returned certain workers’ compensation loss reserves to AmTrust, capped the loss corridor on certain program business reinsured from AmTrust and increased the levels of collateral provided to AmTrust as security against the obligations Maiden has assumed under the reinsurance contracts with AmTrust.
While these transactions have contributed significantly to the reduction in required regulatory capital needed to operate our business and the subsequent strengthening of our capital ratios, these transactions have resulted in a significant reduction in revenues which is likely to continue for the foreseeable future as we are not presently engaged in active reinsurance underwriting. As a result, our financial condition could be adversely affected by these actions. As a result of this loss of revenue, we will need to rely on unrestricted cash from operations and returns on our investments to fund our operations, maintain liquidity and meet our financial obligations and capital allocation priorities. While we believe we have sufficient sources to meet these obligations, deterioration in our results of operations or other adverse financial events could impact our ability to continue meeting these obligations.
Our initial arrangements with AmTrust were negotiated while we were its affiliate. The arrangements could be challenged as not reflecting terms that we would agree to in arm’s-length negotiations with an independent third party; moreover, our business relationship with AmTrust and its subsidiaries may present, and may make us vulnerable to, possible adverse tax consequences, difficult conflicts of interest, and legal claims that we have not acted in the best interest of our shareholders.
We entered into a quota share agreement with AII, which reinsures AmTrust’s insurance company subsidiaries, and a Master Agreement with AmTrust, pursuant to which Maiden Reinsurance entered into the quota share agreement. Because (i) Leah Karfunkel (wife of the late Michael Karfunkel), George Karfunkel and Barry Zyskind (the Company's non-executive chairman) collectively own or control approximately 53.2% of the outstanding common shares of Evergreen Parent GP, LLC, the ultimate parent of AmTrust, (ii) our Founding Shareholders sponsored our formation, and (iii) based on each individual's most recent public filing as of December 31, 2020, Leah Karfunkel owns or controls approximately 7.9% of the outstanding shares of the Company and Barry Zyskind owns or controls approximately 7.4% of the outstanding shares of the Company, we may be deemed to be an affiliate of AmTrust. George Karfunkel now owns or controls less than 5.0% of the outstanding shares of the Company based on his most recent public filings. Due to our close business relationship with AmTrust, we may be presented with situations involving conflicts of interest with respect to the agreements and other arrangements we will enter into with AmTrust and its subsidiaries, exposing us to possible claims that we have not acted in the best interest of our shareholders. The arrangements between us and AmTrust were modified after they were originally entered into and there could be future modifications.
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Our non-executive Chairman of the Board currently holds the positions of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of AmTrust. These dual positions may present, and make us vulnerable to, difficult conflicts of interest and related legal challenges.
Barry Zyskind, our non-executive Chairman of the Board, is the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of AmTrust and, as such, he does not serve our Company on a full-time basis. Mr. Zyskind is expected to continue in both of his positions for the foreseeable future. Conflicts of interest could arise with respect to business opportunities that could be advantageous to AmTrust or its subsidiaries, on the one hand, and us or our subsidiary, on the other hand. In addition, potential conflicts of interest may arise should the interests of the Company and AmTrust diverge. However, the Audit Committee of our Board, which consists entirely of independent directors, does exclusively review and approve all related party transactions.
The amount of collateral we provide to AmTrust could limit our unrestricted liquidity and impact our ability to fulfill our obligations in certain circumstances.
As a result of our use of trust accounts, funds withheld, letters of credit and a loan, a substantial portion of our assets will not be available to us for other uses, which could reduce our financial flexibility and could impact our ability to fulfill our obligations in certain circumstances. If further collateral is required to be provided to any other AmTrust subsidiaries under applicable law or regulatory requirements, Maiden Reinsurance will provide collateral to the extent required.
At December 31, 2020, we provided $1.8 billion of collateral to AmTrust, AII and AEL in the form of trusts, letters of credit, funds withheld and a loan. This collateral includes the transfer of cash and investments totaling $575.0 million to AmTrust from existing trust accounts used for collateral on the AmTrust Quota Share to a funds withheld arrangement during January 2019, which initially bore an annual interest rate of 3.5%, subject to annual adjustment. The annual interest rate was adjusted to 2.65% during the first quarter of 2020.
Maiden Reinsurance is not a party to the reinsurance agreements between AII and AmTrust’s U.S. insurance subsidiaries or the related reinsurance trust agreements and has no rights thereunder. If one or more of these AmTrust subsidiaries withdraws Maiden Reinsurance’s assets from their trust account or misapplies withheld funds that are due to Maiden Reinsurance and that subsidiary is or becomes insolvent, we believe it may be more difficult for Maiden Reinsurance to recover any such amounts to which we are entitled than it would be if Maiden Reinsurance had entered into reinsurance and trust agreements with these AmTrust subsidiaries directly. AII has agreed to immediately return to Maiden Reinsurance any collateral provided by Maiden Reinsurance that one of those subsidiaries improperly utilizes or retains, and AmTrust has agreed to guarantee AII’s repayment obligation and AII’s payment obligations under its loan agreement with Maiden Reinsurance. We are subject to the risk that AII and/or AmTrust may be unable or unwilling to discharge these obligations.
Employee Issues
We are dependent on our key executives. We may not be able to attract and retain key employees or successfully implement our newly formulated business strategy.
Our success depends largely on our senior management, which includes, among others, Lawrence F. Metz, our President and Co-Chief Executive Officer, and Patrick J. Haveron, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer (Messrs. Metz and Haveron are referred to as the "Co-CEOs"). We have entered into employment agreements with both of these executive officers.
In addition to the officers listed above, we require key staff with actuarial, legal, reinsurance, accounting and administrative skills. As a result of the Strategic Review, we have a significantly smaller staff and given our current business circumstances, it may be difficult for us to retain staff and recruit competent new executives and staff. Our inability to attract and retain additional personnel or the loss of the services of any of our senior executives or key employees could delay or prevent us from fully implementing our business strategy and could significantly and negatively affect our business.
Our employee attrition recently has been high and may affect our ability to adequately manage our business.
We sold Maiden US in 2018 as well as terminated and sold certain lines of business. As we are not currently engaged in active reinsurance underwriting and our portfolio of loss reserves continues to reduce, we have continued to reduce headcount commensurately. This elevated attrition may affect our ability to manage our business as we train these new employees and integrate them into our company. In addition, if we decide to resume active reinsurance underwriting, our present employee base may be insufficient in the requisite skills or quantity to commence such activities and there can be no assurance that we can recruit or attract the requisite personnel to implement such strategy on a timely basis if such a decision is made.
Our business in Bermuda could be adversely affected by Bermuda employment restrictions.
Currently, Maiden Holdings employs seven non-Bermudians in our Bermuda office including our Co-CEOs. Under Bermuda law, non-Bermudians (other than spouses of Bermudians, holders of permanent residents’ certificates and holders of working residents’ certificates) may not engage in any gainful occupation in Bermuda without a valid government work permit. A work permit may be granted or renewed upon showing that, after proper public advertisement, no Bermudian, spouse of a Bermudian, or holder of a permanent resident’s or working resident’s certificate who meets the minimum standards reasonably required by the employer has applied for the job. Work permits are issued with expiry dates that range from one, three, five, six or, in certain circumstances for key executives, ten years. We may not be able to use the services of one or more of our non-Bermudian employees if we are not able to obtain work permits for them, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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International Operations
Our offices that operate in jurisdictions outside Bermuda and the U.S. are subject to certain limitations and risks that are unique to foreign operations.
Our international operations are regulated in various jurisdictions with respect to licensing requirements, currency, reserves, employees and other matters. International operations may be harmed by political developments in foreign countries, which may be hard to predict in advance. Regulations governing technical reserves and remittance balances in some countries may hinder remittance of profits and repatriation of assets.
The U.K.'s vote in favor of leaving the EU could adversely affect us.
The UK left the EU on 31 January 2020. There was a transition period during which the UK remained part of the Single market and Customs Union to allow for negotiations on the future relations. Following intense negotiations, an agreement on future EU-UK relations was concluded at the end of December 2020 but it does not cover financial services.
Both Maiden LF and Maiden GF have been accepted into the UK’s temporary permissions regime which allows EEA firms who were formerly using a passport to operate for a limited period while they seek authorization from the Prudential Regulatory Authority (PRA). This means they can continue to underwrite in the UK despite Brexit.
The risks associated with the potential consequences that may follow Brexit, including volatility in financial markets, exchange rates and interest rates, remain uncertain. These uncertainties could increase the volatility of, or adversely affect, our investment results in particular periods or over time. Brexit could adversely affect European or worldwide political, regulatory, economic or market conditions and could contribute to instability in global political institutions and regulatory agencies which, in turn, could adversely affect our business, results of our operations and our financial condition.
Foreign currency fluctuations may reduce our net income and our capital levels adversely affecting our financial condition.
We conduct business in a variety of non-U.S. currencies, the principal exposures being the euro and the British pound. Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are exposed to changes in currency exchange rates. Our reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and exchange rate fluctuations relative to the U.S. dollar may materially impact our results of operations and financial position. Our principal exposure to foreign currency risk is our obligation to settle claims in foreign currencies. In addition, we maintain and expect to continue to maintain a portion of our investment portfolio in investments denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. While the Company may be able to match its foreign currency denominated assets against its net reinsurance liabilities both by currency and duration to protect the Company against foreign exchange and interest rate risks, a natural offset does not exist for all currencies.
We may employ various strategies (including hedging) to manage our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk. To the extent that these exposures are not fully hedged or the hedges are ineffective, our results or equity may be reduced by fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates that could materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. At December 31, 2020, no such hedges or hedging strategies were in force or had been entered into.
Insurance and Reinsurance Markets
The property and casualty insurance and reinsurance industry is cyclical in nature, which may affect our overall financial performance.
Historically, the financial performance of the property and casualty insurance and reinsurance industry has tended to fluctuate in cyclical periods of price competition and excess capacity (known as a soft market) followed by periods of high premium rates and shortages of underwriting capacity (known as a hard market). Although the financial performance of an individual insurance or reinsurance company is dependent on its own specific business characteristics, the profitability of most property and casualty insurance and reinsurance companies tends to follow this cyclical market pattern.
In recent years, the market has been in a competitive environment in which underwriting capacity has expanded, risk selection became less disciplined and price competition increased sharply. During that period, market participants' capital levels have continued to improve due to positive earnings and improved values of risk assets over that time. In addition, an influx of new market participants with different operating models than traditional reinsurers such as us have entered the market place. While many of these new market participants specialize in property catastrophe oriented business and do not directly compete with us, they are influencing competitive conditions in the broader reinsurance market. This additional underwriting capacity resulted in increased competition from other insurance and reinsurance companies expanding the types or amounts of business they write, or from companies seeking to maintain or increase market share at the expense of underwriting discipline.
Because this cyclicality is due in large part to the actions of our competitors and general economic factors beyond our control, we cannot predict with certainty the timing or duration of changes in the market cycle. These cyclical patterns, the actions of our competitors, and general economic factors could cause our revenues and net income to fluctuate, which may cause the price of our common shares to be volatile. The ultimate outcome of these events and their market impact is not known at this time.
Negative developments in the U.S. workers’ compensation insurance industry could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Approximately 35.1% of our AmTrust Reinsurance segment's reserve for loss and LAE at December 31, 2020 was related to the reinsurance of U.S. workers' compensation risks which is our largest exposure to a particular line of business. Our AmTrust Reinsurance segment includes all business ceded by AmTrust to Maiden Reinsurance, primarily the AmTrust Quota Share and the European Hospital Liability Quota Share. Both contracts in this segment have been terminated effective January 1, 2019. Negative developments in the economic, competitive or regulatory conditions affecting the U.S. workers’ compensation insurance industry could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. For example, if legislators
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in our larger markets were to enact legislation to increase the scope or amount of benefits for employees under U.S. workers’ compensation insurance policies without related loss control measures, or if regulators made other changes to the regulatory system governing U.S. workers’ compensation insurance, this could negatively affect the U.S. workers’ compensation insurance industry in the affected markets.
Reinsurance is a highly competitive industry.
The reinsurance industry is highly competitive. While we are not currently engaged in active reinsurance underwriting, if and when we were to resume such activity we would compete with major U.S. and non-U.S. reinsurers, including other Bermuda-based reinsurers, on an international and regional basis. Many of these entities have significantly larger amounts of capital, higher ratings from rating agencies and more resources than us. We currently do not have a financial strength or credit rating from S&P or A.M. Best and the lack of such ratings will likely limit the opportunities we have to write new reinsurance business if we resume active underwriting. Historically, periods of increased capacity levels in our industry have led to increased competition which puts pressure on reinsurance pricing.
In recent years, significant increases in the use of risk-linked securities and derivative and other non-traditional risk transfer mechanisms and vehicles are being developed and offered by other parties, including entities other than insurance and reinsurance companies. The availability of both these non-traditional products and sources of capital could reduce the demand for traditional insurance and reinsurance and if we were to resume active reinsurance underwriting it may result in fewer contracts written, lower premium rates, increased expenses for customer acquisition and retention and less favorable policy terms and conditions, which could have a material adverse impact on our growth and profitability.
Consolidation in the insurance and reinsurance industry and increased competition on premium rates could lead to lower margins for us and less demand for our products and services if and when we resume active reinsurance underwriting.
The insurance and reinsurance industry continues to undergo a process of consolidation as industry participants seek to enhance their product and geographic reach, client base, operating efficiency and general market power through merger and acquisition activities. It is possible that the larger combined entities resulting from these mergers and acquisition activities may seek to use the benefits of consolidation, including improved efficiencies and economies of scale, to, among other things, implement price reductions for their products and services to increase their market shares. Consolidation among primary insurance companies may also lead to reduced use of reinsurance as the resulting larger companies may be able to retain more risk and may also have bargaining power in negotiations with reinsurers.
We are not presently engaged in active reinsurance underwriting. If and when we do decide to resume active reinsurance underwriting, these competitive pressures could compel us to write business at unprofitable operating margins.
As the insurance and reinsurance industry consolidates, competition may become more intense and the importance of acquiring and properly servicing each customer will become greater. If and when we do decide to resume active reinsurance underwriting, we could incur greater expenses relating to customer acquisition and retention, which could reduce our operating margins. When the property-casualty insurance industry has exhibited a greater degree of competition, premium rates have come under downward pressure as a result.
Clients, Brokers and Financial Institutions
Our business was historically dependent upon reinsurance brokers and other producers, including third party administrators and financial institutions, and the failure to develop or maintain these relationships could materially adversely affect our ability to market our products and services should we begin to pursue active reinsurance underwriting.
While we are not presently engaged in active reinsurance underwriting, our failure to further develop or maintain relationships with brokers and other producers, including third party administrators and financial institutions, from whom we expect to receive our business could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our reliance on brokers subjects us to their credit risk.
In accordance with industry practice, we anticipate that we will frequently pay amounts owed on claims under our reinsurance contracts to brokers, and these brokers in turn are required to pay and will pay these amounts over to the clients that have purchased reinsurance from us. If a broker fails to make such a payment, it is highly likely that we will be liable to the client for the deficiency under local laws or contractual obligations, notwithstanding the broker’s obligation to make such payment. Likewise, when the client pays premiums for these policies to brokers for payment over to us, these premiums are considered to have been paid and, in most cases, the client will no longer be liable to us for those amounts, whether or not we actually receive the premiums from the brokers. Consequently, we will assume a degree of credit risk associated with brokers with whom we work with respect to some of our reinsurance business.
We could incur substantial losses and reduced liquidity if one of the financial institutions we use in our operations fails.
We have exposure to counterparties in many different industries and routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, including brokers and dealers, commercial banks, and other institutions. Many of these transactions expose us to credit risk in the event of default of our counterparty. In addition, with respect to secured transactions, our credit risk may be exacerbated when the collateral held by us cannot be realized or is liquidated at prices not sufficient to recover the full amount of the obligation.
We maintain cash balances, including restricted cash held in trust accounts, significantly in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limits at various depository institutions. We also maintain cash balances in foreign banks and institutions. If one or more of these financial institutions were to fail, our ability to access cash balances may be temporarily or permanently limited, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.
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Taxation
We may become subject to taxes in Bermuda after 2035, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and operating results and on an investment in our shares.
The Bermuda Minister of Finance, under the Exempted Undertakings Tax Protection Act 1966, as amended, of Bermuda, has given Maiden Holdings an assurance that if any legislation is enacted in Bermuda that would impose tax computed on profits or income, or computed on any capital asset, gain or appreciation, or any tax in the nature of estate duty or inheritance tax, then the imposition of any such tax will not be applicable to Maiden Holdings, or any of its respective operations or its respective shares, debentures or other obligations (except insofar as such tax applies to persons ordinarily resident in Bermuda or to any taxes payable by them in respect of real property or leasehold interests in Bermuda held by it) until March 31, 2035. Given the limited duration of the Minister of Finance’s expected assurance, we cannot be certain that we will not be subject to any Bermuda tax after March 31, 2035. Since Maiden Holdings is incorporated in Bermuda, we will be subject to changes in law or regulation in Bermuda that may have an adverse impact on our operations, including imposition of tax liability.
The financial results of our operations may be affected by measures taken in relation to Bermuda in response to the OECD Base Erosion and Profit Shifting ("BEPS") project.
The OECD has published reports and launched a global dialog among member and non-member countries on measures to limit harmful tax competition. These measures are largely directed at counteracting the effects of jurisdictions perceived by the OECD to be tax havens or offering preferential tax regimes. The OECD has not listed Bermuda as an uncooperative tax haven jurisdiction because Bermuda has committed to eliminating harmful tax practices and to embracing international tax standards for transparency, exchange of information and the elimination of any aspects of the regimes for financial and other services that attract business with no substantial domestic activity. We are not able to predict what changes will arise from the commitment or whether such changes will subject us to additional taxes. In addition, in 2015, the OECD published its final series of BEPS reports related to its attempt to coordinate multilateral action on international tax rules. The proposed actions include an examination of the definition of a “permanent establishment” and the rules for attributing profit to a permanent establishment. One of these reports covers “country-by-country” reporting, which calls for the provision, at a country-specific level, of information such as affiliate and non-affiliate revenues, profit or loss before tax, income taxes paid and accrued, capital, number of employees and tangible assets. It is expected that some countries, including some EU countries, would deem a failure to implement country-by-country reporting to be sufficient rationale to place another country on a “black-list”, thus potentially restricting in some way business between the two countries. Bermuda has agreed to implement country-by-country reporting in 2016 for 2017 reporting. The implementation and ongoing requirements of country-by-country reporting will require significant management, time and resources. Although we believe Bermuda’s agreement to implement country-by-country reporting has reduced the likelihood that Bermuda would appear on a “black-list”, some uncertainty remains. Any changes in the tax law of an OECD member state in response to the BEPS reports and recommendations could subject us to additional taxes and adversely affect our financial position and results of operations.
Our operations may be affected by the introduction of an EU financial transaction tax ("FTT").
On February 14, 2013, the EU Commission published a proposal for a Directive for a common FTT in those EU Member States which choose to participate (''the FTT Zone"), currently Belgium, Germany, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Austria, Portugal, Slovenia and Slovakia.
The FTT proposed at that time had a broad scope and would apply to financial transactions where at least one party to the transaction is established in the FTT Zone and either that party or another party is a financial institution established in the FTT Zone. "Financial institution" covers a wide range of entities, including insurance and reinsurance undertakings. "Financial transaction" includes the sale and purchase of a financial instrument, a transfer of risk associated with a financial instrument and the conclusion or modification of a derivative. A financial institution could be deemed to be "established" in the FTT Zone even if it has no business presence there, if the underlying financial instrument is issued in the FTT Zone.
On December 9, 2019, the German finance minister issued a revised proposal for a FTT to the FTT Zone members. The revised proposal has a more limited scope than previously envisaged, applying to financial transactions that mainly involve the acquisition of shares issued by listed companies located in a participating member state with a market capitalization above €1 billion. The minimum standard rate would be 0.2%. However, there would be exclusions for some transactions (initial public offerings, market making activities, intra-group transactions, repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements, securities lending and securities borrowing buy-sell back and sell-buy back agreements) and an exemption for pension funds.
The FTT proposal remains subject to negotiation between the participating EU Member States and there is not yet an agreement as to the form it should take. It may, therefore, be altered prior to any implementation, the timing of which remains unclear. The introduction of FTT could have an adverse effect on the Company's economic performance.
OECD proposals on the taxation of the digital economy may apply to our activities.
On May 31, 2019, the OECD published a “Programme of Work” designed to address the tax challenges created by an increasing digitalized economy which was divided into two pillars. Pillar One addresses the broader challenge of a digitalized economy and focuses on the allocation of group profits among taxing jurisdictions based on a market based concept rather than historical “permanent establishment” concepts. Pillar Two addresses the remaining BEPS risk of profit shifting to entities in low tax jurisdictions by introducing a global minimum tax and a proposed tax on base eroding payments, which would operate through a denial of a deduction or imposition of source-based taxation (including withholding tax) on certain payments.
In January 2020, the OECD released a statement excluding most financial services activities, including insurance activities, from the scope of the profit reallocation mechanism in Pillar I. The OECD statement cited the presence of commercial (rather than consumer) customers as grounds for the carve-out, but also acknowledged that a “compelling case” could be made that the consumer-facing business lines of insurance companies should be excluded from the scope of Pillar One given the impact of regulations and licensing requirements that typically ensure that residual profits are largely realized in local customer markets.
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However, the OECD noted that the proper scope for Pillar One as applied to “unregulated elements of the financial services sector” may require further consideration. To date, the proposal has been written broadly enough to potentially apply to our activities, and we are unable to determine at this time when such measures would be implemented and if so, whether they will be in a form that whether it would have a material adverse impact on our operations and results.
The OECD published detailed blueprints of its proposals on October 14, 2020 and public consultations and a meeting of the Inclusive Framework have been held virtually in January 2021. The OECD's stated aim is to bring the process to a successful conclusion by mid-2021. The proposal to date has been written broadly enough to potentially apply to our activities, and we are unable to determine at this time whether it would have a material adverse impact on our operations and results.
We may be subject to U.S. federal income tax, which would have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations and on an investment in our shares.
If either Maiden Holdings or Maiden Reinsurance prior to its re-domestication were considered to be engaged in a trade or business in the U.S., it could be subject to U.S. federal income and additional branch profits taxes on the portion of its earnings that are effectively connected to such U.S. business or in the case of Maiden Reinsurance, if it is entitled to benefits under the U.S. income tax treaty with Bermuda and if Maiden Reinsurance were considered engaged in a trade or business in the U.S. through a permanent establishment. Maiden Reinsurance could be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the portion of its earnings that are attributable to its permanent establishment in the U.S., in which case its results of operations could be materially adversely affected. Maiden Holdings is a Bermuda-based holding company. We intend to manage our business so that Maiden Holdings should operate and Maiden Reinsurance operated prior to its re-domestication in such a manner that neither of these companies should be treated as engaged in a U.S. trade or business and, thus, should not be subject to U.S. federal taxation (other than the U.S. federal excise tax on insurance and reinsurance premium income attributable to insuring or reinsuring U.S. risks and U.S. federal withholding tax on certain U.S. source investment income). Maiden Reinsurance is currently subject to U.S. taxation as a domestic corporation from the effective date of its re-domestication to the State of Vermont on March 16, 2020.
However, because (i) there is considerable uncertainty as to which activities constitute being engaged in a trade or business within the U.S.; (ii) a significant portion of Maiden Reinsurance’s business was reinsurance of AmTrust’s insurance subsidiaries; (iii) our non-executive Chairman of the Board is AmTrust’s Chief Executive Officer, and one of our directors is related to a significant shareholder of AmTrust; and (iv) we have an asset management agreement with a subsidiary of AmTrust and may also have additional contractual relationships with AmTrust and its subsidiaries in the future, we cannot be certain that the IRS will not contend successfully that we are engaged in a trade or business in the U.S.
Net operating losses ("NOL") (and certain other tax attributes or tax benefits of the Maiden NA tax group) may be subject to limitation under Section 382 of the Tax Code.
Maiden NA has significant tax NOL carryforwards as of December 31, 2020. As a result of the Maiden NA NOL and other tax attributes, the Company presently has a net deferred tax asset with a full valuation allowance against it which may be recognized in future periods. It is possible that certain ownership changes of Maiden NA, if they were to occur, could result in an “ownership change” of Maiden NA for purposes of Section 382 of the Tax Code. If such an ownership change (as defined) were to occur, the value and amount of the Maiden NA NOL would be substantially impaired, increasing the U.S. federal income tax liability of Maiden NA and materially reducing the value of Maiden NA. Should the NOL be limited in any way, it could also limit or eliminate the Company's ability to recognize and realize that asset in the future.
U.S. Persons who hold our shares may be subject to U.S. federal income taxation at ordinary income rates on their proportionate share of Maiden Reinsurance’s related person insurance income ("RPII").
If U.S. persons are treated as owning 25% or more of Maiden Reinsurance’s shares (by vote or by value) (as is expected to be the case) and the RPII of Maiden Reinsurance (determined on a gross basis) were to equal or exceed 20% of Maiden Reinsurance’s gross insurance income in any taxable year and direct or indirect insureds (and persons related to those insureds) own directly or indirectly through entities 20% or more of the voting power or value of our shares, then a U.S. Person who owns any shares of Maiden Reinsurance (directly or indirectly through non-U.S. entities) on the last day of the taxable year (including the last day of 2020 on which Maiden Reinsurance was treated as a non-U.S. corporation) would be required to include in its income for U.S. federal income tax purposes such person’s pro rata share of Maiden Reinsurance’s RPII for the entire taxable year, determined as if such RPII were distributed proportionately only to U.S. Persons at that date, regardless of whether such income is distributed. In addition, any RPII that is includible in the income of a U.S. tax-exempt organization generally will be treated as unrelated business taxable income. The amount of RPII earned by Maiden Reinsurance (generally, premium and related investment income from the direct or indirect insurance or reinsurance of any direct or indirect U.S. holder of shares or any person related to such holder) will depend on a number of factors, including the identity of persons directly or indirectly insured or reinsured by Maiden Reinsurance.
At the effective date of the re-domestication, we believe that either (i) the direct or indirect insureds of Maiden Reinsurance (and related persons) should not directly or indirectly own 20% or more of either the voting power or value of our shares or (ii) the RPII (determined on a gross basis) of Maiden Reinsurance should not equal or exceed 20% of Maiden Reinsurance’s gross insurance income for the taxable year ended on the effective date of the re-domestication. However, we cannot be certain that this will be the case because some of the factors which determine the extent of RPII may be beyond our control.
U.S. Persons who dispose of our shares may be subject to U.S. federal income taxation at the rates applicable to dividends on a portion of their gains if any.
The RPII rules provide that if a U.S. Person disposes of shares in a non-U.S. insurance corporation in which U.S. Persons own 25% or more of the shares (even if the amount of gross RPII is less than 20% of the corporation’s gross insurance income or the ownership of its shares by direct or indirect insureds and related persons is less than the 20% threshold), any gain from the disposition will generally be treated as a dividend to the extent of the holder’s share of the corporation’s undistributed
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earnings and profits that were accumulated during the period that the holder owned the shares (whether or not such earnings and profits are attributable to RPII). In addition, such a holder will be required to comply with certain reporting requirements, regardless of the amount of shares owned by the holder. These RPII rules should not apply to dispositions of our shares because Maiden Holdings will not be directly engaged in the insurance business. The RPII provisions, however, have never been interpreted by the courts or the U.S. Treasury Department in final regulations, and regulations interpreting the RPII provisions of the Code exist only in proposed form. It is not certain whether these regulations will be adopted in their proposed form or what changes or clarifications might ultimately be made thereto or whether any such changes, as well as any interpretation or application of the RPII rules by the IRS, the courts, or otherwise, might have retroactive effect. The U.S. Treasury Department has authority to impose, among other things, additional reporting requirements with respect to RPII. Accordingly, the meaning of the RPII provisions and the application thereof to Maiden Holdings and Maiden Reinsurance is uncertain.
U.S. Persons who hold our shares will be subject to adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences if Maiden Holdings is considered to be a passive foreign investment company.
If Maiden Holdings is considered a passive foreign investment company ("PFIC") for U.S. federal income tax purposes, a U.S. Person who owns directly or, in some cases, indirectly (e.g. through a non-U.S. partnership) any of our shares will be subject to adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences, including subjecting the investor to a greater tax liability than might otherwise apply and subjecting the investor to a tax on amounts in advance of when such tax would otherwise be imposed, in which case your investment could be materially adversely affected. In addition, if Maiden Holdings were considered a PFIC, upon the death of any U.S. individual owning our shares, such individual’s heirs or estate would not be entitled to a "step-up" in the basis of the shares which might otherwise be available under U.S. federal income tax laws. We believe that we are not, and we currently do not expect to become, a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes; however, there can be no assurance that we will not be deemed a PFIC by the IRS. As discussed below, the IRS issued final and proposed PFIC regulations. New regulations or pronouncements interpreting or clarifying these rules may be forthcoming. We cannot predict what impact, if any, such guidance would have on a shareholder that is subject to U.S. federal income taxation.
U.S. Persons who hold 10% or more of Maiden Holdings’ shares directly or through foreign entities may be subject to taxation under the U.S. CFC rules.
Each 10% U.S. shareholder of a foreign corporation that is a CFC at any time during a taxable year that owns shares in the foreign corporation directly or indirectly through foreign entities on the last day of the foreign corporation's taxable year during which it is a CFC must include in its gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes its pro rata share of the CFC's "subpart F income," even if the subpart F income is not distributed. In addition, upon a sale of shares of a CFC, certain 10% U.S. shareholders may be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a portion of their gain at ordinary income rates.
The Company believes that because of the dispersion of the share ownership in Maiden Holdings, no U.S. Person who owns Maiden Holdings’ shares directly or indirectly through foreign entities should be treated as a 10% U.S. shareholder of Maiden Holdings or of any of its foreign subsidiaries. However, Maiden Holdings’ shares may not be as widely dispersed as we believe due to, for example, the application of certain ownership attribution rules, and no assurance may be given that a U.S. Person who owns our shares will not be characterized as a 10% U.S. shareholder, in which case such U.S. Person may be subject to taxation under U.S. CFC rules.
The 2017 U.S. tax reform legislation, as well as possible future tax legislation and regulations, could materially adversely affect an investment in our shares.
The 2017 Act amends a range of U.S. federal tax rules applicable to individuals, businesses and international taxation, with certain provisions intended to eliminate certain perceived tax advantages of companies (including insurance companies) that have legal domiciles outside the U.S. but have certain U.S. connections and U.S. persons investing in such companies. For example, the 2017 Act includes a BEAT that could make affiliate reinsurance between U.S. and non-U.S. members of our group economically unfeasible. In addition, the 21% corporate income tax rate could lead to higher after-tax income for most U.S. insurance companies in the long term that could result in increased competition for our products and services.
The 2017 Act may also increase the likelihood that we or our non-U.S. subsidiaries will be deemed to be CFCs for U.S. federal tax purposes. Specifically, the 2017 Act expands the definition of "10% U.S. shareholder" for CFC purposes to include U.S. persons who own 10% or more of the value of a foreign corporation’s shares, rather than only looking to voting power held. As a result, the "voting cut-back" provisions included in our Amended and Restated Bye-laws that limit the voting power of any shareholder to 9.5% of the total voting power of our capital stock will be ineffective in avoiding "10% U.S. shareholder" status for U.S. persons who own 10% or more of the value of our shares. The 2017 Act also expands certain attribution rules for stock ownership in a way that would cause foreign subsidiaries in a foreign parented group that includes at least one U.S. subsidiary to be treated as CFCs. In the event a corporation is characterized as a CFC, any "10% U.S. shareholder" of the CFC is required to include its pro rata share of certain insurance and related investment income in income for a taxable year, even if such income is not distributed. In addition, U.S. tax exempt entities subject to the unrelated business taxable income ("UBTI") rules that own 10% or more of the value of our non-U.S. subsidiaries that are characterized as CFCs may recognize UBTI with respect to such investment.
In addition to changes in the CFC rules, the 2017 Act contains modifications to certain provisions relating to PFIC status that could, for example, discourage U.S. persons from investing in our company. The 2017 Act makes it more difficult for a non-U.S. insurance company to avoid PFIC status under an exception for certain non-U.S. insurance companies engaged in the active conduct of an insurance business. The 2017 Act limits this exception to a non-U.S. insurance company that would be taxable as an insurance company if it were a U.S. corporation and that maintains insurance liabilities of more than 25% of such company’s assets for a taxable year (or maintains reserves that at least equal 10% of its assets, is predominantly engaged in an insurance business and satisfies a facts and circumstances test that requires a showing that the failure to exceed the 25% threshold is due to runoff-related or rating-related circumstances) (the "Reserve Test"). In addition, the IRS recently issued final and proposed regulations (the "2020 Regulations") intended to clarify the application of the PFIC provisions to an
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insurance company and provide guidance on a range of issues relating to PFICs including the application of the look-through rule, the treatment of income and assets of certain U.S. insurance subsidiaries for purposes of the look-through rule and the extension of the look-through rule to 25% or more owned partnerships.
The 2020 Regulations define insurance liabilities for purposes of the Reserve Test, tighten the Reserve Test and the statutory cap on insurance liabilities, and provide guidance on the runoff-related and rating-related circumstances for purposes of qualifying as a qualifying insurance corporation under the alternative test (including tightening the scope of non-U.S insurers that can qualify for the rating-related circumstances test). The 2020 Regulations also propose that a non-U.S. insurer will qualify for the insurance company exception only if a factual requirements test or an active conduct percentage test is satisfied. The factual requirements test will be met if the non-U.S. insurer's officers and employees perform its substantial managerial and operational activities (taking into account activities of officers and employees of certain related entities in certain cases). The active conduct percentage test will be satisfied if (1) the total costs incurred by the non-U.S. insurer with respect to its officers and employees (including officers and employees of certain related entities) for services related to core functions (other than investment activities) equal at least 50% of the total costs incurred for all such services and (2) the non-U.S. insurer's officers and employees oversee any part of the non-U.S. insurer's core functions, including investment management, that are outsourced to an unrelated party. Services provided by officers and employees of certain related entities are only taken into account in the numerator of the active conduct percentage if the non-U.S. insurer exercised regular oversight and supervision over such services and compensation arrangements meet certain requirements. The 2020 Regulations also propose that a non-U.S. insurer with no or a nominal number of employees that relies exclusively or almost exclusively upon independent contractors (other than certain related entities) to perform its core functions. While we believe that Maiden Reinsurance met the Reserve Test prior to its domestication and that we should not be characterized as a PFIC for the foreseeable future, we cannot assure you that this will continue to be the case in future years.
We are unable to predict all of the ultimate impacts of the 2017 Act and other proposed tax reform regulations and legislation on our business and results of operations. It is possible the IRS will construe the intent of the 2017 Act as having been reduce or eliminate certain perceived tax advantages of companies (including insurance companies) that have legal domicile outside the U.S., and its interpretation, enforcement actions or regulatory changes could increase the impact of the 2017 Act beyond prevailing current assessments or our own estimates. Further, it is possible that other legislation could be introduced and enacted in the future that would have an adverse impact on us. These events and trends towards more punitive taxation of cross border transactions could in the future materially adversely impact the insurance and reinsurance industry and our own results of operations by increasing taxation of certain activities and transactions in our industry. Accordingly, we cannot reliably estimate what the potential impact of any such changes could be to us or our non-U.S. subsidiaries or investors or the market generally, however, it is possible these changes could materially adversely impact our results of operations.
We may be subject to U.K. taxes, which would have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations and on an investment in our shares.
A company which is resident in the U.K. for U.K. corporation tax purposes is subject to U.K. corporation tax in respect of its worldwide income and gains. While Maiden Global is a U.K. company, neither Maiden Holdings nor Maiden Reinsurance are incorporated in the U.K. Nevertheless, Maiden Holdings or Maiden Reinsurance would be treated as being resident in the U.K. for U.K. corporation tax purposes if its central management and control were exercised in the U.K. The concept of central management and control is indicative of the highest level of control of a company’s affairs, which is wholly a question of fact. The directors and officers of both Maiden Holdings and Maiden Reinsurance intend to manage their affairs so that both companies are resident in Bermuda, and not resident in the U.K., for U.K. tax purposes. However, HM Revenue & Customs could challenge our tax residence status.
A company which is not resident in the U.K. for U.K. corporation tax purposes can nevertheless be subject to U.K. corporation tax at the rate of 19% if it carries on a trade in the U.K. through a permanent establishment in the U.K., but the charge to U.K. corporation tax is limited to profits (both income profits and chargeable gains) attributable directly or indirectly to such permanent establishment.
The directors and officers of Maiden Reinsurance intend to operate the business of Maiden Reinsurance in such a manner that it does not carry on a trade in the U.K. through a permanent establishment in the U.K. Nevertheless, HM Revenue & Customs might contend successfully that Maiden Reinsurance is trading in the U.K. through a permanent establishment in the U.K. because there is considerable uncertainty as to the activities which constitute carrying on a trade in the U.K. through a permanent establishment in the U.K.
The U.K. has no income tax treaty with Bermuda. Companies that are neither resident in the U.K. nor entitled to the protection afforded by a double tax treaty between the U.K. and the jurisdiction in which they are resident are liable to income tax in the U.K., at the basic rate of 20%, on the profits of a trade carried on in the U.K., where that trade is not carried on through a permanent establishment in the U.K. The directors and officers of Maiden Reinsurance intend to operate the business in such a manner that Maiden Reinsurance will not fall within the charge to income tax in the U.K. (other than by way of deduction or withholding).
In addition, diverted profits tax ("DPT") applies to foreign companies with sales in the U.K. (such as Maiden Reinsurance) that design their affairs to avoid creating a taxable presence (in the form of a permanent establishment) in the U.K., or to U.K. companies that enter into transactions with connected companies which lack economic substance to exploit differentials in tax rates. DPT is charged at 25% of the profits representing the contribution of the U.K. activities to the group’s results.
If either Maiden Holdings or Maiden Reinsurance were treated as being resident in the U.K. for U.K. corporation tax purposes, or if Maiden Reinsurance were treated as carrying on a trade in the U.K., whether through a permanent establishment or otherwise, or if DPT applied, the results of our operations would be materially adversely affected.
Any arrangements (including with regard to the provision of services or financing) between Maiden Global and any non-U.K. resident members of the group are subject to the U.K. transfer pricing regime. Consequently, if any such arrangement
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were found not to be on arm’s length terms and, as a result, a U.K. tax advantage was being obtained, an adjustment would be required to compute U.K. tax profits as if such arrangement were on arm’s length terms. Any transfer pricing adjustment could adversely impact the tax charge suffered by Maiden Global. The U.K. has implemented the BEPS recommendation for "country-by-country" reporting. As a result, our approach to transfer pricing may become subject to greater scrutiny from the U.K. tax authorities.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.
Item 2. Properties.
We currently lease office space in Pembroke, Bermuda (our corporate headquarters), the U.K. and Germany for the operation of our business. We renew and enter into new leases in the ordinary course of business as needed. We believe that the office space from these leased properties is sufficient for us to conduct our operations for the foreseeable future. To date, the cost of acquiring and maintaining our office space has not been material to us as a whole.
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Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
We may become involved in various claims and legal proceedings that arise in the normal course of our business, which are not likely to have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
Except as noted below, we are not a party to any material legal proceedings. From time to time, we are subject to routine legal proceedings, including arbitrations, arising in the ordinary course of business. These legal proceedings generally relate to claims asserted by or against us in the ordinary course of insurance or reinsurance operations. Based on our opinion, the eventual outcome of these legal proceedings is not expected to have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.
In April 2009, we learned that Bentzion S. Turin, the former Chief Operating Officer, General Counsel and Secretary of Maiden Holdings and Maiden Reinsurance, sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Labor claiming that his employment with the Company was terminated in retaliation for corporate whistleblowing in violation of the whistleblower protection provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Mr. Turin alleged that he was terminated for raising concerns regarding corporate governance with respect to the negotiation of the terms of the Trust Preferred Securities Offering. He seeks reinstatement as Chief Operating Officer, General Counsel and Secretary of Maiden Holdings and Maiden Reinsurance, back pay and legal fees incurred. On December 31, 2009, the U.S. Secretary of Labor found no reasonable cause for Mr. Turin’s claim and dismissed the complaint in its entirety. Mr. Turin objected to the Secretary's findings and requested a hearing before an administrative law judge in the U.S. Department of Labor. The Company moved to dismiss Mr. Turin's complaint, and its motion was granted by the Administrative Law Judge on June 30, 2011. On July 13, 2011, Mr. Turin filed a petition for review of the Administrative Law Judge's decision with the Administrative Review Board in the U.S. Department of Labor. On March 29, 2013, the Administrative Review Board reversed the dismissal of the complaint on procedural grounds, and remanded the case to the administrative law judge. The administrative hearing began in September 2014 and concluded in November 2018. We believe that we had good and sufficient reasons for terminating Mr. Turin's employment and that the claim is without merit. We will continue to vigorously defend ourself against this claim.
A putative class action complaint was filed against Maiden Holdings, Arturo M. Raschbaum, Karen L. Schmitt, and John M. Marshaleck in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey on February 11, 2019. On February 19, 2020, the Court appointed lead plaintiffs, and on May 1, 2020, lead plaintiffs filed an amended class action complaint (the “Amended Complaint”). The Amended Complaint asserts violations of Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 (and Section 20(a) for control person liability) arising in large part from allegations that Maiden failed to take adequate loss reserves in connection with reinsurance provided to AmTrust. Plaintiffs further claim that certain of Maiden Holdings’ representations concerning its business, underwriting and financial statements were rendered false by the allegedly inadequate loss reserves, that these misrepresentations inflated the price of Maiden Holdings' common stock, and that when the truth about the misrepresentations was revealed, the Company’s stock price fell, causing Plaintiffs to incur losses. On September 11, 2020, a motion to dismiss was filed on behalf of all Defendants; we cannot predict when the Court will issue a decision on the motion. We believe the claims are without merit and we intend to vigorously defend ourselves. It is possible that additional lawsuits will be filed against the Company, its subsidiaries and its respective officers due to the diminution in value of our securities as a result of our operating results and financial condition. It is currently uncertain as to the effect of such litigation on our business, operating results and financial condition.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
Not applicable.
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PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
Our common shares began publicly trading on NASDAQ Stock Market LLC ("NASDAQ") under the symbol "MHLD" on May 6, 2008. At March 11, 2021, the last reported sale price of our common share was $2.97 per share and there were 22 holders of record of our common shares. This figure does not represent the actual number of beneficial owners of our common shares because shares are frequently held in "street name" by securities dealers and others for the benefit of beneficial owners who may vote the shares.
No dividends have been declared by our Board on our common shares since the fourth quarter of 2018. The future declaration and payment of dividends to holders of common shares will be at the discretion of our Board subject to specified legal, regulatory, financial and other restrictions. Please see "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 15. Statutory Requirements and Dividend Restrictions" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for discussion regarding dividend restrictions on subsidiary's ability to transfer funds to Maiden Holdings.
On February 21, 2017, our Board approved the repurchase of up to $100.0 million of our common shares from time to time at market prices. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company did not repurchase any common shares under its share repurchase authorization. At December 31, 2020, we have a remaining authorization of $74.2 million for share repurchases. We did not repurchase any common shares under our common share repurchase authorization during the three months ended December 31, 2020. Also, subsequent to December 31, 2020 and through the period ended March 11, 2021, no repurchase of common shares was made.
During the year ended December 31, 2020, we repurchased a total of 834 (2019 - 23,220) common shares at an average price of $1.13 per share (2019 - $0.78) from employees, which represent tax withholding in respect of tax obligations on the vesting of restricted shares and performance based shares.
Pursuant to the 2020 Tender Offer, on December 24, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance accepted for purchase (i) 545,218 shares of the Company's 8.25% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series A, (ii) 1,203,466 shares of the Company's 7.125% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series C and (iii) 1,078,911 shares of the Company's 6.7% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series D. The acquisition by Maiden Reinsurance of the Preference Shares pursuant to the tender offer was made in compliance with Maiden Reinsurance's investment policy previously approved by the Vermont DFR.
On March 3, 2021, our Board approved the repurchase (including the repurchase by Maiden Reinsurance in accordance with its investment guidelines) of up to $100.0 million of our preference shares from time to time at market prices in open market purchases or as may be privately negotiated.
On March 15, 2021, Maiden Reinsurance accepted for purchase via private negotiation with certain security holders, (i) 2,561,636 shares of the Company's 8.25% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series A at an average price of $14.88 per share, (ii) 2,003,204 shares of the Company's 7.125% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series C at an average price of $14.66 per share, and (iii) 2,017,103 shares of the Company's 6.7% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series D at an average price of $14.60 per share for a total amount of $96,934. The acquisition by Maiden Reinsurance of these Preference Shares was made in compliance with the Company's investment guidelines previously approved by the Vermont DFR. These purchases will result in a gain on purchase of approximately $67,614 in the first quarter of 2021.
Our common shares are currently listed on NASDAQ. NASDAQ has minimum requirements that a company must meet to remain listed on NASDAQ. These requirements include maintaining a minimum closing bid price of $1.00 per share. As previously reported on a Current Report on Form 8-K filed with SEC on April 19, 2019, the Company received a letter from NASDAQ informing us that we did not meet the requirement to maintain a minimum bid price of $1.00 per share for 30 consecutive business days. After consultation with NASDAQ, the Company applied to transfer the listing of its common shares from the NASDAQ Global Select Market to the NASDAQ Capital Market.
On October 25, 2019, Maiden Holdings transferred the listing of its common shares from the NASDAQ Global Select Market to the NASDAQ Capital Market. NASDAQ Capital Market is a continuous trading market that operates in substantially the same manner as the NASDAQ Global Select Market and listed companies must meet certain financial requirements and comply with the NASDAQ corporate governance requirements. Maiden Holdings’ common shares continue to trade under the symbol “MHLD”. Following submission of the transfer application, we became eligible for an additional 180-day period to regain compliance if we met the continued listing requirement for market value of publicly held shares and all other initial listing standards, with the exception of the bid price requirement, for the NASDAQ Capital Market. On June 2, 2020, Maiden Holdings received a letter from NASDAQ's Office of General Counsel stating that the bid price deficiency of Maiden Holdings’ common shares was cured and we were in compliance with all applicable listing standards.
For further information, please see "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 13. Shareholders' Equity" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Also, please see "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 14. Share Compensation and Pension Plans" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion about the Company's equity compensation plans.
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Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and Item 1, "Business - General Overview". Except as explicitly described as discontinued operations, and unless otherwise noted, all discussions and amounts presented herein relate to the Company's continuing operations except for net income (loss) and net income (loss) available to Maiden common shareholders. Amounts in tables may not reconcile due to rounding differences. Some of the information contained in this discussion and analysis or set forth elsewhere in this Report, including information with respect to our plans and strategy for our business, includes forward-looking statements that involve risk and uncertainties. Please see the "Special Note About Forward-Looking Statements" in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information on factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results described in or implied by any forward-looking statements contained in this discussion and analysis. You should review the "Risk Factors" set forth in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results described in or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein.
Overview
Maiden Holdings is a Bermuda-based holding company, previously focused on serving the needs of regional and specialty insurers in the U.S., Europe and select other global markets. As a result of a series of actions we have taken in recent years discussed below under Recent Developments, we now create shareholder value by actively managing and allocating our assets and capital, including through ownership and management of businesses and assets mostly in the insurance and related financial services industries where we can leverage our deep knowledge of those markets. We also provide a full range of legacy services to small insurance companies, particularly those in run-off or with blocks of reserves that are no longer core, working with clients to develop and implement finality solutions including acquiring entire companies. We expect our legacy solutions business to contribute to our active asset and capital management strategies.
Short-term income protection business is written on a primary basis by our wholly owned subsidiaries Maiden LF and Maiden GF in the Scandinavian and Northern European markets. Insurance support services are provided to Maiden LF and Maiden GF by our UK services company, Maiden Global which is also a licensed intermediary in the United Kingdom. Maiden Global had previously operated internationally by providing branded auto and credit life insurance products through insurer partners, particularly those in the EU and other global markets. These products also produced reinsurance programs which were underwritten by our wholly owned subsidiary Maiden Reinsurance.
We are not actively underwriting reinsurance business but have some historic reinsurance programs underwritten by Maiden Reinsurance which are in run-off. We continue to run-off the liabilities associated with the AmTrust contracts, which we terminated in early 2019 as discussed below. We have also entered into a retroactive reinsurance agreement and a commutation agreement that further reduces our exposure to and limits the potential volatility related to these AmTrust liabilities, which are discussed in "Note 8 — Reinsurance" of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data".
As discussed in Item 1. "Business", the sale of Maiden US and the termination of both of our quota share contracts with AmTrust materially reduced our gross and net premiums written since 2018. We have significantly reduced our operating expenses and continue to take steps to reduce these costs further.
Our business consists of two reportable segments: Diversified Reinsurance and AmTrust Reinsurance. As a result of the strategic decision to divest all of our U.S. treaty reinsurance operations in 2018, we revised the composition of our reportable segments in the fourth quarter of 2018. Our Diversified Reinsurance segment consists of a portfolio of predominantly property and casualty reinsurance business focusing on regional and specialty property and casualty insurance companies located primarily in Europe. Our AmTrust Reinsurance segment includes the run-off of all business ceded by AmTrust to Maiden Reinsurance, primarily the AmTrust Quota Share and the European Hospital Liability Quota Share. Please refer to Item 1. "Business - Our Reportable Segments" section for further discussion on our reportable segments.
Recent Developments
Since the third quarter of 2018, we have engaged in a series of transactions that dramatically reduced the regulatory capital required to operate our business, materially strengthened our solvency ratios, and ceased active reinsurance underwriting. During that time, we significantly increased our estimate of ultimate losses and loss reserves while purchasing reinsurance protection against further loss reserve volatility and as a result, have improved the ultimate economic value of the Company.
The measures we have taken were initiated in early 2018, when our Board initiated a Strategic Review to evaluate ways to increase shareholder value after a period of continuing higher than targeted combined ratios and lower returns on equity than expected. This Strategic Review resulted in a series of transactions that transformed our operations and materially reduced the risk on our balance sheet. Those transactions included (but are not limited to):
1.The divestiture of all our U.S. treaty reinsurance operations in 2018, which included (a) the sale of Maiden US to Enstar Holdings (US) LLC ("Enstar U.S."), and (b) entering into a Renewal Rights Agreement (“Renewal Rights”) with Transatlantic Reinsurance Company (“TransRe”) in which TransRe purchased Maiden US's rights to renew its treaty reinsurance agreements and solicit renewals of and replacement coverages for the treaty reinsurance agreements. As a result of the above decision to divest all of our U.S. treaty reinsurance operations, these operations are now classified as discontinued operations, and except as explicitly described as discontinued operations, and unless otherwise noted, all discussions and amounts presented herein relate to our continuing operations, except for net income (loss).
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2.The partial and then eventual complete termination on a run-off basis effective January 1, 2019 of the AmTrust Quota Share and the European Hospital Liability Quota Share. The Company has no exposure to European hospital liability business after January 1, 2020 and all prior policies were written on a claims-made basis.
3.Maiden Reinsurance and AII entered into Commutation and Release Agreement effective July 31, 2019, which provided for AII to assume all reserves ceded by AII to Maiden Reinsurance with respect to its proportional 40% share of the ultimate net loss under the AmTrust Quota Share related to the Commuted Business in exchange for the release and full discharge of Maiden Reinsurance of all of its obligations to AII with respect to the Commuted Business. The Commuted Business did not include any business classified by AII as Specialty Program or Specialty Risk business. Maiden Reinsurance transferred cash and invested assets of $312.8 million ("Commutation Payment") to AII, which is the sum of the net ceded reserves of $330.7 million with respect to the Commuted Business as of December 31, 2018 less payments of $17.9 million made by Maiden Reinsurance with respect to the Commuted Business from January 1, 2019 through July 31, 2019. Settlement of the Commutation Payment occurred on August 12, 2019 and Maiden Reinsurance paid AII interest of $6.3 million related to the Commutation Payment calculated at the rate of 3.30% per annum from January 1, 2019 through August 12, 2019. AII and Maiden Reinsurance also agreed that, as of July 31, 2019, the AmTrust Quota Share shall be deemed amended as applicable so that the Commuted Business is no longer included as part of the Covered Business under the AmTrust Quota Share.
4.Maiden Reinsurance entered into the LPT/ADC Agreement, pursuant to which Cavello assumed the loss reserves as of December 31, 2018 associated with the AmTrust Quota Share in excess of a $2.2 billion retention up to $600.0 million, in exchange for a retrocession premium of $445.0 million. The $2.2 billion retention is subject to adjustment for paid losses subsequent to December 31, 2018. The LPT/ADC Agreement provides Maiden Reinsurance with $155.0 million in adverse development cover over its carried AmTrust Quota Share loss reserves at December 31, 2018. The LPT/ADC Agreement meets the criteria for risk transfer and is thus accounted for as retroactive reinsurance. Cumulative ceded losses exceeding $445.0 million are recognized as a deferred gain liability and amortized into income over the settlement period of the ceded reserves in proportion to cumulative losses collected over the estimated ultimate reinsurance recoverable. The amount of the deferral is recalculated each period based on loss payments and updated estimates. Consequently, cumulative adverse development subsequent to December 31, 2018 may result in significant losses from operations until periods when the deferred gain is recognized as a benefit to earnings. At December 31, 2020, the reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses under the retroactive reinsurance agreement was $519.9 million while the deferred gain liability was $74.9 million (December 31, 2019 - $558.0 million and $113.0 million, respectively. Amortization of the deferred gain will not occur until paid losses have exceeded the minimum retention under the LPT/ADC Agreement, which is estimated to be during 2024.
5.Effective March 16, 2020, we re-domesticated our principal operating subsidiary, Maiden Reinsurance, from Bermuda to the State of Vermont in the U.S. Maiden Reinsurance is now subject to the statutes and regulations of Vermont in the ordinary course of business. We have determined that re-domesticating Maiden Reinsurance to Vermont enables us to better align our capital and resources with our liabilities, which originate mostly in the United States, resulting in a more efficient structure. The re-domestication, in combination with the transactions completed pursuant to the Strategic Review, have materially strengthened the Company’s capital position and solvency ratios and we believe will continue to do so. While the Vermont DFR is now the group supervisor for the Company, the re-domestication did not apply to the parent holding company which remains a Bermuda-based holding company. Securities issued by Maiden Holdings were not affected by the re-domestication of Maiden Reinsurance to Vermont. Concurrent with the re-domestication, Maiden Holdings contributed as capital the remaining 65% of its ownership in Maiden Reinsurance to our wholly owned subsidiary Maiden NA. Maiden NA now owns 100% of Maiden Reinsurance in the aggregate.
In December 2018 and January 2019, Maiden NA contributed its proportionate share of capital contributions in the aggregate amount of $68.3 million in cash to Maiden Reinsurance. Maiden NA also maintains a portfolio of cash and fixed maturity investments, along with other strategic investments, of $33.7 million at December 31, 2020. We believe Maiden NA’s investments, including its ownership of Maiden Reinsurance and its active asset management strategy, will create opportunities to utilize NOL which total $210.8 million as of December 31, 2020. These NOLs are not presently recognized as deferred tax assets as a full valuation allowance is currently carried against them. For further details please see "Note 16. Taxation" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10–K). Taken together, we believe these measures should generate additional income for Maiden NA in a tax-efficient manner, while sharing in the improvement in profitability anticipated in Maiden Reinsurance as a result of the measures enacted as part of the Strategic Review.
Business Strategy
We continued to re–evaluate our operating strategy during 2020 while leveraging the significant assets and capital we retain. In addition to restoring operating profitability, our strategic focus centers on creating the greatest risk-adjusted shareholder returns, whether via asset and capital management or active reinsurance underwriting of new risks, or a combination of both. Our present assessment of the reinsurance marketplace along with our current operating profile is that the risk-adjusted returns that may be produced via active reinsurance underwriting of new risks are likely to present more limited opportunities compared to other strategic initiatives which may produce greater shareholder value. As a result, our strategic focus has shifted to activities which utilize our unrestricted cash and investments to manage our capital and where prudent, enhance our investment return by investing in asset classes which we believe will produce appropriate returns. By enhancing our profitability through increased investment returns, we believe we increase the likelihood of fully utilizing the significant net operating loss carryforwards described above which may create additional shareholder value.
The measures implemented now enable us to more flexibly allocate capital to those activities most likely to produce the greatest returns for shareholders, and we are actively engaged in evaluating and deploying funds in both pillars of these
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strategies as discussed herein. As part of our expanded asset management activities, we have evaluated and continue to consider investing in various initiatives in the insurance industry across a variety of segments which we believe will produce appropriate risk-adjusted returns while maintaining the option to consider underwriting activities in the future.
Our capital management strategy is significantly informed by the required capital needed to operate our business in a prudent manner and our ongoing analysis of our loss development trends. Recent trends have increased our confidence in our recorded ultimate losses for our insurance liabilities in run-off, however a prudent assessment dictates that the run-off portfolio still requires additional maturity to fully emerge. While there is no guarantee that these recent loss development trends will persist, as confidence increases it allows us to consider capital management initiatives. For further details, please see Item 7 "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Capital Resources" section of this Annual Report on Form 10–K. Our current assessment is that losses have stabilized sufficiently to consider certain capital management initiatives, although we are careful to approach these strategies in a deliberate fashion.
As part of the capital management pillar of our strategy, pursuant to the cash tender offer ("2020 Tender Offer), on December 24, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance accepted for purchase (i) 545,218 shares of the Company's 8.25% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series A, (ii) 1,203,466 shares of the Company's 7.125% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series C and (iii) 1,078,911 shares of the Company's 6.7% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series D (collectively referred to as the "2020 Tender Offer"). The consideration for each Series A Preference Share, each Series C Preference Share and each Series D Preference Share tendered and accepted for purchase equaled $10.50 (the “Offer Price”). The Offer Price did not include any amount with respect to dividends. The aggregate total consideration paid by the Company for the securities accepted for purchase was $29.7 million excluding related fees and expenses. There can be no assurance that our insurance liabilities will run-off at levels that will permit further future capital management activities, which we expect to continually review as part of our strategy. Please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 17 — Subsequent Events" under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information on our preference shares.
In November 2020, we formed GLS which specializes in providing a full range of legacy services to small insurance entities, particularly those in run-off or with blocks of reserves that are no longer core, working with clients to develop and implement finality solutions including acquiring entire companies. We believe the formation of GLS is highly complementary to our overall longer-term strategy. GLS, along with other recent insurance industry investments, enables us to leverage our knowledge base while not re-entering active underwriting of new risks and maintaining an efficient operating profile. We believe GLS not only enhances our profitability through both fee income and effective claims management services, but it will also increase our asset base through the addition of blocks of reserves or companies that can be successfully wound down. This should further enhance our ability to pursue the asset and capital management pillars of our business strategy.
COVID-19 Pandemic
The continuing COVID-19 global pandemic has caused significant disruption to the economy and financial markets globally, and the full extent of the potential impacts of COVID-19 are not yet known. Circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic are complex, uncertain and rapidly evolving. Our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity and capital resources have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the future impact of the pandemic on our financial condition or results of operations is difficult to predict.
As described herein, we are not currently engaged in active reinsurance underwriting and continues to run off the remaining unearned exposures it has reinsured. Maiden Global’s business development teams partner with automobile manufacturers, dealer associations and local primary insurers to design and implement point of sale insurance programs which generate revenue for the auto manufacturer and insurance premiums for the primary insurer ("IIS unit"). Our IIS unit does write limited primary insurance coverages that could be exposed to COVID-19 claims. While we assess our exposure to COVID-19 insurance and reinsurance claims on our existing insurance exposures and remaining reinsurance exposures as limited and immaterial, given the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the insurance industry, our preliminary estimates of loss and LAE and estimates of reinsurance recoverable arising from the COVID-19 pandemic may materially change. Maiden Reinsurance has not received any COVID-19 claims to date but our companies within our IIS unit have received a limited number of claims related to those coverages which it deems as immaterial. Unanticipated issues relating to claims and coverage may emerge, which could adversely affect our business by increasing the scope of coverage beyond our intent and/or increasing the frequency and severity of claims.
The Company's investment portfolio may be adversely impacted by unfavorable market conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and we and our reinsurance subsidiaries may need additional capital to maintain compliance with regulatory capital requirements and/or be required to post additional collateral under existing reinsurance arrangements, which could reduce our liquidity. In addition, the Company may experience continued volatility in our results of operations which could negatively impact our financial condition and create a reduction in the amount of available distribution or dividend capacity from our regulated reinsurance subsidiaries, which would also reduce liquidity.
Please refer to the "Liquidity and Capital Resources" section for a further discussion of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our liquidity and investment portfolio.
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2020 and 2019 Financial Highlights
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | Change | |||||||||||||||||
Summary Consolidated Statement of Income Data: | ($ in thousands except per share data) | |||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) from continuing operations | $ | 41,762 | $ | (109,362) | $ | 151,124 | ||||||||||||||
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax | — | (22,541) | 22,541 | |||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | 41,762 | (131,903) | 173,665 | |||||||||||||||||
Gain from repurchase of preference shares | 38,195 | — | 38,195 | |||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Maiden common shareholders | 79,957 | (131,903) | 211,860 | |||||||||||||||||
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share(9): | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Maiden common shareholders(2) (9) | 0.93 | (1.32) | 2.25 | |||||||||||||||||
Gain from repurchase of preference shares per common share | 0.45 | — | 0.45 | |||||||||||||||||
Gross premiums written | 31,389 | (528,593) | 559,982 | |||||||||||||||||
Net premiums earned | 106,081 | 447,762 | (341,681) | |||||||||||||||||
Underwriting income (loss)(3) | 17,274 | (183,753) | 201,027 | |||||||||||||||||
Net investment income | 54,761 | 97,837 | (43,076) | |||||||||||||||||
Combined ratio(4) | 111.4 | % | 148.6 | % | (37.2) | |||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP measures: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP operating earnings (loss)(1) | $ | 47,076 | $ | (26,514) | $ | 73,590 | ||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP diluted operating earnings (loss) per common share(1)(9) | 0.55 | (0.32) | 0.87 | |||||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP operating return on average common shareholders' equity(1) | 25.9 | % | (21.6) | % | 47.5 |
At December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | Change | |||||||||||||||||
Consolidated Financial Condition | ($ in thousands except per share data) | |||||||||||||||||||
Total investments and cash and cash equivalents(5) | $ | 1,456,133 | $ | 1,974,544 | $ | (518,411) | ||||||||||||||
Total assets | 2,948,455 | 3,568,196 | (619,741) | |||||||||||||||||
Reserve for loss and LAE | 1,893,299 | 2,439,907 | (546,608) | |||||||||||||||||
Senior notes - principal amount | 262,500 | 262,500 | — | |||||||||||||||||
Common shareholders' equity | 133,506 | 42,718 | 90,788 | |||||||||||||||||
Shareholders' equity | 527,816 | 507,718 | 20,098 | |||||||||||||||||
Total capital resources(6) | 790,316 | 770,218 | 20,098 | |||||||||||||||||
Ratio of debt to total capital resources(12) | 33.2 | % | 34.1 | % | (0.9) | |||||||||||||||
Book Value calculations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Book value per common share(7) | $ | 1.57 | $ | 0.51 | $ | 1.06 | ||||||||||||||
Accumulated dividends per common share | 4.27 | 4.27 | — | |||||||||||||||||
Book value per common share plus accumulated dividends | $ | 5.84 | $ | 4.78 | $ | 1.06 | ||||||||||||||
Change in book value per common share plus accumulated dividends | 22.2 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Diluted book value per common share(8) | $ | 1.55 | $ | 0.50 | $ | 1.05 | ||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP measures: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted book value per common share(10) | $ | 2.46 | $ | 1.87 | $ | 0.59 | ||||||||||||||
Adjusted shareholders' equity(11) | 602,757 | 620,668 | (17,911) | |||||||||||||||||
Adjusted total capital resources(11) | 865,257 | 883,168 | (17,911) | |||||||||||||||||
Ratio of debt to adjusted total capital resources(13) | 30.3 | % | 29.7 | % | 0.6 |
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(1)Non-GAAP operating earnings (loss), non-GAAP operating earnings (loss) per common share and non-GAAP operating return on average common equity are non-GAAP financial measures. See "Key Financial Measures" for additional information.
(2)Please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 12. Earnings per Common Share" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the calculation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share.
(3)Underwriting income or loss is a non-GAAP measure and is calculated as net premiums earned plus other insurance revenue less net loss and LAE, commission and other acquisition expenses and general and administrative expenses directly related to underwriting activities. See "Key Financial Measures" for additional information.
(4)Combined ratio is calculated by adding together the net loss and LAE ratio and the expense ratio.
(5)Total investments and cash and cash equivalents includes both restricted and unrestricted.
(6)Total capital resources is the sum of the Company's principal amount of debt and Maiden shareholders' equity. See "Key Financial Measures" for additional information.
(7)Book value per common share is calculated using common shareholders’ equity (shareholders' equity excluding the aggregate liquidation value of our preference shares) divided by the number of common shares outstanding. See "Key Financial Measures" for additional information.
(8)Diluted book value per common share is calculated by dividing common shareholders' equity, adjusted for assumed proceeds from the exercise of dilutive options, by the number of outstanding common shares plus dilutive options and restricted shares (assuming exercise of all dilutive share based awards).
(9)During a period of loss, the basic weighted average common shares outstanding is used in the denominator of the diluted loss per common share computation as the effect of including potential dilutive shares would be anti-dilutive.
(10)Adjusted book value per common share is a non-GAAP measure that is calculated using common shareholders' equity, adjusted for the unamortized deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance, divided by the number of common shares outstanding. See "Key Financial Measures" for additional information.
(11)Adjusted shareholders' equity and adjusted total capital resources are calculated by adding the unamortized deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance to the GAAP shareholders' equity and GAAP total capital resources, respectively. The deferred gain arises from the LPT/ADC Agreement with Cavello relating to losses from the AmTrust Quota Share agreement. Under U.S. GAAP, the deferred gain shall be amortized over the estimated remaining settlement period. See "Key Financial Measures" for additional information.
(12)Ratio of debt to total capital resources is calculated using the total principal amount of debt divided by the sum of total capital resources.
(13)Ratio of debt to adjusted total capital resources is calculated using the total principal amount of debt divided by the sum of adjusted total capital resources.
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Key Financial Measures
Revenues
We historically derived the majority of our revenues from premiums on reinsurance contracts, net of any reinsurance or retrocessional coverage purchased and to a minor extent from premiums from insurance policies. Reinsurance premiums are a function of the amount and types of policies and contracts we write, as well as prevailing market prices. Our prices are determined before our ultimate costs, which may extend far into the future, are known.
As a result of the significant strategic transactions implemented during 2019 and 2020, our gross and net premiums written will continue to be materially lower going forward and our net investment income will increasingly become a significantly larger portion of our total revenues compared to prior periods.
The Company's revenues also include fee income as well as income generated from our investment portfolio. The Company's investment portfolio is comprised of fixed maturity investments held as AFS and other investments. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, our fixed maturity investments are carried at fair market value and any unrealized gains and losses are excluded from earnings in AOCI as a separate component of shareholders' equity. If unrealized losses are considered to be other-than-temporarily impaired due to a credit-related event, such impairment losses are recognized within earnings as a realized loss under total other-than-temporary impairment losses. Other investments in limited partnerships, hedge funds and start-up insurance entities are carried at fair market value with any unrealized gains or losses included in earnings under net realized gains (losses) on investment. Our investments made by special purpose vehicles focused on lending activities are carried at cost. Any indication of impairment is recognized in income.
Expenses
Our expenses currently consist largely of net loss and LAE, commission and other acquisition expenses, general and administrative expenses, interest and amortization expenses, foreign exchange and other gains or losses, the latter of which includes on a non-recurring basis any gains or losses from the disposal of subsidiaries.
Net loss and LAE has three main components: (1) losses paid, which are actual cash payments to insureds, net of recoveries from reinsurers; (2) change in outstanding loss or case reserves, which represent cedants' best estimate of the likely settlement amount for known claims, less the portion that can be recovered from reinsurers; and (3) change in IBNR reserves, which we establish to respond to changes in the values of claims that have been reported to us but are not yet settled, as well as claims that have occurred but have not yet been reported to us. The portion recoverable from reinsurers is deducted from the gross estimated loss.
Commission and other acquisition expenses include commissions, brokerage fees and insurance taxes. Commissions and brokerage fees are usually calculated as a percentage of premiums and depend on the market and line of business and can, in certain instances, vary based on loss sensitive features of reinsurance contracts. Commission and other acquisition expenses are reported after: (1) deducting commissions received on ceded reinsurance; (2) deducting the part of commission and other acquisition expenses relating to unearned premiums; and (3) including the amortization of previously deferred commission and other acquisition expenses.
General and administrative expenses include personnel expenses (including share-based compensation expense), rent expenses, legal and professional fees, information technology costs and other general operating expenses. General and administrative expenses are allocated to the reportable segments on an actual basis except salaries and benefits where management’s judgment is applied; however general corporate expenses are not allocated to the segments.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
In addition to the Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income, management uses certain key financial measures, some of which are non-GAAP measures, to evaluate the Company's financial performance and the overall growth in value generated for the Company’s common shareholders. Management believes that these measures, which may be defined differently by other companies, explain the Company’s results to investors in a manner that allows for a more complete understanding of the underlying trends in the Company’s business. The non-GAAP measures should not be viewed as a substitute for those determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The calculation of some of these key financial measures including the reconciliation of non-GAAP measures to the nearest GAAP measure and relevant discussions are found within Item 7 - "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations". These key financial measures are:
Non-GAAP operating earnings (loss) and non-GAAP diluted operating earnings (loss) per common share: Management believes that the use of non-GAAP operating earnings (loss) and non-GAAP diluted operating earnings (loss) per common share enables investors and other users of the Company’s financial information to analyze its performance in a manner similar to how management analyzes performance. Management also believes that these measures generally follow industry practice therefore allowing the users of financial information to compare the Company’s performance with its industry peer group, and that the equity analysts and certain rating agencies which follow the Company, and the insurance industry as a whole, generally exclude these items from their analyses for the same reasons. Non-GAAP operating earnings (loss) should not be viewed as a substitute for U.S. GAAP net income (loss).
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Non-GAAP operating earnings (loss) is an internal performance measure used by management as these measures focus on the underlying fundamentals of the Company's operations by excluding, on a recurring basis: (1) net realized gains or losses on investment; (2) total other-than-temporary impairment losses; (3) foreign exchange and other gains or losses; (4) the portion of favorable or unfavorable prior year reserve development for which we have ceded the risk under retroactive reinsurance agreements and related changes in amortization of the deferred gain liability; and (5) interest in income of equity method investments. It also excludes on a non-recurring basis: (1) loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax; and (2) loss and related activity from our NGHC Quota Share run-off operations which was commuted in November 2019. We exclude net realized gains (losses) on investment, other-than-temporary impairment losses, interest in income of equity method investments and foreign exchange and other gains or losses as we believe these are influenced by market opportunities and other factors. We do not believe results from our NGHC Quota Share run-off operations commuted in November 2019 and results from our discontinued operations, and ceded risks under retroactive reinsurance agreements are representative of our ongoing and future business. We believe all of these amounts are substantially independent of our business and any potential future underwriting process therefore including them would distort the analysis of underlying trends in our operations.
Underwriting income (loss) is a non-GAAP measure and is calculated as net premiums earned plus other insurance revenue less net loss and LAE, commission and other acquisition expenses and general and administrative expenses directly related to underwriting activities. For purposes of these non-GAAP operating measures, the fee-generating business which is included in our Diversified Reinsurance segment, is considered part of the underwriting operations of the Company. Management believes that this measure is important in evaluating the underwriting performance of the Company and its segments. This measure is also a useful tool to measure the profitability of the Company separately from the investment results and is also a widely used performance indicator in the insurance industry. A reconciliation of the Company's underwriting results can be found in the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Note 3. Segment Information" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Combined ratio is commonly used in the insurance and reinsurance industry in conjunction with underwriting income (loss) as a measure of underwriting profitability. Management measures underwriting results on an overall basis and for each segment on the basis of the combined ratio. The combined ratio is the sum of the net loss and LAE ratio and the expense ratio and the computations of each component are described below. A combined ratio under 100% indicates underwriting profitability, as the net loss and LAE, commission and other acquisition expenses and general and administrative expenses are less than the net premiums earned and other insurance revenue on that business. While the Company has continued to utilize this non-GAAP measure in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, it is important to note that as the run-off of our reinsurance portfolios progresses, such ratios may increasingly be of less value to readers as they evaluate the financial results of the Company, particularly compared to historical data. Please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 3. Segment Reporting" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details.
While an important metric of success, underwriting income (loss) and combined ratio do not reflect all components of profitability, as they do not recognize the impact of investment income earned on premiums between the period of time that premiums are received and the period of time that loss payments are ultimately paid to clients. Because we do not manage our cash and investments by segment, investment income and interest expense are not allocated to the reportable segments. Certain general and administrative expenses are generally allocated to segments based on actual costs incurred.
The "net loss and LAE ratio" is derived by dividing net loss and LAE by the sum of net premiums earned and other insurance revenue. The "commission and other acquisition expense ratio" is derived by dividing commission and other acquisition expenses by the sum of net premiums earned and other insurance revenue. The "general and administrative expense ratio" is derived by dividing general and administrative expenses by the sum of net premiums earned and other insurance revenue. The "expense ratio" is the sum of the commission and other acquisition expense ratio and the general and administrative expense ratio.
Non-GAAP Operating Return on Average Adjusted Common Equity ("Non-GAAP Operating ROACE"): Management uses non-GAAP operating return on average adjusted common shareholders' equity as a measure of profitability that focuses on the return to common shareholders. It is calculated using non-GAAP operating earnings (loss) available to common shareholders (as defined above) divided by average adjusted common shareholders' equity.
Book Value per Common Share and Diluted Book Value per Common Share: Book value per common share and diluted book value per common share are non-GAAP measures. Management uses growth in both of these metrics as a prime measure of the value we are generating for our common shareholders, because management believes that growth in each metric ultimately results in growth in the Company’s common share price. These metrics are impacted by the Company’s net income or loss and external factors, such as interest rates, which can drive changes in unrealized gains or losses on our fixed income investment portfolio, as well as common or preferred share repurchases.
Ratio of Debt to Total Capital Resources: Management uses this non-GAAP measure to monitor the financial leverage of the Company. This measure is calculated using the total principal amount of debt divided by the sum of total capital resources.
Non-GAAP underwriting income (loss), Non-GAAP earnings (loss) and LAE ratio, and Non-GAAP combined ratio: Management has further adjusted underwriting income or loss, as defined above, as well as the reported loss and LAE ratios and reported combined ratios by excluding the portion of favorable or unfavorable prior year reserve development for which we have ceded the risk under retroactive reinsurance agreements such as the LPT/ADC Agreement. The losses are estimated to be fully recoverable from Cavello and management believes adjusting for this development shows the ultimate economic benefit of the LPT/ADC Agreement on our underwriting results. We believe reflecting the economic benefit of this retroactive reinsurance agreement is helpful for understanding future trends in our operations.
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Adjusted Total Shareholders' Equity, Adjusted Total Capital Resources, Ratio of Debt to Adjusted Total Capital Resources and Adjusted Book Value per Common Share: Management has adjusted GAAP shareholders' equity by adding the unamortized deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance arising from the LPT/ADC Agreement to shareholders' equity. The unamortized deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance arising from the LPT/ADC Agreement includes the aggregate impact of: 1) cumulative increases to losses incurred prior to December 31, 2018 for which we have ceded the risk under the LPT/ADC Agreement; and 2) changes in estimated ultimate losses for certain workers' compensation reserves previously commuted by the Company to AmTrust which are subject to specific terms and conditions pursuant to the LPT/ADC Agreement. As a result, by virtue of this adjustment, management has also adjusted Total Capital Resources and computed the Ratio of Debt to Adjusted Capital Resources and Adjusted Book Value per Common Share. The deferred gain liability represents amounts estimated to be fully recoverable from Cavello and management believes adjusting for this shows the ultimate economic benefit of the LPT/ADC Agreement. We believe reflecting the economic benefit of this retroactive reinsurance agreement is helpful to understand future trends in our operations, which will improve the Company's shareholders' equity over the settlement period.
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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
It is important to understand our accounting policies in order to understand our financial position and results of operations. The Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The following presents a discussion of those accounting policies and estimates that management believes are the most critical to its operations and require the most difficult, subjective and complex judgment. If actual events differ significantly from the underlying assumptions and estimates used by management, there could be material adjustments to prior estimates that could potentially adversely affect the Company’s results of operations, financial condition and liquidity. These critical accounting policies and estimates should be read in conjunction with "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report Form 10-K for a full understanding of the Company’s accounting policies.
Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses
General: The amount of time that elapses before a claim is reported to the cedant and then subsequently reported to the reinsurer is commonly referred to in the industry as the reporting tail. Lines of business for which claims are reported quickly are commonly referred to as short-tailed lines; and lines of business for which a longer period of time elapses before claims are reported to the reinsurer are commonly referred to as long-tailed lines. In general, for reinsurance, the time lags are longer than for primary business due to the delay that occurs between the cedant becoming aware of a loss and reporting the information to its reinsurer(s). The delay varies by reinsurance market (country of cedant), type of treaty, whether losses are paid by the cedant and the size of the loss. The delay could vary from a few weeks to a year or sometimes longer.
Because a significant amount of time can elapse, particularly on longer-tail lines of business written on an excess of loss basis, between the assumption of risk, the occurrence of a loss event, the reporting of the event to an insurance company (the primary company or the cedant), the subsequent reporting to the reinsurance company ("the reinsurer") and the ultimate payment of the claim on the loss event by the reinsurer, the Company’s liability for unpaid loss and LAE ("loss reserves") is based largely upon estimates. The Company categorizes loss reserves into two types of reserves: reported outstanding loss reserves ("case reserves") and IBNR reserves. Case reserves represent, for each individual claim, an estimate of unpaid losses, either by the Company’s cedants or the Company’s claims handling professionals, and recorded by the Company. IBNR reserves represent a provision for claims that have been incurred but not yet reported to the Company, as well as future loss development on losses already reported, in excess of the case reserves. The Company updates its estimates for each of the aforementioned categories primarily on a quarterly basis using information received from its cedants.
For excess of loss treaties, cedants generally are required to report losses that either (i) exceed 50% of their retention; or (ii) have a reasonable probability of exceeding the retention; or (iii) meet defined reporting criteria. All excess of loss reinsurance claims that are reserved are reviewed on a periodic basis. In addition, reserves for loss and LAE are reviewed every quarter for each cedant. For proportional treaties, cedants are required to give a periodic statement of account, generally monthly or quarterly. These periodic statements typically include information regarding premiums written, premiums earned, unearned premiums, ceding commissions, brokerage amounts, applicable taxes, paid losses and reported outstanding losses. They can be submitted up to ninety days after the close of the reporting period. Some proportional treaties have specific language requiring earlier notice of serious claims.
For all lines, the Company’s objective is to reasonably estimate ultimate loss and LAE. Total loss reserves are then calculated by subtracting losses paid. Similarly, IBNR reserves are calculated by subtracting case reserves from total loss reserves. IBNR is the estimated liability for: (1) changes in the values of claims that have been reported to us but are not yet settled; (2) claims that have occurred but have not yet been reported; and (3) claims that are closed but subsequently reopened. Each claim is settled individually based upon its merits, and particularly for longer-tailed lines of business, it is not unusual for a claim to take several years after being initially reported to be settled and paid, especially if legal action is involved. These claims may also require changes in anticipated future payments due to changes in medical conditions or changes in expected inflationary pressures. As a result, the reserve for loss and LAE includes significant estimates for IBNR reserves.
The reserve for IBNR is generally estimated by management based on various factors, including actuarial analysis and actual loss experience to date. Our actuaries employ standard actuarial methodologies to determine estimated ultimate loss reserves. In selecting management's best estimate of loss and LAE reserves, we consider the range of results produced by many actuarial methods and the appropriateness of those estimates. These actuarial methodologies are described in "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses" included under Item 8 "Financial Statement and Supplementary Data".
The composition of the reserve for loss and LAE at December 31, 2020 and 2019 was as follows:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Reserve for reported loss and LAE | $ | 998,691 | $ | 1,271,358 | ||||||||||
Reserve for losses incurred but not reported | 894,608 | 1,168,549 | ||||||||||||
Reserve for loss and LAE | $ | 1,893,299 | $ | 2,439,907 |
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The loss reserves in the table above exclude the impact of the LPT/ADC Agreement. While management believes that our case reserves and IBNR are sufficient to cover losses assumed by us, there can be no assurance that losses will not deviate from our reserves, possibly by material amounts. The analysis of the appropriateness of the reserve for IBNR is reviewed quarterly, with adjustments made as appropriate. To the extent that actual reported losses exceed expected losses, the carried estimate of the ultimate losses may be increased (i.e. unfavorable reserve development), and to the extent actual reported losses are less than our expectations, the carried estimate of ultimate losses may be reduced (i.e. favorable reserve development). We record any changes in our loss reserve estimates and the related reinsurance recoverable in the periods in which they are determined. Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses covered by the LPT/ADC Agreement are recorded as a deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance on the Consolidated Balance Sheets which represents the cumulative adverse development under the AmTrust Quota Share covered by the LPT/ADC Agreement at December 31, 2020. Amortization of the deferred gain will not occur until paid losses have exceeded the minimum retention under the LPT/ADC Agreement, which is estimated to be in 2024.
Loss reserves do not represent an exact calculation of liability. Rather, loss reserves are estimates of what we reasonably expect the ultimate resolution and administration of claims will cost. These estimates are based on actuarial projections and on our assessment of currently available data, as well as estimates of future trends in claims severity and frequency, judicial theories of liability and other factors. Loss reserve estimates are refined as experience develops and as claims are reported and resolved. In addition, the relatively long periods between when a loss occurs and when it may be reported to our claims department for our casualty reinsurance lines of business also increase the uncertainties of reserve estimates in such lines.
With the guidance of the methods described in "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses" included under Item 8 "Financial Statement and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report Form 10-K, actuarial judgment is applied in the determination of ultimate losses. In general, the Company’s segments have varying levels of seasoning with which the Company has direct experience and as a result, differing methods are utilized to estimate loss and LAE reserves within each segment.
In our Diversified Reinsurance segment, we have books of business that have been in runoff for several years, as well as books of business that have been underwritten only during the last few years. In general, we utilize the Expected Loss Ratio ("ELR") approach at the onset of reserving an account, the Bornhuetter-Ferguson ("BF") method for business with less but maturing loss experience, and then, as the experience matures, the Loss Development ("LD") method is utilized. The runoff book of business primarily uses the LD method due to its maturity and the amount of experience which has emerged over the years. For proportional business, the Company relies heavily on the actual contract experience, whereas for excess of loss business, there will be more usage of industry and/or Company specific benchmark assumptions in the reserving process.
The Company underwrote the AmTrust Reinsurance segment from July 1, 2007 until the Final AmTrust QS Terminations effective January 1, 2019. A large portion of the exposure in the underlying book of business has significant seasoning, and allows for a significant amount of credibility in using parameters derived from historical experience to calculate reserve estimates. Some segments of the book are a result of recent acquisitions or newer markets for AmTrust. These segments require a greater level of assumptions and professional judgment in deriving reserve levels, which inherently implies a wider range of reasonable estimates. In addition, changes to case reserving and claims settlement practices by AmTrust have required the use of methods which adjust historical paid and incurred losses to reflect the current basis. As a result, we have tended to rely on a weighted approach which primarily employs the LD method for aspects of the segment with ample historical data, while also considering the ELR or BF method for exposure resulting from recent acquisitions, or a relative business with a more limited level of experience. The LD method can also be based on AmTrust specific historical information, historical information adjusted to current levels, or information derived from industry sources, with actuarial judgment being used as to the credibility weighting employed. The Frequency-Severity ("FS") method is also considered for segments of the AmTrust book for which claim count information is available. The Company’s actuarial analysis of this book of business is more refined in that it utilizes a combination of quarterly and annual data instead of contract period data in totality. Additional data detailing items such as the class of business, state of occurrence, claim counts, and the frequency and severity of claims is available in many instances, further enhancing the loss reserve analysis.
Significant Assumptions Employed in the Estimation of Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses: The most significant assumptions used at December 31, 2020 to estimate the reserve for loss and LAE within our reporting segments are as follows:
•the information developed from internal and independent external sources can be used to develop meaningful estimates of the likely future performance of business bound by the Company;
•the loss and exposure information provided by ceding companies, insureds and brokers in support of their reinsurance submissions have been used by the Company's pricing actuaries to derive meaningful estimates of the likely future performance of business bound with respect to each contract and policy;
•historic loss development and trend experience may be used to predict future loss development and trends;
•no significant emergence of losses or types of losses that are not represented in the information supplied to the Company by its brokers, ceding companies and insureds will occur; and
•the Company is able to identify and properly adjust for changes to case reserving and claims settlement rates in the underlying data.
The five assumptions above most significantly influence the Company’s determination of initial expected loss ratios and expected loss reporting and payment patterns that are the key inputs which impact potential variability in the estimate of the reserve for loss and LAE and are applicable to each of the Company’s business segments. These factors are combined with the
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actuarial judgment exercised by our reserving actuaries. While there can be no assurance that any of the above assumptions will prove to be correct, we believe that this process represents a realistic and appropriate basis for estimating the reserve for loss and LAE. Loss emergence factors and expected loss ratios used in the reserving process are based on a blend of our own direct experience, cedant experience and industry benchmarks, when appropriate. The benchmarks selected were those that we believe are most similar to our underwriting business.
Factors Creating Uncertainty in the Estimation of the Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses: While management does not at this time include an explicit or implicit provision for uncertainty in its reserve for loss and LAE, certain of the Company’s business lines are by their nature subject to additional uncertainties, which are discussed in detail below. In addition, the Company’s reserves are subject to additional factors which add to the uncertainty of estimating reserve for loss and LAE. Time lags in the reporting of losses can also introduce further ambiguity to the process of estimating reserve for loss and LAE.
The inherent uncertainty of estimating the Company’s reserve for loss and LAE increases principally due to:
•the lag in time between the time claims are initially reported to the ceding company and the time they are ultimately reported through one or more reinsurance broker intermediaries to the Company;
•the differing case reserving practices among ceding companies;
•changes to characteristics of a claim over time, such as future medical needs or assessment of liability;
•the diversity of loss development patterns among different types of reinsurance treaties or contracts;
•the Company’s need to rely on its ceding companies for loss information, which also exposes the Company to changes in the reserving philosophy of the ceding company and the adequacy of its underlying case reserves; and
•changes in internal company operations such as alterations in claims handling procedures.
To verify the accuracy and completeness of the information provided to us by our ceding company counterparties, the Company’s actuaries, accountants and claims personnel perform claims reviews, and at times also accounting and financial audits, of the Company’s ceding companies. Any material findings are communicated to the ceding companies and utilized in the establishment or revision of the Company’s case reserves and related IBNR reserve. On occasion, these reviews reveal that the ceding company’s reported loss and LAE do not comport with the terms of the contract held with the Company. In such events, the Company strives to resolve the outstanding differences in an amicable fashion. The large majority of such differences are resolved in this manner. In the infrequent instance where an amicable solution is not feasible, the Company’s policy is to vigorously defend its position in litigation or arbitration. At December 31, 2020, the Company was not involved in any material claims litigation or arbitration proceedings.
Due to the large volume of potential transactions that must be recorded in the insurance and reinsurance industry, backlogs in the recording of the Company’s business activities can also impair the accuracy of its loss and LAE reserve estimates. At December 31, 2020, there were no significant backlogs related to the processing of policy or contract information in any of our reporting segments.
The Company assumes in its loss and LAE reserving process that, on average, the time period between the recording of expected losses and the reporting of actual losses are predictable when measured in the aggregate and over time. The time period over which all losses are expected to be reported to the Company varies significantly by line of business. This period can range from a few quarters for some lines, such as property, to many years for some casualty lines of business. To the extent that actual reported losses are reported more quickly or more slowly than expected, the Company may adjust its estimate of ultimate loss accordingly.
Potential Volatility in the Reserve for Loss and LAE: In addition to the factors creating uncertainty in the Company’s estimate of loss and LAE, the Company’s estimated reserve for loss and LAE can change over time because of unexpected changes in the external environment. Potential changing external factors include:
•changes in the inflation rate for goods and services related to the covered damages;
•changes in the general economic environment that could cause unanticipated changes in claim frequency or severity;
•changes in the litigation environment regarding the representation of plaintiffs and potential plaintiffs;
•changes in the judicial and/or arbitration environment regarding the interpretation of policy and contract provisions relating to the determination of coverage and/or the amount of damages awarded for certain types of claims;
•changes in the social environment regarding the general attitude of juries in the determination of liability and damages;
•changes in the legislative environment regarding the definition of damages;
•new types of injuries caused by new types of injurious activities or exposures; and
•assessment of changes in ceding company case reserving and reporting patterns.
The change in loss reserve estimates from the prior year is referred to as Prior Year Development ("PPD"). We experienced favorable PPD of $16.5 million and adverse PPD of $112.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, primarily within the AmTrust Reinsurance segment. Please refer to “Notes to
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Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses” included under Item 8. "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Form 10-K for further details.
The Company creates a statistical distribution around the estimate of reserve for loss and LAE based on an assumption of the volatility inherent in the estimate. The Company, in the analysis of reserves for loss and ALAE, in addition to selecting a best point estimate, makes a selection of a range of reasonable reserves. This range is based on a combination of objective and subjective data, including the underlying characteristics of the exposure, the volatility in historical emergence, the credibility of the information available to estimate the reserve for loss and alae, and professional actuarial judgement. The size of the range is related to the level of confidence associated with the point estimate, as well as the amount of uncertainty inherent in the characteristics of the exposure being evaluated.
Based on this range of reasonable reserves, our required reserves after reinsurance recoverable could increase by approximately $206.7 million, or 11.3%, of our consolidated net loss and LAE reserves, excluding the impact of the LPT/ADC Agreement. If the LPT/ADC Agreement were to be considered, our required reserves could increase by approximately $126.7 million, or 9.7% of our consolidated net loss and LAE reserves.
For the range of reasonable reserves, we have assumed what we believe is an appropriate confidence level. However, the range is not intended to be a measurement of all possible future outcomes, and there can be no assurance that our claim obligation will not vary outside of this range.
Premiums and Commissions and Other Acquisition Expenses
For pro-rata contracts and excess-of-loss contracts where no deposit or minimum premium is specified in the contract, premium written is recognized based on estimates of ultimate premiums provided by the ceding companies. Initial estimates of premium written are recognized in the period in which the underlying risks are incepted. Subsequent adjustments, based on reports of actual premium by the ceding companies, or revisions in estimates, are recorded in the period in which they are determined. Reinsurance premiums assumed are generally earned on a pro rata basis over the terms of the underlying policies or reinsurance contracts.
Contracts and policies written on a "losses occurring" basis cover claims that may occur during the term of the contract or policy, which is typically twelve months. Accordingly, the premium is earned evenly over the contract term. Contracts which are written on a "risks attaching" basis cover claims from all underlying insurance policies written during the terms of such contracts. Premiums earned on such contracts extend beyond the original term of the reinsurance contract, typically resulting in recognition of premiums earned over a twenty-four-month period.
Reinsurance premiums on specialty risk and extended warranty are earned based on the estimated program coverage period. These estimates are based on the expected distribution of coverage periods by contract at inception, because a single contract may contain multiple coverage period options and these estimates are revised based on the actual coverage period selected by the original insured.
Unearned premiums represent the portion of premiums written which is applicable to the unexpired term of the contract or policy in force. These premiums can be subject to estimates based upon information received from ceding companies and any subsequent differences arising on such estimates are recorded in the period in which they are determined.
The Company provides proportional and non-proportional reinsurance coverage to cedants (insurance companies). Cedants' actual premiums are unknown at the time they enter into reinsurance agreement so treaties are based upon estimates of those premiums at the time the treaties are written and are typically adjusted as premiums are known. Reporting delays are inherent in the reinsurance industry and vary in length by type of treaty. As delays can vary from a few weeks to a year or sometimes longer, the Company produces accounting estimates to report premiums and commission and other acquisition expenses until it receives the cedants’ actual results. Under proportional treaties, the Company shares proportionally in both the premiums and losses of the cedant and pays the cedant a commission to cover the cedants' acquisition expenses. Under this type of treaty, the Company’s ultimate premiums written and earned and acquisition expenses are not known at the inception of the treaty and must be estimated until the cedant reports its actual results to the Company. Under non-proportional treaties, the Company is typically exposed to loss events in excess of a predetermined dollar amount or loss ratio and receives a deposit or minimum premium, which is subject to adjustment depending on the premium volume written by the cedant.
Reported premiums written and earned and commission and other acquisition expenses on proportional treaties are generally based upon reports received from cedants and brokers, supplemented by the Company’s own estimates of premiums written and commission and other acquisition expenses for which ceding company reports have not been received. Premium and acquisition expense estimates are determined at the individual treaty level based upon contract provisions. The determination of estimates requires a review of the Company’s experience with cedants, a thorough understanding of the individual characteristics of each line of business and the ability to project the impact of current economic indicators on the volume of business written and ceded by the Company’s cedants. Estimates for premiums and commission and other acquisition expenses are updated continuously as new information is received from the cedants. Differences between such estimates and actual amounts are recorded in the period in which estimates are changed or the actual amounts are determined.
Assessing whether or not a reinsurance contract meets the condition for risk transfer requires judgment. The determination of risk transfer is critical to reporting premiums written and is based, in part, on the use of actuarial and pricing models and assumptions. If we determine that a reinsurance contract does not transfer sufficient risk, we account for the contract as a deposit liability rather than a premium written.
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Acquisition expenses represent the costs of writing business that vary with, and are primarily related to, the production of the business. Acquisition expenses that are related to successful contracts are deferred and recognized as expense over the same period in which the related premiums are earned. Only certain expenses incurred in the successful acquisition of new and renewal insurance contracts are capitalized. Those expenses include incremental direct costs of contract acquisition that result directly from and are essential to the contract transaction and would not have been incurred had the contract transaction not occurred. All other acquisition-related expenses, such as costs incurred for soliciting business, administration, and unsuccessful acquisition or renewal efforts are charged to expense as incurred. Administrative expenses, including rent, depreciation, occupancy, equipment, and all other general overhead expenses are considered indirect and are expensed as incurred.
The Company considers anticipated investment income in determining the recoverability of these deferred costs and believes they are fully recoverable. A premium deficiency is recognized if the sum of anticipated losses and LAE, unamortized acquisition expenses and anticipated investment income exceed unearned premium.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 5. Fair Value of Financial Instruments" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion on the fair value methodology and valuation techniques used by the Company to determine the fair value of the financial instruments held at December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Other-Than-Temporary Impairment ("OTTI") of Investments
Please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion on the impairment evaluation performed by the Company on its investment portfolio. For the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company recognized $2.5 million of impairment losses in its results of operation (2019 - $0.2 million) due to the OTTI of fixed maturity investments held. Please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 4. Investments" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details.
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Results of Operations
The following table sets forth our selected Consolidated Statement of Income data for each of the years indicated:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Gross premiums written | $ | 31,389 | $ | (528,593) | ||||||||||
Net premiums written | $ | 28,432 | $ | (531,850) | ||||||||||
Net premiums earned | $ | 106,081 | $ | 447,762 | ||||||||||
Other insurance revenue | 1,276 | 2,841 | ||||||||||||
Net loss and LAE | (41,799) | (452,829) | ||||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expenses | (38,796) | (169,760) | ||||||||||||
General and administrative expenses(1) | (9,488) | (11,767) | ||||||||||||
Underwriting income (loss)(2) | 17,274 | (183,753) | ||||||||||||
Other general and administrative expenses(1) | (29,630) | (35,451) | ||||||||||||
Net investment income | 54,761 | 97,837 | ||||||||||||
Net realized gains on investment | 24,473 | 27,860 | ||||||||||||
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses | (2,468) | (165) | ||||||||||||
Foreign exchange and other (losses) gains | (8,526) | 2,719 | ||||||||||||
Interest and amortization expenses | (19,324) | (19,320) | ||||||||||||
Income tax benefit | 104 | 911 | ||||||||||||
Interest in income of equity method investments | 5,098 | — | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) from continuing operations | 41,762 | (109,362) | ||||||||||||
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax | — | (22,541) | ||||||||||||
Gain from repurchase of preference shares | 38,195 | — | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) available to Maiden common shareholders | $ | 79,957 | $ | (131,903) | ||||||||||
Ratios | ||||||||||||||
Net loss and LAE ratio(3) | 38.9 | % | 100.5 | % | ||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expense ratio(4) | 36.1 | % | 37.6 | % | ||||||||||
General and administrative expense ratio(5) | 36.4 | % | 10.5 | % | ||||||||||
Expense ratio(6) | 72.5 | % | 48.1 | % | ||||||||||
Combined ratio(7) | 111.4 | % | 148.6 | % |
(1)Underwriting related general and administrative expenses is a non-GAAP measure. Please refer to "General and Administrative Expenses" below for additional information related to these corporate expenses and the reconciliation to those presented in our Consolidated Statements of Income.
(2)Underwriting loss is a non-GAAP measure and is calculated as net premiums earned plus other insurance revenue less net loss and LAE, commission and other acquisition expenses and general and administrative expenses directly related to underwriting activities.
(3)Calculated by dividing net loss and LAE by the sum of net premiums earned and other insurance revenue.
(4)Calculated by dividing commission and other acquisition expenses by the sum of net premiums earned and other insurance revenue.
(5)Calculated by dividing all general and administrative expenses by the sum of net premiums earned and other insurance revenue.
(6)Calculated by adding together commission and other acquisition expense ratio and general and administrative expense ratio.
(7)Calculated by adding together net loss and LAE ratio and the expense ratio.
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Net Income (Loss)
Net income available to Maiden common shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $80.0 million compared to a net loss of $131.9 million for the same period in 2019. The net improvement in our results for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the same period in 2019 was primarily due to the following:
•net income from continuing operations of $41.8 million compared to a net loss from continuing operations of $109.4 million for the same period in 2019 largely due to the following factors:
•underwriting income of $17.3 million compared to an underwriting loss of $183.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2019. The reduction in the underwriting income was due to:
◦the impact of lower loss ratios for current year premiums earned during 2020 compared to 2019; and
◦favorable prior year loss development of $16.5 million or 15.4 percentage points in 2020 compared to adverse prior year loss development of $112.5 million or 25.0 percentage points for 2019 which had been incurred primarily within the AmTrust Reinsurance segment for each respective period.
•interest in income of equity method investments of $5.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 which were newly acquired in the third quarter of 2020.
The improvement in our results was partially offset by the following:
•a reduction in net investment income of $43.1 million or 44.0% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019, primarily due to the decline in average investable assets of 32.4%;
•lower realized gains on investment which were $24.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to realized gains of $27.9 million in 2019;
•investment impairment losses of $2.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to $0.2 million in 2019; and
•foreign exchange and other losses of $8.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to foreign exchange and other gains of $2.7 million for 2019.
•no impact from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to a net loss from discontinued operations of $22.5 million in 2019 resulting from the Settlement and Commutation Agreement entered into between the Company and Enstar on July 31, 2019 which caused a net additional loss of $16.7 million to be recognized.
•gain from repurchase of preference shares of $38.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 resulting from the 2020 Tender Offer.
Net Premiums Written
The table below compares net premiums written by our reportable segments, reconciled to the total consolidated net premiums written for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | Change in | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Total | % of Total | Total | % of Total | $ | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diversified Reinsurance | $ | 37,258 | 131.1 | % | $ | 49,151 | (9.3) | % | $ | (11,893) | (24.2) | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
AmTrust Reinsurance | (8,826) | (31.1) | % | (581,001) | 109.3 | % | 572,175 | (98.5) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 28,432 | 100.0 | % | $ | (531,850) | 100.0 | % | $ | 560,282 | (105.3) | % |
Net premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2020 were $28,432 compared to negative net premiums written of $(531,850) during 2019 due to the following:
•Premiums written in the Diversified Reinsurance segment decreased by $11.9 million or 24.2% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019 largely due to lower premiums written in German Auto programs in our IIS business.
•There were no new premiums written in AmTrust Reinsurance segment due to the termination of both the AmTrust Quota Share and the European Hospital Liability Quota Share effective January 1, 2019. Negative premiums written for the AmTrust Reinsurance segment in 2019 are primarily the result of return premium and other adjustments after the termination of the AmTrust contracts in 2019. In 2019, the Partial Termination Amendment resulted in Maiden Reinsurance returning $648.0 million in unearned premiums to AII, or $436.8 million net of applicable ceding commission and brokerage.
Please refer to the analysis below of our Diversified Reinsurance and AmTrust Reinsurance segments for further details.
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Net Premiums Earned
Net premiums earned decreased by $341.7 million or 76.3% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. The table below compares net premiums earned by our reportable segments, reconciled to the total consolidated net premiums earned, for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | Change in | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Total | % of Total | Total | % of Total | $ | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diversified Reinsurance | $ | 47,847 | 45.1 | % | $ | 83,691 | 18.7 | % | $ | (35,844) | (42.8) | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
AmTrust Reinsurance | 58,234 | 54.9 | % | 364,071 | 81.3 | % | (305,837) | (84.0) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 106,081 | 100.0 | % | $ | 447,762 | 100.0 | % | $ | (341,681) | (76.3) | % |
Net premiums earned in the AmTrust Reinsurance segment for the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased by $305.8 million or 84.0% compared to 2019 due to the terminations of the AmTrust Quota Share and the European Hospital Liability Quota Share effective January 1, 2019. Please refer to the analysis of our AmTrust Reinsurance segment for further discussion.
Net premiums earned in our Diversified Reinsurance segment for the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased by $35.8 million or 42.8% compared to 2019 driven by non-renewals in our European Capital Solutions business combined with reductions in quota share cessions for German Auto Programs within our IIS business. Please refer to the analysis of our Diversified Reinsurance segment for further discussion.
Other Insurance Revenue
All of our Other Insurance Revenue is produced by our Diversified Reinsurance segment. Please refer to the analysis of our Diversified Reinsurance segment below for further discussion.
Net Investment Income
Net investment income decreased by $43.1 million or 44.0% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019, primarily due to the decline in average investable assets of 32.4%. The decline in investable assets is largely due to the cessation of active reinsurance underwriting which has materially reduced our revenues resulting in significant negative operating cash flows as we run-off our existing reinsurance liabilities. Net investment income also decreased due to the decline in average book yields to 2.2% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2.7% in 2019, which is the result of both lower interest rates and shorter duration of assets in our fixed income portfolios.
The following table details our average investable assets and book yield for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Average investable assets(1) | $ | 2,488,076 | $ | 3,679,285 | ||||||||||
Average book yield(2) | 2.2 | % | 2.7 | % | ||||||||||
(1)The average of our total investments (excluding equity method investments), cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents, funds withheld receivable and loan to related party held during the year.
(2)Ratio of net investment income over average investable assets at fair value.
Net Realized Gains on Investment
Net realized gains on investment were $24.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to net realized gains on investment of $27.9 million for 2019. Net realized gains for the year ended December 31, 2020 were primarily due to sales of corporate bonds during the year for the settlement of claim payments to AmTrust.
Net realized gains on investment of $27.9 million for 2019 were primarily the result of corporate bond sales in anticipation of completing and funding the LPT/ADC Agreement with Enstar as well as sales of corporate bonds for the settlement of the Commutation Payment to AmTrust via transfer of cash and invested assets on August 12, 2019. The investment gains were partially offset by investment losses realized on the non-cash transfer of corporate and other debt securities in early 2019 related to the Partial Termination Amendment with AmTrust and conversion of a portion of reinsurance trust assets held as collateral into a funds withheld receivable.
Net Impairment Losses Recognized in Earnings
The Company recognized $2.5 million of OTTI losses on four fixed maturity investments for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to $0.2 million of OTTI losses on one fixed maturity investment for the year ended December 31, 2019.
Interest in Income of Equity Method Investments
The Company recognized interest in income of equity method investments, which include hedge fund investments of $29.4 million, of $5.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 which were newly acquired in the third quarter of 2020.
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Net Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses
Net loss and LAE decreased by $411.0 million, or 90.8%, during the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the same period in 2019 largely due to the cessation of active reinsurance underwriting, including the termination of the AmTrust Quota Share and European Hospital Liability Quota Share effective January 1, 2019.
The loss ratio for 2020 was impacted by net favorable prior year reserve development of $16.5 million or 15.4 percentage points during 2020 compared to net adverse prior year reserve development of $112.5 million or 25.0 percentage points during 2019. The prior year development is discussed in greater detail in the individual segment discussion and analysis.
The net loss and LAE ratio decreased to 38.9% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 100.5% for 2019 largely due to the significant reduction in adverse prior year reserve development in our AmTrust Reinsurance segment where significant reserve strengthening occurred in 2019. The improvement in loss ratios in 2020 is primarily the result of the termination of the AmTrust Quota Share and European Hospital Liability Quota Share effective January 1, 2019.
Commission and Other Acquisition Expenses
Commission and other acquisition expenses decreased by $131.0 million or 77.1% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019 due to significantly lower earned premiums in both of our reportable segments. The commission and other acquisition expense ratio decreased to 36.1% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 37.6% for 2019.
General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses include both segment and corporate expenses segregated for analytical purposes as a component of underwriting income. Such expenses for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are comprised of:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
General and administrative expenses – segments | $ | 9,488 | $ | 11,767 | ||||||||||
General and administrative expenses – corporate | 29,630 | 35,451 | ||||||||||||
Total general and administrative expenses | $ | 39,118 | $ | 47,218 |
Total general and administrative expenses decreased by $8.1 million, or 17.2%, for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019. The general and administrative expense ratio increased to 36.4% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 10.5% for 2019 as a result of significantly lower earned premiums. Lower earned premiums were due to the termination of both AmTrust Reinsurance quota share contracts effective January 1, 2019 and non-renewals within our International business in the Diversified Reinsurance segment. Corporate general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased by $5.8 million or 16.4% compared to 2019 largely due to lower salary, benefits and other corporate expenses associated with the Strategic Review and related headcount reductions that were initiated in late 2018.
Interest and Amortization Expenses
The interest and amortization expenses related to the outstanding senior notes issued by Maiden Holdings in 2016 and Maiden NA in 2013 ("Senior Notes") were $19.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 7 — Long-Term Debt" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Form 10-K for further details on the Senior Notes. The weighted average effective interest rate for the Senior Notes was 7.6% for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Foreign Exchange and Other Losses (Gains)
Net foreign exchange and other losses amounted to $8.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to net foreign exchange and other gains of $2.7 million in 2019. Net foreign exchange losses of $8.1 million were realized during the year ended December 31, 2020 due to the weakening of the U.S. dollar on the re-measurement of net loss reserves and related liabilities denominated in British pound and euro.
Net foreign exchange and other gains of $2.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 included $4.3 million of proceeds received from the sale of AVS and its related European subsidiaries to Allianz Partners on January 10, 2019. Excluding the gain of $4.3 million related to the sale of AVS and $0.1 million of other gains, net foreign exchange losses of $1.7 million were realized in 2019 due to the weakening of the U.S. dollar on the re-measurement of net loss reserves and related liabilities denominated in British pound and euro.
Income Tax Benefit
The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $0.1 million and $0.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These amounts relate to income tax benefits generated on the losses of our international subsidiaries. The effective rate of income tax was (0.3)% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to (0.8)% for the year ended December 31, 2019.
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Underwriting Results by Reportable Segment
Diversified Reinsurance Segment
The underwriting results and associated ratios for our Diversified Reinsurance segment for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Gross premiums written | $ | 40,457 | $ | 52,408 | ||||||||||
Net premiums written | $ | 37,258 | $ | 49,151 | ||||||||||
Net premiums earned | $ | 47,847 | $ | 83,691 | ||||||||||
Other insurance revenue | 1,276 | 2,841 | ||||||||||||
Net loss and LAE | (24,909) | (49,905) | ||||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expenses | (18,475) | (29,898) | ||||||||||||
General and administrative expenses | (6,936) | (8,872) | ||||||||||||
Underwriting loss | $ | (1,197) | $ | (2,143) | ||||||||||
Ratios | ||||||||||||||
Net loss and LAE ratio | 50.7 | % | 57.7 | % | ||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expense ratio | 37.6 | % | 34.5 | % | ||||||||||
General and administrative expense ratio | 14.1 | % | 10.3 | % | ||||||||||
Expense ratio | 51.7 | % | 44.8 | % | ||||||||||
Combined ratio | 102.4 | % | 102.5 | % |
The combined ratio for the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased to 102.4% compared to 102.5% in 2019 largely due to significant declines in earned premium volume that increased the expense ratio which was offset by lower loss ratios. Please see the respective sections on net loss, commissions and administrative expenses for factors that have impacted the combined ratios in the discussion below.
Premiums - Gross premiums written decreased by $12.0 million, or 22.8% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019 primarily due to lower premiums written in German Auto programs in our IIS business.
Net premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased by $11.9 million or 24.2% compared to 2019 mainly due to lower net premiums written in our German Auto programs in our IIS business resulting from a lower quota share cession percentage which declined from 65% in 2018 to 50% in 2019 and 35% in 2020 in the German Auto programs.
Net premiums earned decreased by $35.8 million or 42.8% during the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019 primarily due to lower earned premiums from German Auto programs and non-renewals in European Capital Solutions.
Other Insurance Revenue - Other insurance revenue, which represents fee income from our IIS business that is not directly associated with premium revenue assumed by the Company as well as other income earned from transitional services relating to the sale of Maiden US, decreased by $1.6 million or 55.1% to $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019. The fee income from transitional services declined by $1.0 million since 2019 as fewer services were provided during 2020 for Maiden US which was sold in late 2018. The decline of $0.5 million from International was due to lower fee income from Australia business.
The table below shows other insurance revenue by source for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | Change | Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
International | $ | 1,145 | $ | 1,673 | $ | (528) | (31.6) | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Other income | 131 | 1,168 | (1,037) | (88.8) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total Diversified Reinsurance | $ | 1,276 | $ | 2,841 | $ | (1,565) | (55.1) | % |
Net Loss and LAE - Net loss and LAE decreased by $25.0 million or 50.1% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019. Net loss and LAE ratios were 50.7% and 57.7% for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, which decreased by 7.0 percentage points for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019.
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The 2020 loss ratio was impacted by favorable prior year loss reserve development of $1.3 million or 2.6 percentage points during 2020, compared to the impact of favorable development of $1.5 million or 1.7 percentage points on the loss ratio in 2019. The 2020 development was driven by favorable experience in facultative reinsurance run-off lines and partly offset by adverse development experienced in European Capital Solutions. The 2019 development was due to favorable development in German Auto programs and facultative reinsurance run-off lines.
The impact on the net loss and LAE ratios should be considered in conjunction with the commission and other acquisition expense ratio as changes to either ratio can be effected by changes in the mix of business and the impact of increases in the commission and other acquisition expense rates on pro-rata contracts with loss sensitive features. As a result of these factors, as well as the impact on the loss ratio described above, the combined ratio decreased by 0.1 percentage points for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019.
Commission and Other Acquisition Expenses - Commission and other acquisition expenses decreased by $11.4 million or 38.2%, for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019 primarily due to the corresponding amount of net premiums earned which similarly decreased in this segment.
The commission and other acquisition expense ratio increased 3.1 percentage points to 37.6% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 34.5% for 2019 reflecting the change in the mix of pro rata versus excess of loss premiums written during the year. Please refer to the preceding paragraph for other factors that can impact the combined ratio.
General and Administrative Expenses - General and administrative expenses decreased by $1.9 million or 21.8% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019. The general and administrative expense ratio increased to 14.1% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 10.3% for 2019 due to significantly lower net premiums earned during the year.
The overall expense ratio (including commission and other acquisition expenses) increased to 51.7% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 44.8% for 2019 largely as a result of lower premium revenue during the year as noted above.
AmTrust Reinsurance Segment
The AmTrust Reinsurance segment reported underwriting income of $18.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to an underwriting loss of $181.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The improvement in the underwriting results was driven by favorable experience in loss development on prior year reserves, which resulted in a sharply lower combined ratio on significantly lower premiums earned during the year ended December 31, 2020.
The underwriting results and associated ratios for the AmTrust Reinsurance segment for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Gross premiums written | $ | (9,068) | $ | (581,001) | ||||||||||
Net premiums written | $ | (8,826) | $ | (581,001) | ||||||||||
Net premiums earned | $ | 58,234 | $ | 364,071 | ||||||||||
Net loss and LAE | (16,890) | (402,612) | ||||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expenses | (20,321) | (139,862) | ||||||||||||
General and administrative expenses | (2,552) | (2,895) | ||||||||||||
Underwriting income (loss) | $ | 18,471 | $ | (181,298) | ||||||||||
Ratios | ||||||||||||||
Net loss and LAE ratio | 29.0 | % | 110.6 | % | ||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expense ratio | 34.9 | % | 38.4 | % | ||||||||||
General and administrative expense ratio | 4.4 | % | 0.8 | % | ||||||||||
Expense ratio | 39.3 | % | 39.2 | % | ||||||||||
Combined ratio | 68.3 | % | 149.8 | % |
The combined ratio decreased by 81.5 percentage points to 68.3% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 149.8% for 2019 due to the impact of favorable prior year loss development of $15.2 million or 26.2 percentage points during 2020 compared to the impact of adverse prior year loss development of $113.7 million or 31.3 percentage points during 2019. Please see the section on losses and LAE below for information regarding the impact of loss development on combined ratios.
Premiums - There were negative gross and net premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2020 reflecting premium adjustments under the commutation of certain home warranty business in the AmTrust Quota Share from April 1, 2020. Also, the termination of the AmTrust Quota Share and the European Hospital Liability Quota Share as of January 1, 2019, resulted in no new business written under these contracts during 2020. In 2019, the Partial Termination Amendment resulted in Maiden
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Reinsurance returning $648.0 million in unearned premium to AII, or approximately $436.8 million net of applicable ceding commission and brokerage, which caused negative gross and net premiums written for the year ended December 31, 2019.
The table below shows net premiums written by category for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Total | % of Total | Total | % of Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Premiums Written | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Small Commercial Business | $ | (11,515) | 130.5 | % | $ | (324,311) | 55.8 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Specialty Program | (19) | 0.2 | % | (25,869) | 4.5 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Specialty Risk and Extended Warranty | 2,708 | (30.7) | % | (230,821) | 39.7 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Total AmTrust Reinsurance | $ | (8,826) | 100.0 | % | $ | (581,001) | 100.0 | % |
Net premiums earned decreased by $305.8 million, or 84.0% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019 due to termination of the AmTrust Quota Share and European Hospital Liability Quota Share as of January 1, 2019. The negative net premiums earned on Small Commercial Business for the year ended December 31, 2020 was due to premium adjustments and earned premium returns for the commutation of certain home warranty business in the AmTrust Quota Share as of April 1, 2020. The table below details net premiums earned by category for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Total | % of Total | Total | % of Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Premiums Earned | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Small Commercial Business | $ | (10,938) | (18.8) | % | $ | 91,723 | 25.2 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Specialty Program | 33 | 0.1 | % | 138,380 | 38.0 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Specialty Risk and Extended Warranty | 69,139 | 118.7 | % | 133,968 | 36.8 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total AmTrust Reinsurance | $ | 58,234 | 100.0 | % | $ | 364,071 | 100.0 | % |
Net Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses - Net loss and LAE decreased by $385.7 million, or 95.8%, for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019 due to significantly lower earned premiums as a result of the termination of both quota share agreements with AmTrust. Net loss and LAE ratios decreased to 29.0% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 110.6% for 2019.
During the year ended December 31, 2020, the net loss and LAE ratio decreased by 81.6 points compared to 2019 due to the following factors:
• Impact of favorable prior year loss development which was $15.2 million or 26.2 points during 2020, compared to adverse prior year development of $113.7 million or 31.3 points during 2019 which was incurred as follows:
•The favorable development of $15.2 million in 2020 was due to favorable development of $39.0 million in Workers Compensation and favorable development of $12.9 million in Other lines, partly offset by adverse development of $17.7 million in Commercial Auto Liability and adverse development of $18.3 million in General Liability; and
•The adverse development of $113.7 million in 2019 was due to Commercial Auto Liability of $118.5 million and General Liability of $116.7 million in accident years 2014 to 2018, partly offset by favorable development in Workers Compensation of $113.0 million in accident years 2016 to 2018.
• Partial Termination Amendment caused significant changes in the mix of business earned in 2020 compared to 2019. These changes resulted in a current year loss ratio which decreased relative to the same period in 2019 for the remaining in-force business.
Commission and Other Acquisition Expenses - Commission and other acquisition expenses decreased by $119.5 million, or 85.5%, for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared the same period in 2019 due to significantly lower earned premiums as a result of the terminations of both quota share agreements with AmTrust effective as of January 1, 2019. The commission and other acquisition expense ratio decreased to 34.9% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 38.4% in 2019.
General and Administrative Expenses - General and administrative expenses decreased by $0.3 million or 11.8% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 2019. The general and administrative expense ratio increased to 4.4% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 0.8% in 2019 as a result of much lower earned premiums due to the termination of both quota share agreements with AmTrust as of January 1, 2019. The overall expense ratio (including commission and other acquisition expenses) increased to 39.3% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 39.2% in 2019 primarily due to relatively stable administrative segment expenses combined with significantly lower earned premiums discussed above.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity
Maiden Holdings is a holding company and transacts no business of its own. We therefore rely on cash flows in the form of dividends, advances, loans and other permitted distributions from our subsidiary companies to pay expenses and make dividend payments on our common and preference shares. The jurisdictions in which our operating subsidiaries are licensed to write business impose regulations requiring companies to maintain or meet statutory solvency and liquidity requirements and also place restrictions on the declaration and payment of dividends and other distributions.
As of December 31, 2020, the Company had investable assets of $2.3 billion compared to $2.8 billion as of December 31, 2019. Investable assets are the combined total of our investments (excluding equity method investments), cash and cash equivalents (including restricted), loan to a related party and funds withheld receivable. The decrease in our investable assets is primarily the result of negative operating cash flows during 2020, particularly as a result of our cessation of active reinsurance underwriting, including certain contract terminations that occurred in 2019 that required the disbursement of cash and investments to settle claim payments in 2020.
As discussed previously in the "Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - General Overview - Recent Developments" section, the most significant of these transactions are:
•the Partial Termination Amendment with AII became effective January 1, 2019 and we transferred cash and investments totaling $436.8 million to AII for the return of unearned premium, net of applicable ceding commissions;
•the agreement between Maiden Reinsurance and AmTrust to terminate on a run-off basis (i) the remaining business under the AmTrust Quota Share with AII; and (ii) the European Hospital Liability Quota Share with AEL and AIU DAC. Both terminations were effective January 1, 2019;
•the Commutation and Release Agreement became effective July 31, 2019. On August 12, 2019, as part of this agreement, we transferred cash and investments of $312.8 million to AII which was the sum of the net ceded reserves of $330.7 million with respect to the Commuted Business as of December 31, 2018 less payments in the amount of $17.9 million made by Maiden Reinsurance with respect to the Commuted Business from January 1, 2019 through July 31, 2019. Maiden Reinsurance paid AII approximately $6.3 million in interest related to the Commutation Payment premium, calculated at the rate of 3.30% per annum from January 1, 2019 through August 12, 2019; and
•the LPT/ADC Agreement, which was dated as of July 31, 2019. Under this agreement, Cavello assumed the loss reserves as of December 31, 2018 associated with the AmTrust Quota Share in excess of a $2.2 billion retention up to $600.0 million, in exchange for a retrocession premium of $445.0 million which we fully paid in cash and transferred to Cavello on August 12, 2019. Maiden Reinsurance paid Cavello approximately $7.3 million in interest related to the LPT/ADC Agreement premium, calculated at the rate of 2.64% per annum from January 1, 2019 through August 12, 2019.
As previously indicated, Maiden Reinsurance re-domesticated from Bermuda to Vermont on March 16, 2020. We continue to be actively engaged with the Vermont DFR regarding the formulation of Maiden Reinsurance's longer term business plan, including its investment policy, changes to which require prior regulatory approval as stipulated by Vermont law or the Vermont DFR for any active underwriting, capital management or other strategic initiatives. Maiden Reinsurance has received all necessary approvals required to date by the Vermont DFR, including its investment policy, which includes: 1) the expansion of approved asset classes for investment reflecting not only Maiden Reinsurance’s solvency position but the material reduction in required capital necessary to operate its business (discussed further in Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity & Capital Resources – Cash and Investments); and 2) the purchase of affiliated securities as demonstrated in the 2020 Tender Offer. The Investment Policy, as approved, maintains our established investment management and governance practices.
Maiden Reinsurance is regulated by the Vermont DFR and is the principal operating subsidiary of Maiden Holdings. At December 31, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance had statutory capital and surplus of $972.4 million, exceeding the amounts required to be maintained of $147.0 million at December 31, 2020. Under its license as an affiliated reinsurer under the captive licensing laws in the State of Vermont, Maiden Reinsurance requires the approval of the Vermont DFR for the payment of any dividends. Prior to its re-domestication to Vermont, Maiden Reinsurance was prohibited from declaring and paying any dividends by the Bermuda Monetary Authority. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, Maiden Reinsurance did not pay any dividends to Maiden Holdings and Maiden NA.
Maiden Holdings has two Swedish domiciled operating subsidiaries, Maiden LF and Maiden GF, which are both regulated by the Swedish FSA. At December 31, 2020, Maiden LF and Maiden GF each had a statutory capital and surplus of $10.6 million and $10.7 million, respectively, exceeding the amounts required to be maintained of $5.2 million and $6.9 million, respectively, at December 31, 2020. Maiden LF and Maiden GF are subject to statutory and regulatory restrictions under the Swedish FSA that limit the maximum amount of annual dividends or distributions paid by Maiden LF and Maiden GF to Maiden Holdings. At December 31, 2020, Maiden LF and Maiden GF are allowed to pay dividends or distributions not exceeding $0.5 million and $0.3 million, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, Maiden LF and Maiden GF did not pay any dividends to Maiden Holdings.
Maiden Holdings’ wholly owned U.K. subsidiary, Maiden Global, operates as a reinsurance services and holding company. Maiden Global is subject to regulation by the U.K. Financial Conduct Authority (the "FCA"). At December 31, 2020, Maiden Global is allowed to pay dividends or distributions not exceeding $4.8 million. During 2020 and 2019, Maiden Global paid dividends to Maiden Holdings of $0.0 million and $5.1 million, respectively.
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We may experience continued volatility in our results of operations which could negatively impact our financial condition and create a reduction in the amount of available distribution or dividend capacity from our regulated reinsurance subsidiaries, which would also reduce liquidity. Further, we and our insurance subsidiaries may need additional capital to maintain compliance with regulatory capital requirements and/or be required to post additional collateral under existing reinsurance arrangements, which could reduce our liquidity. Finally, while we have had limited impacts from the effects of COVID-19 on our financial condition to date, the Company's investment portfolio could be adversely impacted by unfavorable market conditions caused by the pandemic should it continue longer than anticipated.
Operating, investing and financing cash flows
Our sources of funds historically have consisted of premium receipts net of commissions and brokerage, investment income, net proceeds from capital raising activities, and proceeds from sales, maturities, pay downs and redemption of investments. Cash is currently used primarily to pay loss and LAE, ceded reinsurance premium, general and administrative expenses, and interest expense, with the remainder of cash in excess of our operating requirements made available to our investment managers for investment in accordance with our investment policy, as well as for capital management such as repurchasing our shares.
Our business has undergone significant changes since 2018. As previously noted, the Strategic Review resulted in a series of transactions that have materially reduced our balance sheet risk and transformed our operations. As a result of the transactions entered into from the Strategic Review, we are not engaged in any active underwriting of reinsurance business thus our net premiums written will continue to be materially lower and investment income will become a significantly larger portion of our total revenues. This has caused significant negative operating cash flows as we run off the AmTrust Reinsurance reserves as shown in the table below.
As noted in our Business Strategy, in November 2020, we formed Genesis Legacy Solutions (“GLS”) which will specialize in providing a full range of legacy services to small insurance entities, We believe the formation of GLS is highly complementary to our overall longer-term strategy and will not only enhance our profitability through both fee income and effective claims management services, but it will also increase our asset base through the addition of blocks of reserves or companies that can be successfully wound down. While the development of the GLS platform over time should further enhance our ability to pursue the asset and capital management pillars of our business strategy, we still expect the trend of negative overall cash flows to continue to reduce our asset base going forward into 2021 and beyond.
We expect to use funds from cash and investment portfolios, collected premiums on reinsurance contracts in force or being run-off, investment income and proceeds from investment sales and redemptions to meet our expected claims payments and operational expenses. Claim payments will be principally from the run-off of existing reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses. A significant portion of those liabilities are collateralized and claim payments will be funded by using this collateral which should provide sufficient funding to fulfill those obligations. We generally expect negative operating cash flows to be sufficiently offset by positive investing cash flows. Overall, we continue to expect our cash flows to be sufficient to meet our cash requirements and to operate our business.
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, unrestricted cash and cash equivalents and unrestricted fixed maturity investments were $269.2 million and $435.0 million, respectively. The decrease in these balances during 2020 was partly the result of the $30.1 million utilized for the 2020 Tender Offer and $36.8 million utilized for Other Investments, as described further in the discussion on investing and financing cash flows below. The Company’s management believes its current sources of liquidity are adequate to meet its cash requirements for the next twelve months. The table below summarizes our operating, investing and financing cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Operating activities | $ | (541,775) | $ | (1,142,601) | ||||||||||
Investing activities | 596,044 | 913,177 | ||||||||||||
Financing activities | (30,130) | (18) | ||||||||||||
Effect of exchange rate changes on foreign currency cash | 4,409 | (382) | ||||||||||||
Total increase (decrease) in cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents | $ | 28,548 | $ | (229,824) | ||||||||||
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Cash flows used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2020 were $541.8 million compared to cash flows used in operating activities of $1.1 billion for the year ended December 31, 2019, a decrease of $600.8 million. Cash flows used in discontinued operations were $0.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to $2.4 million in the year ended December 31, 2019.
Cash flows used in continuing operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2020 were $541.8 million compared to cash flows used in continuing operations of $1.1 billion for the year ended December 31, 2019. The operating cash flows used in continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were primarily the result of the termination of the AmTrust Quota Share including both the Partial Termination Amendment and the Commutation and Release Agreement, and the termination of the European Hospital Liability Quota Share, which significantly decreased gross premiums written during the respective periods while claim payments have been principally from the run-off of existing reserves for loss and LAE.
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Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Cash flows from investing activities consist primarily of proceeds from sales and maturities of investments less payments for investments acquired. Net cash provided by investing activities was $596.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to $913.2 million for 2019 primarily due to proceeds from the sale of fixed maturity investments which were made to settle claim payments during the year ended December 31, 2020 and partly offset by recent purchases of other investments as the Company pursues alternative sources of investment income. Net cash flows for 2019 were higher primarily due to considerable sales of fixed maturity investments which were made to settle the Commutation Payment of $312.8 million and retrocession premium of $445.0 million under the LPT/ADC Agreement in the third quarter of 2019.
Cash flows used in discontinued operations was $0.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to cash flows used in discontinued operations of $6.1 million during 2019. Cash flows provided by continuing operations was $596.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to cash flows provided by continuing operations of $919.3 million during 2019. For the year ended December 31, 2020, the proceeds from the sales, maturities and calls exceeded the purchases of fixed maturity securities by $666.3 million compared to an inflow of $924.0 million during 2019.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Cash flows used in financing activities were $30.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 which is primarily due to the repurchase of the Company's preference shares. On December 24, 2020, the Company paid $30.1 million for a specified number of its Preference Shares pursuant to the 2020 Tender Offer as part of its recent capital management strategy. The aggregate total consideration paid by the Company for the preference shares accepted for purchase was $29.7 million excluding fees. This compared to cash flows used in financing activities of $18.0 thousand in 2019 which represented repurchases of common shares to settle employee withholding in respect of tax obligations on the vesting of restricted shares and performance based shares. No dividends on common or preference shares were paid during 2020 and 2019. Our Board of Directors have not declared any common or preference share dividends since the fourth quarter of 2018.
Restrictions, Collateral and Specific Requirements
Maiden Reinsurance is generally required to post collateral security with respect to any reinsurance liabilities it assumes from ceding insurers domiciled in the U.S. to obtain credit on their U.S. statutory financial statements with respect to reinsurance recoverables due to them. Consequently, cash and cash equivalents and investments are pledged in favor of ceding companies to comply with relevant insurance regulations or contractual requirements.
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, restricted cash and cash equivalents and fixed maturity investments used as collateral were $1.1 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively. This collateral represented 80.0% and 77.6% of the fair value of our total fixed maturity investments and cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The following table provides additional information on those assets used as collateral at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Restricted Cash & Equivalents | Fixed Maturities | Total | Restricted Cash & Equivalents | Fixed Maturities | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diversified Reinsurance | $ | 22,064 | $ | 65,355 | $ | 87,419 | $ | 22,905 | $ | 67,709 | $ | 90,614 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
AmTrust Reinsurance | 39,722 | 952,914 | 992,636 | 36,176 | 1,380,963 | 1,417,139 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 61,786 | $ | 1,018,269 | $ | 1,080,055 | $ | 59,081 | $ | 1,448,672 | $ | 1,507,753 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
As a % of Consolidated Balance Sheet captions | 100.0% | 83.9% | 84.7% | 100.0% | 78.9% | 79.6% |
Maiden Reinsurance loaned funds of $168.0 million to AmTrust at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, to partially satisfy its collateral requirements with AII. Advances under the loan are secured by promissory notes and the loan is carried at cost. On January 30, 2019, in connection with the termination of the AmTrust Quota Share reinsurance agreements, the Company and AmTrust amended the Loan Agreement between Maiden Reinsurance, AmTrust and AII, originally entered into on November 16, 2007, to extend the maturity date to January 1, 2025 and the parties acknowledged that due to the termination of the AmTrust Quota Share, no further loans or advances may be made pursuant to the Loan Agreement.
On January 11, 2019, a portion of the existing trust accounts used for collateral on the AmTrust Quota Share were converted to a funds withheld arrangement. The Company transferred cash and investments of $575.0 million to AmTrust as a funds withheld receivable which bears an annual interest rate of 3.5%, subject to annual adjustment. The annual interest rate was adjusted to 2.65% during the first quarter of 2020. Also, Maiden Reinsurance transferred cash of €45.1 million ($51.2 million) to AIU DAC as a funds withheld receivable as collateral for the European Hospital Liability Quota Share. Effective January 24, 2019, AIU DAC pays Maiden Reinsurance a fixed annual interest rate of 0.5% on the average daily funds withheld balance which is subject to annual adjustment.
Collateral arrangements with ceding insurers may subject our assets to security interests or require that a portion of our assets be pledged to, or otherwise held by, third parties. Although the investment income derived from these assets, while held in trust, accrues to our benefit, the investment of these assets is governed by the terms of the letter of credit facilities or the investment regulations of the state or territory of domicile of the ceding insurer, which may be more restrictive than the investment
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regulations applicable to the Company under U.S. law in the State of Vermont. The restrictions may result in lower investment yields on these assets, which may adversely affect our profitability.
We do not anticipate that the restrictions on liquidity resulting from restrictions on the payments of dividends by our subsidiary companies or from assets committed in trust accounts or those assets used to collateralize letter of credit facilities will have a material impact on our ability to carry out our normal business activities.
Cash and Investments
The investment of our funds has generally been designed to ensure safety of principal while generating current income. Accordingly, the majority of our funds have been invested in liquid, investment-grade fixed income securities which are all designated as AFS at December 31, 2020. As of of December 31, 2020 and 2019, our cash and investments consisted of:
At December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale, at fair value | $ | 1,213,411 | $ | 1,835,518 | ||||||||||
Equity method investments | 39,886 | — | ||||||||||||
Other investments | 67,010 | 31,748 | ||||||||||||
Total investments | 1,320,307 | 1,867,266 | ||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 74,040 | 48,197 | ||||||||||||
Restricted cash and cash equivalents | 61,786 | 59,081 | ||||||||||||
Total Investments and Cash (including cash equivalents) | $ | 1,456,133 | $ | 1,974,544 |
In addition to the discussion on Cash and Cash Equivalents and Fixed Maturities that follows herein, please see "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 4 — Investments" included under Part II Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion on our AFS securities.
As our insurance liabilities continue to run-off and the required capital to operate our business for regulatory purposes decreases, we have modified Maiden Reinsurance’s investment policy (which has been approved by the Vermont DFR as noted) and have expanded the range of asset classes we invest in to enhance the income and returns our investment portfolio produces. We categorize these investments as "Other Investments" and "Equity Method Investments" on our consolidated balance sheets as discussed in "Note 2 — Significant Accounting Policies" included under Part II Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. During 2020, under this revised investment policy, we increased the amount of investments in these categories, and in 2021 and beyond, we expect to continue to increase the amounts invested therein. Under our investment policy, investments included in these categories could include, but are not limited to, privately held investments, private equity, credit funds, fixed-income funds, hedge funds, equity funds, real estate and other non-fixed-income investments.
Our investment performance is subject to a variety of risks, including risks related to general economic conditions, market volatility, interest rate fluctuations, foreign exchange risk, liquidity risk and credit and default risk. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors, including governmental monetary policies, domestic and international economic and political conditions and other factors beyond our control. An increase in interest rates could result in significant losses, realized or unrealized, in the value of our investment portfolio. A portion of portfolio consists of alternative investments that subject us to restrictions on redemption, which may limit our ability to withdraw funds for some period of time after the initial investment. The values of, and returns on, such investments may also be more volatile.
We believe our other investments and equity method investments portfolio provides diversification against our fixed-income investments and an opportunity for improved risk-adjusted return, however, the returns of these investments may be more volatile and we may experience significant unrealized gains or losses in a particular quarter or year.
We may utilize and pay fees to various companies to provide investment advisory and/or management services related to these investments. These fees, which would be predominantly based upon the amount of assets under management, would be included in net investment income.
The substantial majority of our current and future investments are held by Maiden Reinsurance, whose investment policy has been approved by the Vermont DFR. We may utilize a portion of Maiden Reinsurance's unrestricted assets to purchase affiliated securities and in 2020 we utilized $30.1 million in conjunction with the 2020 Tender Offer. Maiden Reinsurance has received all necessary approvals for its investment policy.
Cash & Cash Equivalents
At December 31, 2020, we consider the levels of cash and cash equivalents we are holding to be within our targeted ranges. During periods when interest rates experience greater volatility, we have periodically maintained more cash and equivalents to better assess current market conditions and opportunities within our defined risk appetite, and may do so in future periods.
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Fixed Maturity Investments
The average yield and average duration of our fixed maturities, by asset class, and our cash and cash equivalents (both restricted and unrestricted) are as follows:
December 31, 2020 | Original or Amortized Cost | Gross Unrealized Gains | Gross Unrealized Losses | Fair Value | Average yield(1) | Average duration(2) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
AFS Fixed maturities | ($ in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. treasury bonds | $ | 94,468 | $ | 34 | $ | — | $ | 94,502 | 0.1 | % | 1.4 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. agency bonds – mortgage-backed | 272,124 | 9,439 | (126) | 281,437 | 2.5 | % | 1.9 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-U.S. government/supranational bonds | 8,641 | 1,067 | — | 9,708 | 1.1 | % | 6.2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset-backed securities | 184,227 | 1,611 | (406) | 185,432 | 2.2 | % | 0.7 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate bonds | 604,463 | 40,904 | (3,035) | 642,332 | 2.3 | % | 3.1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total fixed maturities | 1,163,923 | 53,055 | (3,567) | 1,213,411 | 2.2 | % | 2.3 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 135,826 | — | — | 135,826 | 0.1 | % | 0.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 1,299,749 | $ | 53,055 | $ | (3,567) | $ | 1,349,237 | 2.0 | % | 2.1 |
December 31, 2019 | Original or Amortized Cost | Gross Unrealized Gains | Gross Unrealized Losses | Fair Value | Average yield(1) | Average duration(2) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
AFS fixed maturities | ($ in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. treasury bonds | $ | 94,921 | $ | 704 | $ | — | $ | 95,625 | 2.5 | % | 0.7 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. agency bonds – mortgage-backed | 533,296 | 6,717 | (1,291) | 538,722 | 2.9 | % | 4.1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-U.S. government/supranational bonds | 11,796 | 294 | (91) | 11,999 | 1.2 | % | 4.6 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset-backed securities | 187,881 | 821 | (532) | 188,170 | 3.8 | % | 0.9 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate bonds | 981,441 | 31,140 | (15,725) | 996,856 | 2.9 | % | 3.4 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Municipal bonds | 4,091 | 55 | — | 4,146 | 4.6 | % | 1.4 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total AFS fixed maturities | 1,813,426 | 39,731 | (17,639) | 1,835,518 | 3.0 | % | 3.2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 107,278 | — | — | 107,278 | 0.6 | % | 0.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 1,920,704 | $ | 39,731 | $ | (17,639) | $ | 1,942,796 | 2.8 | % | 3.0 |
(1) Average yield is calculated by dividing annualized investment income for each sub-component of fixed maturity securities and cash and cash equivalents (including amortization of premium or discount) by amortized cost.
(2) Average duration in years.
During the year ended December 31, 2020, the yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury bond decreased by 99 basis points to 0.93%. The 10-year U.S. Treasury rate is the key risk-free determinant in the fair value of many of the fixed income securities in our portfolio. The U.S. Treasury yield curve experienced a material downward shift during the year ended December 31, 2020, reflecting significant global financial and economic volatility from the COVID-19 pandemic which spread during much of 2020. The global nature of the pandemic resulted in an abrupt downturn in economic activity both globally and within the U.S., and financial markets experienced unprecedented volatility during this period. The U.S. Federal Reserve, along with central bankers globally, have implemented multiple rounds of rapid and aggressive monetary measures to provide liquidity to financial markets and to relieve imbalances that rapidly formed in those markets in the face of the pandemic and its economic and financial impacts. Government policymakers in the U.S. and globally have additionally implemented an ongoing series of unprecedented fiscal policy measures to provide immediate and near-term economic relief to affected populations. These policymakers have signaled an expectation to continue these policy measures for the foreseeable future into 2021.
The movement in the market values of our fixed maturity portfolio during the year ended December 31, 2020 generated net unrealized gains of $27.4 million, despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic which has initially caused widening credit spreads, a surging demand for liquidity and a slowdown to global economic activity. Due in large part to the ongoing uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in global financial markets during the year ended December 31, 2020, our investment portfolio experienced significant fluctuation in unrealized gains and losses (largely due to rapidly fluctuating credit spreads on fixed income investments), increased volatility, heightened credit risk, and declines in average yields on our fixed income investments. Our investment portfolios may be adversely impacted by unfavorable market conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which could cause continued volatility in our results of operations and negatively impact our financial condition.
Interest rate risk is the price sensitivity of a security to changes in interest rates. Credit spread risk is the price sensitivity of a security to changes in credit spreads. As noted, the fair value of our fixed maturity investments will fluctuate with changes in interest rates and credit spreads. We attempt to maintain adequate liquidity in our fixed maturity investments portfolio with a strategy designed to emphasize the preservation of our invested assets and provide sufficient liquidity for the prompt payment of claims and contract liabilities. We also monitor the duration and structure of our investment portfolio as discussed below. As of
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December 31, 2020, the aggregate hypothetical change in fair value from an immediate 100 basis points increase in interest rates, assuming credit spreads remain constant, in our fixed maturity investments portfolio would decrease the fair value of that portfolio by $28.4 million. Actual shifts in interest rates may not change by the same magnitude across the maturity spectrum or on an individual security and, as a result, the impact on the fair value of our fixed maturity securities may be materially different from the resulting change in value described above.
To limit our exposure to unexpected interest rate increases which would reduce the value of our fixed income securities and reduce our shareholders' equity, we attempt to maintain the duration of our fixed maturity investment portfolio combined with our cash and cash equivalents, both restricted and unrestricted, within a reasonable range of the duration of our loss reserves. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, these respective durations in years were as follows:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Fixed maturities and cash and cash equivalents | 2.1 | 3.0 | ||||||||||||
Reserve for loss and LAE(1) | 3.9 | 4.2 |
(1) The duration regarding our reserve for loss and LAE at December 31, 2020 and 2019 is gross of LPT/ADC Agreement reserves. On a net basis, the duration of our reserve for loss and LAE is 0.9 years at December 31, 2020 (2019 - 1.7 years).
During the year ended December 31, 2020, the weighted average duration of our fixed maturity investment portfolio decreased by 0.9 years to 2.1 years while the duration for reserve for loss and LAE decreased by 0.3 years to 3.9 years. The differential in duration between these assets and liabilities may fluctuate over time and, in the case of fixed maturities, historically has been affected by factors such as market conditions, changes in asset mix and prepayment speeds in the case of both our Agency MBS and commercial mortgage-backed securities. At December 31, 2020, the duration of our fixed maturity investment portfolio decreased compared to December 31, 2019 due to continued sales of fixed maturity investments primarily made to settle claim payments with AmTrust. The duration of our loss reserves net of the LPT/ADC Agreement was in line with the duration of our fixed maturity investment portfolio at December 31, 2020.
At December 31, 2020, 100.0% of the Company’s U.S. agency bond holdings are mortgage-backed ("Agency MBS"). Additional details on the Agency MBS holdings at December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Fair Value | % of Total | Fair Value | % of Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
GNMA – fixed rate | $ | 17,385 | 6.2 | % | $ | 33,079 | 6.1 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
GNMA - variable rate | 5,409 | 1.9 | % | 7,075 | 1.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
FNMA – fixed rate | 119,910 | 42.6 | % | 241,905 | 44.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
FHLMC – fixed rate | 138,733 | 49.3 | % | 256,663 | 47.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total U.S. agency bonds - mortgage-backed securities | $ | 281,437 | 100.0 | % | $ | 538,722 | 100.0 | % |
Agency MBS bonds comprises 23.2% of our fixed maturity investments at December 31, 2020. Given their relative size to our total investments, if faster prepayment patterns were to occur over an extended period of time, this could potentially limit the growth in our investment income in certain circumstances or reduce the total amount of investment income we earn.
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, 96.1% and 99.7%, respectively, of our fixed maturity investments consisted of investment grade securities. We define a security as being below investment grade if it has an S&P credit rating of BB+ or equivalent, or less. Please see "Part II, Item 8 - Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Note 4. Investments" for additional information on the credit rating of our fixed income portfolio.
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The security holdings by sector and financial strength rating of our corporate bond holdings at December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
Ratings(1) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2020 | AAA, AA+, AA, AA- | A+, A, A- | BBB+, BBB, BBB- | BB+ or lower | Fair Value | % of Corporate bonds | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate bonds | ($ in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic Materials | — | % | 1.0 | % | 1.4 | % | — | % | $ | 15,637 | 2.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Communications | — | % | 1.0 | % | 4.6 | % | 1.6 | % | 46,167 | 7.2 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Consumer | — | % | 2.0 | % | 21.7 | % | 1.8 | % | 164,033 | 25.5 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Energy | 2.5 | % | 6.3 | % | 3.0 | % | 2.2 | % | 89,984 | 14.0 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Financial Institutions | 7.2 | % | 23.8 | % | 13.0 | % | 1.0 | % | 288,649 | 45.0 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Industrials | — | % | 0.9 | % | 1.2 | % | 0.8 | % | 18,494 | 2.9 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Technology | — | % | 2.4 | % | 0.6 | % | — | % | 19,368 | 3.0 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Corporate bonds | 9.7 | % | 37.4 | % | 45.5 | % | 7.4 | % | $ | 642,332 | 100.0 | % |
Ratings(1) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2019 | AAA, AA+, AA, AA- | A+, A, A- | BBB+, BBB, BBB- | BB+ or lower | Fair Value | % of Corporate bonds | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate bonds | ($ in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic Materials | — | % | 0.6 | % | 1.4 | % | — | % | $ | 19,517 | 2.0 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Communications | — | % | 2.4 | % | 4.0 | % | — | % | 64,159 | 6.4 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Consumer | 0.2 | % | 8.3 | % | 19.6 | % | — | % | 279,940 | 28.1 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Energy | 0.9 | % | 6.1 | % | 3.8 | % | — | % | 107,369 | 10.8 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Financial Institutions | 3.1 | % | 30.1 | % | 10.7 | % | 0.6 | % | 443,983 | 44.5 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Industrials | — | % | 1.8 | % | 3.5 | % | — | % | 53,279 | 5.3 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Technology | — | % | 1.7 | % | 1.2 | % | — | % | 28,609 | 2.9 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Corporate bonds | 4.2 | % | 51.0 | % | 44.2 | % | 0.6 | % | $ | 996,856 | 100.0 | % |
(1) Ratings as assigned by S&P, or equivalent
At December 31, 2020, the Company’s ten largest corporate holdings, 50.0% of which are U.S. dollar denominated, 39.0% of which are in the Consumer Sector and 48.2% of which are in the Financial Institutions sector, at fair value were as follows:
December 31, 2020 | Fair Value | % of Total Fixed Income Holdings | Rating(1) | |||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Electricite de France, 4.625%, Due 9/11/2024 | $ | 18,522 | 1.5 | % | A- | |||||||||||||||
UBS Group Funding (Jersey) Ltd, 2.65% Due 2/1/2022 | 17,432 | 1.5 | % | A- | ||||||||||||||||
Abbvie Inc., 3.80%, Due 3/15/2025 | 16,728 | 1.4 | % | BBB | ||||||||||||||||
Nordea Bank ABP, 0.875% Due 6/26/2023 | 13,684 | 1.1 | % | A | ||||||||||||||||
Anheuser-Busch INBEV NV, 2.875% Due 9/25/2024 | 13,560 | 1.1 | % | BBB+ | ||||||||||||||||
Deutsche Bank AG, 1.25%, Due 9/8/2021 | 13,549 | 1.1 | % | BBB- | ||||||||||||||||
Brookfield Asset Management Inc., 4.00% Due 1/15/2025 | 13,381 | 1.1 | % | A- | ||||||||||||||||
Carlsberg Breweries A/S, 2.5%, Due 5/28/2024 | 13,232 | 1.1 | % | BBB | ||||||||||||||||
Bayer US Finance LLC, 3.375% Due 10/8/2024 | 13,097 | 1.1 | % | BBB+ | ||||||||||||||||
Deutsche Bank AG (NY Branch), 3.7%, Due 5/30/2024 | 11,833 | 1.0 | % | BBB- | ||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 145,018 | 12.0 | % |
(1) Ratings as assigned by S&P, or equivalent
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At December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, we hold the following non-U.S. dollar denominated securities:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Fair Value | % of Total | Fair Value | % of Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-U.S. dollar denominated corporate bonds | $ | 349,231 | 97.3 | % | $ | 310,323 | 96.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Non-U.S. government and supranational bonds | 9,708 | 2.7 | % | 11,999 | 3.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total non-U.S. dollar denominated securities | $ | 358,939 | 100.0 | % | $ | 322,322 | 100.0 | % |
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, these non-U.S. securities are invested in the following currencies:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Fair Value | % of Total | Fair Value | % of Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Euro | $ | 329,447 | 91.8 | % | $ | 272,493 | 84.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
British Pound | 22,861 | 6.4 | % | 42,342 | 13.1 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Canadian Dollar | 5,110 | 1.4 | % | 5,364 | 1.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
All other | 1,521 | 0.4 | % | 2,123 | 0.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total non-U.S. dollar denominated securities | $ | 358,939 | 100.0 | % | $ | 322,322 | 100.0 | % |
The net increase in non-U.S. dollar denominated fixed maturities is primarily due to the relative appreciation of Euro denominated corporate bonds during the year ended December 31, 2020. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, all of the Company's non-U.S. government and supranational issuers have a rating of A or higher by S&P.
For our non-U.S. dollar denominated corporate bonds, the following table summarizes the composition of the fair value of our fixed maturity investments at December 31, 2020 and 2019 by ratings:
Ratings(1) at December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | Fair Value | % of Total | Fair Value | % of Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
AAA | $ | 1,277 | 0.4 | % | $ | 481 | 0.2 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
AA+, AA, AA- | 31,102 | 8.9 | % | 21,231 | 6.8 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
A+, A, A- | 165,585 | 47.4 | % | 137,584 | 44.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
BBB+, BBB, BBB- | 137,297 | 39.3 | % | 145,546 | 46.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
BB+ or lower | 13,970 | 4.0 | % | 5,481 | 1.8 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total non-U.S. dollar denominated corporate bonds | $ | 349,231 | 100.0 | % | $ | 310,323 | 100.0 | % |
(1) Ratings as assigned by S&P, or equivalent
The Company does not employ any credit default protection against any of the fixed maturity investments held in non-U.S. dollar denominated currencies at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Other Investments and Equity Method Investments
Our investments categorized as "Other Investments" and "Equity Method Investments" include private equity and hedge funds investments, investments in limited partnerships, as well as investments in direct lending entities and investments in technology-oriented insurance related businesses known as insurtechs.
Our allocation to other investments and equity method investments increased to 7.3% of our total cash and investments as of December 31, 2020 compared to 1.6% as of December 31, 2019; and increased to 20.3% of our total shareholders' equity as of December 31, 2020 compared to 6.3% as of December 31, 2019.
For further details on these other investments, please see "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements: Note 4(b) Other Investments" included under Part II Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
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Other Balance Sheet Changes
The following table summarizes the Company's other material balance sheet changes at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | Change | Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses | $ | 592,571 | $ | 623,422 | $ | (30,851) | (4.9) | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Deferred commission and other acquisition expenses | 51,903 | 77,356 | (25,453) | (32.9) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Funds withheld receivable | 654,805 | 684,441 | (29,636) | (4.3) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Reserve for loss and LAE | 1,893,299 | 2,439,907 | (546,608) | (22.4) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Unearned premiums | 144,271 | 220,269 | (75,998) | (34.5) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance | 74,941 | 112,950 | (38,009) | (33.7) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | 53,002 | 32,444 | 20,558 | 63.4 | % |
The Company's deferred commission and other acquisition expenses decreased by 32.9% and unearned premiums decreased by 34.5% primarily due to the Partial Termination Amendment with AmTrust on a cut-off basis and the termination of the remaining business under both quota share contracts with AmTrust which are now in run-off with no new business written beginning January 1, 2019. Funds withheld receivable decreased by 4.3% primarily due to lower funds withheld to be utilized as collateral for the European Hospital Liability Quota Share.
Accrued expenses and other liabilities increased by 63.4% as at December 31, 2020 compared to December 31, 2019 due to increases in reinsurance balances payable as a result of claims incurred under the run-off of AmTrust reinsurance contracts. The Company's reserve for loss and LAE decreased by 22.4% primarily due to the recent commutation of workers' compensation reserves during 2019 in the AmTrust Reinsurance segment.
The deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance decreased by 33.7% or $38.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 due to the following: 1) $14.3 million in loss and loss adjustment expenses recognized as favorable loss development in the Company’s GAAP income statement that are covered by the LPT/ADC Agreement; and 2) $23.7 million related to a reduction in estimated ultimate losses for certain workers’ compensation losses previously commuted by the Company to AmTrust which are subject to specific terms and conditions pursuant to the LPT/ADC Agreement. This impacted the reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses which decreased by 4.9% or $30.9 million as at December 31, 2020 compared to December 31, 2019.
Capital Resources
Capital resources consist of funds deployed in support of our operations. Our total capital resources increased by $20.1 million, or 2.6% at December 31, 2020, compared to December 31, 2019 primarily due to net income attributable to common shareholders as well as unrealized gains on our investment portfolio and partially offset by the repurchase of preference shares.
The following table shows the movement in total capital resources at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | Change | Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preference shares | $ | 394,310 | $ | 465,000 | $ | (70,690) | (15.2) | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Common shareholders' equity | 133,506 | 42,718 | 90,788 | 212.5 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total Maiden shareholders' equity | 527,816 | 507,718 | 20,098 | 4.0 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Senior Notes - principal amount | 262,500 | 262,500 | — | — | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total capital resources | $ | 790,316 | $ | 770,218 | $ | 20,098 | 2.6 | % |
The major factors contributing to the net increase in total capital resources were primarily due to total shareholders' equity at December 31, 2020 which increased by $20.1 million, or 4.0%, compared to December 31, 2019 due to the following factors:
•net income attributable to Maiden common shareholders of $80.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020; and
•net increase in additional paid-in capital due to share based compensation of $2.4 million; and
•net increase in additional paid-in capital of $2.4 million due to the 2020 Tender Offer; and
•net increase in AOCI of $6.0 million which arose due to: (1) an increase in net unrealized gains on investment of $27.4 million resulting from the net increase in the fair value of our investment portfolio relating to market price movements due to declining interest rates during the year ended December 31, 2020; and (2) a decrease in cumulative translation adjustments of $21.3 million due to the effect of the appreciation of the euro relative to the original currencies on our non-U.S. dollar net liabilities (excluding non-U.S. dollar denominated fixed maturities); and
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Partially offset by:
•net decrease in preference share capital of $70.7 million as a result of the 2020 Tender Offer.
On February 21, 2017, the Company's Board approved the repurchase of up to $100.0 million of the Company's common shares from time to time at market prices. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company did not repurchase any common shares under its share repurchase authorization as it is precluded from repurchasing its common shares due to its failure to pay dividends on its preference shares. Until such time as dividends on preference shares are paid, the Company will not be able to repurchase or pay dividends on its common shares. At December 31, 2020, the Company had a remaining authorization of $74.2 million for share repurchases.
Please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 13 — Shareholders’ Equity" included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the equity instruments issued by the Company at December 31, 2020 and 2019.
On October 25, 2019, the Company transferred the listing of its common shares from the NASDAQ Global Select Market to the NASDAQ Capital Market. The NASDAQ Capital Market is a continuous trading market that operates in substantially the same manner as the NASDAQ Global Select Market and listed companies must meet certain financial requirements and comply with the NASDAQ’s corporate governance requirements. The Company’s common shares trade under the symbol “MHLD”.
On April 17, 2020, the Company received a letter from NASDAQ stating that the Company had not regained compliance during the compliance period and that the Company’s securities would be delisted from the NASDAQ Capital Market by the opening of business on April 28, 2020 unless the Company requests an appeal of NASDAQ’s determination to a Hearings Panel. On April 24, 2020, the Company filed a Hearing Request Form to appeal NADSAQ’s determination with the Hearings Panel, which stayed the de-listing until a decision is rendered subsequent to the appeal hearing. On June 2, 2020, the Company issued a press release announcing it had regained compliance with NADSAQ’s mimimum bid price and all applicable listing requirements for continued listing, therefore the appeal hearing was canceled. Accordingly, the Company's common shares continue to be listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market.
Preference Shares
Pursuant to the 2020 Tender Offer, on December 24, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance accepted for purchase (i) 545,218 shares of the Company's 8.25% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series A, (ii) 1,203,466 shares of the Company's 7.125% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series C and (iii) 1,078,911 shares of the Company's 6.7% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series D. The acquisition by Maiden Reinsurance of the Preference Shares pursuant to the tender offer was made in compliance with Maiden Reinsurance's investment policy previously approved by the Vermont DFR.
The principal purpose of the 2020 Tender Offer was to adjust our capital structure to reflect current operations and the amount of capital required to operate Maiden Reinsurance. The Board has not declared or paid a dividend on the Preference Shares since the fourth quarter of 2018 and there can be no assurance that it will declare and pay dividends on the Preference Shares in the future. The Preference Shares are perpetual and there is no fixed date on which we are required to redeem or otherwise repurchase them. Further, given the perpetual form of capital the Preference Shares represent, there can be no assurance that the Company or Maiden Reinsurance will make additional tender offers in the future to purchase the Preference Securities. Maiden Reinsurance used unrestricted cash on hand of $30.1 million to pay the consideration payable by it pursuant to the 2020 Tender Offer and the fees and expenses incurred by it in connection therewith.
Book value and diluted book value per common share at December 31, 2020 and 2019 were computed as follows:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands except share and per share data) | ||||||||||||||
Ending Maiden common shareholders’ equity | $ | 133,506 | $ | 42,718 | ||||||||||
Proceeds from assumed conversion of dilutive options | 10 | — | ||||||||||||
Numerator for diluted book value per common share calculation | $ | 133,516 | $ | 42,718 | ||||||||||
Common shares outstanding | 84,801,161 | 83,148,458 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued from assumed conversion of dilutive options and restricted share units | 1,489,064 | 1,818,797 | ||||||||||||
Denominator for diluted book value per common share calculation | 86,290,225 | 84,967,255 | ||||||||||||
Book value per common share | $ | 1.57 | $ | 0.51 | ||||||||||
Diluted book value per common share | 1.55 | 0.50 |
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At December 31, 2020, book value per common share increased by 207.8% to $1.57 and diluted book value per common share increased by 210.0% to $1.55, compared to December 31, 2019. This was primarily due to the gain on the 2020 Tender Offer of $38.2 million which increased book value by $0.45 per common share. Book value also increased due to net income of $41.8 million and a net increase in AOCI of $6.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020.
On March 3, 2021, the Company's Board approved the repurchase, including the repurchase by Maiden Reinsurance within its investment guidelines, of up to $100.0 million of the Company's preference shares. Please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 17 — Subsequent Events" under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information on our preference shares.
Senior Notes
There were no changes in the Company’s Senior Notes at December 31, 2020 compared to December 31, 2019 and the Company did not enter into any short-term borrowing arrangements during the year ended December 31, 2020. Please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 7 — Long-Term Debt included under Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the Senior Notes.
The ratio of Debt to Total Capital Resources at December 31, 2020 and 2019 was computed as follows:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Senior notes - principal amount | $ | 262,500 | $ | 262,500 | ||||||||||
Maiden shareholders’ equity | 527,816 | 507,718 | ||||||||||||
Total capital resources | $ | 790,316 | $ | 770,218 | ||||||||||
Ratio of debt to total capital resources | 33.2 | % | 34.1 | % |
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Non-GAAP Measures
As defined and described in the Key Financial Measures section, management uses certain key financial measures, some of which are non-GAAP measures, to evaluate the Company's financial performance and the overall growth in value generated for the Company’s common shareholders. Management believes that these measures, which may be defined differently by other companies, explain the Company’s results to investors in a manner that allows for a more complete understanding of the underlying trends in the Company’s business. The calculation, reconciliation to nearest GAAP measure and discussion of relevant non-GAAP measures used by management are as follows:
Non-GAAP operating earnings were $47.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to a non-GAAP operating loss of $26.5 million for the same period in 2019. The Company's non-GAAP operating results included a non-GAAP underwriting income of $3.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to a non-GAAP underwriting loss of $70.8 million for the same period in 2019, which was primarily the result of underwriting results in the AmTrust segment not covered by the LPT/ADC Agreement, specifically the run-off of the AmTrust Quota Share with losses occurring after December 31, 2018 (including the additional ceding commission paid under the Partial Termination Amendment) as well as claims related to the European Hospital Liability Quota Share. The significant improvement in non-GAAP underwriting losses for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to 2019 was augmented by other general and administrative expenses which decreased by $5.8 million and partly offset by net investment income which decreased by $43.1 million.
Non-GAAP operating earnings (loss) and Non-GAAP diluted operating earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders
Non-GAAP operating earnings (loss) and Non-GAAP diluted operating earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders can be reconciled to the nearest U.S. GAAP financial measure as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands except per share data) | ||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | 79,957 | $ | (131,903) | ||||||||||
Add (subtract): | ||||||||||||||
Net realized gains on investment | (24,473) | (27,860) | ||||||||||||
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses | 2,468 | 165 | ||||||||||||
Foreign exchange and other losses (gains) | 8,526 | (2,719) | ||||||||||||
Loss from NGHC Quota Share run-off | — | 312 | ||||||||||||
(Favorable) adverse prior year loss development subject to LPT/ADC Agreement | (14,304) | 112,950 | ||||||||||||
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax | — | 22,541 | ||||||||||||
Interest in income of equity method investments | (5,098) | — | ||||||||||||
Non-GAAP operating earnings (loss) | $ | 47,076 | $ | (26,514) | ||||||||||
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders | $ | 0.93 | $ | (1.59) | ||||||||||
Add (subtract): | ||||||||||||||
Net realized gains on investment | (0.29) | (0.34) | ||||||||||||
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses | 0.03 | — | ||||||||||||
Foreign exchange and other losses (gains) | 0.11 | (0.03) | ||||||||||||
Loss from NGHC Quota Share run-off | — | 0.01 | ||||||||||||
(Favorable) adverse prior year loss development subject to LPT/ADC Agreement | (0.17) | 1.36 | ||||||||||||
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax | — | 0.27 | ||||||||||||
Interest in income of equity method investments | (0.06) | — | ||||||||||||
Non-GAAP diluted operating earnings (loss) per common share | $ | 0.55 | $ | (0.32) |
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Non-GAAP Operating ROACE
Non-GAAP Operating ROACE for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 was computed as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31, and at December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP operating earnings (loss) | $ | 47,076 | $ | (26,514) | ||||||||||
Opening adjusted common shareholders’ equity | 155,668 | 89,275 | ||||||||||||
Ending adjusted common shareholders’ equity | 208,447 | 155,668 | ||||||||||||
Average adjusted common shareholders’ equity | 182,058 | 122,472 | ||||||||||||
Non-GAAP Operating ROACE | 25.9 | % | (21.6) | % |
Non-GAAP Underwriting Results and Combined Ratio
The following summarizes our non-GAAP underwriting results for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Gross premiums written | $ | 31,389 | $ | (528,593) | ||||||||||
Net premiums written | $ | 28,432 | $ | (531,850) | ||||||||||
Net premiums earned | $ | 106,081 | $ | 447,762 | ||||||||||
Other insurance revenue | 1,276 | 2,841 | ||||||||||||
Non-GAAP net loss and LAE(1) | (56,103) | (339,879) | ||||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expenses | (38,796) | (169,760) | ||||||||||||
General and administrative expenses | (9,488) | (11,767) | ||||||||||||
Non-GAAP underwriting income (loss)(1) | $ | 2,970 | $ | (70,803) | ||||||||||
Ratios: | ||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP net loss and LAE ratio(1) | 52.3 | % | 75.4 | % | ||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expense ratio | 36.1 | % | 37.6 | % | ||||||||||
General and administrative expense ratio | 36.4 | % | 10.5 | % | ||||||||||
Expense ratio | 72.5 | % | 48.1 | % | ||||||||||
Non-GAAP combined ratio(1) | 124.8 | % | 123.5 | % |
(1) Non-GAAP underwriting income (loss), non-GAAP net loss and LAE, non-GAAP net loss and LAE ratio, and non-GAAP combined ratio for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 include the impact of prior year reserve development subject to the LPT/ADC Agreement in the respective periods. Please see the "Key Financial Measures" section for definitions of non-GAAP underwriting income (loss), non-GAAP net loss and LAE, non-GAAP net loss and LAE ratio, and non-GAAP combined ratio.
The non-GAAP underwriting results as well as the non-GAAP loss and LAE and ratios and non-GAAP combined ratios include the impact of prior year loss reserve development related to the AmTrust Quota Share which is fully recoverable from Cavello and subject the LPT/ADC Agreement to show the ultimate economic benefit to the Company.
As shown in the table above, adjusted for the impact of favorable prior year reserve development subject to the LPT/ADC of $14.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2020, the non-GAAP underwriting income was $3.0 million. This compared to a non-GAAP underwriting loss of $70.8 million for the same period in 2019 when adjusted for the impact of adverse prior year reserve development subject to the LPT/ADC Agreement of $113.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2019.
The non-GAAP underwriting results in all respective periods were primarily the result of underwriting results in the AmTrust segment not covered by the LPT/ADC Agreement, specifically the run-off of the AmTrust Quota Share with losses occurring after December 31, 2018 (including the additional ceding commission paid under the Partial Termination Amendment) as well as claims related to the European Hospital Liability Quota Share. Underwriting results in the Diversified segment during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, were relatively stable.
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The non-GAAP combined ratio during the year ended December 31, 2020 was 124.8% compared to 123.5% during 2019.
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Combined ratio | 111.4 | % | 148.6 | % | ||||||||||
Less: change in unamortized deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance | (13.4) | % | 25.1 | % | ||||||||||
Non-GAAP combined ratio | 124.8 | % | 123.5 | % |
Non-GAAP Net Loss and LAE
As noted previously, adjusted for the impact of favorable prior year loss development on AmTrust reserves subject to the LPT/ADC Agreement, the non-GAAP net loss and LAE for the year ended December 31, 2020 increased by $14.3 million as this development is ultimately recoverable from Cavello. In comparison, adjusted for the impact of adverse prior year loss development on AmTrust reserves subject to the LPT/ADC Agreement during the year ended December 31, 2019, the non-GAAP net loss and LAE decreased by $113.0 million as these reserves are ultimately recoverable from Cavello.
These adjustments have been reflected in the calculation of non-GAAP Loss and LAE as shown in the table below:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses | $ | 41,799 | $ | 452,829 | ||||||||||
Less: impact of (favorable) adverse PPD subject to LPT/ADC Agreement | (14,304) | 112,950 | ||||||||||||
Non-GAAP net loss and loss adjustment expenses | $ | 56,103 | $ | 339,879 |
Adjusted for the impact of favorable prior year loss development on AmTrust reserves subject to the LPT/ADC Agreement of $14.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2020, non-GAAP net loss and LAE was $56.1 million. Adjusted for the impact of adverse prior year loss development on AmTrust reserves subject to the LPT/ADC Agreement of $113.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2019, non-GAAP net loss and LAE was $339.9 million. The non-GAAP net loss and LAE ratio was 52.3% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 75.4% for the same period in 2019.
Adjusted Shareholders' Equity, Adjusted Total Capital Resources, Adjusted Book Value per Common Share and Ratio of Debt to Total Adjusted Capital Resources
The Adjusted Shareholders' Equity, Adjusted Total Capital Resources and Adjusted Book Value per Common Share at December 31, 2020 and 2019 reflects the addition of the unamortized deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance to the GAAP shareholders' equity as depicted in the computations below. The unamortized deferred gain of $74.9 million at December 31, 2020 and $113.0 million at December 31, 2019 arises from the LPT/ADC Agreement with Cavello relating to losses subject to that agreement which are fully recoverable from Cavello.
The change in the unamortized deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance of $38.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 is attributable to the following: (1) $14.3 million in loss and loss adjustment expenses recognized as favorable loss development in the Company's GAAP income statement subject to the LPT/ADC Agreement; and (2) $23.7 million related to a reduction in estimated ultimate losses for certain workers' compensation reserves previously commuted by the Company to AmTrust which are subject to specific terms and conditions pursuant to the LPT/ADC Agreement. We believe the inclusion of the unamortized deferred gain in these metrics better reflects the ultimate economic benefit of the LPT/ADC Agreement, which will improve the Company's shareholders' equity over the settlement period under the terms of the agreement.
Reconciliation of shareholders' equity to Adjusted shareholders' equity and Adjusted Total Capital Resources
The following table computes adjusted shareholders' equity and adjusted total capital resources by recognizing the unamortized deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | Change | Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preference shares | $ | 394,310 | $ | 465,000 | $ | (70,690) | (15.2) | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Common shareholders' equity | 133,506 | 42,718 | 90,788 | 212.5 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total shareholders' equity | 527,816 | 507,718 | 20,098 | 4.0 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Unamortized deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance | 74,941 | 112,950 | (38,009) | (33.7) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted shareholders' equity | 602,757 | 620,668 | (17,911) | (2.9) | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Senior Notes - principal amount | 262,500 | 262,500 | — | — | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted total capital resources | $ | 865,257 | $ | 883,168 | $ | (17,911) | (2.0) | % |
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Reconciliation of Book Value per Common Share to Adjusted Book Value per Common Share
The adjusted book value per common share as reconciled for the recognition of the unamortized deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance at December 31, 2020 and 2019 was computed as follows:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Book value per common share | $ | 1.57 | $ | 0.51 | ||||||||||
Unamortized deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance | 0.89 | 1.36 | ||||||||||||
Adjusted book value per common share | $ | 2.46 | $ | 1.87 |
Ratio of Debt to Adjusted Total Capital Resources
Management uses this non-GAAP measure to monitor the financial leverage of the Company. This measure is calculated using the total principal amount of debt divided by the sum of adjusted total capital resources as computed in the table above. The ratio of Debt to Adjusted Total Capital Resources at December 31, 2020 and 2019 was computed as follows:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
($ in thousands) | ||||||||||||||
Senior notes - principal amount | $ | 262,500 | $ | 262,500 | ||||||||||
Adjusted shareholders’ equity | 602,757 | 620,668 | ||||||||||||
Adjusted total capital resources | $ | 865,257 | $ | 883,168 | ||||||||||
Ratio of debt to adjusted total capital resources | 30.3 | % | 29.7 | % |
Currency and Foreign Exchange
We conduct business in a variety of foreign (non-U.S.) currencies, the principal exposures being the euro and the British pound. Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are exposed to changes in currency exchange rates. Our reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, and exchange rate fluctuations relative to the U.S. dollar may materially impact our results and financial position. Our principal exposure to foreign currency risk is our obligation to settle claims in foreign currencies. In addition, to minimize this risk, we maintain and expect to continue to maintain a portion of our investment portfolio in investments denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. We may employ various strategies (including hedging) to manage our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk. To the extent that these exposures are not fully hedged or the hedges are ineffective, our results of operations or equity may be adversely effected. At December 31, 2020, no such hedges or hedging strategies were in force or had been entered into. We measure monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at period end exchange rates, with the resulting foreign exchange gains and losses recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Revenues and expenses in foreign currencies are converted at quarterly average exchange rates during the year. The effect of the translation adjustments for foreign operations is included in AOCI.
Net foreign exchange losses were $8.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to net foreign exchange losses of $1.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2019.
Effects of Inflation
The anticipated effects of inflation are considered explicitly in the pricing of the insured exposures, which are used as the initial estimates of reserves for loss and LAE. In addition, inflation is also implicitly accounted for in subsequent estimates of loss and LAE reserves, as the expected rate of emergence is in part predicated upon the historical levels of inflation that impact ultimate claim costs. To the extent inflation causes these costs, particularly medical treatments and litigation costs, to vary from the assumptions made in the pricing or reserving estimates, the Company will be required to change the reserve for loss and LAE with a corresponding change in its earnings in the period in which the variance is identified. The actual effects of inflation on the results of operations of the Company cannot be accurately known until claims are ultimately settled.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies" included under Item 8 "Financial Statement and Supplementary Data", of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion on recently issued accounting pronouncements not yet adopted.
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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
See our Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto commencing on pages F-1 through F-60 below.
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
None.
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Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
In connection with the preparation of this Report, our management has performed an evaluation, with the participation of our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) at December 31, 2020. Based on their evaluation, our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer concluded that, at December 31, 2020, our Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act and for the assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. As defined by the SEC, internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, our principal executive and principal financial officers and effected by our Board of Directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect our transactions and dispositions of our assets; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In connection with the preparation of our annual consolidated financial statements, management has undertaken an assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020 based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission ("COSO") 2013. Management’s assessment included an evaluation of the design of our internal control over financial reporting and testing of the operational effectiveness of those controls. Based on this evaluation, management, including our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, have concluded that our internal control over financial reporting is effective as of December 31, 2020 based on those criteria.
The Company's independent auditors have issued an audit opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020. This report appears below in the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
No changes were made in our internal controls over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15(d) – 15(f), during the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of Maiden Holdings, Ltd.
Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited Maiden Holdings, Ltd.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, Maiden Holdings, Ltd. (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020, based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheet of the Company as of December 31, 2020 and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the year then ended, and the related notes and our report dated March 15, 2021 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying “Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting”. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
New York, NY
March 15, 2021
74
Item 9B. Other Information.
None.
PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the information responsive thereto in the sections in the Proxy Statement for our Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 6, 2021 (the "Proxy Statement") captioned "Election of Directors", "Executive Officers", "Audit Committee", "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" and "Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee".
We have adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics for all employees. The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is available free of charge on our website at www.maiden.bm and is available in print to any shareholder who requests it. We intend to disclose any amendments to this code by posting such information on our website, and disclose any waivers of this code applicable to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller and other executive officers who perform similar functions through such means or by filing a Form 8-K.
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the information responsive thereto in the sections in the Proxy Statement captioned "Compensation Discussion and Analysis", "Director Compensation for 2020", "Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation" and "Compensation Committee Report".
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the information responsive thereto in the sections in the Proxy Statement captioned "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners", "Equity Compensation Plan Information" and "Security Ownership of Management".
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the information responsive thereto in the sections in the Proxy Statement captioned "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions", "Audit Committee", "Board Independence", "Compensation Committee" and "Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee".
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services.
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the information responsive thereto in the section in the Proxy Statement captioned "Appointment of Independent Auditors of Maiden Holdings, Ltd.".
PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules.
(a) Financial statements and schedules
Financial statements listed in the accompanying index to our Consolidated Financial Statements starting on page F-1 are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and are included in Item 8. "Financial Statement and Supplementary Data".
All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable regulation of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable, and therefore have been omitted.
(b) Exhibits
The exhibits listed in the Exhibit Index starting on page E-1 following the signature page are filed herewith, which Exhibit Index is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 16. Form 10-K Summary.
None.
75
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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, in Pembroke, Bermuda on March 15, 2021.
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD. | ||||||||
By: | ||||||||
/s/ Lawrence F. Metz | ||||||||
Name: Lawrence F. Metz Title: President and Co-Chief Executive Officer | ||||||||
/s/ Patrick J. Haveron | ||||||||
Name: Patrick J. Haveron Title: Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature | Title | Date | ||||||||||||
/s/ Lawrence F. Metz | President and Co-Chief Executive Officer | March 15, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Lawrence F. Metz | (Principal Executive Officer) | |||||||||||||
/s/ Patrick J. Haveron | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer | March 15, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Patrick J. Haveron | (Principal Financial Officer) | |||||||||||||
/s/ Barry D. Zyskind | Chairman | March 15, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Barry D. Zyskind | ||||||||||||||
/s/ Raymond M. Neff | Director | March 15, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Raymond M. Neff | ||||||||||||||
/s/ Simcha G. Lyons | Director | March 15, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Simcha G. Lyons | ||||||||||||||
/s/ Yehuda L. Neuberger | Director | March 15, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Yehuda L. Neuberger | ||||||||||||||
/s/ Steven H. Nigro | Director | March 15, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Steven H. Nigro | ||||||||||||||
/s/ Holly L. Blanchard | Director | March 15, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Holly L. Blanchard | ||||||||||||||
/s/ Keith A. Thomas | Director | March 15, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Keith A. Thomas | ||||||||||||||
/s/ Paul S. Giordano | Director | March 15, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Paul S. Giordano | ||||||||||||||
/s/ Claude LeBlanc | Director | March 15, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Claude LeBlanc |
76
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit No. | Description | Reference | ||||||||||||
3.1 | (1) | |||||||||||||
3.2 | (2) | |||||||||||||
4.1 | (3) | |||||||||||||
4.2 | (3) | |||||||||||||
4.3 | (4) | |||||||||||||
4.4 | (5) | |||||||||||||
4.5 | (5) | |||||||||||||
4.6 | (6) | |||||||||||||
4.7 | (6) | |||||||||||||
4.8 | (7) | |||||||||||||
4.9 | (7) | |||||||||||||
4.10 | (8) | |||||||||||||
4.11 | (8) | |||||||||||||
4.12 | (9) | |||||||||||||
4.13 | (9) | |||||||||||||
4.14 | (11) | |||||||||||||
10.1* | (10) | |||||||||||||
10.2* | (11) | |||||||||||||
10.3* | (11) | |||||||||||||
10.4* | (12) | |||||||||||||
10.5 | (3) | |||||||||||||
10.6 | (3) | |||||||||||||
10.7 | (13) | |||||||||||||
10.8 | (14) | |||||||||||||
10.9 | (15) | |||||||||||||
10.10 | (15) | |||||||||||||
10.11 | † |
E-1
10.12 | (13) | |||||||||||||
10.13 | † | |||||||||||||
10.14 | † | |||||||||||||
10.15 | † | |||||||||||||
10.16 | † | |||||||||||||
10.17 | † | |||||||||||||
10.18 | † | |||||||||||||
10.19 | (3) | |||||||||||||
10.20 | (16) | |||||||||||||
10.21 | (17) | |||||||||||||
10.22 | (18) | |||||||||||||
10.23 | (19) | |||||||||||||
10.24 | (20) | |||||||||||||
10.25 | (16) | |||||||||||||
10.26 | (16) | |||||||||||||
10.27 | (21) | |||||||||||||
10.28 | (22) | |||||||||||||
10.29 | (23) | |||||||||||||
10.30 | (24) | |||||||||||||
10.31 | (17) | |||||||||||||
10.32 | (25) |
E-2
10.33 | (26) | |||||||||||||
10.34 | † | |||||||||||||
10.35 | (27) | |||||||||||||
10.36 | (13) | |||||||||||||
10.37 | (13) | |||||||||||||
10.38 | (28) | |||||||||||||
10.39 | (29) | |||||||||||||
10.40 | (29) | |||||||||||||
10.41 | (29) | |||||||||||||
10.42 | (29) | |||||||||||||
10.43 | (11) | |||||||||||||
10.44 | (11) | |||||||||||||
10.45 | † | |||||||||||||
10.46 | † | |||||||||||||
14.1 | † | |||||||||||||
21.1 | † | |||||||||||||
23.1 | † | |||||||||||||
23.2 | † | |||||||||||||
31.1 | † | |||||||||||||
31.2 | † | |||||||||||||
32.1 | † | |||||||||||||
32.2 | † | |||||||||||||
101.1 | The following financial information from Maiden Holdings, Ltd.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, formatted in XBRL (eXtensive Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2020 and 2019; (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019; (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019; (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019; (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019; and (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. | † |
E-3
1.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed with the SEC on May 18, 2010 (File No. 333-166934).
2.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Registration Statement on S-8 initially filed with the SEC on January 17, 2020 (File No. 333-235948).
3.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Registration Statement on S-1 initially filed with the SEC on September 17, 2007, subsequently amended and declared effective May 6, 2008 (File No. 333-146137).
4.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Registration Statement on S-3 filed with the SEC on February 7, 2011 (File Nos. 333-172107 and 333-172107-01).
5.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on August 22, 2012 (File No. 001-34042).
6.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 25, 2013 (File No. 001-34042).
7.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 25, 2015 (File No. 001-34042).
8.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 14, 2016 (File No. 001-34042).
9.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 15, 2017 (File No. 001-34042).
10.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A filed with the SEC on November 8, 2019.
11.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 filed with the SEC on March 18, 2020 (File No. 001-34042).
12.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011 filed with the SEC on March 13, 2012 (File No. 001-34042).
13.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on January 30, 2019 (File No. 001-34042).
14.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008 filed with the SEC on March 31, 2009 (File No. 001-34042).
15.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with Amendment No. 2 to the registrant's Registration Statement on S-1 filed with the SEC on March 28, 2008 (No. 333-146137).
16.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2011 filed with the SEC on August 8, 2011 (No. 001-34042).
17.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012 filed with the SEC on March 11, 2013 (File No. 001-34042).
18.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2016 filed with the SEC on August 9, 2016 (No. 001-34042).
19.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 filed with the SEC on March 15, 2019 (File No. 001-34042).
20.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2018 filed with the SEC on November 9, 2018 (No. 001-34042).
21.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2012 filed with the SEC on August 9, 2012 (File No. 001-34042).
22.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 filed with the SEC on March 1, 2018 (File No. 001-34042).
23.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2016 filed with the SEC on November 8, 2016 (No. 001-34042).
24.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010 filed with the SEC on March 14, 2011 (File No. 001-34042).
25.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013 filed with the SEC on March 4, 2014 (File No. 001-34042).
26.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2019 filed with the SEC on November 12, 2019 (No. 001-34042).
27.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on January 3, 2019 (File No. 001-34042).
28.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 4, 2019 (File No. 001-34042).
29.Incorporated by reference to the filing of such exhibit with the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2019 filed with the SEC on August 9, 2019 (No. 001-34042).
† Filed herewith. * Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement
E-4
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Related Notes | Page | |||||||
F-2 | ||||||||
F-5 | ||||||||
F-6 | ||||||||
F-7 | ||||||||
F-8 | ||||||||
F-9 | ||||||||
F-10 | ||||||||
F-12 | ||||||||
F-18 | ||||||||
F-21 | ||||||||
F-27 | ||||||||
F-30 | ||||||||
F-31 | ||||||||
F-32 | ||||||||
F-33 | ||||||||
F-48 | ||||||||
F-52 | ||||||||
F-55 | ||||||||
F-55 | ||||||||
F-58 | ||||||||
F-60 | ||||||||
F-62 | ||||||||
F-64 | ||||||||
F-1
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Maiden Holdings, Ltd.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Maiden Holdings, Ltd. (the Company) as of December 31, 2020, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for the year then ended, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2020, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020, based on criteria established in the Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated March 15, 2021 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of the critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the account or disclosures to which it relates.
F-2
Valuation of Incurred but not Reported Reserves | |||||
Description of the Matter | At December 31, 2020, the Company’s reserve for loss and loss adjustment expenses was $1,893 million of which a significant portion is incurred but not reported reserves. As explained in Notes 2 and 9 of the consolidated financial statements, the reserve for loss and loss adjustment expenses represent management’s estimate of the ultimate costs of all reported and unreported losses incurred. There is significant uncertainty inherent in determining management’s estimate of the ultimate cost of all claims that have occurred which is used to determine the incurred but not reported reserves. In particular, the estimate is sensitive to the selection and weighting of actuarial methodologies used to project the ultimate costs and the selection of assumptions such as payment and reporting patterns used to determine loss development factors and expected loss ratios. Auditing management’s estimate of incurred but not reported reserves was complex due to the highly judgmental nature of the significant assumptions used in the valuation of the estimate. The significant judgment was primarily due to the sensitivity of management’s estimate to the actuarial methods selected and the assumptions used in the determination of the loss development factors and ultimate claim costs. | ||||
How We Addressed the Mater in our Audit | We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of controls over the Company’s incurred but not reported reserving process. This included, among others, controls over the review and approval processes that management has in place for the selection of actuarial methods and assumptions used in estimating the incurred but not reported reserves. To test the Company’s estimate of incurred but not reported reserves, our audit procedures included among others, the assistance of our actuarial specialists to evaluate the assumptions used by comparing the significant assumptions, including payment patterns and expected loss ratios, to the Company’s historical experience. In addition, we evaluated the selection and the weighting of actuarial methods used by management against the maturity of the accident periods, changes in case reserve levels and claims settlement patterns. We developed a range of reasonable reserve estimates, which included performing independent projections for a sample of lines of business and compared the Company’s recorded reserves to the range of reasonable reserve estimates. We also performed a review of the subsequent development of prior year loss and loss adjustment expense reserves. |
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2020.
New York, NY
March 15, 2021
F-3
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the shareholders and the Board of Directors of Maiden Holdings, Ltd.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Maiden Holdings, Ltd. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2019, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows, for the year ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2019, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2019, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audit, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ Deloitte Ltd.
Hamilton, Bermuda
March 18, 2020
F-4
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
As of December 31, 2020 and 2019
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
As of December 31, 2020 and 2019
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
2020 | 2019 | |||||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||||||
Investments: | ||||||||||||||
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost 2020 - $1,163,923; 2019 - $1,813,426) | $ | 1,213,411 | $ | 1,835,518 | ||||||||||
Equity method investments | 39,886 | — | ||||||||||||
Other investments | 67,010 | 31,748 | ||||||||||||
Total investments | 1,320,307 | 1,867,266 | ||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | 74,040 | 48,197 | ||||||||||||
Restricted cash and cash equivalents | 61,786 | 59,081 | ||||||||||||
Accrued investment income | 11,240 | 18,331 | ||||||||||||
Reinsurance balances receivable, net | 5,777 | 12,181 | ||||||||||||
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses | 592,571 | 623,422 | ||||||||||||
Loan to related party | 167,975 | 167,975 | ||||||||||||
Deferred commission and other acquisition expenses (includes $45,732 and $68,433 from related parties in 2020 and 2019, respectively) | 51,903 | 77,356 | ||||||||||||
Funds withheld receivable (includes $603,093 and $632,305 from related parties in 2020 and 2019, respectively) | 654,805 | 684,441 | ||||||||||||
Other assets | 8,051 | 9,946 | ||||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 2,948,455 | $ | 3,568,196 | ||||||||||
LIABILITIES | ||||||||||||||
Reserve for loss and loss adjustment expenses (includes $1,727,193 and $2,272,418 from related parties in 2020 and 2019, respectively) | $ | 1,893,299 | $ | 2,439,907 | ||||||||||
Unearned premiums (includes $122,737 and $189,797 from related parties in 2020 and 2019, respectively) | 144,271 | 220,269 | ||||||||||||
Deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance | 74,941 | 112,950 | ||||||||||||
Accrued expenses and other liabilities (includes $35,719 and $20,049 from related parties in 2020 and 2019, respectively) | 53,002 | 32,444 | ||||||||||||
Senior notes - principal amount | 262,500 | 262,500 | ||||||||||||
Less unamortized issuance costs | 7,374 | 7,592 | ||||||||||||
Senior notes, net | 255,126 | 254,908 | ||||||||||||
Total liabilities | 2,420,639 | 3,060,478 | ||||||||||||
Commitments and Contingencies | ||||||||||||||
EQUITY | ||||||||||||||
Preference shares | 394,310 | 465,000 | ||||||||||||
Common shares ($0.01 par value; 89,815,175 and 88,161,638 shares issued in 2020 and 2019, respectively; 84,801,161 and 83,148,458 shares outstanding in 2020 and 2019, respectively) | 898 | 882 | ||||||||||||
Additional paid-in capital | 756,122 | 751,327 | ||||||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 23,857 | 17,836 | ||||||||||||
Accumulated deficit | (615,837) | (695,794) | ||||||||||||
Treasury shares, at cost (5,014,014 and 5,013,180 shares in 2020 and 2019, respectively) | (31,534) | (31,533) | ||||||||||||
Total Maiden shareholders’ equity | 527,816 | 507,718 | ||||||||||||
Total liabilities and equity | $ | 2,948,455 | $ | 3,568,196 |
See accompanying notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
F-5
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Revenues | ||||||||||||||
Gross premiums written | $ | 31,389 | $ | (528,593) | ||||||||||
Net premiums written | $ | 28,432 | $ | (531,850) | ||||||||||
Change in unearned premiums | 77,649 | 979,612 | ||||||||||||
Net premiums earned | 106,081 | 447,762 | ||||||||||||
Other insurance revenue | 1,276 | 2,841 | ||||||||||||
Net investment income | 54,761 | 97,837 | ||||||||||||
Net realized gains on investment | 24,473 | 27,860 | ||||||||||||
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses | (2,468) | (165) | ||||||||||||
Total revenues | 184,123 | 576,135 | ||||||||||||
Expenses | ||||||||||||||
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses | 41,799 | 452,829 | ||||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expenses | 38,796 | 169,760 | ||||||||||||
General and administrative expenses | 39,118 | 47,218 | ||||||||||||
Interest and amortization expenses | 19,324 | 19,320 | ||||||||||||
Foreign exchange and other losses (gains), net | 8,526 | (2,719) | ||||||||||||
Total expenses | 147,563 | 686,408 | ||||||||||||
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and interest in income of equity method investments | 36,560 | (110,273) | ||||||||||||
Less: income tax benefit | (104) | (911) | ||||||||||||
Interest in income in equity method investments | 5,098 | — | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) from continuing operations | 41,762 | (109,362) | ||||||||||||
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax | — | (22,541) | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | 41,762 | (131,903) | ||||||||||||
Gain from repurchase of preference shares | 38,195 | — | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) available to Maiden common shareholders | $ | 79,957 | $ | (131,903) | ||||||||||
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) from continuing operations per share attributable to common shareholders | $ | 0.93 | $ | (1.32) | ||||||||||
Basic and diluted loss from discontinued operations per share attributable to common shareholders | — | (0.27) | ||||||||||||
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders | $ | 0.93 | $ | (1.59) | ||||||||||
Weighted average number of common shares - basic | 84,333,514 | 83,061,259 | ||||||||||||
Adjusted weighted average number of common shares and assumed conversions - diluted | 84,333,655 | 83,061,259 |
See accompanying notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-6
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(In thousands of U.S. dollars)
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | 41,762 | $ | (131,903) | ||||||||||
Other comprehensive income | ||||||||||||||
Net unrealized holdings gains on fixed maturities arising during the year | 40,043 | 97,261 | ||||||||||||
Adjustment for reclassification of net realized gains recognized in net income (loss) | (12,647) | (15,440) | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | (21,340) | 1,772 | ||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income, before tax | 6,056 | 83,593 | ||||||||||||
Income tax expense related to components of other comprehensive income | (35) | (63) | ||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income, after tax | 6,021 | 83,530 | ||||||||||||
Comprehensive income (loss) | 47,783 | (48,373) | ||||||||||||
Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests | — | (78) | ||||||||||||
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Maiden | $ | 47,783 | $ | (48,451) |
See accompanying notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-7
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(In thousands of U.S. dollars)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(In thousands of U.S. dollars)
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Preference shares – Series A, C and D | ||||||||||||||
Beginning balance | $ | 465,000 | $ | 465,000 | ||||||||||
Repurchase of Preference Shares – Series A | (13,630) | — | ||||||||||||
Repurchase of Preference Shares – Series C | (30,087) | — | ||||||||||||
Repurchase of Preference Shares – Series D | (26,973) | — | ||||||||||||
Ending balance | 394,310 | 465,000 | ||||||||||||
Common shares | ||||||||||||||
Beginning balance | 882 | 879 | ||||||||||||
Exercise of options and issuance of common shares | 16 | 3 | ||||||||||||
Ending balance | 898 | 882 | ||||||||||||
Additional paid-in capital | ||||||||||||||
Beginning balance | 751,327 | 749,418 | ||||||||||||
Exercise of options and issuance of common shares | (16) | (2) | ||||||||||||
Share-based compensation expense | 2,445 | 1,911 | ||||||||||||
Repurchase of preference shares | 2,366 | — | ||||||||||||
Ending balance | 756,122 | 751,327 | ||||||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income | ||||||||||||||
Beginning balance | 17,836 | (65,616) | ||||||||||||
Change in net unrealized gains on investment | 27,361 | 81,758 | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | (21,340) | 1,694 | ||||||||||||
Ending balance | 23,857 | 17,836 | ||||||||||||
Accumulated deficit | ||||||||||||||
Beginning balance | (695,794) | (563,891) | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Maiden | 41,762 | (131,903) | ||||||||||||
Gain on repurchase of preference shares | 38,195 | — | ||||||||||||
Ending balance | (615,837) | (695,794) | ||||||||||||
Treasury shares | ||||||||||||||
Beginning balance | (31,533) | (31,515) | ||||||||||||
Shares repurchased | (1) | (18) | ||||||||||||
Ending balance | (31,534) | (31,533) | ||||||||||||
Noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries | ||||||||||||||
Beginning balance | — | 641 | ||||||||||||
Acquisition of minority interest in subsidiaries | — | (719) | ||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | — | 78 | ||||||||||||
Ending balance | — | — | ||||||||||||
Total equity | $ | 527,816 | $ | 507,718 |
See accompanying notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-8
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars)
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: | ||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | 41,762 | $ | (131,903) | ||||||||||
Add: Net loss from discontinued operations | — | 22,541 | ||||||||||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities: | ||||||||||||||
Depreciation, amortization and share-based compensation | 8,689 | 7,820 | ||||||||||||
Interest in income of equity method investments | (5,098) | — | ||||||||||||
Net realized gains on investment | (24,473) | (27,860) | ||||||||||||
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses | 2,468 | 165 | ||||||||||||
Foreign exchange and other losses (gains), net | 8,526 | (2,719) | ||||||||||||
Changes in assets – (increase) decrease: | ||||||||||||||
Reinsurance balances receivable, net | 23,406 | 53,440 | ||||||||||||
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses | (7,063) | (438,489) | ||||||||||||
Accrued investment income | 7,312 | 9,476 | ||||||||||||
Deferred commission and other acquisition expenses | 25,955 | 172,871 | ||||||||||||
Funds withheld receivable | 55,802 | (85,062) | ||||||||||||
Other assets | (3,912) | (5,181) | ||||||||||||
Changes in liabilities – increase (decrease): | ||||||||||||||
Reserve for loss and loss adjustment expenses | (581,867) | (121,102) | ||||||||||||
Unearned premiums | (77,783) | (560,609) | ||||||||||||
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | (15,499) | (33,597) | ||||||||||||
Net cash used in continuing operations | (541,775) | (1,140,209) | ||||||||||||
Net cash used in discontinued operations | — | (2,392) | ||||||||||||
Net cash used in operating activities | (541,775) | (1,142,601) | ||||||||||||
Cash flows from investing activities: | ||||||||||||||
Purchases of fixed maturities | (458,892) | (2,015,407) | ||||||||||||
Purchases of other investments | (36,821) | (8,788) | ||||||||||||
Purchases of equity method investments | (36,358) | — | ||||||||||||
Proceeds from sales of fixed maturities | 505,396 | 1,032,438 | ||||||||||||
Proceeds from maturities, paydowns and calls of fixed maturities | 619,824 | 1,906,947 | ||||||||||||
Proceeds from sale and redemption of other investments | 1,932 | 858 | ||||||||||||
Proceeds from sale and redemption of equity method investments | 1,571 | — | ||||||||||||
Other, net | (608) | 3,242 | ||||||||||||
Net cash provided by investing activities for continuing operations | 596,044 | 919,290 | ||||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities for discontinued operations | — | (6,113) | ||||||||||||
Net cash provided by investing activities | 596,044 | 913,177 | ||||||||||||
Cash flows from financing activities: | ||||||||||||||
Repurchase of preference shares | (30,129) | — | ||||||||||||
Repurchase of common shares | (1) | (18) | ||||||||||||
Net cash used in financing activities | (30,130) | (18) | ||||||||||||
Effect of exchange rate changes on foreign currency cash | 4,409 | (382) | ||||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents | 28,548 | (229,824) | ||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year | 107,278 | 337,102 | ||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents, end of year | $ | 135,826 | $ | 107,278 | ||||||||||
Reconciliation of cash and restricted cash reported within Consolidated Balance Sheets: | ||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year | $ | 74,040 | $ | 48,197 | ||||||||||
Restricted cash and cash equivalents, end of year | 61,786 | 59,081 | ||||||||||||
Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and equivalents, end of year | $ | 135,826 | $ | 107,278 | ||||||||||
Non-cash investing activities | ||||||||||||||
Investments transferred out related to Partial Termination Amendment and Commutation | $ | — | $ | 599,613 | ||||||||||
Investments transferred out for transactions under remaining AmTrust Quota Share business | — | 812,068 | ||||||||||||
Investments transferred out related to discontinued operations | — | 68,262 | ||||||||||||
Supplemental information on cash flows | ||||||||||||||
Interest paid | $ | 19,106 | $ | 32,702 | ||||||||||
Taxes paid | 106 | 192 |
See accompanying notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-9
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
1. Organization
Maiden Holdings, Ltd. (sometimes referred to as "Maiden Holdings" or "Parent Company") is a Bermuda-based holding company. Together with its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the "Company", "We" or "Maiden"), Maiden previously focused on serving the needs of regional and specialty insurers in the United States ("U.S."), Europe and select other global markets. As a result of a series of actions the Company has taken in recent years, discussed below under Recent Developments, we now create shareholder value by actively managing and allocating our assets and capital, including through ownership and management of businesses and assets mostly in the insurance and related financial services industries where we can leverage our deep knowledge of those markets. We also provide a full range of legacy services to small insurance companies, particularly those in run-off or with blocks of reserves that are no longer core, working with clients to develop and implement finality solutions including acquiring entire companies. We expect our legacy solutions business to contribute to our active asset and capital management strategies.
Short-term income protection business is written on a primary basis by our wholly owned subsidiaries Maiden Life Försäkrings AB ("Maiden LF") and Maiden General Försäkrings AB ("Maiden GF") in the Scandinavian and Northern European markets. Insurance support services are provided to Maiden LF and Maiden GF by our UK services company, Maiden Global Holdings Ltd. (“Maiden Global”) which is also a licensed intermediary in the United Kingdom. Maiden Global had previously operated internationally by providing branded auto and credit life insurance products through insurer partners, particularly those in the European Union ("EU") and other global markets. These products also produced reinsurance programs which were underwritten by our wholly owned subsidiary Maiden Reinsurance Ltd. (“Maiden Reinsurance”).
The Company is not actively underwriting reinsurance business but has some historic reinsurance programs underwritten by Maiden Reinsurance which are in run-off. The Company continues to run-off the liabilities associated with AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. ("AmTrust") contracts, which we terminated in early 2019 as discussed below. We have also entered into a retroactive reinsurance agreement and a commutation agreement that further reduces our exposure to and limits the potential volatility related to these AmTrust liabilities, which are discussed in "Note 8 — Reinsurance" of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Strategic Review
Since 2018, the Company has engaged in a series of strategic measures that have dramatically reduced the regulatory capital required to operate our business, materially strengthened our solvency ratios, re-domiciled Maiden Reinsurance to Vermont in the U.S. and ceased active reinsurance underwriting. During that time, we significantly increased our estimate of ultimate losses and loss reserves while purchasing reinsurance protection against further loss reserve volatility and as a result, have improved the ultimate economic value of the Company. We believe these measures have given the Company the ability to more flexibly allocate capital to those activities most likely to produce the greatest returns for shareholders.
The measures we ultimately have taken were initiated in 2018, when our Board of Directors initiated a review of strategic alternatives ("Strategic Review") to evaluate ways to increase shareholder value after a period of continuing higher than targeted combined ratios and lower returns on equity than expected. As part of the Strategic Review, a series of transactions were entered into including:
(1) Maiden Holdings North America, Ltd. ("Maiden NA") completed the sale of Maiden Reinsurance North America, Inc. ("Maiden US") on December 27, 2018, as per our discussion regarding discontinued operations below;
(2) Maiden Reinsurance's shareholders, Maiden Holdings and Maiden NA, each made their pro rata portion of capital injections in the aggregate of $125,000 on December 31, 2018 and $70,000 on January 18, 2019 to Maiden Reinsurance from the sale proceeds of Maiden US;
(3) Maiden Reinsurance entered into a partial termination amendment ("Partial Termination Amendment") with AmTrust effective January 1, 2019 which amended the quota share reinsurance agreement (“AmTrust Quota Share”) between Maiden Reinsurance and AmTrust’s wholly owned subsidiary, AmTrust International Insurance, Ltd. (“AII”), as more fully described in "Note 10 — Related Party Transactions";
(4) Maiden Reinsurance entered into amendments which terminated the AmTrust Quota Share and the European Hospital Liability Quota Share reinsurance contract ("European Hospital Liability Quota Share") with AmTrust’s wholly owned subsidiaries AmTrust Europe Limited ("AEL") and AmTrust International Underwriters DAC ("AIU DAC") effective January 1, 2019 (these transactions are broadly referred to herein as the "Final AmTrust QS Terminations");
(5) Maiden Reinsurance entered into the Loss Portfolio Transfer and Adverse Development Cover Agreement ("LPT/ADC Agreement") with Enstar Group Limited ("Enstar') on July 31, 2019; and
(6) Maiden Reinsurance entered into a Commutation and Release Agreement with AmTrust to commute certain workers' compensation business with AII as of January 1, 2019.
Please see the Company's audited Consolidated Financial Statements, and related notes thereto, included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 for further details on the above transactions.
F-10
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
1. Organization (continued)
Discontinued Operations
The Company made the strategic decision to divest its U.S. treaty reinsurance operations through the sale of Maiden US which was completed on December 27, 2018. Maiden US was a substantial portion of the Diversified Reinsurance segment; therefore the Company concluded that the sale represented a strategic shift that had a major effect on its ongoing operations and financial results and that all of the held for sale criteria were met.
Accordingly, all transactions related to the U.S. treaty reinsurance operations were reported and presented as part the results from discontinued operations in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. Except as explicitly described as discontinued operations, and unless otherwise noted, all discussions and amounts presented herein relate to the Company's continuing operations except for net income (loss) and net income (loss) available to Maiden common shareholders.
Re-domestication of Maiden Reinsurance
Effective March 16, 2020, we re-domesticated our principal operating subsidiary, Maiden Reinsurance, from Bermuda to the State of Vermont in the U.S., having made the necessary filings in both Vermont and Bermuda in the fourth quarter of 2019 and first quarter of 2020. Maiden Reinsurance is now subject to the statutes and regulations of Vermont in the ordinary course of business. We have determined that re-domesticating Maiden Reinsurance to Vermont enables us to better align our capital and resources with our liabilities, which originate mostly in the United States, resulting in a more efficient structure. The re-domestication, in combination with the transactions completed pursuant to the Strategic Review, will continue to strengthen the Company’s capital position and solvency ratios.
While the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation ("Vermont DFR") is now the group supervisor for the Company, the re-domestication did not apply to the parent holding company which remains a Bermuda-based holding company. Securities issued by Maiden Holdings were not affected by the re-domestication of Maiden Reinsurance to Vermont. Concurrent with its re-domestication to Vermont on March 16, 2020, Maiden Holdings contributed as capital the remaining 65% of its ownership in Maiden Reinsurance to Maiden NA. Maiden NA now owns 100% of Maiden Reinsurance in the aggregate.
Segments
As a result of the strategic decision to divest all of the Company's U.S. treaty reinsurance operations as noted above, the Company revised the composition of its reportable segments. As described in more detail under “Note 3 — Segment Information”, the reportable segments include: (i) Diversified Reinsurance which consists of a portfolio of property and casualty reinsurance business focusing on regional and specialty property and casualty insurance companies located primarily in Europe; and (ii) AmTrust Reinsurance which includes all business ceded to Maiden Reinsurance from subsidiaries of AmTrust. In addition to these reportable segments, the results of operations of the former National General Holdings Corporation Quota Share ("NGHC Quota Share") segment which was commuted in November 2019 and the remnants of our retroceded U.S. treaty business had been included in the "Other" category.
COVID-19 Pandemic
The continuing COVID-19 global pandemic has caused significant disruption to the economy and financial markets globally, and the full extent of the potential impacts of COVID-19 are not yet known. Circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic are complex, uncertain and rapidly evolving. Our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity and capital resources may have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the future impact of the pandemic on our financial condition or results of operations is difficult to predict.
As described herein, the Company is not currently engaged in active reinsurance underwriting and is running off the remaining unearned exposures it has reinsured. Maiden Global Holdings, Ltd.’s business development teams partner with automobile manufacturers, dealer associations and local primary insurers to design and implement point of sale insurance programs which generate revenue for the auto manufacturer and insurance premiums for the primary insurer ("IIS unit"). The Company's IIS unit does write limited primary insurance coverages that could be exposed to COVID-19 claims. While we assess our exposure to COVID-19 insurance and reinsurance claims on our existing insurance exposures and remaining reinsurance exposures as limited and immaterial, given the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the insurance industry, our preliminary estimates of losses and loss adjustment expenses and estimates of reinsurance recoverable arising from the COVID-19 pandemic may materially change. Maiden Reinsurance has not received any COVID-19 claims to date but our companies within our IIS unit have received a limited number of claims related to those coverages which it deems as immaterial. Unanticipated issues relating to claims and coverage may emerge, which could adversely affect our business by increasing the scope of coverage beyond our intent and/or increasing the frequency and severity of claims.
The Company's investment portfolio may be adversely impacted by unfavorable market conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Company and its reinsurance subsidiaries may need additional capital to maintain compliance with regulatory capital requirements and/or be required to post additional collateral under existing reinsurance arrangements, which could reduce our liquidity. In addition, the Company may experience continued volatility in its results of operations which could negatively impact its financial condition and create a reduction in the amount of available distribution or dividend capacity from its regulated reinsurance subsidiaries, which would also reduce liquidity.
F-11
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
2. Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Reporting and Consolidation — These Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. ("U.S. GAAP") and include the accounts of Maiden Holdings and all of its subsidiaries. These Consolidated Financial Statements reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the period and all such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated. Certain prior year comparatives have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. The effect of these reclassifications had no impact on previously reported shareholders' equity or net income (loss).
As part of the Strategic Review initiated by the Company's Board of Directors in 2018, the Company made the strategic decision to divest its U.S. treaty reinsurance operations through the sale of Maiden US, completed on December 27, 2018, which had a major effect on its ongoing operations and financial results. The operating results of the Company's U.S. treaty reinsurance business for the year ended December 31, 2019 were presented as part of discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Except as explicitly described as discontinued operations, and unless otherwise noted, all discussions and amounts presented herein relate to the Company's continuing operations except for net income (loss) and net income (loss) available to Maiden common shareholders. Please see “Note 6 — Discontinued Operations" for additional information related to discontinued operations.
Estimates — The preparation of U.S. GAAP Consolidated Financial Statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported and disclosed 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. Actual results could materially differ from those estimates. The significant estimates include, but are not limited to, reserve for loss and loss adjustment expenses ("loss and LAE"), deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance; recoverability of reinsurance balances receivable, reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses, funds withheld and deferred commission and other acquisition expenses; valuation of financial instruments and deferred tax assets; and the determination of other-than-temporary impairment ("OTTI") of investments.
Fixed Maturity Investments — The Company classifies its fixed maturity investments as available-for-sale ("AFS"). The AFS portfolio is reported at fair value and any unrealized gains or losses are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") in shareholders' equity. The fair value of fixed maturity investments is generally determined from quotations received from third-party nationally recognized pricing services ("Pricing Service"), or when such prices are not available, by reference to broker or underwriter bid indications.
Short-term investments - these investments are comprised of securities due to mature within one year of the date of purchase. The Company held no short-term investments as at December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Other investments — The Company accounts for its unquoted other investments at fair value in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 944-325, "Financial Services - Insurance - Investments - Other" ("ASC 944-325"). Unquoted other investments are comprised of investments in limited partnerships, private equity and hedge funds, and investments in direct lending entities as well as investments in start-up insurance entities. Investments in limited partnerships are not accounted for under the equity method because the Company has virtually no influence over operations and faces limitations on the timing and ability regarding investment redemptions for each of the limited partnership investments it holds.
The Company's investments in limited partnerships and hedge funds are reported at fair value based on recent financial information received from the fund managers and other market information available to management, with changes in fair value reported in realized gains (losses). The investments in private equity and start-up insurance entities are reported at fair value using recent private market transactions (where applicable). Investments in direct lending entities are carried at cost less impairment, if any, with any indication of impairment recognized in income when determined.
The valuation of our other investments is described in Note 5 — Fair Value Measurements. Due to a lag in the valuations of certain funds reported by the investment managers, the Company may record changes in valuation with up to a three-month lag. The Company regularly reviews and discusses fund performance with the investment managers or sponsors to corroborate the reasonableness of the reported net asset values and to assess whether any events have occurred within the lag period that would affect the valuation of the investments. The following is a description of the nature of each of these investment categories:
• Hedge funds may invest in a wide range of instruments, including debt and equity securities, and utilize various sophisticated strategies to achieve their objectives;
• Private equity investments are primarily in the financial services industry;
• Investments in limited partnerships are investments made in various structured investment products across a variety of industries including private credit; and
• Other investments consist primarily of direct investments in technology-oriented start up companies in the insurance industry, often referred to as insurtech companies.
Equity Method Investments — Investments in which the Company has significant influence over the operating and financial policies of the investee are classified as equity method investments and accounted for using the equity method of accounting. In applying the equity method of accounting, investments are initially recorded at cost and are subsequently adjusted based on the Company’s proportionate share of the investee's net income (loss).
F-12
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Adjustments are based on the most recent available financial information from the investee. Changes in the carrying value of these investments are recorded in net income as interest in income (loss) of equity method investments. The Company records its share of the investee’s OCI activity based on its proportionate share of the investee's common stock or capital, and books any OCI activity directly to the equity method investments account, with the offset recorded to the Company's AOCI.
Purchases and sales of investments are recorded on a trade date basis. Realized gains or losses on investment sales are determined based on the first in first out cost method. Net investment income is recognized when earned and includes accrued interest and dividend income together with amortization of market premiums and discounts using the effective yield method, net of investment management fees. For U.S. government agency mortgage-backed securities ("Agency MBS") and any other holdings for which there is a prepayment risk, prepayment assumptions are evaluated and revised as necessary. Any changes required due to movements in effective yields and maturities are recognized on a prospective basis through yield adjustments.
A security is potentially impaired when its fair value falls below its amortized cost. On a quarterly basis, all potentially impaired securities are reviewed to determine whether the impairment is temporary or OTTI. OTTI assessments are inherently judgmental, especially where securities have experienced severe declines in fair value over a short period. The Company's review process begins with a quantitative analysis to identify securities to be further evaluated for potential classification as OTTI. For all identified securities, further fundamental analysis is performed that considers, but is not limited to, the following quantitative and qualitative factors: historic and implied volatility of the security; length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than amortized cost; adverse conditions specifically related to the security or to specific conditions in an industry or geographic area; failure, if any, of the issuer of the security to make scheduled payments; and recoveries or additional declines in fair value subsequent to the balance sheet date.
The Company recognizes OTTI losses within earnings for its impaired fixed maturity securities (i) for which the Company has the intent to sell the security or (ii) it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the debt security before its anticipated recovery and (iii) for those securities which have a credit loss. In assessing whether a credit loss exists, the Company compares the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected from the security with the amortized cost basis of the security. In instances in which a determination is made that an impairment exists but the Company does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before the anticipated recovery of its remaining amortized cost basis, the impairment is separated into (i) the amount of the total impairment related to the credit loss and (ii) the amount of the total impairment related to all other factors.
The amount of the total OTTI related to the credit loss is recognized in earnings. The amount of the total OTTI related to all other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income. In periods after the recognition of OTTI on the fixed maturity securities, the Company accounts for such securities as if they had been purchased on the measurement date of the OTTI at an amortized cost basis equal to the previous amortized cost basis less the OTTI recognized in earnings. For fixed maturity securities in which an OTTI loss was recognized in earnings, the difference between the new amortized cost basis and the cash flows expected to be collected will be amortized into net investment income.
As the Company's investment portfolio is the largest component of its consolidated assets, any OTTI on fixed maturity securities could be material to the Company's financial condition and results particularly during periods of dislocation in the financial markets.
Fair Value Measurements — ASC Topic 820, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures" ("ASC 820") defines fair value as the price that would be received upon the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between open market participants at the measurement date. Additionally, ASC 820 establishes a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. The hierarchy is broken down into three levels based on the reliability of inputs:
•Level 1 — Valuations based on unadjusted quoted market prices for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access. Because valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these products does not entail a significant degree of judgment. Examples of assets and liabilities utilizing Level 1 inputs include: U.S. Treasury bonds;
•Level 2 — Valuations based on quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in inactive markets, or valuations based on models where the significant inputs are observable (e.g. interest rates, yield curves, prepayment speeds, default rates, loss severity, etc.) or can be corroborated by observable market data. Examples of assets and liabilities utilizing Level 2 inputs include: U.S. government-sponsored agency securities; non-U.S. government and supranational obligations; commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBS"); collateralized loan obligations ("CLO"); corporate and municipal bonds; and
•Level 3 — Valuations based on models where significant inputs are not observable. The unobservable inputs reflect our own assumptions about assumptions that market participants would use. Examples of assets and liabilities utilizing Level 3 inputs include: an investment in preference shares of a start-up insurance producer.
The availability of observable inputs can vary and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, for example, the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new and not yet established in the marketplace, and other characteristics particular to the transaction. To the extent that 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. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised by management in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in the Level 3 hierarchy. The Company uses prices and inputs that are current as at the measurement date.
F-13
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
In periods of market dislocation, the observability of prices and inputs may be reduced for many instruments. This condition could cause a financial instrument to be reclassified between hierarchy levels.
For investments that have quoted market prices in active markets, the Company uses the quoted market prices as fair value and includes these in the Level 1 hierarchy. The Company receives quoted market prices from a third party nationally recognized Pricing Service. When quoted market prices are unavailable, the Company utilizes the Pricing Service to determine an estimate of fair value. The fair value estimates are included in the Level 2 hierarchy. The Company will challenge any prices for its investments which are considered not to be representative of fair value. If quoted market prices and an estimate from the Pricing Service are unavailable, the Company produces an estimate of fair value based on dealer quotations for recent activity in positions with the same or similar characteristics to that investment being valued. The Company determines whether the fair value estimate is in the Level 2 or Level 3 hierarchy depending on the level of observable inputs available when estimating the fair value. The Company bases its estimates of fair values for assets on the bid price as it represents what a third party market participant would be willing to pay in an orderly transaction.
Cash and Cash Equivalents — The Company maintains cash accounts in several banks and brokerage institutions. Cash equivalents consist of investments in money market funds and short-term investments with an original maturity of 90 days or less and are stated at cost, which approximates fair value. Restricted cash and cash equivalents are separately reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company maintains certain cash and investments in trust accounts used primarily as collateral for unearned premiums and loss and LAE reserves owed to insureds. The Company is required to maintain minimum balances in these restricted accounts based on pre-determined formulas. Please see "Note 4. (e) Investments" for further details.
Premiums and Related Expenses — For pro-rata contracts and excess-of-loss contracts where no deposit or minimum premium is specified in the contract, premium written is recognized based on estimates of ultimate premiums provided by the ceding companies. Initial estimates of premium written are recognized in the period in which the underlying risks are incepted. Subsequent adjustments, based on reports of actual premium by the ceding companies, or revisions in estimates, are recorded in the period in which they are determined. Reinsurance premiums assumed are generally earned on a pro-rata basis over the terms of the underlying policies or reinsurance contracts. Contracts and policies written on a "losses occurring" basis cover claims that may occur during the term of the contract or policy, which is typically twelve months. Accordingly, the premium is earned evenly over the term. Contracts which are written on a "risks attaching" basis cover claims which attach to the underlying insurance policies written during the terms of such contracts. Premiums earned on such contracts usually extend beyond the original term of the reinsurance contract, typically resulting in recognition of premiums earned over a 24-month period.
Reinsurance premiums on specialty risk and extended warranty are earned based on the estimated program coverage period. These estimates are based on the expected distribution of coverage periods by contract at inception, because a single contract may contain multiple coverage period options, and these estimates are revised based on the actual coverage period selected by the original insured. Unearned premiums represent the portion of premiums written which is applicable to the unexpired term of the contract or policy in force. These premiums can be subject to estimates based upon information received from ceding companies and any subsequent differences arising on such estimates are recorded in the period in which they are determined.
Assumed and ceded reinsurance contracts that lack a significant transfer of risk are treated as deposits. No deposit contracts are held as at December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Acquisition expenses represent the costs of writing business that vary with, and are primarily related to, the production of that business. Policy and contract acquisition expenses, including assumed commissions, are deferred and recognized as expense as the related premiums are earned.
The Company considers anticipated investment income in determining the recoverability of these costs and believes they are fully recoverable. A premium deficiency is recognized if the sum of anticipated losses and loss adjustment expenses, unamortized acquisition expenses less anticipated investment income exceed unearned premiums.
Loss and LAE — Loss and LAE represent the estimated ultimate net costs of all reported and unreported losses incurred through December 31 of the latest fiscal year. The reserve for loss and LAE is estimated using a statistical analysis of actuarial data and is not discounted for the time value of money. Although considerable variability is inherent in the estimates of reserves for loss and LAE, management believes that the reserve for loss and LAE is adequate based on known information to date. In estimating loss reserves, the Company utilizes a variety of standard actuarial methods. These estimates are continually reviewed and adjusted as necessary as experience develops or new information becomes available. Such adjustments are included and reported in current operations as favorable or unfavorable prior period development.
Reinsurance — Reinsurance premiums and loss and LAE ceded to other companies are accounted for on a basis consistent with those used in accounting for original policies issued and pursuant to the terms of the reinsurance contracts. The Company records premiums earned and loss and LAE incurred and ceded to other companies as reduction of premium revenue and loss and LAE, respectively. The unexpired portion of reinsurance purchased by the Company (retrocession or reinsurance premiums ceded) is included in other assets and amortized over the contract period in proportion to the amount of insurance protection provided. The ultimate amount of premiums, including adjustments, is recognized as premiums ceded and amortized over the applicable contract period to which they apply. Premiums earned are reported net of reinsurance in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses relate to the portion of reserves and paid losses and LAE that are ceded to other companies. Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses are separately recorded as an asset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company remains contingently liable for all loss payments in the event of failure to collect from reinsurers.
F-14
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Retroactive Reinsurance - Retroactive reinsurance are reinsurance agreements under which a reinsurer agrees to reimburse the ceding Company for liabilities incurred as a result of past insurable events. For these agreements, the excess of the amounts ultimately collectible under the agreement over the consideration paid is recognized as a deferred gain liability which is amortized into income over the settlement period of the ceded reserves once the paid losses have exceeded the minimum retention. The amount of the deferral is recalculated each period based on actual loss payments and updated estimates of ultimate losses. If the consideration paid exceeds the ultimate losses collectible under the agreement, the net loss on the retroactive reinsurance agreement is recognized within income immediately.
On July 31, 2019, Maiden Reinsurance entered into the LPT/ADC Agreement as discussed in "Note 8 — Reinsurance". This transaction was accounted for as retroactive reinsurance pursuant to U.S. GAAP and a deferred gain liability was recognized for an amount representing the cumulative adverse development of losses subject to the LPT/ADC Agreement. Amortization of the deferred gain will not begin until paid losses have exceeded the minimum retention under this agreement, which is estimated to be in 2024.
Debt Obligations and Deferred Debt Issuance Costs — Costs incurred in issuing debt are capitalized and amortized over the contractual life of the debt. The amortization of these costs are included in interest and amortization expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income. The unamortized amount of issuance costs is presented as a deduction from the related principal liability for senior notes in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Leases — The Company's leases are all currently classified as operating leases and none of them have non-lease components. For operating leases that have a lease term of more than twelve months, the Company recognized a lease liability (presented as part of accrued expenses and other liabilities) and a right-of-use asset (presented as part of other assets) in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at the present value of the remaining lease payments until expiration. As the lease contracts generally do not provide an implicit discount rate, the Company used a weighted-average discount rate of 10%, representing its estimated secured incremental borrowing rate, in calculating the present value of the lease liability. The Company has made an accounting policy election not to include renewal, termination, or purchase options that are not reasonably certain of exercise when determining the term of the borrowing. The Company recognizes the related leasing expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Income.
Non-controlling Interests — The Company accounts for non-controlling interests in subsidiaries in accordance with ASC Topic 810 "Consolidations", and presents any non-controlling shareholders' interest in the equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Net income attributable to non-controlling interests is presented separately in the Consolidated Statements of Income. There are no remaining non-controlling interests in subsidiaries as at December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Income Taxes — The Company accounts for income taxes using ASC Topic 740 "Income Taxes" for subsidiaries operating in taxable jurisdictions. Deferred income taxes reflect the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and amounts used for income tax purposes. A valuation allowance is recorded if it is more likely than not that some or all of a deferred tax asset may not be realized. The Company considers future taxable income and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for a valuation allowance. In the event the Company determines that it will not be able to realize all or part of its deferred income tax assets in the future, an adjustment to the deferred income tax assets would be charged to income in the period in which such determination is made. In addition, if the Company subsequently assesses that the valuation allowance is no longer needed, a benefit would be recorded to income in the period in which such determination is made.
U.S. GAAP allows for the recognition of tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is more likely than not to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. A liability is established for any tax benefit claimed in a tax return in excess of this threshold. Income tax related interest and penalties would be included as income tax expense. The Company has not recorded or accrued any interest or penalties during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Share-Based Compensation Expense — The Company is authorized to issue restricted share awards and units, performance based restricted share units ("PB-RSUs"), share options and other equity-based awards to its employees and directors. The Company recognizes the compensation expense for share options, restricted share and restricted share unit grants, based on the fair value of the award on the date of grant, over the requisite service vesting period. Forfeitures are accounted for when they occur. The estimated fair value of the grant is amortized ratably over its vesting period as a charge to compensation expense (as a component of general and administrative expenses) and an increase to additional paid-in capital in Consolidated Shareholders’ Equity.
The estimated fair value of the PB-RSUs is recognized as a charge to compensation expense and an increase to additional paid-in capital in Consolidated Shareholders’ Equity following the satisfaction of certain criteria during the specified performance period. Forfeitures are accounted for if and when they occur.
Earnings Per Share — Basic earnings per share are computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and exclude any dilutive effects of options, restricted share units ("RSUs") and PB-RSUs. Dilutive earnings per share are computed using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period adjusted for the dilutive impact of share options, RSUs and PB-RSUs. The two-class method is used to determine earnings per share based on dividends declared on common shares and participating securities (i.e. distributed earnings) and participation rights of participating securities in any undistributed earnings. Each unvested restricted share granted by the Company to certain senior leaders is considered a participating security and the two-class method is used to calculate net income attributable to Maiden common shareholders per common share – basic and diluted. However, any undistributed losses are not allocated to the participating securities.
F-15
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Net income available to Maiden common shareholders per common share – basic and diluted is also adjusted for any gain or loss from redemption or induced conversion of preference shares. The gain on repurchase of preference shares had an impact of $0.45 per common share for the year ended December 31, 2020.
Treasury Shares — Treasury shares include common shares repurchased by the Company and not subsequently cancelled as well as share repurchases from employees, which represent withholding in respect of tax obligations on the vesting of restricted shares and performance based shares. Treasury shares are recorded at cost and result in a reduction of the total Maiden shareholders’ equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Foreign Currency Transactions — The functional currency of the Company and many of its subsidiaries is the U.S. dollar. For these companies, monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at year-end exchange rates, with resulting foreign exchange gains and losses recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Revenues and expenses in foreign currencies are converted at average exchange rates during the year. Monetary assets and liabilities include cash and cash equivalents, reinsurance balances receivable, reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses, funds withheld receivable, reserve for loss and LAE and accrued expenses and other liabilities. Accounts that are classified as non-monetary such as deferred commission and other acquisition expenses and unearned premiums are not revalued.
Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries and divisions, whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar, are translated at year-end exchange rates. Revenues and expenses of these entities are translated at average exchange rates during the year. The effects of the foreign currency translation adjustment for foreign entities are included in AOCI. The amount of the cumulative translation adjustment at December 31, 2020 was $(25,500) (2019 - $(4,160)).
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards Updates
Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement
In August 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2018-13 ("ASU 2018-13") for changes to the disclosure framework related to Topic 820 which amends the disclosure requirements for fair value measurement. The following disclosure requirements were removed from Topic 820: (i) amount of and reasons for transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, (ii) policy for timing of transfers between levels, and (iii) valuation processes for Level 3 fair value measurements. The amendments clarify that the measurement uncertainty disclosure is to communicate information about the uncertainty in measurement as of the reporting date. The following disclosure requirements were added to Topic 820: (i) changes in unrealized gains and losses for the period included in other comprehensive income for recurring Level 3 fair value measurements held at the end of the reporting period; and (ii) range and weighted average of significant unobservable inputs used to develop Level 3 fair value measurements. For certain unobservable inputs, an entity may disclose other quantitative information (such as the median or arithmetic average) in lieu of the weighted average if the entity determines that other quantitative information would be a more reasonable and rational method to reflect the distribution of unobservable inputs used to develop Level 3 fair value measurements.
The amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. The amendments on changes in unrealized gains and losses, the range and weighted average of significant unobservable inputs used to develop Level 3 fair value measurements, and the narrative description of measurement uncertainty should be applied prospectively for only the most recent interim or annual period presented in the initial fiscal year of adoption. All other amendments should be applied retrospectively to all periods presented upon their effective date. Early adoption is permitted upon issuance of ASU 2018-13. An entity is permitted to early adopt any removed or modified disclosures upon issuance of ASU 2018-13 and delay adoption of the additional disclosures until their effective date. These amendments only impact disclosures made in "Note 5. Fair Value Measurements" therefore, the adoption of this standard on January 1, 2020 did not impact the Company’s consolidated balance sheets, results of operations or cash flows.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted
Accounting for Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 "Financial Instruments: Credit Losses (Topic 326)" replacing the "incurred loss" impairment methodology with an approach based on "expected losses" to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. The guidance requires financial assets to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. The allowance for credit losses is a valuation account that is deducted from the cost of the financial asset to present the net carrying value at the amount expected to be collected on the financial asset. ASU 2016-13 also modified the accounting for AFS debt securities, which must be individually assessed for credit losses when fair value is less than the amortized cost basis, in accordance with Subtopic 326-30, Financial Instruments: Credit Losses Available-for-Sale Debt Securities. Credit losses relating to AFS debt securities will be recorded through an allowance for credit losses rather than under the current OTTI methodology.
In April 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-04 for targeted improvements related to ASU 2016-13 which clarify that an entity should include all expected recoveries in its estimate of the allowance for credit losses. In addition, for collateral dependent financial assets, the amendments mandate that an allowance for credit losses that is added to the amortized cost basis of the financial asset should not exceed amounts previously written off. It also clarifies FASB’s intent to include all reinsurance recoverables within the scope of Topic 944 to be within the scope of Subtopic 326-20, regardless of the measurement basis of those recoverables. The Company's reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses is currently its most significant financial asset within the scope of ASU 2016-13.
F-16
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
The guidance is effective for public business entities, excluding entities eligible to be smaller reporting companies ("SRCs") as defined by the SEC, for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods therein. The guidance is effective for all other entities, including public entities eligible to be SRCs, for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years. As of December 31, 2020, the Company qualifies for SRC status, as determined on the last business day of its most recent second quarter, and thus remains eligible to follow the reporting deadlines and effective dates applicable to SRCs. Therefore Topic 326 will not be effective until the 2023 fiscal year. The Company continues to evaluate the impact of this guidance on its results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.
F-17
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
3. Segment Information
The Company currently has two reportable segments: Diversified Reinsurance and AmTrust Reinsurance. Our Diversified Reinsurance segment consists of a portfolio of predominantly property and casualty reinsurance business focusing on regional and specialty property and casualty insurance companies located primarily in Europe. Our AmTrust Reinsurance segment includes all business ceded to Maiden Reinsurance by AmTrust, primarily the AmTrust Quota Share and the European Hospital Liability Quota Share, which are in run-off effective January 1, 2019. In addition to our reportable segments, the results of operation of the NGHC Quota Share which was commuted in November 2019 and the remnants of our retroceded U.S. treaty business had been included in the "Other" category. Please refer to "Note 10. Related Party Transactions" for further information regarding our AmTrust Reinsurance segment.
The Company evaluates segment performance based on segment profit separately from the results of our investment portfolio. General and administrative expenses are allocated to the reportable segments on an actual basis except salaries and benefits where management’s judgment is applied; however general corporate expenses are not allocated to the segments. In determining total assets by reportable segment, the Company identifies those assets that are attributable to a particular segment such as reinsurance balances receivable, reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses, deferred commission and other acquisition expenses, funds withheld receivable, loan to related party, and restricted cash and investments. All remaining assets are allocated to Corporate.
As discussed in "Note 10. Related Party Transactions", the Partial Termination Amendment and the termination of the remaining business with AmTrust effective January 1, 2019 resulted in a significant reduction in gross premiums written. This was due to the return of unearned premium on certain lines covered by the Partial Termination Amendment, with no new business written since 2018 as a result of the termination of the AmTrust Quota Share and the European Hospital Liability Quota Share. The following tables summarize the underwriting results of our reportable segments and the reconciliation of our reportable segments and Other category's underwriting results to our consolidated net income (loss) from continuing operations:
For the Year Ended December 31, 2020 | Diversified Reinsurance | AmTrust Reinsurance | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Gross premiums written | $ | 40,457 | $ | (9,068) | $ | 31,389 | ||||||||||||||
Net premiums written | $ | 37,258 | $ | (8,826) | $ | 28,432 | ||||||||||||||
Net premiums earned | $ | 47,847 | $ | 58,234 | $ | 106,081 | ||||||||||||||
Other insurance revenue | 1,276 | — | 1,276 | |||||||||||||||||
Net loss and LAE | (24,909) | (16,890) | (41,799) | |||||||||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expenses | (18,475) | (20,321) | (38,796) | |||||||||||||||||
General and administrative expenses | (6,936) | (2,552) | (9,488) | |||||||||||||||||
Underwriting (loss) income | $ | (1,197) | $ | 18,471 | 17,274 | |||||||||||||||
Reconciliation to net income from continuing operations | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income and realized gains on investment | 79,234 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses | (2,468) | |||||||||||||||||||
Interest and amortization expenses | (19,324) | |||||||||||||||||||
Foreign exchange and other losses, net | (8,526) | |||||||||||||||||||
Other general and administrative expenses | (29,630) | |||||||||||||||||||
Income tax benefit | 104 | |||||||||||||||||||
Interest in income from equity method investments | 5,098 | |||||||||||||||||||
Net income from continuing operations | $ | 41,762 | ||||||||||||||||||
Net loss and LAE ratio(1) | 50.7 | % | 29.0 | % | 38.9 | % | ||||||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expense ratio(2) | 37.6 | % | 34.9 | % | 36.1 | % | ||||||||||||||
General and administrative expense ratio(3) | 14.1 | % | 4.4 | % | 36.4 | % | ||||||||||||||
Expense ratio(4) | 51.7 | % | 39.3 | % | 72.5 | % | ||||||||||||||
Combined ratio(5) | 102.4 | % | 68.3 | % | 111.4 | % |
F-18
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
3. Segment Information (continued)
For the Year Ended December 31, 2019 | Diversified Reinsurance | AmTrust Reinsurance | Other | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Gross premiums written | $ | 52,408 | $ | (581,001) | $ | — | $ | (528,593) | ||||||||||||||||||
Net premiums written | $ | 49,151 | $ | (581,001) | $ | — | $ | (531,850) | ||||||||||||||||||
Net premiums earned | $ | 83,691 | $ | 364,071 | $ | — | $ | 447,762 | ||||||||||||||||||
Other insurance revenue | 2,841 | — | — | 2,841 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss and LAE | (49,905) | (402,612) | (312) | (452,829) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expenses | (29,898) | (139,862) | — | (169,760) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
General and administrative expenses | (8,872) | (2,895) | — | (11,767) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Underwriting loss | $ | (2,143) | $ | (181,298) | $ | (312) | (183,753) | |||||||||||||||||||
Reconciliation to net loss from continuing operations | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income and realized gains on investment | 125,697 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses | (165) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest and amortization expenses | (19,320) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign exchange and other gains, net | 2,719 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other general and administrative expenses | (35,451) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Income tax benefit | 911 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss from continuing operations | $ | (109,362) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss and LAE ratio(1) | 57.7 | % | 110.6 | % | 100.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expense ratio(2) | 34.5 | % | 38.4 | % | 37.6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
General and administrative expense ratio(3) | 10.3 | % | 0.8 | % | 10.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Expense ratio(4) | 44.8 | % | 39.2 | % | 48.1 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Combined ratio(5) | 102.5 | % | 149.8 | % | 148.6 | % |
(1) Calculated by dividing the net loss and LAE by the sum of net premiums earned and other insurance revenue.
(2) Calculated by dividing commission and other acquisition expenses by the sum of net premiums earned and other insurance revenue.
(3) Calculated by dividing general and administrative expenses by the sum of net premiums earned and other insurance revenue.
(4) Calculated by adding together the commission and other acquisition expense ratio and general and administrative expense ratio.
(5) Calculated by adding together the net loss and LAE ratio and the expense ratio.
F-19
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
3. Segment Information (continued)
The following tables summarize the financial position of our reportable segments including the reconciliation to the Company's consolidated total assets at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, 2020 | Diversified Reinsurance | AmTrust Reinsurance | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Reinsurance balances receivable, net | $ | 5,560 | $ | — | $ | 5,560 | ||||||||||||||
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses | 4,658 | 519,941 | 524,599 | |||||||||||||||||
Deferred commission and other acquisition expenses | 6,171 | 45,732 | 51,903 | |||||||||||||||||
Loan to related party | — | 167,975 | 167,975 | |||||||||||||||||
Restricted cash and cash equivalents and investments | 87,419 | 992,636 | 1,080,055 | |||||||||||||||||
Funds withheld receivable | 51,712 | 603,093 | 654,805 | |||||||||||||||||
Other assets | 860 | — | 860 | |||||||||||||||||
Total assets - reportable segments | 156,380 | 2,329,377 | 2,485,757 | |||||||||||||||||
Corporate assets | — | — | 462,698 | |||||||||||||||||
Total Assets | $ | 156,380 | $ | 2,329,377 | $ | 2,948,455 | ||||||||||||||
December 31, 2019 | Diversified Reinsurance | AmTrust Reinsurance | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Reinsurance balances receivable, net | $ | 11,729 | $ | — | $ | 11,729 | ||||||||||||||
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses | 2,773 | 557,950 | 560,723 | |||||||||||||||||
Deferred commission and other acquisition expenses | 8,923 | 68,433 | 77,356 | |||||||||||||||||
Loan to related party | — | 167,975 | 167,975 | |||||||||||||||||
Restricted cash and cash equivalents and investments | 90,614 | 1,417,139 | 1,507,753 | |||||||||||||||||
Funds withheld receivable | 52,136 | 632,305 | 684,441 | |||||||||||||||||
Other assets | 1,670 | — | 1,670 | |||||||||||||||||
Total assets - reportable segments | 167,845 | 2,843,802 | 3,011,647 | |||||||||||||||||
Corporate assets | — | — | 556,549 | |||||||||||||||||
Total Assets | $ | 167,845 | $ | 2,843,802 | $ | 3,568,196 |
The following table shows an analysis of gross and net premiums written and net premiums earned by geographic location for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019. In the case of reinsurance business assumed from AmTrust, the table refers to the location of the relevant AmTrust subsidiaries.
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Gross premiums written – North America | $ | (10,979) | $ | (567,380) | ||||||||||
Gross premiums written – Other (predominantly Europe) | 42,368 | 38,787 | ||||||||||||
Gross premiums written – Total | $ | 31,389 | $ | (528,593) | ||||||||||
Net premiums written – North America | $ | (10,836) | $ | (567,380) | ||||||||||
Net premiums written – Other (predominantly Europe) | 39,268 | 35,530 | ||||||||||||
Net premiums written – Total | $ | 28,432 | $ | (531,850) | ||||||||||
Net premiums earned – North America | $ | (10,207) | $ | 363,498 | ||||||||||
Net premiums earned – Other (predominantly Europe) | 116,288 | 84,264 | ||||||||||||
Net premiums earned – Total | $ | 106,081 | $ | 447,762 | ||||||||||
F-20
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
3. Segment Information (continued)
The following tables set forth financial information relating to net premiums written by major line of business and reportable segment for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net premiums written | Total | % of Total | Total | % of Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Diversified Reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
International | $ | 37,294 | 131.2 | % | $ | 49,193 | (9.3) | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Other | (36) | (0.1) | % | (42) | — | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total Diversified Reinsurance | 37,258 | 131.1 | % | 49,151 | (9.3) | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
AmTrust Reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Small Commercial Business | (11,515) | (40.5) | % | (324,311) | 61.0 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Specialty Program | (19) | (0.1) | % | (25,869) | 4.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Specialty Risk and Extended Warranty | 2,708 | 9.5 | % | (230,821) | 43.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total AmTrust Reinsurance | (8,826) | (31.1) | % | (581,001) | 109.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total Net Premiums Written | $ | 28,432 | 100.0 | % | $ | (531,850) | 100.0 | % |
The following tables set forth financial information relating to net premiums earned by major line of business and reportable segment for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net premiums earned | Total | % of Total | Total | % of Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Diversified Reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
International | $ | 47,883 | 45.1 | % | $ | 83,733 | 18.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Other | (36) | — | % | (42) | — | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total Diversified Reinsurance | 47,847 | 45.1 | % | 83,691 | 18.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
AmTrust Reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Small Commercial Business | (10,938) | (10.3) | % | 91,723 | 20.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Specialty Program | 33 | — | % | 138,380 | 30.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Specialty Risk and Extended Warranty | 69,139 | 65.2 | % | 133,968 | 29.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total AmTrust Reinsurance | 58,234 | 54.9 | % | 364,071 | 81.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total Net Premiums Earned | $ | 106,081 | 100.0 | % | $ | 447,762 | 100.0 | % |
F-21
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
4. Investments
As discussed in Note 2 — Significant Accounting Policies, the Company holds: (i) AFS portfolios of fixed maturity and short-term investments, carried at fair value; (ii) other investments, of which certain investments are carried at fair value and investments in direct lending entities are carried at cost less impairment; (iii) equity method investments; and (iv) funds held - directly managed.
a) Fixed Maturities
The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, and fair value of fixed maturities at December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
December 31, 2020 | Original or amortized cost | Gross unrealized gains | Gross unrealized losses | Fair value | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Fixed maturities: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. treasury bonds | $ | 94,468 | $ | 34 | $ | — | $ | 94,502 | ||||||||||||||||||
U.S. agency bonds – mortgage-backed | 272,124 | 9,439 | (126) | 281,437 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-U.S. government and supranational bonds | 8,641 | 1,067 | — | 9,708 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset-backed securities | 184,227 | 1,611 | (406) | 185,432 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate bonds | 604,463 | 40,904 | (3,035) | 642,332 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total fixed maturity investments | $ | 1,163,923 | $ | 53,055 | $ | (3,567) | $ | 1,213,411 |
December 31, 2019 | Original or amortized cost | Gross unrealized gains | Gross unrealized losses | Fair value | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Fixed maturities: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. treasury bonds | $ | 94,921 | $ | 704 | $ | — | $ | 95,625 | ||||||||||||||||||
U.S. agency bonds – mortgage-backed | 533,296 | 6,717 | (1,291) | 538,722 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-U.S. government and supranational bonds | 11,796 | 294 | (91) | 11,999 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset-backed securities | 187,881 | 821 | (532) | 188,170 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate bonds | 981,441 | 31,140 | (15,725) | 996,856 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Municipal bonds | 4,091 | 55 | — | 4,146 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total fixed maturity investments | $ | 1,813,426 | $ | 39,731 | $ | (17,639) | $ | 1,835,518 |
The contractual maturities of our fixed maturities are shown in the table below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.
Fixed maturities | ||||||||||||||
December 31, 2020 | Amortized cost | Fair value | ||||||||||||
Maturity | ||||||||||||||
Due in one year or less | $ | 100,916 | $ | 101,661 | ||||||||||
Due after one year through five years | 520,007 | 550,468 | ||||||||||||
Due after five years through ten years | 86,649 | 94,413 | ||||||||||||
707,572 | 746,542 | |||||||||||||
U.S. agency bonds – mortgage-backed | 272,124 | 281,437 | ||||||||||||
Asset-backed securities | 184,227 | 185,432 | ||||||||||||
Total fixed maturities | $ | 1,163,923 | $ | 1,213,411 |
F-22
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
4. Investments (continued)
The following tables summarize fixed maturities in an unrealized loss position and the aggregate fair value and gross unrealized loss by length of time the security has continuously been in an unrealized loss position:
Less than 12 Months | 12 Months or More | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2020 | Fair value | Unrealized losses | Fair value | Unrealized losses | Fair value | Unrealized losses | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. agency bonds – mortgage-backed | $ | 19,360 | $ | (85) | $ | 5,646 | $ | (41) | $ | 25,006 | $ | (126) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset-backed securities | 13,371 | (217) | 31,052 | (189) | 44,423 | (406) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate bonds | 31,839 | (890) | 65,296 | (2,145) | 97,135 | (3,035) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total temporarily impaired fixed maturities | $ | 64,570 | $ | (1,192) | $ | 101,994 | $ | (2,375) | $ | 166,564 | $ | (3,567) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
At December 31, 2020, there were 53 securities in an unrealized loss position with a fair value of $166,564 and unrealized losses of $3,567. Of these securities in an unrealized loss position, there were 35 securities in our portfolio that have been in an unrealized loss position for twelve months or greater with a fair value of $101,994 and unrealized losses of $2,375.
Less than 12 Months | 12 Months or More | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2019 | Fair value | Unrealized losses | Fair value | Unrealized losses | Fair value | Unrealized losses | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. agency bonds – mortgage-backed | $ | 31,401 | $ | (257) | $ | 85,008 | $ | (1,034) | $ | 116,409 | $ | (1,291) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-U.S. government and supranational bonds | 1,824 | (22) | 701 | (69) | 2,525 | (91) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset-backed securities | 60,863 | (240) | 17,594 | (292) | 78,457 | (532) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate bonds | 29,692 | (305) | 159,216 | (15,420) | 188,908 | (15,725) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total temporarily impaired fixed maturities | $ | 123,780 | $ | (824) | $ | 262,519 | $ | (16,815) | $ | 386,299 | $ | (17,639) |
At December 31, 2019, there were 104 securities in an unrealized loss position with a fair value of $386,299 and unrealized losses of $17,639. Of these securities in an unrealized loss position, there were 67 securities in our portfolio that have been in an unrealized loss position for twelve months or greater with a fair value of $262,519 and unrealized losses of $16,815.
OTTI
The Company performs quarterly reviews of its fixed maturities in order to determine whether declines in fair value below the amortized cost basis were considered other-than-temporary in accordance with applicable guidance. At December 31, 2020, we determined that unrealized losses on fixed maturities were primarily due to changes in interest rates as well as the impact of foreign exchange rate changes on certain foreign currency denominated fixed maturities since their date of purchase. All fixed maturity securities continue to pay the expected coupon payments under the contractual terms of the securities. Any credit-related impairment related to fixed maturity securities that the Company does not plan to sell and for which the Company is not more likely than not to be required to sell is recognized in net earnings, with the non-credit related impairment recognized in comprehensive earnings.
Based on the Company's analysis, our fixed maturity portfolio is of high credit quality and we believe the amortized cost basis of the securities will be ultimately recovered. The Company continually monitors the credit quality of the fixed maturity investments to assess if it is probable that the contractual or estimated cash flows in the form of principal and interest will be received. For the year ended December 31, 2020, $2,468 of OTTI charges were recognized in earnings on four fixed maturity securities, compared to $165 of OTTI charges in earnings on one fixed maturity security for the year ended December 31, 2019.
F-23
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
4. Investments (continued)
The following tables summarize the credit ratings of our fixed maturity securities as at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, 2020 | Amortized cost | Fair value | % of Total fair value | |||||||||||||||||
U.S. treasury bonds | $ | 94,468 | $ | 94,502 | 7.8 | % | ||||||||||||||
U.S. agency bonds | 272,124 | 281,437 | 23.2 | % | ||||||||||||||||
AAA | 96,453 | 97,515 | 8.0 | % | ||||||||||||||||
AA+, AA, AA- | 114,751 | 118,534 | 9.8 | % | ||||||||||||||||
A+, A, A- | 265,725 | 281,364 | 23.2 | % | ||||||||||||||||
BBB+, BBB, BBB- | 274,406 | 292,493 | 24.1 | % | ||||||||||||||||
BB+ or lower | 45,996 | 47,566 | 3.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Total fixed maturities(1) | $ | 1,163,923 | $ | 1,213,411 | 100.0 | % |
December 31, 2019 | Amortized cost | Fair value | % of Total fair value | |||||||||||||||||
U.S. treasury bonds | $ | 94,921 | $ | 95,625 | 5.2 | % | ||||||||||||||
U.S. agency bonds | 533,296 | 538,722 | 29.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||
AAA | 99,212 | 99,542 | 5.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||
AA+, AA, AA- | 101,491 | 101,467 | 5.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||
A+, A, A- | 540,002 | 549,479 | 29.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||
BBB+, BBB, BBB- | 438,731 | 445,202 | 24.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||
BB+ or lower | 5,773 | 5,481 | 0.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Total fixed maturities(1) | $ | 1,813,426 | $ | 1,835,518 | 100.0 | % |
(1) Based on Standard & Poor’s ("S&P"), or equivalent, ratings
b) Other Investments and Equity Method Investments
Other investments
The table below shows the composition of the Company's other investments as at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Carrying Value | % of Total | Carrying Value | % of Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Private equity investments | $ | 24,595 | 36.7 | % | $ | — | — | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Investment in limited partnerships | 3,044 | 4.5 | % | 3,077 | 9.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Other investments | 2,800 | 4.2 | % | 1,800 | 5.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total other investments at fair value | 30,439 | 45.4 | % | 4,877 | 15.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Investments in direct lending entities (at cost) | 36,571 | 54.6 | % | 26,871 | 84.6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total other investments | $ | 67,010 | 100.0 | % | $ | 31,748 | 100.0 | % |
The Company's investments in direct lending entities of $36,571 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $26,871) are carried at cost less impairment, if any, with any indication of impairment recognized in income when determined. Please see "Note 5(d) - Fair Value Measurements" for additional information regarding this investment.
Certain of our other investments are subject to restrictions on redemptions and sales that are determined by the governing documents, which limits our ability to liquidate those investments. These restrictions may include lock-ups, redemption gates, restricted share classes, restrictions on the frequency of redemption and notice periods. A gate is the ability to deny or delay a redemption request. Certain other investments may not have any restrictions governing their sale, but there is no active market and no guarantee that we will be able to execute a sale in a timely manner. In addition, even if certain other investments are not eligible for redemption or sales are restricted, we may still receive income distributions from those other investments.
F-24
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
4. Investments (continued)
The Company's remaining unfunded commitments on other investments as at December 31, 2020 and 2019 was as follows:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fair Value | % of Total | Fair Value | % of Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Private equity investments | $ | 43,164 | 68.2 | % | $ | — | — | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Investments in direct lending entities | 19,823 | 31.3 | % | 767 | 69.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Investment in limited partnerships | 326 | 0.5 | % | 340 | 30.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total unfunded commitments on other investments | $ | 63,313 | 100.0 | % | $ | 1,107 | 100.0 | % |
Equity Method Investments
Certain of the Company's investments include an interest in variable interest entities ("VIE's") which are not consolidated limited partnerships, as it has been determined that the Company is not the primary beneficiary, however there is limited influence and accordingly these investments are reported under the equity method of accounting. The table below shows the composition of the Company's equity method investments as at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Carrying Value | % of Total | Carrying Value | % of Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Hedge fund investments | $ | 29,435 | 73.8 | % | $ | — | — | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Private equity investments | 10,451 | 26.2 | % | — | — | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total equity method investments | $ | 39,886 | 100.0 | % | $ | — | — | % |
c) Net Investment Income
Net investment income was derived from the following sources for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Fixed maturities | $ | 36,258 | $ | 83,839 | ||||||||||
Income on funds withheld | 15,942 | 20,307 | ||||||||||||
Interest income from loan to related party | 3,996 | 6,983 | ||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents and other investments | 1,402 | 2,931 | ||||||||||||
57,598 | 114,060 | |||||||||||||
Interest expense paid on LPT/ADC Agreement and Commutation Payment(1) | — | (13,596) | ||||||||||||
Investment expenses | (2,837) | (2,627) | ||||||||||||
Net investment income | $ | 54,761 | $ | 97,837 |
(1) Interest expense paid on LPT/ADC Agreement and Commutation Payment includes: a) Maiden Reinsurance paid Enstar approximately $7,261 in interest related to the LPT/ADC Agreement premium, calculated at the rate of 2.64% per annum from January 1, 2019 through August 12, 2019; and b) Maiden Reinsurance paid AII approximately $6,335 in interest related to the Commutation Payment premium, calculated at the rate of 3.30% per annum from January 1, 2019 through August 12, 2019. Settlement of funding for the LPT/ADC Agreement and Commutation Payment occurred on August 12, 2019 by Maiden Reinsurance's transfer of cash and invested assets as described in "Note 1. Organization".
d) Net Realized Gains (Losses) on Investment
Realized gains or losses on the sale of investments are determined on the basis of the first in first out cost method. The following tables provide an analysis of net realized gains (losses) on investment included in the Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, 2020 | Gross gains | Gross losses | Net | |||||||||||||||||
Fixed maturities | $ | 24,101 | $ | (1) | $ | 24,100 | ||||||||||||||
Other investments | 392 | (19) | 373 | |||||||||||||||||
Net realized gains (losses) on investment | $ | 24,493 | $ | (20) | $ | 24,473 |
F-25
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
4. Investments (continued)
For the Year Ended December 31, 2019 | Gross gains | Gross losses | Net | |||||||||||||||||
Fixed maturities | $ | 43,657 | $ | (15,899) | $ | 27,758 | ||||||||||||||
Other investments | 102 | — | 102 | |||||||||||||||||
Net realized gains (losses) on investment | $ | 43,759 | $ | (15,899) | $ | 27,860 |
Realized gains and losses from other investments detailed in the tables above includes both sales of securities and unrealized gains and losses from fair value changes. The portion of unrealized gains (losses) recognized within net income (loss) for other investments still held at the end of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, were as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Net gains recognized for other investments during the period | $ | 373 | $ | 102 | ||||||||||
Less: Net gains recognized for other investments divested during the period | (373) | (591) | ||||||||||||
Unrealized losses recognized for other investments still held at reporting date | $ | — | $ | (489) |
Proceeds from sales of fixed maturities were $505,396 and $1,032,438 for the years ended December 31, 2020, and 2019, respectively.
Net unrealized gains on fixed maturity investments were as follows at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Fixed maturities | $ | 49,488 | $ | 22,092 | ||||||||||
Deferred income tax | (131) | (96) | ||||||||||||
Net unrealized gains, net of deferred income tax | $ | 49,357 | $ | 21,996 | ||||||||||
Change, net of deferred income tax | $ | 27,361 | $ | 81,758 |
e) Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents and Investments
The Company is required to provide collateral for its reinsurance liabilities under various reinsurance agreements and utilizes trust accounts to collateralize business with reinsurance counterparties. The assets in trust as collateral are mostly cash and highly rated fixed maturities. The fair values of these restricted assets were as follows at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Restricted cash – third party agreements | $ | 20,547 | $ | 21,447 | ||||||||||
Restricted cash – related party agreements | 41,239 | 37,634 | ||||||||||||
Total restricted cash | 61,786 | 59,081 | ||||||||||||
Restricted investments – in trust for third party agreements at fair value (amortized cost: 2020 – $63,253; 2019 – $65,539) | 63,281 | 65,678 | ||||||||||||
Restricted investments – in trust for related party agreements at fair value (amortized cost: 2020 – $913,466; 2019 – $1,366,873) | 954,988 | 1,382,994 | ||||||||||||
Total restricted investments | 1,018,269 | 1,448,672 | ||||||||||||
Total restricted cash and investments | $ | 1,080,055 | $ | 1,507,753 |
F-26
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
5. Fair Value Measurements
a) Fair Values of Financial Instruments measured at fair value
ASC 825, "Disclosure About Fair Value of Financial Instruments", requires all entities to disclose the fair value of their financial instruments for both assets and liabilities recognized and not recognized within the balance sheet, and for which it is practicable to estimate fair value. The following describes the valuation techniques used by the Company to determine the fair value of financial instruments measured at fair value held at December 31, 2020 and 2019.
U.S. government and U.S. agency — Bonds issued by the U.S. Treasury, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, Government National Mortgage Association and the Federal National Mortgage Association. The fair values of U.S. treasury bonds are based on quoted market prices in active markets, and are included in the Level 1 fair value hierarchy. The Company believes the market for U.S. treasury bonds is an actively traded market given the high level of daily trading volume. The fair values of U.S. agency bonds are determined using the credit spread above the risk-free yield curve. As the yields for the risk-free yield curve and the credit spreads for these securities are observable market inputs, the fair values of U.S. agency bonds are included in the Level 2 fair value hierarchy.
Non-U.S. government and supranational bonds — These securities are generally priced by independent pricing services. The Pricing Service may use current market trades for securities with similar quality, maturity and coupon attributes. If no such trades are available, the Pricing Service typically uses analytical models which may incorporate credit spreads, interest rate data and market/sector news. As the significant inputs used to price non-U.S. government and supranational bonds are observable market inputs, the fair values are included in the Level 2 fair value hierarchy.
Asset-backed securities — These securities comprise CMBS and CLO originated by a variety of financial institutions that on acquisition are rated BBB-/Baa3 or higher. These securities are priced by independent pricing services. The pricing provider applies dealer quotes and other available trade information, prepayment speeds, yield curves and credit spreads to the valuation. As the significant inputs used to price the CMBS and CLO are observable market inputs, the fair values are included in the Level 2 fair value hierarchy.
Corporate and municipal bonds — Bonds issued by corporations, U.S. state and municipality entities or agencies. that on acquisition are rated BBB-/Baa3 or higher. These securities are generally priced by independent pricing services. The credit spreads are sourced from broker/dealers, trade prices and the new issue market. Where pricing is unavailable from pricing services, custodian pricing or non-binding quotes are obtained from broker-dealers to estimate fair values. As the significant inputs used to price corporate and municipal bonds are observable market inputs, the fair values are included in the Level 2 fair value hierarchy.
Other investments — Includes unquoted investments comprised of private equity investments, limited partnerships, and other investments.
•Private equity investments: These are privately held equity investments in common and preferred stock. The fair values of these investments are estimated using : 1) recent private market transactions and are included under Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy due to unobservable market data used for valuation and 2) most recently available NAV as advised by the external fund manager or third-party administrator and, therefore are measured using the NAV as a practical expedient.
•Investment in limited partnerships: The investments in limited partnerships are primarily comprised of investments in certain private equity funds. The fair value is estimated based on the most recently available NAV as advised by the external fund manager or third-party administrator. The fair values of these investments are therefore measured using the NAV as a practical expedient.
•Other investments: The other investments are comprised of investments in insurtech and other insurance focused companies. The fair value of the start-up insurance entities are determined using recent private market transactions. The fair value of these investments are included in the Level 3 fair value hierarchy due to unobservable market data used for valuation.
b) Fair Value Hierarchy
The Company’s estimates of fair value for its financial assets and financial liabilities are based on the framework established in ASC 820. The framework is based on the inputs used in the valuation process and gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets and requires that observable inputs be used in the valuation methodology whenever available. In determining the level of the hierarchy in which the estimate is disclosed, the highest priority is given to unadjusted quoted prices in active trading markets and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs that reflect significant market assumptions.
F-27
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
5. Fair Value Measurements (continued)
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company classified its financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis in the following valuation hierarchy:
December 31, 2020 | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Fair Value Based on NAV Practical Expedient | Total Fair Value | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fixed maturities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. treasury bonds | $ | 94,502 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 94,502 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. agency bonds – mortgage-backed | — | 281,437 | — | — | 281,437 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-U.S. government and supranational bonds | — | 9,708 | — | — | 9,708 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset-backed securities | — | 185,432 | — | — | 185,432 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate bonds | — | 642,332 | — | — | 642,332 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other investments | — | — | 26,094 | 4,345 | 30,439 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 94,502 | $ | 1,118,909 | $ | 26,094 | $ | 4,345 | $ | 1,243,850 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
As a percentage of total assets | 3.2 | % | 37.9 | % | 0.9 | % | 0.1 | % | 42.1 | % |
December 31, 2019 | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Fair Value Based on NAV Practical Expedient | Total Fair Value | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fixed maturities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. treasury bonds | $ | 95,625 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 95,625 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. agency bonds – mortgage-backed | — | 538,722 | — | — | 538,722 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-U.S. government and supranational bonds | — | 11,999 | — | — | 11,999 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset-backed securities | — | 188,170 | — | — | 188,170 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Corporate bonds | — | 996,856 | — | — | 996,856 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Municipal bonds | — | 4,146 | — | — | 4,146 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other investments | — | — | 1,800 | 3,077 | 4,877 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 95,625 | $ | 1,739,893 | $ | 1,800 | $ | 3,077 | $ | 1,840,395 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
As a percentage of total assets | 2.7 | % | 48.8 | % | 0.1 | % | 0.1 | % | 51.7 | % |
The Company utilizes the Pricing Service to assist in determining the fair value of its investments; however, management is ultimately responsible for all fair values presented in the Company’s financial statements. This includes responsibility for monitoring the fair value process, ensuring objective and reliable valuation practices, and pricing of assets and liabilities and use of pricing sources. The Company analyzes and reviews the information and prices received from the Pricing Service to ensure that the prices provided represent a reasonable estimate of fair value.
The Pricing Service was utilized to estimate fair value measurements for 99.1% and 99.7% of our fixed maturities at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Pricing Service utilizes market quotations for fixed maturity securities that have quoted market prices in active markets. Since fixed maturities other than U.S. treasury bonds generally do not trade actively on a daily basis, the Pricing Service prepares estimates of fair value measurements using relevant market data, benchmark curves, sector groupings and matrix pricing and these have been classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, approximately 0.9% and 0.3%, respectively, of the Level 2 fixed maturities are valued using the market approach. At December 31, 2020, two securities or $10,809 (2019 - one security or $5,481) of fixed maturities classified as Level 2 was priced using a quotation from a broker and/or custodian as opposed to the Pricing Service due to lack of information available. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company has not adjusted any pricing provided to it based on the review performed by its investment managers.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company transferred its investment in direct lending entities out of Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy due to a change in accounting policy to report these investments at cost less any impairment instead of fair market value. There were no other transfers to or from Level 3 during the respective periods represented in these Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-28
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
5. Fair Value Measurements (continued)
c) Level 3 Financial Instruments
At December 31, 2020, the Company has private equity and other investments of $26,094 (2019 - $1,800) which includes privately held equity investments in common and preferred stock. The fair values of these investments are estimated using recent private market transactions and are included under Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy due to unobservable market data used for valuation.
d) Financial Instruments Disclosed, But Not Carried, at Fair Value
The fair value of financial instruments accounting guidance also applies to financial instruments disclosed, but not carried at fair value, except for certain financial instruments related to insurance contracts.
At December 31, 2020, the carrying values of cash and cash equivalents (including restricted amounts), accrued investment income, reinsurance balances receivable, loan to related party and certain other assets and liabilities approximate their fair values due to the inherent short duration. As these financial instruments are not actively traded, their fair values are classified as Level 2.
The investments made by direct lending entities are carried at cost less impairment, if any, which approximates fair value. This fair value estimates are not based on observable market data and, as a result, have been categorized as Level 3.
The fair values of the Senior Notes are based on indicative market pricing obtained from a third-party pricing service which uses observable market inputs, and therefore, their fair values are classified as Level 2.
The following table presents the respective carrying value and fair value for the Senior Notes as at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, 2020 | December 31, 2019 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Carrying Value | Fair Value | Carrying Value | Fair Value | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Senior Notes - MHLA – 6.625% | $ | 110,000 | $ | 90,772 | $ | 110,000 | $ | 86,460 | ||||||||||||||||||
Senior Notes - MHNC – 7.75% | 152,500 | 132,126 | 152,500 | 137,067 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Senior Notes | $ | 262,500 | $ | 222,898 | $ | 262,500 | $ | 223,527 |
F-29
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
6. Discontinued Operations
Sale of U.S. Treaty Reinsurance operations
On December 27, 2018, the Company completed its sale agreement ("U.S. Sale Agreement") with Enstar Holdings (US) LLC ("Enstar U.S."), pursuant to which Maiden NA sold Maiden US to Enstar U.S. for gross consideration of $286,375, which was subject to certain post-closing adjustments. In conjunction with the completion of the Settlement and Commutation Agreement, on July 31, 2019, Maiden NA and Enstar U.S. waived the post-closing adjustments set forth in the U.S. Sale Agreement and terminated the $25,000 excess of loss reinsurance agreement that Maiden Reinsurance had provided to Enstar in relation to the Maiden US loss reserves acquired by Enstar. As a result of these agreements, Maiden recorded a net additional loss from discontinued operations of $16,714 for the year ended December 31, 2019.
The following table summarizes the major classes of items constituting the net loss from discontinued operations presented on the Consolidated Statements of Income for the year ended December 31, 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2019 | |||||||
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses | $ | 6,363 | ||||||
General and administrative expenses | (2,392) | |||||||
Income from discontinued operations before income tax | 3,971 | |||||||
Loss on disposal of discontinued operations | (25,474) | |||||||
Income tax expense | (1,038) | |||||||
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax | $ | (22,541) |
As described above, as a result of the Settlement and Commutation Agreement entered into by Maiden and Enstar on July 31, 2019, Maiden recorded an additional loss from discontinued operations of $16,714 for the year ended December 31, 2019, which is included in the net loss from discontinued operations of $22,541 in the table above.
F-30
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
7. Long-Term Debt
Senior Notes
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, both Maiden Holdings and its wholly owned subsidiary, Maiden NA, had outstanding publicly-traded senior notes which were issued in 2016 ("2016 Senior Notes") and 2013 ("2013 Senior Notes"), respectively (collectively "Senior Notes"). The 2013 Senior Notes issued by Maiden NA are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Maiden Holdings. The Senior Notes are unsecured and unsubordinated obligations of the Company.
The following tables detail the issuances outstanding at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, 2020 | 2016 Senior Notes | 2013 Senior Notes | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Principal amount | $ | 110,000 | $ | 152,500 | $ | 262,500 | ||||||||||||||
Less: unamortized issuance costs | 3,516 | 3,858 | 7,374 | |||||||||||||||||
Carrying value | $ | 106,484 | $ | 148,642 | $ | 255,126 | ||||||||||||||
December 31, 2019 | 2016 Senior Notes | 2013 Senior Notes | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Principal amount | $ | 110,000 | $ | 152,500 | $ | 262,500 | ||||||||||||||
Less: unamortized issuance costs | 3,565 | 4,027 | 7,592 | |||||||||||||||||
Carrying value | $ | 106,435 | $ | 148,473 | $ | 254,908 | ||||||||||||||
Other details: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Original debt issuance costs | $ | 3,715 | $ | 5,054 | ||||||||||||||||
Maturity date | June 14, 2046 | December 1, 2043 | ||||||||||||||||||
Earliest redeemable date (for cash) | June 14, 2021 | December 1, 2018 | ||||||||||||||||||
Coupon rate | 6.625 | % | 7.75 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Effective interest rate | 7.07 | % | 8.04 | % |
The interest expense incurred on the Senior Notes for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $19,106 (2019 - $19,106), of which $1,342 was accrued at both December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The issuance costs related to the Senior Notes were capitalized and are being amortized over the effective life of the Senior Notes. The amortization expense was $218 for the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - $214).
Under the terms of the 2013 Senior Notes, the 2013 Senior Notes can be redeemed, in whole or in part, at Maiden NA's option at any time and from time to time, until maturity at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed plus accrued but unpaid interest on the principal amount being redeemed to, but not including, the redemption date. Maiden NA is required to give at least thirty days and not more than sixty days' notice prior to the redemption date.
F-31
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
8. Reinsurance
The Company uses reinsurance and retrocessional agreements ("ceded reinsurance") to mitigate volatility, reduce its exposure to certain risks and provide capital support. Ceded reinsurance provides for the recovery of a portion of loss and LAE under certain circumstances without relieving the Company of its obligations to the policyholders. The Company remains liable to the extent that any of its reinsurers or retrocessionaires fails to meet their obligations. Loss and LAE incurred and premiums earned are reported after deduction for ceded reinsurance. In the event that one or more of our reinsurers or retrocessionaires are unable to meet their obligations under these agreements, the Company would not realize the full value of the reinsurance recoverable balances.
The effect of ceded reinsurance on net premiums written and earned and on net loss and LAE for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 was as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Premiums written | ||||||||||||||
Direct | $ | 19,550 | $ | 16,637 | ||||||||||
Assumed | 11,839 | (545,243) | ||||||||||||
Ceded | (2,957) | (3,244) | ||||||||||||
Net | $ | 28,432 | $ | (531,850) | ||||||||||
Premiums earned | ||||||||||||||
Direct | $ | 19,711 | $ | 16,118 | ||||||||||
Assumed | 89,461 | 434,559 | ||||||||||||
Ceded | (3,091) | (2,915) | ||||||||||||
Net | $ | 106,081 | $ | 447,762 | ||||||||||
Loss and LAE | ||||||||||||||
Gross loss and LAE | $ | 57,146 | $ | 453,478 | ||||||||||
Loss and LAE ceded | (15,347) | (649) | ||||||||||||
Net | $ | 41,799 | $ | 452,829 |
The Company's reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses balance as at December 31, 2020 was $592,571 (2019 - $623,422) presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company had no valuation allowance against reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses.
On December 27, 2018, Cavello Bay Reinsurance Limited ("Cavello") and Maiden Reinsurance entered into a retrocession agreement pursuant to which certain assets and liabilities associated with the U.S. treaty reinsurance business held by Maiden Reinsurance were retroceded to Cavello in exchange for a ceding commission. The reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses due from Cavello under this retrocession agreement was $67,972 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $62,699).
On July 31, 2019, Maiden Reinsurance and Cavello entered into the LPT/ADC Agreement, pursuant to which Cavello assumed the loss reserves as of December 31, 2018 associated with the AmTrust Quota Share in excess of a $2,178,535 retention up to $600,000, in exchange for a retrocession premium of $445,000. The $2,178,535 retention is subject to adjustment for paid losses subsequent to December 31, 2018. The LPT/ADC Agreement provides Maiden Reinsurance with $155,000 in adverse development cover over its carried AmTrust Quota Share loss reserves at December 31, 2018. The LPT/ADC Agreement meets the criteria for risk transfer and is thus accounted for as retroactive reinsurance. Cumulative ceded losses exceeding $445,000 are recognized as a deferred gain liability and amortized into income over the settlement period of the ceded reserves in proportion to cumulative losses collected over the estimated ultimate reinsurance recoverable. The amount of the deferral is recalculated each period based on loss payments and updated estimates. Consequently, cumulative adverse development subsequent to December 31, 2018 may result in significant losses from operations until periods when the deferred gain is recognized as a benefit to earnings. As of December 31, 2020, the reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses under the retroactive reinsurance agreement was $519,941 while the deferred gain liability was $74,941 (December 31, 2019 - $557,950 and $112,950, respectively). Amortization of the deferred gain will not occur until paid losses have exceeded the minimum retention under the LPT/ADC Agreement, which is estimated to be in 2024.
Cavello has provided collateral in the form of a letter of credit in the amount of $445,000 to AmTrust under the LPT/ADC Agreement and Cavello is subject to additional collateral funding requirements as explained in "Note 10 — Related Party Transactions". Under the terms of the LPT/ADC Agreement, the covered losses associated with the Commutation and Release Agreement with AmTrust are eligible to be covered but recoverable only when such losses are paid or settled by AII or its affiliates, provided such losses and other related amounts shall not exceed $312,786. Cavello's parent company, Enstar, has credit ratings of BBB from both Standard & Poor's and Fitch Ratings at December 31, 2020.
Settlement of funding for the LPT/ADC Agreement occurred on August 12, 2019 and Maiden Reinsurance paid Enstar $7,261 in interest related to the LPT/ADC Agreement premium, calculated at the rate of 2.64% per annum from January 1, 2019 through August 12, 2019.
F-32
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses
General
The Company uses both historical experience and industry-wide loss development factors to provide a reasonable basis for estimating future losses. In the future, certain events may be beyond the control of management, such as changes in law, judicial interpretations of law, and rates of inflation, which may favorably or unfavorably impact the ultimate settlement of the Company’s loss and LAE reserves.
The anticipated effect of inflation is implicitly considered when estimating liabilities for loss and LAE. While anticipated changes in claim costs due to inflation are considered in estimating the ultimate claim costs, changes in the average severity of claims are caused by a number of factors that vary with the individual type of policy written. Ultimate losses are projected based on historical trends adjusted for implemented changes in underwriting standards, claims handling, policy provisions, and general economic trends. Those anticipated trends are monitored based on actual development and are modified if necessary.
The reserving process begins with the collection and analysis of paid losses and incurred claims data for each of the Company's contracts. While reserves are mostly reviewed on a contract by contract basis, paid loss and incurred claims data is also aggregated into reserving segments. The segmental data is disaggregated by reserving class and further disaggregated by either accident year (i.e. the year in which the loss event occurred) or by underwriting year (i.e. the year in which the contract generating the premium and losses incepted). In cases where the Company uses underwriting year information, reserves are subsequently allocated to the respective accident year. The reserve for loss and LAE comprises:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Reserve for reported loss and LAE | $ | 998,691 | $ | 1,271,358 | ||||||||||
Reserve for losses incurred but not reported ("IBNR") | 894,608 | 1,168,549 | ||||||||||||
Reserve for loss and LAE | $ | 1,893,299 | $ | 2,439,907 |
The following table represents a reconciliation of the beginning and ending gross and net loss and LAE reserves:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Gross loss and LAE reserves, January 1 | $ | 2,439,907 | $ | 3,126,134 | ||||||||||
Less: reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses, January 1 | 623,422 | 71,901 | ||||||||||||
Net loss and LAE reserves, January 1 | 1,816,485 | 3,054,233 | ||||||||||||
Net incurred losses related to: | ||||||||||||||
Current year | 58,332 | 328,194 | ||||||||||||
Prior years | (16,533) | 124,635 | ||||||||||||
41,799 | 452,829 | |||||||||||||
Net paid losses related to: | ||||||||||||||
Current year | (22,405) | (101,654) | ||||||||||||
Prior years | (608,324) | (1,025,381) | ||||||||||||
(630,729) | (1,127,035) | |||||||||||||
Retroactive reinsurance adjustment | 38,009 | (557,950) | ||||||||||||
Effect of foreign exchange rate movements | 35,164 | (5,592) | ||||||||||||
Net loss and LAE reserves, December 31 | 1,300,728 | 1,816,485 | ||||||||||||
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses, December 31 | 592,571 | 623,422 | ||||||||||||
Gross loss and LAE reserves, December 31 | $ | 1,893,299 | $ | 2,439,907 |
Actuarial Methods Used to Estimate Loss and LAE Reserves
The Company utilizes a variety of standard actuarial methods in its analysis of loss reserves. The selections from these various methods are based on the loss development characteristics of the specific line of business and significant actuarial judgment. The actuarial methods utilized include:
The Expected Loss Ratio ("ELR") method is a technique that is multiplicative and applies an expected loss ratio to premium earned to yield the estimated ultimate losses. The ELR assumption is generally derived from pricing information and historical experience of the business. This method is frequently used for the purpose of stability in the early valuations of an underwriting year with large and uncertain loss development factors. This technique does not take into account actual loss emergence for the underwriting year being projected. As an underwriting year matures and actual loss experience becomes more credible, other methods may be applied in determining the estimated ultimate losses.
F-33
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
The Loss Development ("LD") method is a reserving method in which ultimate losses are estimated by applying a loss development factor to actual reported (or paid) loss experience. This method fully utilizes actual experience. Multiplication of underwriting year actual reported (or paid) losses by its respective development factor produces the estimated ultimate losses. The LD method is based upon the assumption that the relative change in a given underwriting year’s losses from one evaluation point to the next is similar to the relative change in prior underwriting years’ losses at similar evaluation points. In addition, this method is based on the assumption that the reserving and payment patterns as well as the claim handling procedures have not changed substantially over time. In the case where changes to the payment patterns or the claim handling procedures are identified, historical losses are adjusted to the current basis, and development factors are selected based on the relative change of the adjusted losses (the Berquist Sherman method is one example of this approach). When a company has a sufficiently reliable loss development history, a development pattern based on the company’s historical indications may be used to develop losses to ultimate values.
The Bornhuetter-Ferguson ("BF") reserving technique is used for long-tailed or lower frequency, more volatile lines. It is also useful in situations where the reported loss experience is relatively immature and/or lacks sufficient credibility for the application of methods that are more heavily reliant on emerged experience. The BF method is an additive IBNR method that combines the ELR and LD techniques by splitting the expected loss into two pieces - expected reported (or paid) losses and expected unreported (or unpaid) losses. Expected unreported (unpaid) losses, estimated by the use of loss development factors, are added to the current actual reported (or paid) losses to produce an estimate of ultimate losses by underwriting year. The BF method introduces an element of stability that moderates the impact of inconsistent changes in paid and reported losses.
The average frequency and severity ("FS") reserving technique is used for lines where claim count is available, and the estimate of loss development factors is more difficult due to volatility in historical data. The available data for such lines is usually more volatile in the estimation of future losses using the LD and BF reserving methods. The FS method uses historical data to estimate the average number of ultimate claims (frequency) and the average costs of closed claims (severity). The estimate of ultimate losses by underwriting year is the result of the multiplication of the ultimate number of claims and the average cost of a claim.
With the guidance of the methods above, actuarial judgment is applied in the determination of ultimate losses. In general, the Company’s segments have varying levels of seasoning with which the Company has direct experience and as a result, differing methods are utilized to estimate loss and LAE reserves in each segment.
In the Diversified Reinsurance segment, the Company utilizes the ELR approach at the onset of reserving an account, the BF method for business with less but maturing loss experience, and as the experience matures the LD method. For proportional or pro-rata business, the Company typically relies heavily on the actual historical contract experience to estimate reserving parameters such as loss development factors, whereas for excess of loss business there will be more usage of industry and/or Company benchmark assumptions.
The Company underwrote the AmTrust Reinsurance segment from July 1, 2007 until the Final AmTrust QS Terminations effective January 1, 2019. A large proportion of the exposure in the underlying book of business has significant seasoning, and allows for a significant amount of credibility in using parameters derived from historical experience to calculate reserve estimates. Some segments of the book are a result of recent acquisitions or newer markets for AmTrust. These segments require a greater level of assumptions and professional judgment in deriving ultimate losses, which inherently implies a wider range of reasonable estimates. As a result, the Company has tended to rely on a weighted approach which primarily employs the LD method for aspects of the segment with ample historical data, while also considering the ELR or BF method for exposure resulting from recent acquisitions, or a relative business with a more limited level of experience. The FS method is also considered for segments of the AmTrust Reinsurance book of business for which claim count information is available, particularly for the Hospital Liability exposure. Additional data detailing items such as class of business, state, claim counts, frequency and severity is available, further enhancing the reserve analysis.
Prior Year Development
Prior period development arises from changes to loss estimates recognized in the current year that relate to loss reserves established in previous calendar years. The favorable or unfavorable development reflects changes in management's best estimate of the ultimate losses under the relevant reinsurance policies after considerable review of changes in actuarial assessments. The following table summarizes the favorable (adverse) prior period development experienced in each of our reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended | Diversified Reinsurance | AmTrust Reinsurance | Other | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2020 | $ | 1,295 | $ | 15,238 | $ | — | $ | 16,533 | ||||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2019 | 1,488 | (113,722) | (312) | (112,546) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
F-34
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
During 2020, the Company decreased incurred losses for 2019 and prior accident years by $16,533 or 0.9% of prior year net loss and LAE reserves. This was in contrast to increased incurred losses for 2018 and prior accident years of $124,635 or 4.1% during 2019. The net favorable prior year loss development of $16,533 for the year ended December 31, 2020 was primarily driven by $15,238 of favorable loss development in the AmTrust Reinsurance segment combined with net favorable loss development of $1,295 in the Diversified Reinsurance segment.
In addition, some premium for prior accident years is reported to the Company in subsequent periods which leads to increases in the provision for loss and LAE in prior years during current periods, that is not considered adverse development. During 2020, incurred losses in the AmTrust segment were unaffected by changes in premiums for prior accident years. For 2019, incurred losses of $21,710 were associated with earned premiums of $36,739 that were reported during 2019 attributable to prior accident years in the AmTrust segment.
In the Diversified Reinsurance segment, net favorable prior year loss development was $1,295 for the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - $1,488) primarily due to favorable development in facultative reinsurance run-off lines partly offset by adverse development in European Capital Solutions. The favorable prior year development of $1,488 for the year ended December 31, 2019 was primarily due to favorable reserve development in German Auto Programs as well as facultative reinsurance run-off lines.
In the AmTrust Reinsurance segment, net favorable prior year development was $15,238 for the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - adverse $113,722). This was primarily due to favorable development of $39,016 in Workers Compensation and favorable development of $12,889 in Other lines, partly offset by adverse development of $17,650 in Commercial Auto Liability and adverse development of 18,334 in General Liability.
Net adverse prior year development of $113,722 for the year ended December 31, 2019 was driven by Commercial Auto Liability of $118,462 and General Liability of $116,746 primarily from accident years 2014 to 2018, partly offset by favorable development in Workers Compensation of $113,003, gross of the increase in loss from prior year premium recognized during the current period, primarily from accident years 2016 to 2018. The adverse development for the year ended December 31, 2019 included $9,286 recognized from application of the $40,500 loss corridor cap on AmTrust program business. Please see "Note 10 — Related Party Transactions" for details of the loss corridor.
Retroactive reinsurance adjustment of $38,009 represents the decrease in the reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses under the LPT/ADC Agreement with Cavello that was recognized in the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - $557,950 increase) in the reconciliation of our beginning and ending gross and net loss and LAE reserves presented above. The $38,009 adjustment includes the corresponding decrease in the deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance for favorable development both on reserves covered under the LPT/ADC Agreement of $14,304 and Workers Compensation commuted losses of $23,705 during the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - $112,950 increase in deferred gain liability). The deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance represents the cumulative adverse development under the AmTrust Quota Share covered under the LPT/ADC Agreement at December 31, 2020 and 2019. Amortization of the deferred gain will not occur until paid losses have exceeded the minimum retention under the LPT/ADC Agreement, which is estimated to be in 2024.
Under the Commutation and Release Agreement with AmTrust on July 1, 2019, Maiden Reinsurance transferred cash and invested assets of $312,786 which totals the net ceded reserves of $330,682 related to the Commuted Business as of December 31, 2018 less payments of $17,896 made by Maiden Reinsurance for the Commuted Business from January 1, 2019 through July 31, 2019. Settlement of the commutation payment occurred on August 12, 2019 and is reflected in the reconciliation of our beginning and ending gross and net loss and LAE reserves presented above under net paid losses related to prior years in 2019.
Our Other category had net adverse prior year development of $312 for the year ended December 31, 2019 due to increased reserves in the run-off of the NGHC Quota Share which was commuted in November 2019.
a)Claims Development
The following is a summary of the Company's incurred and paid loss development by accident year, net of reinsurance, from the last ten calendar years including the total reserve for losses, IBNR, plus development on reported loss and LAE for both of our reportable segments, Diversified Reinsurance and AmTrust Reinsurance, as of December 31, 2020. Information prior to 2020 is included as unaudited supplementary information. Only ten years of information has been presented as it was impractical to obtain the sufficiently detailed additional information on earlier years. The incurred and paid amounts have been translated from the local currency to U.S. dollars using the December 31, 2020 spot rate for all years presented in the table below in order to isolate changes in foreign exchange rates from loss development. As a reinsurer of primarily quota share contracts, claim counts are available on a very limited basis. Therefore claim counts have not been provided in the tables below as it is impractical to do so.
F-35
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
The Diversified Reinsurance segment incurred and paid losses are analyzed by the following lines of business: (1) International; and (2) European Capital Solutions. The AmTrust Reinsurance segment incurred and paid losses are analyzed by the following lines of business: (1) Workers’ Compensation; (2) Commercial Auto Liability; (3) General Liability; (4) European Hospital Liability; and (5) All Other Lines. There are a number of factors to consider when evaluating the information in these tables:
•In the Diversified Reinsurance segment, contracts are written on both an accident year and underwriting year basis, some are multi-line and the majority of the premium is associated with proportional contracts. Many proportional treaty reinsurance contracts are submitted using quarterly bordereau reporting by underwriting year. However, the remaining losses can generally only be allocated to accident years based on estimated premium earning and loss reporting patterns. Further estimates are required to allocate losses to line of business. Multi-line accounts are generally analyzed on an individual basis by line of business, but are booked in the Company’s records to a contract, rather than to each individual line of business within a contract. For the purpose of this disclosure allocations are made to the various lines of business. Management’s assumptions and allocation procedures for these tables may produce results that differ from the actual loss emergence reported by line of business each quarter;
•The AmTrust Reinsurance segment consists primarily of two contracts, the European Hospital Liability Quota Share and a much larger quota share that includes all other covered business, the AmTrust Quota Share. There is also a small amount of excess of loss business that has not been written since 2009 which is included as a reconciling item. Maiden receives several cession statements and uses these to report premiums in three categories - Small Business Commercial, Specialty Program and Specialty Risk and Extended Warranty in Note 3. Segment Information. The tables provided include allocations of IBNR reserves to line of business by accident year. Management’s assumptions and allocation procedures for these tables may produce results that differ from the actual loss emergence reported by line of business each quarter; and
•For both segments, the premium and exposure for prior accident years is often reported to us in subsequent periods, as reporting lags exist from an insurer to a reinsurer. This leads to increases in the provision for loss and LAE in prior years, but does not reduce expected income (and in many cases can result in additional income).
Diversified Reinsurance Segment
The following tables represent information on the Company's incurred loss and LAE and cumulative paid loss and LAE, both net of reinsurance, since 2011 for our Diversified Reinsurance segment. The development tables below included reserves acquired from the loss portfolio transfer agreement associated with the GMAC International Insurance Services ("IIS") business as at November 30, 2010 of $98,827. For the purposes of disclosure, the reserves from the loss portfolio transfer was allocated to the original accident year.
Many pro-rata contracts are big enough that specific company development patterns are used. The ELR from the pricing of the account is typically used for the first year or more until the data suggests an alternative result is likely. Use of the ELR method transitions to the BF and then the LD method. For smaller contracts, benchmark development patterns may be used in both the pricing to establish the ELR and the reserving. The use of benchmark patterns is more prevalent in excess of loss business and the movement to experience based methods is slower.
Diversified Reinsurance - International
The international business written by our IIS team is mainly proportional treaty business, a significant portion of which is Personal Auto quota share but also comprises credit life quota share. Life and personal accident business is also written on a direct basis by Maiden LF. The IIS team works with insurance partners, automobile manufacturers and their related credit providers and other organizations to design and implement insurance programs in both auto distribution-related and other consumer insurance products.
For the auto quota share exposure, our initial underwriting year loss projections are generally based on the ELR method, derived from account pricing analyses. Payment and reporting patterns are predominantly short-tailed, and the movement away from the ELR to BF or LD methods typically happens very rapidly. Credit life reserves are primarily a function of reporting lag, typically only one or several months on average. The reserves are calculated using a FS methodology, where the frequency is a function of the average claims lag and the average per claims severity.
F-36
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
Diversified Reinsurance - International | Incurred loss and LAE, net of reinsurance | At December 31, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | Total IBNR | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2010 | $ | 85,125 | $ | 84,642 | $ | 84,570 | $ | 84,321 | $ | 82,702 | $ | 84,777 | $ | 86,777 | $ | 86,470 | $ | 87,511 | $ | 87,623 | $ | 749 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | 53,559 | 52,042 | 52,063 | 52,249 | 52,207 | 52,037 | 52,416 | 52,662 | 52,621 | 52,580 | (12) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 54,357 | 52,501 | 52,788 | 52,895 | 52,977 | 53,238 | 52,957 | 52,909 | 52,838 | 47 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 48,443 | 53,644 | 54,970 | 54,472 | 55,072 | 55,293 | 55,682 | 55,612 | (160) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 42,870 | 48,714 | 48,595 | 48,497 | 48,270 | 48,346 | 48,085 | 173 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 42,979 | 44,399 | 44,908 | 44,345 | 44,361 | 44,201 | (461) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 38,793 | 40,817 | 40,155 | 40,114 | 40,511 | (4) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 36,914 | 36,366 | 35,292 | 34,173 | (437) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 45,194 | 43,148 | 43,406 | 44 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 36,802 | 37,895 | 1,644 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2020 | 27,928 | 11,876 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 524,852 | $ | 13,459 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative paid loss and LAE, net of reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2010 | $ | 36,257 | $ | 45,772 | $ | 50,912 | $ | 52,650 | $ | 54,239 | $ | 55,754 | $ | 57,234 | $ | 58,916 | $ | 60,353 | $ | 61,541 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | 26,454 | 48,866 | 50,618 | 51,863 | 52,284 | 52,517 | 52,658 | 52,772 | 52,837 | 52,929 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 25,489 | 43,637 | 46,035 | 47,130 | 47,459 | 48,042 | 48,156 | 48,169 | 48,261 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 26,170 | 45,538 | 48,033 | 49,381 | 49,852 | 50,067 | 50,145 | 50,472 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 23,985 | 42,325 | 44,612 | 45,843 | 46,101 | 46,208 | 46,280 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 21,935 | 39,569 | 41,648 | 42,680 | 43,099 | 43,395 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 22,596 | 36,744 | 38,578 | 39,342 | 39,968 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 19,240 | 33,701 | 35,515 | 36,314 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 20,843 | 37,467 | 38,930 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 17,034 | 29,825 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2020 | 15,782 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 463,697 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net reserves | $ | 61,155 |
F-37
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
Diversified Reinsurance - European Capital Solutions
The European Capital Solutions business is mainly a portfolio of assumed reinsurance in Europe which is now in run-off. Maiden Reinsurance began writing treaty reinsurance contracts under this initiative in 2016 therefore only five calendar years of the Company's incurred and paid loss development by accident year have been provided in the tables below.
Diversified Reinsurance - European Capital Solutions | Incurred loss and LAE, net of reinsurance | At December 31, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | Total IBNR | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | $ | 5,203 | $ | 5,282 | $ | 5,696 | $ | 5,946 | $ | 6,290 | $ | 34 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 9,261 | 10,727 | 9,587 | 9,256 | 688 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 24,035 | 25,992 | 26,623 | 7,249 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 16,273 | 16,664 | 5,219 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2020 | 259 | 128 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 59,092 | $ | 13,318 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative paid loss and LAE, net of reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | $ | 849 | $ | 2,510 | $ | 3,544 | $ | 4,965 | $ | 5,105 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 2,077 | 4,387 | 6,158 | 6,917 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 3,397 | 6,230 | 12,987 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 5,945 | 6,226 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2020 | 18 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 31,253 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net reserves | $ | 27,839 |
The following tables represent information on the Company's incurred loss and LAE and cumulative paid loss and LAE, both net of reinsurance, by significant line of business since 2011 for our AmTrust Reinsurance segment. All data shown for the AmTrust Reinsurance segment in the tables that follow are from the Company’s quota share contracts with AmTrust, both the multi-year AmTrust Quota Share and the annually renewable European Hospital Liability Quota Share. AmTrust purchases significant reinsurance for losses above $10 million covered by the AmTrust Quota Share. The Company’s share of AmTrust’s losses net of reinsurance in the AmTrust Quota Share is generally 40%.
Additionally, for the Specialty Program portion of Covered Business only, AmTrust will be responsible for ultimate net loss otherwise recoverable from Maiden Reinsurance to the extent that the loss ratio to Maiden Reinsurance, which shall be determined on an inception to date basis from July 1, 2007 through the date of calculation, is between 81.5% and 95%. Above and below the defined corridor, Maiden Reinsurance has reinsured losses at its proportional 40% share per the AmTrust Quota Share. Effective July 31, 2019, the Loss Corridor was amended such that the maximum amount covered is $40,500, the amount calculated by Maiden Reinsurance for the Loss Corridor coverage as of March 31, 2019. As of December 31, 2020, the projected amount covered by the Loss Corridor is $38,984. Any development above this maximum amount will be subject to the coverage of the LPT/ADC Agreement.
Recoverables from the LPT/ADC Agreement are displayed in the column "Impact of LPT/ADC" in the tables below. Amounts have been allocated to Accident Year and line of business according to the timing of the respective losses, based on the currently projected payout patterns. These allocations may shift over time as actual payments are made and payout patterns are re–estimated. Please refer to "Note 8 — Reinsurance" for additional information regarding the LPT/ADC Agreement..
F-38
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
AmTrust Reinsurance: Workers’ Compensation
This reserve class consists of the Workers’ Compensation portion of the AmTrust Quota Share. The business is written in the U.S. by AmTrust from both their Small Commercial Business and Specialty Program business units. The Small Commercial Business unit focuses on writing smaller, niche workers' compensation exposures in generally low-hazard occupations. Workers’ Compensation business written in the Specialty Program unit is typically part of programs consisting of multiple lines of business. The business is produced by managing general agents with AmTrust regularly adding new programs and terminating or renegotiating unprofitable ones. Our initial underwriting year loss projections are generally based on the ELR method, derived from historical performance after the consideration of loss and premium trends. Since it is proportional exposure, and due to the size and the classes of business insured by AmTrust, this reserving class is much shorter tailed than a traditional workers compensation book, and the transition to the BF and the LD methods happens relatively quickly, within the first several years.
F-39
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
Workers' Compensation | Incurred loss and LAE, net of reinsurance (excluding impact of ADC) | At December 31, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | Total IBNR | Impact of LPT/ADC | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2008 | $ | 80,800 | $ | 81,493 | $ | 82,438 | $ | 81,240 | $ | 82,301 | $ | 83,039 | $ | 83,622 | $ | 84,710 | $ | 83,952 | $ | 86,117 | $ | 2,665 | $ | 2,529 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 102,240 | 102,245 | 103,864 | 109,213 | 106,204 | 105,901 | 107,165 | 110,175 | 109,664 | 109,021 | 1,370 | 3,086 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2010 | 106,799 | 113,880 | 118,209 | 120,243 | 125,020 | 124,073 | 123,968 | 127,215 | 127,381 | 126,621 | 6,602 | 5,720 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | 104,923 | 125,549 | 130,712 | 132,728 | 133,995 | 133,916 | 135,379 | 138,600 | 139,685 | 141,272 | 6,624 | 7,942 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 136,960 | 168,016 | 173,946 | 171,040 | 172,692 | 181,616 | 192,087 | 188,879 | 192,263 | 11,706 | 12,939 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 237,019 | 245,765 | 238,392 | 242,447 | 261,915 | 276,249 | 273,571 | 281,580 | 18,079 | 19,411 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 379,589 | 365,515 | 382,260 | 419,748 | 457,363 | 455,521 | 449,374 | 35,147 | 37,364 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 474,140 | 474,212 | 526,269 | 551,145 | 545,271 | 549,857 | 43,175 | 56,114 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 528,906 | 568,006 | 627,728 | 603,529 | 579,849 | 69,537 | 68,467 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 615,957 | 654,362 | 613,577 | 593,920 | 50,255 | 84,180 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 592,566 | 580,528 | 575,765 | 43,320 | 98,477 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 12,751 | 9,945 | 1,311 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 3,695,584 | $ | 289,791 | $ | 396,229 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative paid loss and LAE, net of reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2008 | $ | 68,400 | $ | 72,823 | $ | 76,018 | $ | 77,370 | $ | 78,161 | $ | 79,230 | $ | 81,159 | $ | 82,436 | $ | 82,709 | $ | 82,286 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 71,963 | 83,464 | 89,462 | 93,425 | 96,396 | 98,811 | 100,103 | 101,823 | 102,877 | 103,771 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2010 | 61,322 | 82,614 | 95,120 | 103,280 | 108,171 | 114,639 | 115,014 | 115,959 | 116,332 | 114,730 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | 33,089 | 69,357 | 91,414 | 105,584 | 114,107 | 115,966 | 122,579 | 124,315 | 125,843 | 129,408 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 45,030 | 88,382 | 119,059 | 138,706 | 150,543 | 158,807 | 164,512 | 168,154 | 172,251 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 56,249 | 121,182 | 168,785 | 199,300 | 216,527 | 227,502 | 234,342 | 248,103 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 69,512 | 189,954 | 268,467 | 321,258 | 355,414 | 370,176 | 383,529 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 86,695 | 246,616 | 338,642 | 388,640 | 417,736 | 448,867 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 110,051 | 284,501 | 380,602 | 428,651 | 449,347 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 111,508 | 274,596 | 448,551 | 485,611 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 110,954 | 409,986 | 465,762 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 3,907 | 5,821 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 3,089,486 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2008, net of reinsurance | 249 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net reserves excluding impact of ADC | 606,347 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Impact of ADC | (396,229) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net reserves including impact of ADC | $ | 210,118 |
F-40
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
AmTrust Reinsurance: General Liability
This reserve class consists of the General Liability portion of the AmTrust Quota Share. The business is written in the U.S. by AmTrust from both their Small Commercial Business and Specialty Program business units. The Small Commercial Business unit focuses on writing smaller niche business, typically under-served by the broader insurance market, which typically have limits of $1,000. General Liability business written in the Small Commercial Business unit grew substantially following AmTrust’s renewal rights acquisition in 2014. Specialty Program business may contain a mix of exposures from retail operations, contractors, manufacturers, and other premises.
Our initial underwriting year loss projections are generally based on the ELR method, derived from historical performance after the consideration of loss and premium trends. This proportional exposure is medium tailed, and the IBNR is typically derived from the use of the initial ELR, or the FS method as claim counts emerge, for the first several years following the earning of the exposure, followed by a transition to the BF and the LD methods.
F-41
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
General Liability | Incurred loss and LAE, net of reinsurance (excluding impact of ADC) | At December 31, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | Total IBNR | Impact of LPT/ADC | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2008 | $ | 28,786 | $ | 31,921 | $ | 33,051 | $ | 33,792 | $ | 34,169 | $ | 35,985 | $ | 36,627 | $ | 37,605 | $ | 36,996 | $ | 40,398 | $ | 3,521 | $ | 202 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 19,311 | 28,384 | 29,123 | 30,902 | 32,418 | 34,040 | 34,863 | 35,138 | 35,410 | 36,228 | 1,199 | 290 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2010 | 15,783 | 28,850 | 34,761 | 36,455 | 38,536 | 38,298 | 41,597 | 42,884 | 43,062 | 45,490 | 1,296 | 866 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | 11,334 | 24,731 | 35,628 | 40,557 | 42,100 | 45,303 | 49,338 | 52,746 | 53,499 | 55,607 | 2,268 | 1,307 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 21,281 | 33,445 | 42,450 | 48,851 | 50,800 | 55,991 | 59,948 | 63,429 | 63,704 | 5,147 | 1,963 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 42,021 | 43,116 | 66,869 | 68,641 | 79,731 | 89,204 | 92,032 | 95,050 | 4,452 | 3,207 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 65,469 | 66,558 | 77,930 | 99,873 | 111,970 | 116,085 | 119,367 | 11,697 | 5,837 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 118,111 | 95,766 | 122,942 | 139,518 | 154,071 | 154,529 | 19,486 | 10,026 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 98,149 | 114,864 | 120,911 | 148,371 | 147,858 | 28,163 | 13,924 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 116,158 | 133,533 | 165,268 | 161,354 | 39,884 | 18,703 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 121,991 | 153,822 | 148,817 | 60,290 | 24,162 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 5,427 | 6,017 | 4,883 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 1,074,419 | $ | 182,286 | $ | 80,487 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative paid loss and LAE, net of reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2008 | $ | 20,935 | $ | 26,288 | $ | 29,384 | $ | 32,849 | $ | 32,423 | $ | 32,765 | $ | 34,935 | $ | 36,699 | $ | 34,893 | $ | 37,253 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 7,840 | 13,904 | 19,727 | 24,298 | 28,312 | 30,924 | 32,878 | 33,473 | 32,487 | 34,984 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2010 | 5,140 | 11,187 | 19,010 | 26,429 | 30,948 | 34,125 | 37,317 | 39,214 | 39,888 | 42,509 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | 2,813 | 6,072 | 12,158 | 22,963 | 31,619 | 39,350 | 41,257 | 47,141 | 49,178 | 51,492 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 5,084 | 13,224 | 18,020 | 29,752 | 40,864 | 45,775 | 53,526 | 56,538 | 55,350 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 4,996 | 10,226 | 32,249 | 44,698 | 58,377 | 70,074 | 76,996 | 83,571 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 3,503 | 24,581 | 36,026 | 57,678 | 77,259 | 86,101 | 92,861 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 20,849 | 33,963 | 52,350 | 79,291 | 98,278 | 112,542 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 6,402 | 21,959 | 45,855 | 67,064 | 88,627 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 6,967 | 27,001 | 51,545 | 79,531 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 7,907 | 24,618 | 42,792 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 27 | 314 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 721,826 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2008, net of reinsurance | 135 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net reserves excluding impact of ADC | 352,728 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Impact of ADC | (80,487) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net reserves including impact of ADC | $ | 272,241 |
F-42
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
AmTrust Reinsurance: Commercial Auto Liability
Commercial Auto Liability is written in the U.S. and included in the Small Commercial Business and Specialty Program business units within the AmTrust Quota Share. The Small Commercial Business unit focuses on writing smaller niche business, typically under-served by the broader insurance market, and policies typically have limits of $1,000. Auto Liability business written in the Small Commercial Business unit grew substantially following a large renewal rights acquisition completed by AmTrust in 2014. Commercial Auto Liability business written in the Specialty Program unit is typically part of programs consisting of multiple lines of business.
Our initial underwriting year loss projections are generally based on the ELR method, derived from historical performance after the consideration of loss and premium trends. This proportional exposure is relatively short tailed, and the transition to the BF and the LD methods happens relatively quickly, within the first several years.
F-43
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
Commercial Auto Liability | Incurred loss and LAE, net of reinsurance (excluding impact of ADC) | At December 31, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | Total IBNR | Impact of LPT/ADC | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2008 | $ | 29,890 | $ | 32,769 | $ | 33,700 | $ | 34,522 | $ | 34,584 | $ | 35,975 | $ | 35,521 | $ | 35,382 | $ | 35,542 | $ | 37,746 | $ | 2,083 | $ | 81 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 22,183 | 26,275 | 28,551 | 30,812 | 31,024 | 30,468 | 30,919 | 31,033 | 31,064 | 31,082 | 502 | 72 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2010 | 26,239 | 33,457 | 37,154 | 38,043 | 40,193 | 40,523 | 42,146 | 41,996 | 42,070 | 40,637 | 218 | 28 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | 16,193 | 24,292 | 29,577 | 32,578 | 33,839 | 34,790 | 36,149 | 36,065 | 34,643 | 34,707 | 489 | 37 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 20,863 | 32,691 | 40,076 | 44,812 | 48,116 | 46,150 | 45,753 | 45,917 | 45,902 | 83 | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 33,473 | 44,771 | 50,647 | 59,702 | 63,162 | 62,163 | 63,620 | 63,532 | 383 | 26 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 47,525 | 55,023 | 73,966 | 82,427 | 89,299 | 92,572 | 94,238 | 1,885 | 123 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 66,967 | 92,955 | 106,560 | 119,141 | 127,560 | 129,849 | 3,298 | 353 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 121,828 | 118,210 | 144,077 | 171,504 | 170,275 | 10,345 | 1,468 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 156,575 | 189,257 | 220,457 | 230,972 | 36,791 | 3,930 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 177,150 | 224,780 | 230,200 | 67,728 | 10,153 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 79,172 | 77,371 | 36,931 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2020 | — | (7) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 1,186,511 | $ | 160,729 | $ | 16,271 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative paid loss and LAE, net of reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2008 | $ | 25,207 | $ | 29,386 | $ | 30,975 | $ | 32,643 | $ | 33,536 | $ | 34,074 | $ | 34,803 | $ | 35,284 | $ | 36,968 | $ | 34,982 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 14,532 | 18,736 | 22,959 | 26,975 | 29,226 | 29,829 | 29,842 | 30,204 | 31,194 | 30,337 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2010 | 14,203 | 21,050 | 28,602 | 34,855 | 37,734 | 39,413 | 39,750 | 40,282 | 40,395 | 40,407 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | 5,721 | 12,333 | 18,813 | 25,808 | 29,769 | 32,362 | 33,130 | 33,155 | 33,451 | 33,872 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 6,693 | 14,979 | 26,508 | 35,460 | 43,745 | 44,165 | 45,555 | 45,751 | 45,819 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 8,267 | 19,865 | 34,379 | 48,122 | 57,349 | 59,600 | 62,331 | 62,562 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 8,450 | 22,858 | 42,960 | 64,459 | 79,766 | 87,458 | 90,761 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 13,102 | 39,179 | 62,945 | 86,433 | 107,707 | 118,753 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 19,071 | 48,595 | 76,635 | 113,174 | 133,826 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 26,863 | 69,657 | 115,623 | 154,600 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 30,018 | 67,080 | 107,184 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 9,456 | 22,799 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2020 | 7 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 875,909 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2008, net of reinsurance | 65 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net reserves excluding impact of ADC | 310,667 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Impact of ADC | (16,271) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net reserves including impact of ADC | $ | 294,396 |
F-44
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
AmTrust Reinsurance: European Hospital Liability
AmTrust entered this line of business in Italy in 2010 when it believed there were significant opportunities in what had traditionally been an under-performing market. European Hospital Liability policies are written on a claim made basis. Maiden wrote a separate annually renewable contract covering this exposure in 2011 which is not part of the AmTrust Quota Share. Currently, most exposure remains in Italy with a modest amount of exposure to other European nations. The European Hospital Liability Quota Share is a claims made exposure, and in many instances claims are eventually closed with no liability. This phenomena is estimated during the reserving process, and can result in a provision for pure IBNR (reserves for claims which have not yet been reported) which is minimal or negative. This estimate will vary as the exposure matures which could result in changes to the level of reserves. Also, severity for known claims and expenses can increase over time, which requires a provision for IBNR. The net result is a relatively small amount of IBNR.
Our initial underwriting year loss projections are generally based on the ELR method, derived from historical performance after the consideration of loss and premium trends. Loss reporting for this line is unique, as a large proportion of claims are initially reserved but eventually closed with no payment, as the insurer is found to have no liability after investigation of the fundamentals of the claim. In addition, the underlying insurance policies assumed are subject to deductibles on both a per claim and aggregate basis. For these reasons, the LD method is not typically employed to estimate aggregate losses, although development methodologies are used in estimating ultimate claim counts and severities. After the first several years, we utilize a FS methodology; frequency is estimated on a reported claim basis and adjusted for an estimate of the proportion of claims which will close with no payment, while severity is estimated on both a gross and net of deductible basis.
European Hospital Liability | Incurred loss and LAE, net of reinsurance | At December 31, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | Total IBNR | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | $ | 53,686 | $ | 25,077 | $ | 38,818 | $ | 53,632 | $ | 51,016 | $ | 70,247 | $ | 68,115 | $ | 65,312 | $ | 67,770 | $ | 68,076 | $ | (2,016) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 86,197 | 87,851 | 87,000 | 111,555 | 99,792 | 94,490 | 122,115 | 127,380 | 128,394 | 5,327 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 52,960 | 66,535 | 69,407 | 91,182 | 83,373 | 106,864 | 113,194 | 114,707 | 6,568 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 55,098 | 58,019 | 62,145 | 69,148 | 87,192 | 92,886 | 94,020 | 8,802 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 51,369 | 49,873 | 64,935 | 71,395 | 74,802 | 75,060 | 7,381 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 48,094 | 55,367 | 72,467 | 75,207 | 73,562 | 8,135 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 44,277 | 56,413 | 58,715 | 57,146 | 7,174 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 48,199 | 34,186 | 35,196 | 867 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 17,174 | 15,897 | 2,127 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 662,058 | $ | 44,365 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative paid loss and LAE, net of reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | $ | 1,185 | $ | 4,696 | $ | 13,855 | $ | 25,424 | $ | 31,100 | $ | 38,642 | $ | 44,708 | $ | 49,239 | $ | 53,327 | $ | 58,251 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 5,195 | 16,611 | 37,805 | 49,240 | 63,306 | 74,646 | 83,322 | 89,942 | 100,802 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 3,228 | 16,238 | 27,939 | 42,628 | 53,587 | 60,054 | 67,891 | 82,179 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 4,544 | 12,799 | 26,605 | 37,866 | 42,489 | 50,120 | 62,995 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 3,752 | 11,932 | 24,634 | 31,439 | 37,756 | 49,524 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 3,872 | 11,502 | 19,057 | 25,349 | 37,625 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 1,382 | 4,772 | 8,178 | 15,873 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 995 | 2,449 | 5,836 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 12,388 | 1,731 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 414,816 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net reserves | $ | 247,242 |
F-45
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
AmTrust Reinsurance - All Other Lines: This category includes all lines except Workers' Compensation, General Liability, and Commercial Auto from the Small Commercial Business and Specialty Program Divisions. The predominant exposures are property and auto physical damage.
All Other Lines | Incurred loss and LAE, net of reinsurance (excluding impact of ADC) | At December 31, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | Total IBNR | Impact of ADC | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2008 | $ | 27,630 | $ | 28,724 | $ | 28,715 | $ | 29,149 | $ | 29,237 | $ | 29,070 | $ | 29,576 | $ | 29,574 | $ | 29,519 | $ | 24,045 | $ | (779) | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 12,516 | 20,349 | 11,959 | 13,329 | 14,309 | 14,492 | 16,088 | 15,653 | 14,617 | 15,750 | 379 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2010 | 14,440 | 15,182 | 24,718 | 15,484 | 16,078 | 16,105 | 17,071 | 17,059 | 15,438 | 15,905 | 52 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | 18,822 | 19,948 | 26,343 | 27,509 | 22,359 | 22,616 | 23,376 | 23,506 | 21,469 | 21,515 | 155 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 14,697 | 18,443 | 19,426 | 21,898 | 18,673 | 19,850 | 20,260 | 19,578 | 17,969 | (140) | 152 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 17,806 | 17,630 | 28,058 | 22,918 | 21,313 | 21,669 | 21,735 | 20,644 | 498 | 246 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 20,597 | 25,268 | 26,021 | 24,958 | 26,278 | 24,929 | 21,496 | (2) | 123 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 52,706 | 54,857 | 49,631 | 49,463 | 47,882 | 44,939 | 793 | 50 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 79,654 | 74,948 | 72,384 | 73,602 | 67,060 | 3,039 | 113 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 104,637 | 96,812 | 92,904 | 96,196 | 1,252 | 218 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 96,910 | 103,489 | 101,553 | (1,795) | 627 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 37,945 | 43,146 | 597 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2020 | — | (29) | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 490,218 | $ | 4,020 | $ | 1,529 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative paid loss and LAE, net of reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accident Year: | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | Unaudited | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2008 | $ | 25,776 | $ | 29,710 | $ | 29,900 | $ | 31,217 | $ | 29,388 | $ | 29,177 | $ | 30,833 | $ | 30,683 | $ | 29,234 | $ | 24,706 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 7,891 | 8,084 | 8,743 | 11,093 | 13,105 | 13,870 | 15,224 | 15,051 | 14,009 | 14,954 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2010 | 12,373 | 12,332 | 13,012 | 15,375 | 15,748 | 16,058 | 16,919 | 16,786 | 15,285 | 15,853 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2011 | 13,840 | 16,424 | 17,571 | 21,279 | 22,044 | 22,715 | 23,892 | 23,661 | 21,481 | 21,343 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2012 | 10,308 | 14,031 | 16,033 | 16,936 | 17,946 | 18,205 | 18,685 | 17,559 | 18,071 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 11,877 | 15,997 | 17,509 | 20,258 | 20,456 | 20,447 | 19,343 | 20,146 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2014 | 12,028 | 20,277 | 20,940 | 22,018 | 26,194 | 21,405 | 21,497 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 | 28,929 | 45,208 | 42,631 | 41,962 | 44,179 | 43,622 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2016 | 42,795 | 69,805 | 65,452 | 63,234 | 63,450 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2017 | 48,903 | 80,726 | 80,735 | 93,212 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2018 | 56,539 | 86,455 | 98,386 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2019 | 22,095 | 38,793 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2020 | 4 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 474,037 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2008, net of reinsurance | (1) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net reserves excluding impact of ADC | 16,180 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Impact of ADC | (1,529) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net reserves including impact of ADC | $ | 14,651 |
F-46
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
9. Reserve for Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses (continued)
Reconciliation of Development Tables to Consolidated Balance Sheet
The following table represents a reconciliation of the net incurred and paid claims development tables to the reserve for loss and LAE in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2020:
December 31, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total Net Reserves (including impact of ADC) | Reinsurance Recoverables on unpaid claims | Total Gross Reserves | ||||||||||||||||||
Diversified Reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||
International | $ | 61,155 | $ | 4,658 | $ | 65,813 | ||||||||||||||
European Capital Solutions | 27,839 | — | 27,839 | |||||||||||||||||
Other reconciling items | 4,482 | 67,972 | 72,454 | |||||||||||||||||
Total Diversified Reinsurance - Segment | 93,476 | 72,630 | 166,106 | |||||||||||||||||
AmTrust Reinsurance | ||||||||||||||||||||
Workers' Compensation | 210,118 | 396,229 | 606,347 | |||||||||||||||||
General Liability | 272,241 | 80,487 | 352,728 | |||||||||||||||||
Commercial Auto Liability | 294,396 | 16,271 | 310,667 | |||||||||||||||||
European Hospital Liability | 247,242 | — | 247,242 | |||||||||||||||||
All Other Lines | 14,651 | 1,529 | 16,180 | |||||||||||||||||
Total | 1,038,648 | 494,516 | 1,533,164 | |||||||||||||||||
Other reconciling items | 168,604 | 25,425 | 194,029 | |||||||||||||||||
Total AmTrust Reinsurance - Segment | 1,207,252 | 519,941 | 1,727,193 | |||||||||||||||||
Total reserves and LAE | $ | 1,300,728 | $ | 592,571 | $ | 1,893,299 |
b)Claims duration disclosure
The following unaudited supplementary information represents the average annual percentage payout of net loss and LAE by age, net of reinsurance, for both our reportable segments at December 31, 2020:
Average annual payout of incurred claims by age, net of reinsurance | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 | Year 6 | Year 7 | Year 8 | Year 9 | Year 10 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diversified Reinsurance | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
International | 50.0 | % | 37.2 | % | 5.2 | % | 2.7 | % | (0.4) | % | — | % | (0.5) | % | (0.3) | % | 1.9 | % | 4.8 | % | |||||||||||||||
European Capital Solutions | 18.2 | % | 18.8 | % | 20.2 | % | 19.6 | % | 4.3 | % | — | % | — | % | — | % | — | % | — | % | |||||||||||||||
AmTrust Reinsurance | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Workers' Compensation | 18.6 | % | 31.5 | % | 17.7 | % | 9.1 | % | 5.6 | % | 4.1 | % | 3.1 | % | 2.4 | % | 1.3 | % | 1.6 | % | |||||||||||||||
General Liability | 6.1 | % | 10.9 | % | 13.7 | % | 16.7 | % | 14.8 | % | 9.8 | % | 7.4 | % | 6.3 | % | 2.0 | % | 3.2 | % | |||||||||||||||
Commercial Auto Liability | 11.9 | % | 17.6 | % | 19.0 | % | 19.3 | % | 14.4 | % | 6.8 | % | 4.1 | % | 0.9 | % | 0.9 | % | 1.1 | % | |||||||||||||||
European Hospital Liability | 3.6 | % | 8.1 | % | 12.3 | % | 12.7 | % | 11.3 | % | 9.3 | % | 6.9 | % | 7.2 | % | 7.1 | % | 7.1 | % | |||||||||||||||
All other lines | 56.9 | % | 32.3 | % | 2.5 | % | 5.9 | % | 6.2 | % | (0.8) | % | 3.1 | % | (0.6) | % | (0.7) | % | (0.2) | % |
The average annual payout of incurred claims by age, net of reinsurance, is calculated using the amount of claims paid in each development year and is compared with the estimated incurred claims as of the most recent period presented.
F-47
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
10. Related Party Transactions
The Founding Shareholders of the Company were Michael Karfunkel, George Karfunkel and Barry Zyskind. Based on each individual's most recent public filing, Leah Karfunkel (wife of the late Michael Karfunkel) owns or controls approximately 7.9% of the outstanding shares of the Company and Barry Zyskind (the Company's non-executive chairman) owns or controls approximately 7.4% of the outstanding shares of the Company. George Karfunkel owns or controls less than 5.0% of the outstanding shares of the Company. Leah Karfunkel and George Karfunkel are directors of AmTrust, and Barry Zyskind is the chief executive officer and chairman of AmTrust. Leah Karfunkel, George Karfunkel and Barry Zyskind own or control approximately 53.2% of the ownership interests of Evergreen Parent LP, the ultimate parent of AmTrust.
The following describes transactions that have transpired between the Company and AmTrust:
AmTrust Quota Share
Effective July 1, 2007, the Company and AmTrust entered into a master agreement, as amended ("Master Agreement"), pursuant to which Maiden Reinsurance and AmTrust's Bermuda reinsurance subsidiary, AII, entered into the AmTrust Quota Share by which AII retroceded to Maiden Reinsurance an amount equal to 40% of the premium written by subsidiaries of AmTrust, net of the cost of unaffiliated inuring reinsurance and 40% of losses. The Master Agreement further provided that AII receive a ceding commission of 31% of ceded premiums written. On June 11, 2008, Maiden Reinsurance and AII amended the AmTrust Quota Share to add Retail Commercial Package Business to the Covered Business. AII receives a ceding commission of 34.375% on Retail Commercial Package Business. On July 1, 2016, the agreement was renewed through June 30, 2019. Effective July 1, 2018, the amount AEL ceded to Maiden Reinsurance was reduced to 20%.
Effective July 1, 2013, for the Specialty Program portion of Covered Business only, AII was responsible for ultimate net loss otherwise recoverable from Maiden Reinsurance to the extent that the loss ratio to Maiden Reinsurance, which shall be determined on an inception to date basis from July 1, 2007 through the date of calculation, is between 81.5% and 95% ("Loss Corridor"). Above and below the Loss Corridor, Maiden Reinsurance continued to reinsure losses at its proportional 40% share of the AmTrust Quota Share. Effective July 31, 2019, the Loss Corridor was amended such that the maximum amount covered is $40,500, the amount calculated by Maiden Reinsurance for the Loss Corridor coverage as of March 31, 2019. Any development above this maximum amount will be subject to the coverage of the LPT/ADC Agreement.
Effective January 1, 2019, Maiden Reinsurance and AII entered into the Partial Termination Amendment which amended the AmTrust Quota Share. The Partial Termination Amendment provided for the cut-off of the ongoing and unearned premium of AmTrust’s Small Commercial Business, comprising workers’ compensation, general liability, umbrella liability, professional liability (including cyber liability) insurance coverages, and U.S. Specialty Risk and Extended Warranty ("Terminated Business") as of December 31, 2018. Under the Partial Termination Amendment, the ceding commission payable by Maiden Reinsurance for its remaining in-force business immediately prior to January 1, 2019 increased by five percentage points with respect to in-force remaining business (excluding Terminated Business) and related unearned premium as of January 1, 2019. The Partial Termination Amendment resulted in Maiden Reinsurance returning $647,980 in unearned premium to AII, or $436,760 net of applicable ceding commission and brokerage as calculated during the second quarter of 2019.
Subsequently, on January 30, 2019, Maiden Reinsurance and AII agreed to terminate the remaining business subject to the AmTrust Quota Share on a run-off basis effective as of January 1, 2019.
Effective July 31, 2019, Maiden Reinsurance and AII entered into a Commutation and Release Agreement which provided for AII to assume all reserves ceded by AII to Maiden Reinsurance with respect to its proportional 40% share of the ultimate net loss under the AmTrust Quota Share related to the commuted business including: (a) all losses incurred in Accident Year 2017 and Accident Year 2018 under California workers' compensation policies and as defined in the AmTrust Quota Share ("Commuted California Business"); and (b) all losses incurred in Accident Year 2018 under New York workers' compensation policies ("Commuted New York Business"), and together with the Commuted California Business ("Commuted Business") in exchange for the release and full discharge of Maiden Reinsurance from all of its obligations to AII with respect to the Commuted Business. The Commuted Business excludes any business classified by AII as Specialty Program or Specialty Risk business.
Maiden Reinsurance transferred cash and invested assets in the amount of $312,786 ("Commutation Payment") which is the sum of the net ceded reserves in the amount of $330,682 with respect to the Commuted Business as of December 31, 2018 less payments in the amount of $17,896 made by Maiden Reinsurance with respect to the Commuted Business from January 1, 2019 through July 31, 2019. Settlement of the Commutation Payment occurred on August 12, 2019 and Maiden Reinsurance paid AII approximately $6,335 in interest related to the Commutation Payment premium, calculated at the rate of 3.30% per annum from January 1, 2019 through August 12, 2019.
AII and Maiden Reinsurance also agreed that, as of July 31, 2019, the AmTrust Quota Share shall be deemed amended as applicable so that the Commuted Business is no longer included as part of the Covered Business under the AmTrust Quota Share.
On January 30, 2019, in connection with the termination of the reinsurance agreement described above, the Company and AmTrust entered into a second amendment to the Master Agreement between the parties, originally entered into on July 3, 2007, to remove the provisions requiring AmTrust to reinsure business with the Company.
F-48
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
10. Related Party Transactions (continued)
European Hospital Liability Quota Share
Effective April 1, 2011, Maiden Reinsurance entered into the European Hospital Liability Quota Share with AEL and AIU DAC. Pursuant to the terms of the European Hospital Liability Quota Share, Maiden Reinsurance assumed 40% of the premiums and losses related to policies classified as European Hospital Liability, including associated liability coverages and policies covering physician defense costs, written or renewed on or after April 1, 2011. The European Hospital Liability Quota Share also covers policies written or renewed on or before March 31, 2011, but only with respect to losses that occur, accrue or arise on or after April 1, 2011. The maximum limit of liability attaching shall be €5,000 (€10,000 effective January 1, 2012) or currency equivalent (on a 100% basis) per original claim for any one original policy. Maiden Reinsurance paid a ceding commission of 5% on contracts assumed under the European Hospital Liability Quota Share.
Effective July 1, 2016, the European Hospital Liability Quota Share was amended such that Maiden Reinsurance assumes from AEL 32.5% of the premiums and losses of all policies written or renewed on or after July 1, 2016 until June 30, 2017 and 20% of all policies written or renewed on or after July 1, 2017. Thereafter, on January 30, 2019, Maiden Reinsurance, AEL and AIU DAC agreed to terminate the European Hospital Liability Quota Share on a run-off basis effective as of January 1, 2019.
The table below shows the effect of both of these quota share arrangements with AmTrust on the Company's Consolidated Income Statements for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Gross and net premiums written | $ | (9,068) | $ | (581,001) | ||||||||||
Net premiums earned | 57,992 | 364,711 | ||||||||||||
Net loss and loss adjustment expenses | (17,031) | (402,679) | ||||||||||||
Commission and other acquisition expenses | (20,321) | (139,862) |
Collateral provided to AmTrust
a) AmTrust Quota Share
To provide AmTrust's U.S. insurance subsidiaries with credit for reinsurance on their statutory financial statements, AII, as the direct reinsurer of the AmTrust's insurance subsidiaries, established trust accounts ("Trust Accounts") for their benefit. Maiden Reinsurance agreed to provide appropriate collateral to secure its proportional share under the AmTrust Quota Share of AII's obligations to the AmTrust subsidiaries to whom AII is required to provide collateral. This collateral can take the form of (a) assets loaned by Maiden Reinsurance to AII for deposit into the Trust Accounts, pursuant to a loan agreement between those parties, (b) assets transferred by Maiden Reinsurance for deposit into the Trust Accounts, (c) a letter of credit obtained by Maiden Reinsurance and delivered to an AmTrust subsidiary on AII's behalf. Maiden Reinsurance may provide any or a combination of these forms of collateral, provided that the aggregate value thereof equals Maiden Reinsurance's proportionate share of its obligations under the AmTrust Quota Share. Maiden Reinsurance satisfied its collateral requirements under the AmTrust Quota Share with AII as follows:
•.by lending funds of $167,975 at December 31, 2020 and 2019 pursuant to a loan agreement entered into between those parties. Advances under the loan are secured by promissory notes. This loan was assigned by AII to AmTrust effective December 31, 2014, is carried at cost, and interest is payable at a rate equivalent to the Federal Funds Effective Rate ("Fed Funds") plus 200 basis points per annum. The interest income on the loan was $3,996 for the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - $6,983) and the effective yield was 2.4% (2019 - 4.2%).
•.on January 30, 2019, in connection with the termination of the reinsurance agreements described above, the Company and AmTrust amended the Loan Agreement between Maiden Reinsurance, AmTrust and AII, originally entered into on November 16, 2007, extending the maturity date to January 1, 2025 and acknowledges that due to the termination of the AmTrust Quota Share, no further loans or advances may be made pursuant to the Loan Agreement;
•.effective December 1, 2008, the Company entered into a Reinsurer Trust Assets Collateral agreement to provide AII sufficient collateral to secure its proportional share of AII's obligations to the U.S. AmTrust subsidiaries. The amount of the collateral at December 31, 2020 was approximately $666,879 (2019 - $1,155,955) and the accrued interest was $3,048 (2019 - $7,366). Please refer to "Note 4. (e) Investments" for additional information.
•.on January 11, 2019, a portion of the existing trust accounts used for collateral on the AmTrust Quota Share were converted to a funds withheld arrangement. The Company transferred cash and investments of $575,000 to AmTrust as a funds withheld receivable which initially had an annual interest rate of 3.5%, subject to annual adjustment. The annual interest rate was adjusted to 2.65% for the year ended December 31, 2020. At December 31, 2020, the balance of funds withheld was $575,000 (2019 - $575,000) and the accrued interest was $3,845 (2019 - $5,073). The interest income on the funds withheld receivable was $15,297 for the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - $19,572).
F-49
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
10. Related Party Transactions (continued)
Pursuant to the terms of the LPT/ADC Agreement, Maiden Reinsurance, Cavello and AmTrust and certain of its affiliated companies entered into a Master Collateral Agreement (“MCA”) to define and enable the operation of collateral provided under the AmTrust Quota Share. Under the MCA, Cavello provided letters of credit to AmTrust on behalf of Maiden Reinsurance in an amount representing Cavello's obligations under the LPT/ADC Agreement. Because these letters of credit replaced other collateral previously provided directly by Maiden Reinsurance to AmTrust, the MCA coordinates the collateral protection that will be provided to AmTrust to ensure that no gaps in collateral funding occur by operation of the LPT/ADC Agreement and related MCA. As a result of entering into both the LPT/ADC Agreement and the MCA, certain post-termination endorsements (“PTEs”) to the AmTrust Quota Share between AII and Maiden Reinsurance were required.
Effective July 31, 2019, the PTEs: i) enable the operation of both the LPT/ADC Agreement and MCA by making provision for certain forms of collateral, including letters of credit provided by Cavello on Maiden Reinsurance’s behalf, and further defines the permitted use and return of collateral; and ii) increase the required funding percentage for Maiden Reinsurance under the collateral arrangements between the parties to 105% of its obligations, subject to a minimum excess funding requirement of $54,000, as may be mutually amended by the parties from time to time. Under certain defined conditions, Maiden Reinsurance may be required to increase this funding percentage to 110%.
Effective March 16, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance discontinued as a Bermuda company and completed its re-domestication to the State of Vermont. Bermuda is a Solvency II equivalent jurisdiction and the State of Vermont is not such a jurisdiction; therefore, the collateral provided under the respective agreements with AmTrust subsidiaries was strengthened to reflect the impact of the re-domestication concurrent with the date of Maiden Reinsurance’s re-domestication to Vermont. Maiden Reinsurance and AmTrust agreed to: 1) amend the AmTrust Quota Share pursuant to Post Termination Endorsement No. 2 effective March 16, 2020; and 2) amend the European Hospital Liability Quota Share pursuant to Post Termination Endorsement No. 1 effective March 16, 2020.
Pursuant to the terms of Post Termination Endorsement No. 2 to the AmTrust Quota Share, Maiden Reinsurance strengthened the collateral protection provided by Maiden Reinsurance to AII by increasing the required funding percentage for Maiden Reinsurance under the collateral arrangements between the parties to 110% of its obligations, subject to a minimum excess funding requirement of $54,000, as may be mutually amended by the parties from time to time. Post Termination Endorsement No. 2 also sets forth conditions by which the funding percentage will be reduced and the sequence of how collateral will be utilized as obligations as defined under the AmTrust Quota Share are satisfied.
Pursuant to the terms of Post Termination Endorsement No. 1 to the European Hospital Liability Quota Share, Maiden Reinsurance strengthened the collateral protection provided by Maiden Reinsurance to AEL and AIU DAC by increasing the required funding percentage for Maiden Reinsurance under the collateral arrangements between the parties to the greater of 120% of the Exposure (as defined therein) and the amount of security required to offset the increase in the Solvency Capital Requirement (“SCR”) that results from the changes in the SCR which arise out of Maiden Reinsurance's re-domestication as compared to the SCR calculation if Maiden Reinsurance had remained domesticated in a Solvency II equivalent jurisdiction with a solvency ratio above 100% and provided collateral equivalent to 100% of the Exposure.
b) European Hospital Liability Quota Share
Collateral has been provided to both AEL and AIU DAC under the European Hospital Liability Quota Share. For AEL, the amount of collateral held in reinsurance trust accounts at December 31, 2020 was $318,063 (2019 - $253,631) and the accrued interest was $2,283 (2019 - $1,821). For AIU DAC, Maiden Reinsurance utilizes funds withheld to satisfy its collateral requirements. AIU DAC pays Maiden Reinsurance a fixed annual interest rate of 0.5% on the average daily funds withheld balance which is subject to annual adjustment. At December 31, 2020, the funds withheld balance was $28,093 (2019 - $57,305) and the accrued interest was $318 (2019 - $269). The interest income on the funds withheld receivable was $350 for the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - $268).
Brokerage Agreement
Effective July 1, 2007, the Company entered into a reinsurance brokerage agreement with AII Reinsurance Broker Ltd. ("AIIB"), a wholly owned subsidiary of AmTrust. Pursuant to the brokerage agreement, AIIB provided brokerage services relating to the AmTrust Quota Share and the European Hospital Liability Quota Share for a fee equal to 1.25% of the premium assumed. AIIB was not the Company's exclusive broker. The brokerage agreement was terminated as of March 15, 2019.
Maiden Reinsurance recorded $725 of reinsurance brokerage expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - $4,559), and deferred reinsurance brokerage of $1,534 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $2,372) as a result of this agreement.
Asset Management Agreement
Effective July 1, 2007, the Company entered into an asset management agreement with AII Insurance Management Limited ("AIIM"), a wholly owned subsidiary of AmTrust, pursuant to which AIIM agreed to provide investment management services to the Company. Effective January 1, 2018, AIIM provides investment management services for a quarterly fee of 0.02125% of the average value of the account. The agreement may be terminated upon 30 days written notice by either party. The Company recorded $1,369 of investment management fees for the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - $2,512) under this agreement.
F-50
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
10. Related Party Transactions (continued)
On September 9, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance, AmTrust and AIIM entered into a novation agreement, effective July 1, 2020, which provided for the novation of the asset management agreement, dated January 1, 2018 between Maiden Reinsurance and AIIM, and the release by Maiden Reinsurance of AIIM's obligations under the asset management agreement. The novation mandates that AmTrust is to be bound by the terms of the asset management agreement in place of AIIM and AmTrust agrees to perform any and all past, present and future obligations of AIIM under the asset management agreement.
On November 13, 2020, Maiden LF, Maiden GF, AmTrust and AIIM entered into a novation agreement, effective July 1, 2020, which provided for the novation of the asset management agreement, dated January 1, 2018 between Maiden LF, Maiden GF and AIIM, and the release by Maiden LF and Maiden GF of AIIM's obligations under the asset management agreement. The novation mandates that AmTrust is to be bound by the terms of the asset management agreement in place of AIIM and AmTrust agrees to perform any and all past, present and future obligations of AIIM under the asset management agreement.
Insurance Management Services Agreement
Effective August 31, 2019, the Company entered into an agreement with Risk Services - Vermont, Inc. ("Risk Services"), an affiliate of AmTrust. Pursuant to the agreement, Risk Services agreed to provide insurance management services to the Company including regulatory compliance services in connection with the re-domestication, licensing and operation of Maiden Reinsurance in the State of Vermont. The initial term of the agreement is three years and will automatically renew for an additional three years until either party gives written notice of its intention to terminate this agreement at least three months prior to the commencement of the next applicable period.
The fee for this agreement was an initial $100 retainer for re-domestication services and $100 annually and reimbursement for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by Risk Services pursuant to the terms of the agreement. The Company recorded $100 of annual fees for the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - $101 which included the initial retainer plus fees).
683 Capital Partners, LP (“683 Partners”)
At December 31, 2020, 683 Partners and its affiliates own or control approximately 8.9% of the outstanding common shares of the Company. 683 Partners and its affiliates are not related parties as defined in ASC 850: Related Party Disclosures.
683 Partners had previously reported in a SEC filing that they own Preference Shares of the Company and Senior Notes issued by both Maiden Holdings and Maiden NA. Effective December 24, 2020, 683 Partners ceased to own any Preference Shares as it sold all its Preference Shares to Maiden Reinsurance through the Company’s cash tender offer ("2020 Tender Offer") to purchase these Preference Shares. In addition, 683 Partners owns $369 of the Company's 2016 Senior Notes and $663 of the Company's 2013 Senior Notes.
Limited Partnership Agreement with 683 Capital Management, LLC ("683 Capital")
In July 2020, the Company and 683 Capital entered into a limited partnership agreement (“683 LP Agreement”) whereby 683 Capital will separately manage certain funds of Maiden Reinsurance at its discretion, subject to guidelines established by the parties. Under the 683 LP Agreement, Maiden Reinsurance will pay 683 Capital a management fee and subject to certain metrics agreed to by the parties, an incentive fee upon attainment of those metrics. Maiden Reinsurance may periodically and in its discretion increase the amount invested under the 683 LP Agreement, and subject to certain conditions, reduce the amount invested under the 683 LP Agreement. Hedge fund investments of $29,435 were managed by 683 Capital under this agreement at December 31, 2020.
F-51
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
11. Commitments, Contingencies and Concentrations
a) Concentrations of Credit Risk
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company’s assets where significant concentrations of credit risk may exist include investments, cash and cash equivalents, loan to related party, funds withheld receivable and reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses. Please refer to "Note 8 — Reinsurance" for additional information regarding the Company's credit risk exposure on its reinsurance counterparties including the impact of the LPT/ADC Agreement effective January 1, 2019. The Company requires its reinsurers to have adequate financial strength. The Company evaluates the financial condition of its reinsurers and monitors its concentration of credit risk on an ongoing basis. Provisions are made for amounts considered potentially uncollectible. Letters of credit are provided by its reinsurers for material amounts recoverable as discussed further in "Note 8 — Reinsurance".
The Company manages concentration of credit risk in the investment portfolio through issuer and sector exposure limitations. The Company believes it bears minimal credit risk in its cash on deposit. The Company also monitors the credit risk related to the loan to related party and funds withheld receivable, within which the largest balances are due from AmTrust. AmTrust has a financial strength/credit rating of A- from A.M. Best at December 31, 2020. To mitigate credit risk, the Company generally has a contractual right of offset thereby allowing claims to be settled net of any premiums or loan receivable. The Company believes these balances as at December 31, 2020 will be fully collectible.
b) Concentrations of Revenue
During the year ended December 31, 2020, net premiums earned from AmTrust accounted for $57,992 or 54.7% of total net premiums earned (2019 – $364,711 or 81.5%).
c) Brokers
The Company formerly marketed its Diversified Reinsurance segment through third-party intermediaries as well as directly through its own marketing efforts. The majority of business within the Diversified Reinsurance segment was marketed directly through our own efforts therefore there was no significant reliance on brokers for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
d) Letters of Credit
At December 31, 2020, the Company had letters of credit outstanding of $67,386 (2019 - $66,652) for collateral purposes which are secured by cash and fixed maturities with a fair value of $83,041 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $86,032).
e) Employment Agreements
The Company has entered into employment agreements with certain individuals. The employment agreements provide for executive benefits and severance payments under certain circumstances.
f) Operating Lease Commitments
The Company leases office spaces, housing, office equipment and company vehicles under various operating leases expiring in various years through 2024. The Company did not enter into any new lease arrangements during the year ended December 31, 2020 however during the year one of its existing leases had been renewed through 2024. The Company's leases are all currently classified as operating leases and none of them have any non-lease components. For operating leases that have a lease term of more than twelve months, the Company recognized a lease liability and a right-of-use asset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at the present value of the remaining lease payments until expiration. As the lease contracts generally do not provide an implicit discount rate, the Company used the weighted-average discount rate of 10%, representing its secured incremental borrowing rate, in calculating the present value of the lease liability.
The Company has made an accounting policy election not to include renewal, termination, or purchase options that are not reasonably certain of exercise when determining the term of the borrowing. The Company’s lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants. The Company's weighted-average remaining lease term is approximately 2.3 years at December 31, 2020.
At December 31, 2020, the Company's future lease obligations of $1,638 (December 31, 2019 - $2,342) was calculated based on the present value of future annual rental commitments excluding taxes, insurance and other operating costs for non-cancellable operating leases discounted using its secured incremental borrowing rate. This amount has been recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as a lease liability of $1,638 within accrued expenses and other liabilities with an equivalent amount for the right-of-use asset presented as part of .
Under Topic 842, Leases, the Company continues to recognize the related leasing expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term on the Consolidated Statements of Income. The Company's total lease expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $1,563 (2019 - $1,776) recognized within net income consistent with the prior accounting treatment under Topic 840. The operating cash outflows from operating leases included in the measurement of the lease liability during the year ended December 31, 2020 was $1,233 (2019 - $1,363).
F-52
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
11. Commitments, Contingencies and Concentrations (continued)
At December 31, 2020, the scheduled maturity of the Company's operating lease liabilities are expected to be as follows:
December 31, 2020 | |||||
2021 | $ | 847 | |||
2022 | 847 | ||||
2023 | 96 | ||||
2024 | 48 | ||||
Discount for present value | (200) | ||||
Total discounted operating lease liabilities | $ | 1,638 |
g) Other Commitments
The Company has remaining unfunded commitments on its investment in limited partnerships of $326 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $340). The Company also has remaining unfunded commitments on its investments in special purpose vehicles focused on lending activities of $19,823 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $767). Lastly, the Company has remaining unfunded commitments on its private equity investments of $43,164 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $0).
h) Other Collateral
In the ordinary course of business, the Company enters into reinsurance agreements that may include terms which could require the Company to collateralize certain of its obligations.
i) Deposit Insurance
The Company maintains cash and cash equivalents balances at financial institutions in the U.S., Bermuda and other international jurisdictions. In the U.S., the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation secures accounts up to $250. In certain other international jurisdictions, there exist similar protections. Management monitors balances in excess of insured limits and believes they do not represent a significant credit risk to the Company.
j) Legal Proceedings
Except as noted below, the Company is not a party to any material legal proceedings. From time to time, the Company is subject to routine legal proceedings, including arbitrations, arising in the ordinary course of business. These legal proceedings generally relate to claims asserted by or against the Company in the ordinary course of insurance or reinsurance operations. Based on the Company's opinion, the eventual outcome of these legal proceedings is not expected to have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of operations.
In April 2009, the Company learned that Bentzion S. Turin, the former Chief Operating Officer, General Counsel and Secretary of Maiden Holdings and Maiden Reinsurance, sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Labor claiming that his employment with the Company was terminated in retaliation for corporate whistle-blowing in violation of the whistle-blower protection provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Mr. Turin alleged that he was terminated for raising concerns regarding corporate governance with respect to the negotiation of the terms of the Trust Preferred Securities Offering. He seeks reinstatement as Chief Operating Officer, General Counsel and Secretary of Maiden Holdings and Maiden Reinsurance, back pay and legal fees incurred. On December 31, 2009, the U.S. Secretary of Labor found no reasonable cause for Mr. Turin’s claim and dismissed the complaint in its entirety. Mr. Turin objected to the Secretary's findings and requested a hearing before an administrative law judge in the U.S. Department of Labor. The Company moved to dismiss Mr. Turin's complaint, and its motion was granted by the Administrative Law Judge on June 30, 2011. On July 13, 2011, Mr. Turin filed a petition for review of the Administrative Law Judge's decision with the Administrative Review Board in the U.S. Department of Labor. On March 29, 2013, the Administrative Review Board reversed the dismissal of the complaint on procedural grounds, and remanded the case to the administrative law judge. The administrative hearing began in September 2014 and concluded in November 2018. The Company believes that it had good and sufficient reasons for terminating Mr. Turin's employment and that the claim is without merit. The Company will continue to vigorously defend itself against this claim.
F-53
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
11. Commitments, Contingencies and Concentrations (continued)
A putative class action complaint was filed against Maiden Holdings, Arturo M. Raschbaum, Karen L. Schmitt, and John M. Marshaleck in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey on February 11, 2019. On February 19, 2020, the Court appointed lead plaintiffs, and on May 1, 2020, lead plaintiffs filed an amended class action complaint (the “Amended Complaint”). The Amended Complaint asserts violations of Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 (and Section 20(a) for control person liability) arising in large part from allegations that Maiden failed to take adequate loss reserves in connection with reinsurance provided to AmTrust. Plaintiffs further claim that certain of Maiden Holdings’ representations concerning its business, underwriting and financial statements were rendered false by the allegedly inadequate loss reserves, that these misrepresentations inflated the price of Maiden Holdings' common stock, and that when the truth about the misrepresentations was revealed, the Company’s stock price fell, causing Plaintiffs to incur losses. On September 11, 2020, a motion to dismiss was filed on behalf of all Defendants; we cannot predict when the Court will issue a decision on the motion. We believe the claims are without merit and we intend to vigorously defend ourselves. It is possible that additional lawsuits will be filed against the Company, its subsidiaries and its respective officers due to the diminution in value of our securities as a result of our operating results and financial condition. It is currently uncertain as to the effect of such litigation on our business, operating results and financial condition.
F-54
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
12. Earnings per Common Share
The following is a summary of the elements used in calculating basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Numerator: | ||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) from continuing operations | $ | 41,762 | $ | (109,362) | ||||||||||
Gain from repurchase of preference shares – Series A, C and D | 38,195 | — | ||||||||||||
Amount allocated to participating common shareholders(1) | (1,386) | — | ||||||||||||
Income (loss) available to Maiden common shareholders, before discontinued operations | 78,571 | (109,362) | ||||||||||||
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax expense | — | (22,541) | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) allocated to Maiden common shareholders | $ | 78,571 | $ | (131,903) | ||||||||||
Denominator: | ||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of common shares – basic and diluted(2) | 84,333,514 | 83,061,259 | ||||||||||||
Potentially dilutive securities: | ||||||||||||||
Share options and restricted share units(2) | 141 | — | ||||||||||||
Adjusted weighted average common shares and assumed conversions – diluted | 84,333,655 | 83,061,259 | ||||||||||||
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) from continuing operations per share attributable to Maiden common shareholders: | $ | 0.93 | $ | (1.32) | ||||||||||
Basic and diluted loss from discontinued operations per share attributable to Maiden common shareholders | — | (0.27) | ||||||||||||
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Maiden common shareholders: | $ | 0.93 | $ | (1.59) | ||||||||||
(1)This represents the share in net income using the two-class method for holders of non-vested restricted shares issued to the Company's employees under the 2019 Omnibus Incentive Plan.
(2)Please refer to "Note 13. Shareholders' Equity" and "Note 14. Share Compensation and Pension Plans" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the terms and conditions of securities that could potentially be dilutive in the future. For the year ended December 31, 2020, there were 141 potentially dilutive securities.
13. Shareholders’ Equity
At December 31, 2020, the aggregate authorized share capital of the Company is 150,000,000 shares from which 89,815,175 common shares were issued, of which 84,801,161 common shares are outstanding, and 18,600,000 preference shares were issued, all of which are outstanding. The remaining 41,584,825 shares are undesignated at December 31, 2020. Excluding the preference shares held by Maiden Reinsurance, a total of 15,772,405 preference shares are held by non-affiliates.
Pursuant to the 2020 Tender Offer, on December 24, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance accepted for purchase (i) 545,218 shares of the Company's 8.25% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series A, (ii) 1,203,466 shares of the Company's 7.125% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series C and (iii) 1,078,911 shares of the Company's 6.7% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series D for a total amount of $29,690 excluding other fees and expenses. The acquisition by Maiden Reinsurance of the Preference Shares pursuant to the 2020 Tender Offer was made in compliance with the Company's investment policy previously approved by the Vermont DFR. Please refer to "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 17 — Subsequent Events" for further information on our preference shares.
The following table shows the summary of changes in the Company's preference and common shares outstanding:
For the Year Ended December 31, 2020 | Series A | Series C | Series D | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Outstanding shares – January 1 and December 31 | 6,000,000 | 6,600,000 | 6,000,000 | 18,600,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares purchased and held by Maiden Reinsurance | (545,218) | (1,203,466) | (1,078,911) | (2,827,595) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares held by non-affiliates – December 31 | 5,454,782 | 5,396,534 | 4,921,089 | 15,772,405 |
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Outstanding shares – January 1 | 83,148,458 | 82,948,577 | ||||||||||||
Issuance of vested restricted shares and restricted share units | 1,653,537 | 223,101 | ||||||||||||
Shares repurchased | (834) | (23,220) | ||||||||||||
Outstanding shares – December 31 | 84,801,161 | 83,148,458 |
F-55
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
13. Shareholders’ Equity (continued)
The Company's common shares have a par value of $0.01 per share. Our common shareholders are entitled to receive dividends and allocated one vote per common share subject to downward adjustment under certain circumstances. For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company's Board of Directors did not declare any dividends to common shareholders.
b) Preference Shares – Series D
On June 15, 2017, the Company issued and authorized a total of 6,000,000, 6.7% Preference Shares – Series D (the "Series D"), par value $0.01 per share, at a price of $25 per preference share. The Series D have no stated maturity date and are redeemable in whole or in part at the sole option of the Company any time after June 15, 2022, subject to certain regulatory restrictions at a redemption price of $25 per preference share plus any declared and unpaid dividends, without accumulation of any undeclared dividends. Additionally, at any time prior to June 15, 2022, the Company may redeem all but not less than all of the Series D at a redemption price of $25 per share, plus declared and unpaid dividends, if any, to, but excluding, the date of redemption subject to certain conditions and regulatory approval. Pursuant to the 2020 Tender Offer, on December 24, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance accepted for purchase 1,078,911 shares of the Company's 6.7% Series D for $10.50 per share.
Dividends on the Series D shares are non-cumulative. Consequently, in the event a dividend is not declared on the Series D for any dividend period, holders of Series D will not be entitled to receive a dividend for such period, and such undeclared dividend will not accrue and will not be payable. The holders of Series D will be entitled to receive dividend payments only when, as and if declared by the Company's Board of Directors or a duly authorized committee of the Board of Directors. During any dividend period, so long as any Series D remain outstanding, unless the full dividends for the latest completed dividend period on all outstanding Series D have been declared and paid, no dividend shall be paid or declared on the common shares.
The holders of the Series D, together with other preference share series, have no voting rights other than the right to elect up to two directors if preference share dividends are not declared and paid for six or more dividend periods. For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company did not declare or pay dividends on the Series D shares. No dividends have been declared by the Company's Board of Directors on the Series D shares since the fourth quarter of 2018. On December 15, 2020, pursuant to their rights under the securities as stipulated, holders of the Preference Share Series A, C and D collectively elected two additional members to the Company's Board of Directors.
c) Preference Shares – Series C
On November 25, 2015, the Company issued and authorized a total of 6,600,000 7.125% Preference Shares – Series C (the "Series C"), par value $0.01 per share, at a price of $25 per preference share. The Series C shares have no stated maturity date and are redeemable in whole or in part at the sole option of the Company any time after December 15, 2020 at a redemption price of $25 per preference share plus any declared and unpaid dividends, without accumulation of any undeclared dividends. Pursuant to the 2020 Tender Offer, on December 24, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance accepted for purchase 1,203,466 shares of the Company's 7.125% Series C for $10.50 per share.
Dividends on the Series C are non-cumulative. Consequently, in the event a dividend is not declared on the Series C for any dividend period, holders of Series C will not be entitled to receive a dividend for such period, and such undeclared dividend will not accrue and will not be payable. During any dividend period, so long as any Series C remain outstanding, unless the full dividends for the latest completed dividend period on all outstanding Series C have been declared and paid, no dividend shall be paid or declared on the common shares.
The holders of the Series C, together with other preference share series, have no voting rights other than the right to elect up to two directors if preference share dividends are not declared and paid for six or more dividend periods. For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company did not declare or pay dividends on the Series C shares. No dividends have been declared by the Company's Board of Directors on the Series C shares since the fourth quarter of 2018. On December 15, 2020, pursuant to their rights under the securities as stipulated, holders of the Preference Share Series A, C and D collectively elected two additional members to the Company's Board of Directors.
d) Preference Shares - Series A
On August 22, 2012, the Company issued and authorized a total of 6,000,000 8.25% Preference Shares – Series A (the "Series A"), par value $0.01 per share, at a price of $25 per preference share. The Series A have no stated maturity date and are redeemable in whole or in part at the sole option of the Company any time after August 29, 2017 at a redemption price of $25 per preference share plus any declared and unpaid dividends, without accumulation of any undeclared dividends. Pursuant to the 2020 Tender Offer, on December 24, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance accepted for purchase 545,218 shares of the Company's 8.25% Series A for $10.50 per share.
Dividends on the Series A are non-cumulative. Consequently, in the event a dividend is not declared on the Series A for any dividend period, holders of Series A will not be entitled to receive a dividend for such period, and such undeclared dividend will not accrue and will not be payable. During any dividend period, so long as any Series A remain outstanding, unless the full dividends for the latest completed dividend period on all outstanding Series A have been declared and paid, no dividend shall be paid or declared on the common shares.
The holders of the Series A, together with other preference share series, have no voting rights other than the right to elect up to two directors if preference share dividends are not declared and paid for six or more dividend periods. For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company did not declare or pay dividends on the Series A shares. No dividends have been declared by the Company's Board of Directors on the Series A shares since the fourth quarter of 2018.
F-56
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
13. Shareholders’ Equity (continued)
On December 15, 2020, pursuant to their rights under the securities as stipulated, holders of the Preference Share Series A, C and D collectively elected two additional members to the Company's Board of Directors.
f) Treasury Shares
On February 21, 2017, the Company's Board of Directors approved the repurchase of up to $100,000 of the Company's common shares from time to time at market prices. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company has a remaining authorization of $74,245 for share repurchases. No repurchases were made during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 under the share repurchase plan.
During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company repurchased a total of 834 shares (2019 - 23,220) at an average price per share of $1.13 (2019 - $0.78) from employees, which represent tax withholding in respect of tax obligations on the vesting of restricted shares and performance based shares.
g) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The following tables set forth financial information regarding the changes in the balances of each component of AOCI for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
For the Year Ended December 31, 2020 | Change in net unrealized gains on investment | Foreign currency translation adjustments | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Beginning balance | $ | 21,996 | $ | (4,160) | $ | 17,836 | ||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | 40,008 | (21,340) | 18,668 | |||||||||||||||||
Amounts reclassified from AOCI to net income, net of tax | (12,647) | — | (12,647) | |||||||||||||||||
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) | 27,361 | (21,340) | 6,021 | |||||||||||||||||
Ending balance, Maiden shareholders | $ | 49,357 | $ | (25,500) | $ | 23,857 |
For the Year Ended December 31, 2019 | Change in net unrealized gains on investment | Foreign currency translation adjustments | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Beginning balance | $ | (59,762) | $ | (5,932) | $ | (65,694) | ||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications | 97,198 | 1,772 | 98,970 | |||||||||||||||||
Amounts reclassified from AOCI to net income, net of tax | (15,440) | — | (15,440) | |||||||||||||||||
Net current period other comprehensive income | 81,758 | 1,772 | 83,530 | |||||||||||||||||
Ending balance, Maiden shareholders | $ | 21,996 | $ | (4,160) | $ | 17,836 |
The following table presents details about amounts reclassified from AOCI:
Consolidated Statements of Income Line Item that Includes Reclassification | For the Year Ended December 31, | |||||||||||||
2020 | 2019 | |||||||||||||
Net realized gains on investment | $ | 15,115 | $ | 15,605 | ||||||||||
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings | (2,468) | (165) | ||||||||||||
Total before tax | 12,647 | 15,440 | ||||||||||||
Income tax expense | — | — | ||||||||||||
Total after tax | $ | 12,647 | $ | 15,440 |
F-57
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
14. Share Compensation and Pension Plans
The Company’s Amended and Restated 2007 Share Incentive Plan ("2007 Plan") provided for grants of options, restricted shares and restricted share units. New shares were issued upon exercise of options and vesting of restricted shares and share units. The total number of common shares currently reserved for issuance under the Plan was 10,000,000. The 2007 Plan was administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (the "Committee").
2019 Omnibus Incentive Plan
During the 2019 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders of the Company held on December 10, 2019, the 2007 Plan was terminated, assumed by and replaced with the 2019 Omnibus Incentive Plan ("2019 Omnibus Plan"). The Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") the Form S-8 "Securities offered to employees pursuant to employee benefit plans" on January 20, 2020, which covers the offer and resale of up to 11,289,956 of the Company's common shares. Such shares may be offered and sold from time to time by certain officers and directors of the Company who have acquired or will acquire such shares pursuant to the 2019 Plan.
Share Options
Exercise prices of options are established at or above the fair market value of the Company’s common shares at the date of grant. Under the 2019 Omnibus Plan, unless otherwise determined by the Committee and provided in an award agreement, 25% of the options will become exercisable on the first anniversary of the grant date, with an additional 6.25% of the options vesting each quarter thereafter based on the grantee’s continued employment over a four-year period, and will expire ten years after grant date.
The fair value of each option grant is separately estimated for each vesting date. The fair value of each option is amortized into compensation expense on a straight-line basis between the grant date for the award and each vesting date. The Company has estimated the fair value of all share option awards on the date of the grant by applying the Black-Scholes-Merton multiple-option pricing valuation model. The application of this valuation model involves assumptions that are judgmental and highly sensitive in the determination of compensation expense.
The following table shows all share option activity under the 2007 Plan for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
Number of Share Options | Weighted Average Exercise Price | Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value | Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term | Aggregate Intrinsic Value | Range of Option Exercise Prices (Low to High) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Outstanding, December 31, 2018 | 657,824 | $ | 7.92 | 4.40 years | $ | — | $3.24 | $13.98 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Granted | 7,500 | $ | 1.31 | $ | 0.25 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Expired | (119,320) | $ | 5.78 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forfeited | (61,875) | $ | 7.15 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Outstanding, December 31, 2019 | 484,129 | $ | 8.44 | 3.63 years | $ | — | $1.31 | $13.98 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Expired | (213,379) | $ | 7.50 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forfeited | (6,250) | $ | 7.20 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Outstanding, December 31, 2020 | 264,500 | $ | 9.22 | 4.72 years | $ | — | $1.31 | $13.98 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total exercisable at December 31, 2020 | 207,625 | $ | 10.01 | 4.02 years | $ | — | $1.31 | $13.98 |
The weighted average grant date fair value is $2.23 (2019 - $2.29) for all options outstanding at December 31, 2020. There was $9 (2019 - $65) of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested options at December 31, 2020 which will be recognized during the next 0.27 years. There were no options exercised for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Restricted Shares and Restricted Share Units
The fair value of each restricted share or restricted share unit is determined based on the market value of the Company's common shares on the date of grant. The total estimated fair value is amortized as an expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period as determined by the Committee, which varies between to three years for employees and one year for directors.
Performance-Based Restricted Share Units ("PB-RSU")
In 2011, the Committee formed a long-term incentive program under the 2007 Plan for certain senior leaders of the Company. Performance cycles were for three years, and settlement of the grants were made in common shares upon the decision of the Committee. This long-term incentive program was concluded in 2018 with final payouts in early 2019.
Non-Performance-Based Restricted Share Units ("NPB-RSU")
Beginning in 2012, the Committee approved an annual award of NPB-RSU with each annual award vesting over three years. The total fair value of restricted share units vested during the year ended December 31, 2020 was $0 (2019 - $219).
F-58
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
14. Share Compensation and Pension Plans (continued)
Non-Performance-Based ("NPB") Restricted Shares
Starting in fiscal year 2019, the Company changed its practice of awarding a fixed number of restricted share units to the non-employee directors and instead now grants each director $65 worth of compensation in the form of either restricted shares, which vest on the first anniversary of the grant, share options or cash.
For the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company issued a total of 333,330 restricted shares to non-employee directors for compensation related to their services. The restricted shares were issued on June 1, 2020 pursuant to the 2019 Omnibus Plan and will vest in full on June 1, 2021. In 2019, compensation was granted in the form of cash paid to each director. It is the Company's intention that annually, on or around June 1, each non-employee director will receive a grant of $65 worth of compensation which, if non-cash compensation, will vest on the first anniversary of the grant.
The total fair value of NPB Restricted Shares that vested during the year ended December 31, 2020 was $1,136 (2019 - $582).
Discretionary Performance-Based ("PB") Restricted Shares
During the year ended December 31, 2020, a total of 982,974 restricted shares were granted to senior management pursuant to the 2019 Omnibus Plan, of which 744,680 restricted shares vested immediately with the remaining annual awards to vest after two years of service. The total fair value of PB Restricted Shares that vested during the year ended December 31, 2020 was $700.
The following table shows the summary of activity for the Company's restricted share awards:
Non-Performance-Based Restricted Share Units | Non-Performance-Based Restricted Shares | Performance Based Restricted Share Units | Discretionary Performance-Based Restricted Shares | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Number of Restricted Units | Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value | Number of Restricted Shares | Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value | Number of Restricted Units | Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value | Number of Restricted Shares | Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-vested at December 31, 2018 | 25,000 | $ | 8.75 | 260,971 | $ | 5.94 | 847,645 | $ | 10.71 | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Awards granted | — | $ | — | 1,669,490 | $ | 0.79 | — | $ | — | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Awards vested | (25,000) | $ | 8.75 | (91,823) | $ | 6.34 | (83,751) | $ | 13.16 | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Awards forfeited | — | $ | — | (19,841) | $ | 1.26 | (763,894) | $ | 10.44 | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-vested at December 31, 2019 | — | $ | — | 1,818,797 | $ | 1.24 | — | $ | — | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Awards granted | — | $ | — | 333,330 | $ | 1.20 | — | $ | — | 982,974 | $ | 1.02 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Awards vested | — | $ | — | (908,857) | $ | 1.25 | — | $ | — | (744,680) | $ | 0.94 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Awards forfeited | — | $ | — | — | $ | — | — | $ | — | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-vested at December 31, 2020 | — | $ | — | 1,243,270 | $ | 1.22 | — | $ | — | 238,294 | $ | 1.26 |
Total unrecognized compensation cost of $831 related to restricted shares at December 31, 2020, which will be recognized during the next 0.70 years. Total share-based expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $2,445 (2019 - $1,911).
Pension Plans
The Company provides pension benefits to eligible employees principally through its sponsorship of various defined contribution plans which vary by subsidiary. The Company’s total expenses for its defined contribution pension plans for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $782 (2019 - $774).
F-59
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
15. Statutory Requirements and Dividend Restrictions
Our insurance and reinsurance operations are subject to insurance and/or reinsurance laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which they operate. These regulations include certain liquidity and solvency requirements whereby restrictions are imposed on the amount of dividends or other distributions, such as loans or cash advances, available to shareholders without prior approval of the insurance regulatory authorities. The statutory capital and surplus and statutory net (loss) income of our principal operating subsidiaries in their respective jurisdictions were as follows:
Maiden Reinsurance | Maiden LF | Maiden GF | ||||||||||||||||||
Statutory Capital and Surplus | ||||||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2020 | $ | 972,350 | $ | 10,612 | $ | 10,650 | ||||||||||||||
December 31, 2019 | (a) | 921,984 | 10,234 | 8,791 | ||||||||||||||||
Statutory Net Income (Loss) | ||||||||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, 2020 | $ | 52,707 | $ | (540) | $ | 20 | ||||||||||||||
For the Year Ended December 31, 2019 | (a) | (103,521) | (785) | 410 | ||||||||||||||||
Effective March 16, 2020, the Company's principal operating subsidiary Maiden Reinsurance re-domesticated from Bermuda to the State of Vermont in the United States. Maiden Reinsurance is therefore subject to the statutes and regulations of Vermont in the ordinary course of business. We determined that re-domesticating Maiden Reinsurance to Vermont enables us to better align our capital and resources with our liabilities, which originate mostly in the United States, resulting in a more efficient structure. The re-domestication, in combination with transactions completed pursuant to the Strategic Review, continue to strengthen the Company’s capital position and solvency ratios. While the Vermont DFR is currently the group supervisor for the Company, the re-domestication did not apply to the Parent Company which remains a Bermuda-based holding company.
a) Bermuda
Prior to its re-domestication to Vermont, Maiden Reinsurance was registered as a Class 3B reinsurer under The Insurance Act 1978 (Bermuda), amendments thereto and related regulations (the "Insurance Act"). Under the Insurance Act, Maiden Reinsurance was subject to enhanced capital requirements in addition to minimum solvency and liquidity requirements. Maiden Reinsurance was also required to maintain statutory economic capital and surplus at a level at least equal to its Enhanced Capital Requirement ("ECR") which is the greater of its minimum solvency margin ("MSM") and the required capital calculated by reference to the Bermuda Solvency Capital Requirement ("BSCR").
Furthermore, pursuant to Bermuda law, the Company was required to ensure that the value of the group's assets exceeded the amount of the group's liabilities by the aggregate minimum margin of solvency of each qualifying member of the group ("Group MSM"). Since December 31, 2013, the Company has been required to maintain available group capital and surplus at a level equal to or in excess of the Group Enhanced Capital Requirement ("Group ECR") which is established by reference to either the Group Bermuda Solvency Capital Requirement ("Group BSCR") model or an approved group internal capital model. Both the Company and Maiden Reinsurance met and exceeded their respective MSM and ECR ratios as required by Bermuda insurance legislation at December 31, 2019.
The statutory capital and surplus at December 31, 2019 and statutory net loss for the year ended December 31, 2019 in the table above were calculated in accordance with the Insurance Act as mandated by Bermuda law.
b) United States of America
Under Vermont statutory regulations, no captive insurance company may pay a dividend out of, or other distribution with respect to, capital or surplus without the prior approval of the Commissioner. Approval of an ongoing plan for the payment of dividends or other distributions shall be conditioned upon the retention, at the time of each payment, of capital or surplus in excess of amounts specified by, or determined in accordance with formulas approved by, the Commissioner. Notwithstanding the provisions of 11B Vermont Statutes Annotated chapter 13, a captive insurance may make such distributions as are in conformity with its purposes and approved by the Commissioner. Maiden Reinsurance did not pay any dividends during the year ended December 31, 2020.
Maiden Reinsurance is also required to maintain minimum levels of solvency and liquidity as determined by Vermont law, and to comply with Risk-Based Capital ("RBC") requirements and licensing rules as specified by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC"). RBC is used to evaluate the adequacy of capital and surplus maintained by Maiden Reinsurance in relation to risks associated with: (i) asset risk; (ii) insurance risk; (iii) interest rate risk and (iv) business risk. At December 31, 2020, Maiden Reinsurance's statutory capital and surplus exceeded the amount required to be maintained of $146,983 as of that date.
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MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
15. Statutory Requirements and Dividend Restrictions (continued)
c) Sweden
The Company has two Swedish domiciled insurance subsidiaries in Sweden, Maiden LF and Maiden GF, both regulated by the Swedish Finansinspektionen ("Swedish FSA").
Maiden LF was required to maintain a minimum level of statutory capital and surplus of $5,163 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $5,530). This requirement was met by Maiden LF throughout the respective years. The statutory assets were $18,927 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $16,165) and the statutory capital and surplus was $10,612 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $10,234). Maiden LF is subject to statutory and regulatory restrictions under the Swedish FSA that limit the maximum amount of annual dividends or distributions paid by Maiden LF to Maiden Holdings. As of December 31, 2020, Maiden LF was allowed to pay dividends or distributions not exceeding $485 (2019 - $975). No dividends were paid during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Maiden GF was required to maintain a minimum level of statutory capital and surplus of $6,910 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $5,520). This requirement was met by Maiden GF throughout the respective years. The statutory assets were $13,817 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $10,921) and the statutory capital and surplus was $10,650 at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $8,791). Maiden GF is subject to statutory and regulatory restrictions under the Swedish FSA that limit the maximum amount of annual dividends or distributions paid by Maiden GF to Maiden Holdings. As of December 31, 2020, Maiden GF was allowed to pay dividends or distributions not exceeding $298 (2019 - $253). No dividends were paid during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
F-61
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
16. Taxation
Under current Bermuda law, Maiden Holdings received an undertaking from the Bermuda government exempting them from all local income, withholding and capital gains taxes until March 31, 2035. At the present time, no such taxes are levied in Bermuda. Maiden Holdings believes that they operate in a manner such that they will not be considered to be engaged in a trade or business in the U.S. Accordingly, Maiden Holdings has not recorded any provision for U.S. taxation.
Maiden NA files a consolidated federal income tax return for the Company’s U.S. based subsidiaries, including Maiden Reinsurance, which re-domesticated to Vermont on March 16, 2020 and, as a result, became subject to U.S. taxes. Maiden NA has Net Operating Loss carry-forwards ("NOLs") and other Deferred Tax Assets (“DTAs”) and Deferred Tax Liabilities (“DTLs”) that are not presently recognized as a net DTA because a full valuation allowance is currently carried against them.
On March 27, 2020, the U.S. enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (the “CARES” Act) to mitigate the economic impacts of COVID-19. The Company believes that the provisions of the CARES Act will not have a material impact on its U.S. federal tax liabilities.
Our U.S. subsidiaries are subject to federal, state and local corporate income taxes and other taxes applicable to U.S. corporations. The provision for federal income taxes has been determined under the principles of the consolidated tax provisions of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code and Regulations. Should our U.S. subsidiaries pay a dividend outside the U.S. group, withholding taxes will apply. Tax years 2018 through 2019 are subject to examination in the U.S by the Internal Revenue Service.
The Company has subsidiary operations in various other locations around the world, including Australia, Ireland, Sweden and the United Kingdom, that are subject to relevant taxes in those jurisdictions. These subsidiaries are not under examination but generally remain subject to examination in all applicable jurisdictions for tax years from 2017 through 2020. Deferred income taxes have not been accrued with respect to certain undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries as it is the intention that such earnings will remain reinvested or will not be taxable. If the earnings were to be distributed, as dividends or otherwise, such amounts may be subject to withholding tax in the country of the paying entity. Currently, however, no withholding taxes have been accrued.
There were no unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2020 and 2019. Income (loss) before taxes and income tax benefit for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes – Domestic (Bermuda) | $ | (9,648) | $ | (60,583) | ||||||||||
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes – Foreign (U.S. and others) | 51,306 | (49,690) | ||||||||||||
Total income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes | $ | 41,658 | $ | (110,273) | ||||||||||
Current tax expense – Domestic (Bermuda) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||
Current tax expense – Foreign (U.S. and others) | 155 | 112 | ||||||||||||
Total current tax expense | $ | 155 | $ | 112 | ||||||||||
Deferred tax expense – Domestic (Bermuda) | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||
Deferred tax benefit – Foreign (U.S. and others) | (259) | (1,023) | ||||||||||||
Total deferred tax benefit | $ | (259) | $ | (1,023) | ||||||||||
Total income tax benefit | $ | (104) | $ | (911) |
F-62
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
16. Taxation (continued)
The following table is a reconciliation of the actual income tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 to the amount computed by applying the effective tax rate of 0.0% under Bermuda law to the Company's income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes:
For the Year Ended December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes | $ | 41,658 | $ | (110,273) | ||||||||||
Less: income tax benefit | (104) | (911) | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) from continuing operations | $ | 41,762 | $ | (109,362) | ||||||||||
Reconciliation of effective tax rate (% of income before income taxes) | ||||||||||||||
Bermuda tax rate | — | % | — | % | ||||||||||
U.S. taxes at statutory rates | 19.2 | % | 0.2 | % | ||||||||||
Re-domestication of Maiden Reinsurance to the U.S. | (117.3) | % | — | % | ||||||||||
Valuation allowance in respect of U.S. taxes | 98.1 | % | 0.7 | % | ||||||||||
Other jurisdictions | (0.3) | % | (0.1) | % | ||||||||||
Actual tax rate | (0.3) | % | 0.8 | % |
Deferred income taxes reflect the tax impact of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting and income tax purposes. The significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
December 31, | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||
Deferred tax assets: | ||||||||||||||
Net operating losses | $ | 44,259 | $ | 46,735 | ||||||||||
Unearned premiums | 6,017 | — | ||||||||||||
Capital loss carry-forward | 4,234 | 6,338 | ||||||||||||
Discounting of net loss and LAE reserves | 37,568 | — | ||||||||||||
Interest limitation | — | 2,338 | ||||||||||||
Deferred gain on retroactive reinsurance | 23,719 | — | ||||||||||||
Others | 776 | 513 | ||||||||||||
Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance | 116,573 | 55,924 | ||||||||||||
Valuation allowance | 96,414 | 55,569 | ||||||||||||
Deferred tax assets, net | 20,159 | 355 | ||||||||||||
Deferred tax liabilities: | ||||||||||||||
Deferred commission and other acquisition expenses | 11,327 | — | ||||||||||||
Net unrealized gains on investment | 8,197 | 96 | ||||||||||||
Others | 3 | — | ||||||||||||
Deferred tax liabilities | 19,527 | 96 | ||||||||||||
Net deferred tax asset | $ | 632 | $ | 259 |
The net deferred tax asset at December 31, 2020 was $632 (2019 - $259). The Company recorded an increase in its deferred tax assets of $63,421 and an increase in its deferred tax liabilities of $16,120 as a result of the re-domestication of Maiden Reinsurance on March 16, 2020. A valuation allowance has been established against the net U.S. deferred tax assets which is primarily attributable to net operating losses and capital losses. At this time, the Company believes it is necessary to establish a valuation allowance against the U.S. net deferred tax assets, other than the Alternative Minimum Tax credit, due to insufficient positive evidence regarding the utilization of these losses. During 2020, the Company recorded an increase in the valuation allowance of $40,845 (2019 - decrease of $757).
At December 31, 2020, the Company has available net operating loss carry-forwards of approximately $210,756 (2019 - $222,547) for income tax purposes which expire beginning in 2029. At December 31, 2020, the Company also has a capital loss carry-forward of $20,161 (2019 - $30,183) which will expire in 2023.
F-63
MAIDEN HOLDINGS, LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share and per share data)
17. Subsequent Events
Preference Shares
On March 3, 2021, the Company's Board of Directors approved the repurchase, including the repurchase by Maiden Reinsurance in accordance with its investment guidelines, of up to $100,000 of the Company's preference shares from time to time at market prices in open market purchases or as may be privately negotiated.
On March 15, 2021, Maiden Reinsurance accepted for purchase via private negotiation with certain security holders, (i) 2,561,636 shares of the Company's 8.25% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series A at an average price of $14.88 per share, (ii) 2,003,204 shares of the Company's 7.125% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series C at an average price of $14.66 per share, and (iii) 2,017,103 shares of the Company's 6.7% Non-Cumulative Preference Shares Series D at an average price of $14.60 per share for a total amount of $96,934. The acquisition by Maiden Reinsurance of these Preference Shares was made in compliance with the Company's investment guidelines previously approved by the Vermont DFR. These purchases will result in a gain on purchase of approximately $67,614 in the first quarter of 2021.
F-64