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MBIA INC - Quarter Report: 2017 March (Form 10-Q)

Form 10-Q
Table of Contents

 

 

United States

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

Form 10-Q

 

 

 

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

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2017

or

 

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 1-9583

 

 

MBIA INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Connecticut   06-1185706
(State of incorporation)  

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

1 Manhattanville Road, Suite 301, Purchase, New York   10577
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

(914) 273-4545

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Not applicable

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

 

 

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 and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes      No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, 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     (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    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 is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes      No  

As of May 4, 2017, 129,428,380 shares of Common Stock, par value $1 per share, were outstanding.


Table of Contents

 

         PAGE  

PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION

  

Item 1.

  Financial Statements MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries (Unaudited)   
  Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (Unaudited)      1  
  Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 (Unaudited)      2  
  Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 (Unaudited)      3  
  Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the three months ended March 31, 2017 (Unaudited)      4  
  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 (Unaudited)      5  
  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)      6  
  Note 1: Business Developments and Risks and Uncertainties      6  
  Note 2: Significant Accounting Policies      8  
  Note 3: Recent Accounting Pronouncements      8  
  Note 4: Variable Interest Entities      10  
  Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves      11  
  Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments      17  
  Note 7: Investments      31  
  Note 8: Derivative Instruments      35  
  Note 9: Debt      38  
  Note 10: Income Taxes      38  
  Note 11: Business Segments      39  
  Note 12: Earnings Per Share      42  
  Note 13: Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income      43  
  Note 14: Commitments and Contingencies      43  
  Note 15: Subsequent Events      44  

Item 2.

  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations      45  

Item 3.

  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk      74  

Item 4.

  Controls and Procedures      74  

PART II OTHER INFORMATION

  

Item 1.

  Legal Proceedings      75  

Item 2.

  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds      75  

Item 5. 

  Other Information      75  

Item 6.

  Exhibits      76  

SIGNATURES

     77  


Table of Contents

FORWARD-LOOKING AND CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS

This quarterly report of MBIA Inc., together with its consolidated subsidiaries, (collectively, “MBIA”, the “Company”, “we”, “us” or “our”) includes statements that are not historical or current facts and are “forward-looking statements” made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “believe”, “anticipate”, “project”, “plan”, “expect”, “estimate”, “intend”, “will likely result”, “looking forward”, or “will continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical earnings and those presently anticipated or projected. MBIA cautions readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only to their respective dates. We undertake no obligation to publicly correct or update any forward-looking statement if the Company later becomes aware that such result is not likely to be achieved.

The following are some of the general factors that could affect financial performance or could cause actual results to differ materially from estimates contained in or underlying the Company’s forward-looking statements:

 

   

increased credit losses or impairments on public finance obligations that National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation (“National”) insures issued by state, local and territorial governments and finance authorities and other providers of public services, located in the U.S. or abroad, that are experiencing fiscal stress;

 

   

the possibility that loss reserve estimates are not adequate to cover potential claims;

 

   

a disruption in the cash flow from our subsidiaries or an inability to access the capital markets and our exposure to significant fluctuations in liquidity and asset values in the global credit markets as a result of collateral posting requirements;

 

   

our ability to fully implement our strategic plan, including our ability to maintain high stable credit ratings for National and generate investor demand for our financial guarantees;

 

   

the possibility that MBIA Insurance Corporation will have inadequate liquidity or resources to timely pay claims as a result of higher than expected losses on certain structured finance transactions or as a result of a delay or failure in collecting expected recoveries, which could lead the New York State Department of Financial Services (“NYSDFS”) to put MBIA Insurance Corporation into a rehabilitation or liquidation proceeding under Article 74 of the New York Insurance Law and/or take such other actions as the NYSDFS may deem necessary to protect the interests of MBIA Insurance Corporation’s policyholders;

 

   

deterioration in the economic environment and financial markets in the United States or abroad, real estate market performance, credit spreads, interest rates and foreign currency levels; and

 

   

the effects of changes to governmental regulation, including insurance laws, securities laws, tax laws, legal precedents and accounting rules.

The above factors provide a summary of and are qualified in their entirety by the risk factors discussed under “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of MBIA Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. In addition, refer to “Note 1: Business Developments and Risks and Uncertainties” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for a discussion of certain risks and uncertainties related to our financial statements.

This quarterly report of MBIA Inc. also includes statements of the opinion and belief of MBIA management which may be forward-looking statements subject to the preceding cautionary disclosure. Unless otherwise indicated herein, the basis for each statement of opinion or belief of MBIA management in this report is the relevant industry or subject matter experience and views of certain members of MBIA’s management. Accordingly, MBIA cautions readers not to place undue reliance on any such statements, because like all statements of opinion or belief they are not statements of fact and may prove to be incorrect. We undertake no obligation to publicly correct or update any statement of opinion or belief if the Company later becomes aware that such statement of opinion or belief was not or is not then accurate. In addition, readers are cautioned that each statement of opinion or belief may be further qualified by disclosures set forth elsewhere in this report or in other disclosures by MBIA.


Table of Contents

PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

MBIA INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited)

(In millions except share and per share amounts)

 

                     
     March 31, 2017      December 31, 2016  

Assets

     

Investments:

     

Fixed-maturity securities held as available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost $4,723 and $4,713)

   $ 4,701       $ 4,694   

Investments carried at fair value

     150         146   

Investments pledged as collateral, at fair value (amortized cost $136 and $234)

     137         233   

Short-term investments held as available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost $398 and $552)

     398         552   

Other investments (includes investments at fair value of $4 and $5)

             
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investments

     5,392         5,633   

Cash and cash equivalents

     112         163   

Premiums receivable

     408         409   

Deferred acquisition costs

     112         118   

Insurance loss recoverable

     486         504   

Assets held for sale

            555   

Deferred income taxes, net

     1,019         970   

Other assets

     157         113   

Assets of consolidated variable interest entities:

     

Cash

     40         24   

Investments held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value $879 and $876)

     890         890   

Investments carried at fair value

     246         255   

Loans receivable at fair value

     1,716         1,066   

Loan repurchase commitments

     409         404   

Other assets

     30         33   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 11,017       $ 11,137   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities and Equity

     

Liabilities:

     

Unearned premium revenue

   $ 913       $ 958   

Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves

     559         541   

Long-term debt

     2,034         1,986   

Medium-term notes (includes financial instruments carried at fair value of $104 and $101)

     830         895   

Investment agreements

     390         399   

Derivative liabilities

     313         299   

Liabilities held for sale

            346   

Other liabilities

     235         233   

Liabilities of consolidated variable interest entities:

     

Variable interest entity notes (includes financial instruments carried at fair value of $1,306 and $1,351)

     2,517         2,241   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     7,791         7,898   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies (Refer to Note 14)

     

Equity:

     

Preferred stock, par value $1 per share; authorized shares—10,000,000; issued and outstanding—none

             

Common stock, par value $1 per share; authorized shares—400,000,000; issued shares—283,905,896 and 283,989,999

     284         284   

Additional paid-in capital

     3,166         3,160   

Retained earnings

     2,628         2,700   

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax of $17 and $37

     (31)        (128)  

Treasury stock, at cost—153,946,569 and 148,789,168 shares

     (2,833)        (2,789)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total shareholders’ equity of MBIA Inc.

     3,214         3,227   

Preferred stock of subsidiary

     12         12   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total equity

     3,226         3,239   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total liabilities and equity

   $ 11,017       $ 11,137   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

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

 

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Table of Contents

MBIA INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited)

(In millions except share and per share amounts)

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2017      2016  

Revenues:

     

Premiums earned:

     

Scheduled premiums earned

   $ 28       $ 45   

Refunding premiums earned

     21         30   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Premiums earned (net of ceded premiums of $1 and $2)

     49         75   

Net investment income

     52         39   

Fees and reimbursements

             

Change in fair value of insured derivatives:

     

Realized gains (losses) and other settlements on insured derivatives

     (31)        (14)  

Unrealized gains (losses) on insured derivatives

     (22)        (14)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net change in fair value of insured derivatives

     (53)        (28)  

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

     17         (69)  

Net investment losses related to other-than-temporary impairments:

     

Investment losses related to other-than-temporary impairments

            (1)  

Other-than-temporary impairments recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

     (2)         
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net investment losses related to other-than-temporary impairments

     (2)        (1)  

Net gains (losses) on extinguishment of debt

             

Other net realized gains (losses)

            (1)  

Revenues of consolidated variable interest entities:

     

Net investment income

            15   

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

     (33)        (1)  

Other net realized gains (losses)

     28          
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues

     77         32   

Expenses:

     

Losses and loss adjustment

     94         22   

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

            10   

Operating

     29         35   

Interest

     48         50   

Expenses of consolidated variable interest entities:

     

Operating

             

Interest

     17         12   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total expenses

     197         133   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (120)        (101)  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

     (48)        (23)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ (72)      $ (78)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss) per common share:

     

Basic

   $ (0.55)      $ (0.58)  

Diluted

   $ (0.55)      $ (0.58)  

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:

     

Basic

     131,402,465         135,814,835   

Diluted

     131,402,465         135,814,835   

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

 

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MBIA INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Unaudited)

(In millions)

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2017      2016  

Net income (loss)

   $ (72)      $ (78)  

Other comprehensive income (loss):

     

Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities:

     

Unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period

     (40)        123   

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

     (6)        43   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     (34)        80   

Reclassification adjustments for (gains) losses included in net income (loss)

     (2)        (5)  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

     (1)        (2)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     (1)        (3)  

Available-for-sale securities with other-than-temporary impairments:

 

  

Other-than-temporary impairments and unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period

     13         (3)  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

            (1)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

            (2)  

Reclassification adjustments for (gains) losses included in net income (loss)

             

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

             
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

             

Foreign currency translation:

     

Foreign currency translation gains (losses)

     144         (14)  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

     21         (5)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     123         (9)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

     97         66   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Comprehensive income (loss)

   $ 25       $ (12)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

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

 

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MBIA INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Unaudited)

For The Three Months Ended March 31, 2017

(In millions except share amounts)

 

                                                                                                                        
     Common Stock      Additional
Paid-in
     Retained      Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
     Treasury Stock      Total
Shareholders’
Equity
     Preferred Stock
of Subsidiary
     Total  
     Shares      Amount      Capital      Earnings      Income (Loss)      Shares      Amount      of MBIA Inc.      Shares      Amount      Equity  

Balance, December 31, 2016

     283,989,999      $ 284      $ 3,160      $ 2,700       $ (128)        (148,789,168)      $ (2,789)      $ 3,227        1,315      $ 12      $ 3,239   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

            -        -        (72)                             (72)        -        -        (72)  

Other comprehensive income (loss)

            -        -               97                       97         -        -        97   

Share-based compensation

     (84,103)        -        6                      (345,942)        (4)               -        -         

Treasury shares acquired under share repurchase program

            -        -                      (4,811,459)        (40)        (40)        -        -        (40)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2017

     283,905,896       $ 284      $ 3,166      $ 2,628       $ (31)        (153,946,569)      $ (2,833)      $ 3,214        1,315      $ 12      $ 3,226   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

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

 

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MBIA INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)

(In millions)

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2017      2016  

Cash flows from operating activities:

     

Premiums, fees and reimbursements received

   $      $ 23   

Investment income received

     64         113   

Insured derivative commutations and losses paid

     (31)        (15)  

Financial guarantee losses and loss adjustment expenses paid

     (469)        (17)  

Proceeds from recoveries and reinsurance

     44         24   

Operating and employee related expenses paid

     (53)        (51)  

Interest paid, net of interest converted to principal

     (35)        (37)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net cash provided (used) by operating activities

     (471)        40   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

     

Purchases of available-for-sale investments

     (394)        (452)  

Sales of available-for-sale investments

     271         281   

Paydowns and maturities of available-for-sale investments

     169         122   

Purchases of investments at fair value

     (69)        (24)  

Sales, paydowns and maturities of investments at fair value

     75         92   

Sales, paydowns and maturities (purchases) of short-term investments, net

     206         (32)  

Sales, paydowns and maturities of held-to-maturity investments

            1,799   

Paydowns and maturities of loans receivable

     70         56   

Consolidation of variable interest entities

     18          

(Payments) proceeds for derivative settlements

     (7)        (20)  

Collateral (to) from swap counterparty

     (5)        (13)  

Other investing

     (23)        (4)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net cash provided (used) by investing activities

     311         1,814   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

     

Proceeds from investment agreements

             

Principal paydowns of investment agreements

     (13)        (15)  

Principal paydowns of medium-term notes

     (67)         

Proceeds from the MBIA Corp. Financing Facility

     328         

Principal paydowns of variable interest entity notes

     (93)        (1,939)  

Purchases of treasury stock

     (31)        (98)  

Other financing

     (2)         
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net cash provided (used) by financing activities

     124         (2,047)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

             

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (35)        (190)  

Cash and cash equivalents—beginning of period

     187         522   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents—end of period

   $ 152       $ 332   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Reconciliation of net income (loss) to net cash provided (used) by operating activities:

     

Net income (loss)

   $ (72)      $ (78)  

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided (used) by operating activities:

     

Change in:

     

Premiums receivable

            53   

Deferred acquisition costs

            10   

Unearned premium revenue

     (45)        (81)  

Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves

     359          

Insurance loss recoverable

     (691)        21   

Accrued interest payable

     37         28   

Accrued expenses

     (28)        (21)  

Unrealized (gains) losses on insured derivatives

     22         14   

Net (gains) losses on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

     16         70   

Other net realized (gains) losses

     (31)         

Deferred income tax provision (benefit)

     (49)        (23)  

Interest on variable interest entities, net

     10         22   

Other operating

     (8)        15   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total adjustments to net income (loss)

     (399)        118   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net cash provided (used) by operating activities

   $ (471)      $ 40   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Supplementary Disclosure of Consolidated Cash Flow Information

     

Non-cash investing activities:

     

Non-cash consideration received from the sale of MBIA UK Insurance Limited

   $ 332       $  

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

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 1: Business Developments and Risks and Uncertainties

Summary

MBIA Inc., together with its consolidated subsidiaries, (collectively, “MBIA” or the “Company”) operates one of the largest financial guarantee insurance businesses in the industry. MBIA manages three operating segments: 1) United States (“U.S.”) public finance insurance; 2) corporate; and 3) international and structured finance insurance. The Company’s U.S. public finance insurance business is primarily operated through National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation (“National”) and its international and structured finance insurance business is primarily operated through MBIA Insurance Corporation and its subsidiaries (“MBIA Corp.”). Effective on January 10, 2017, MBIA Corp.’s wholly-owned subsidiary, MBIA UK (Holdings) Limited (“MBIA UK Holdings”), sold its operating subsidiary, MBIA UK Insurance Limited (“MBIA UK”), to Assured Guaranty Corp. (“Assured”), a subsidiary of Assured Guaranty Ltd. Refer below for a further discussion of the sale of MBIA UK. Unless otherwise indicated or the context otherwise requires, references to “MBIA Corp.” are (i) for any references relating to the period ended January 10, 2017, to MBIA Insurance Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, MBIA UK, and MBIA Mexico S.A. de C.V. (“MBIA Mexico”) and (ii) for any references relating to the period after January 10, 2017, to MBIA Insurance Corporation together with MBIA Mexico.

Refer to “Note 12: Business Segments” for further information about the Company’s operating segments.

Business Developments

Sale of MBIA UK

On January 10, 2017, MBIA UK Holdings sold its operating subsidiary, MBIA UK, and made a cash payment of $23 million, to Assured in exchange for the receipt by MBIA UK Holdings of certain notes (“Zohar II Notes”) owned by Assured that were issued by Zohar II 2005-1, Limited (“Zohar II”) with an aggregate outstanding principal amount of $347 million as of January 10, 2017 (the “Sale Transaction”). For the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Company recorded a gain of $5 million to adjust the carrying value of MBIA UK to its fair value less costs to sell as of the sale date. This gain was reflected in the results of the Company’s international and structured finance insurance segment and included in “Other net realized gains (losses)” on the Company’s consolidated statement of operations.

Held for Sale Classification

The assets and liabilities of MBIA UK were classified as held for sale as of December 31, 2016 and presented within “Assets held for sale” and “Liabilities held for sale” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. Income before income taxes for MBIA UK was $9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016. The following table summarizes the components of assets and liabilities held for sale as of December 31, 2016:

 

          

In millions

   As of
December 31, 2016
 

Assets

  

Investments

   $ 466   

Cash and cash equivalents

     73   

Premiums receivable

     267   

Other assets

     19   

Valuation allowance

     (270)  
  

 

 

 

Total assets held for sale

   $ 555   
  

 

 

 

Liabilities

  

Unearned premium revenue

   $ 304   

Other liabilities

     42   
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities held for sale

   $ 346   
  

 

 

 

MBIA Corp. Financing Facility

On January 10, 2017, MBIA Corp. consummated a financing facility (the “Facility”) with affiliates of certain holders of 14% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Surplus Notes of MBIA Corp. (collectively, the “Senior Lenders”), and with MBIA Inc., pursuant to which the Senior Lenders have provided $325 million of senior financing and MBIA Inc. has provided $38 million of subordinated financing to MZ Funding LLC (“MZ Funding”), a newly formed wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, which in turn lent the proceeds of such financing to MBIA Corp. MBIA Corp. issued financial guarantee insurance policies insuring MZ Funding’s obligations to the Senior Lender and MBIA Inc. under the Facility. Refer to “Note 9: Debt” for further information about the Facility.

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 1: Business Developments and Risks and Uncertainties (continued)

 

Risks and Uncertainties

The Company’s financial statements include estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. The outcome of certain significant risks and uncertainties could cause the Company to revise its estimates and assumptions or could cause actual results to differ from the Company’s estimates. The discussion below highlights the significant risks and uncertainties that could have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements and business objectives in future periods.

U.S. Public Finance Market Conditions

National’s insured portfolio continued to perform satisfactorily against a backdrop of strengthening domestic economic activity. While a stable or growing economy will generally benefit tax revenues and fees charged for essential municipal services which secure National’s insured bond portfolio, some state and local governments and territory obligors National insures remain under financial and budgetary stress. This could lead to an increase in defaults by such entities on the payment of their obligations and losses or impairments on a greater number of the Company’s insured transactions. The Company monitors and analyzes these situations and other stressed credits closely, and the overall extent and duration of this stress is uncertain.

In particular, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and certain of its instrumentalities (“Puerto Rico”) is experiencing significant fiscal stress and constrained liquidity due to, among other things, Puerto Rico’s structural budget imbalance, limited access to the capital markets, a stagnating local economy, net migration of people out of Puerto Rico and a high debt burden. Although Puerto Rico has tried to address its challenges through various fiscal policies, it continues to experience significant fiscal stress. On January 1, 2017, Puerto Rico also defaulted on a scheduled debt service for National insured bonds and National paid gross claims in the aggregate of $24 million as a result. The Company continues to believe, based on its analysis of Puerto Rico’s fiscal and structural circumstances, the details of its insured exposures, and its legal and contractual rights, that all of National’s insured Puerto Rico related debt, and any claims National has made thereon, will ultimately be substantially repaid.

MBIA Corp. Insured Portfolio

MBIA Corp.’s primary objectives are to satisfy claims of its policyholders, and to maximize future recoveries, if any, for its Senior Lenders and surplus note holders and, thereafter, its preferred stock holders. MBIA Corp. is executing this strategy by pursuing various actions focused on maximizing the collection of recoveries and by reducing potential losses on its insurance exposures. MBIA Corp.’s insured portfolio could deteriorate and result in additional significant loss reserves and claim payments. MBIA Corp.’s ability to meet its obligations is limited by available liquidity and its ability to secure additional liquidity through financing and other transactions. There can be no assurance that MBIA Corp. will be successful in generating sufficient cash to meet its obligations.

On January 20, 2017, MBIA Corp. was presented with and fully satisfied a claim of $770 million (the “Zohar II Claim”) on an insurance policy it had written insuring certain notes (the “Zohar II Notes”) issued by Zohar II 2005-1, Limited (“Zohar II”). MBIA Corp. was able to satisfy the Zohar II Claim as a result of having completed the Sale Transaction and by borrowing from the Facility, as described above, together with using approximately $60 million from its own resources. Refer to “Note 1: Business Developments and Risks and Uncertainties” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 for information about these transactions.

RMBS Recoveries

The amount and timing of projected collections from excess spread from residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”) and the put-back recoverable from Credit Suisse are uncertain.

Zohar Recoveries

Payment of a claim in November of 2015 on MBIA Corp.’s policy insuring the class A-1 and A-2 notes issued by Zohar CDO 2003-1, Limited (“Zohar I”) and satisfying the Zohar II Claim entitles MBIA Corp. to reimbursement of such amounts plus interest and expenses and/or to exercise certain rights and remedies to seek recovery of such amounts. There can be no assurance, however, that the value of the Zohar assets will be sufficient to permit MBIA Corp. to recover all or substantially all of the payments it made on Zohar I and Zohar II.

Refer to “Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves” for information about MBIA Corp.’s recoveries.

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 1: Business Developments and Risks and Uncertainties (continued)

 

Corporate Liquidity

Based on the Company’s projections of National’s dividends, additional anticipated releases under its tax sharing agreement and related tax escrow account (“Tax Escrow Account”), and other cash inflows, the Company expects that MBIA Inc. will have sufficient cash to satisfy its debt service and general corporate needs. However, MBIA Inc. continues to have liquidity risk which could be triggered by deterioration in the performance of invested assets, interruption of or reduction in dividends or tax payments received from operating subsidiaries, impaired access to the capital markets, as well as other factors which cannot be anticipated at this time. Furthermore, failure by MBIA Inc. to settle liabilities that are also insured by MBIA Corp. could result in claims on MBIA Corp.

Note 2: Significant Accounting Policies

The Company has disclosed its significant accounting policies in “Note 2: Significant Accounting Policies” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. The following significant accounting policies provide an update to those included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X and, accordingly, do not include all of the information and disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for annual periods. These statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have not been audited by an independent registered public accounting firm in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (U.S.), but in the opinion of management such financial statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for the fair statement of the Company’s consolidated financial position and results of operations. All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. As additional information becomes available or actual amounts become determinable, the recorded estimates are revised and reflected in operating results.

The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 may not be indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2017. The December 31, 2016 consolidated balance sheet was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by GAAP for annual periods. Certain amounts have been reclassified in the prior year’s financial statements to conform to the current presentation. This includes a change in the presentation of cash paid when withholding shares for tax-withholding purposes in “Purchases of treasury stock” on the Company’s consolidated statement of cash flows as required under Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-09, “Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718)”. The change in presentation effected “Operating and employee related expenses paid”, in operating cash flows and “Purchases of treasury stock”, in financing cash flows, on the Company’s consolidated statement of cash flows in prior periods. Such reclassifications did not materially impact total revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities, shareholders’ equity, operating cash flows, investing cash flows, or financing cash flows for all periods presented.

Note 3: Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

The Company has not adopted any new accounting pronouncements that had a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

Recent Accounting Developments

Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (ASU 2014-09) and Deferral of the Effective Date (ASU 2015-14)

In May of 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606).” ASU 2014-09 amends the accounting guidance for recognizing revenue for the transfer of goods or services from contracts with customers unless those contracts are within the scope of other accounting standards. ASU 2014-09 does not apply to financial guarantee insurance contracts within the scope of Topic 944, “Financial Services — Insurance.” ASU 2014-09 applies to certain fees and reimbursements, and is not expected to materially impact revenue recognition of these fees and reimbursements. In August of 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) — Deferral of the Effective Date.” ASU 2015-14 defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 to interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2018, and is applied on a retrospective or modified retrospective basis. The adoption of ASU 2014-09 is not expected to materially impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 3: Recent Accounting Pronouncements (continued)

 

Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (ASU 2016-01)

In January of 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” ASU 2016-01 requires certain equity investments other than those accounted for under the equity method of accounting or result in consolidation of the investee to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income, and permits an entity to measure equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values at cost less any impairment plus or minus adjustments for certain changes in observable prices. An entity is also required to evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available-for-sale (“AFS”) debt securities in combination with the entity’s other deferred tax assets. ASU 2016-01 requires an entity to present separately in other comprehensive income the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability that results from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk for financial liabilities that the entity has elected to measure at fair value in accordance with the fair value option for financial instruments. ASU 2016-01 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2018, and is applied on a modified retrospective basis. Early adoption is not permitted with the exception of early application of the guidance that requires separate presentation in other comprehensive income of the change in the instrument-specific credit risk for financial liabilities measured at fair value in accordance with the fair value option. Upon adoption of ASU 2016-01, the Company does not expect there to be a material impact to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Based on the fair values as of March 31, 2017 of financial liabilities measured at fair value in accordance with the fair value option, the cumulative-effect adjustment, net of tax, related to the instrument-specific credit risk portion of such financial liabilities was a gain of approximately $100 million, which represents the amount that would have been reclassed from retained earnings to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) had the Company adopted ASU 2016-01 on March 31, 2017. In addition, based on fair values as of March 31, 2017 of equity investments, the cumulative-effect adjustment, net of tax, related to net unrealized gains of such investments was approximately $0.3 million, which represents the amount that would have been reclassed from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to retained earnings had the Company adopted ASU 2016-01 on March 31, 2017. The Company plans to adopt ASU 2016-01 in its entirety on January 1, 2018. The amounts provided as of March 31, 2017 are subject to change when the Company adopts ASU 2016-01.

Leases (Topic 842) (ASU 2016-02)

In February of 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)” that amends the accounting guidance for leasing transactions. ASU 2016-02 requires a lessee to classify lease contracts as finance or operating leases, and to recognize assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by leasing transactions with lease terms more than twelve months. ASU 2016-02 substantially retains the criteria for classifying leasing transactions as finance or operating leases. For finance leases, a lessee recognizes a right-of-use asset and a lease liability initially measured at the present value of the lease payments, and recognizes interest expense on the lease liability separately from the amortization of the right-of-use asset. For operating leases, a lessee recognizes a right-of-use asset and a lease liability initially measured at the present value of the lease payments, and recognizes lease expense on a straight-line basis. ASU 2016-02 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2019 with early adoption permitted, and is applied on a modified retrospective basis. The adoption of ASU 2016-02 is not expected to materially impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (ASU 2016-13)

In June of 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” ASU 2016-13 requires financing receivables and other financial assets measured at amortized cost basis to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected by recording an allowance for credit losses with changes in the allowance recorded as credit loss expense or reversal of credit loss expense based on management’s current estimate of expected credit losses each period. ASU 2016-13 does not apply to credit losses on financial guarantee insurance contracts within the scope of Topic 944, “Financial Services-Insurance.” ASU 2016-13 also requires impairment relating to credit losses on AFS debt securities to be presented through an allowance for credit losses with changes in the allowance recorded in the period of the change as credit loss expense or reversal of credit loss expense. Any impairment amount not recorded through an allowance for credit losses on AFS debt securities is recorded through other comprehensive income. ASU 2016-13 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2020 with early adoption permitted beginning January 1, 2019. ASU 2016-13 is applied on a modified retrospective basis except that prospective application is applied to AFS debt securities with other-than-temporary impairments (“OTTI”) recognized before the date of adoption. The Company is evaluating the impact of adopting ASU 2016-13.

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 4: Variable Interest Entities

 

Through MBIA’s international and structured finance insurance segment, the Company provides credit protection to issuers of obligations that may involve issuer-sponsored special purpose entities (“SPEs”). An SPE may be considered a variable interest entity (“VIE”) to the extent the SPE’s total equity at risk is not sufficient to permit the SPE to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or its equity investors lack any one of the following characteristics: (i) the power to direct the activities of the SPE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance or (ii) the obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity or the right to receive the expected residual returns of the entity. A holder of a variable interest or interests in a VIE is required to assess whether it has a controlling financial interest, and thus is required to consolidate the entity as primary beneficiary. An assessment of a controlling financial interest identifies the primary beneficiary as the variable interest holder that has both of the following characteristics: (i) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the entity or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The primary beneficiary is required to consolidate the VIE. An ongoing reassessment of controlling financial interest is required to be performed based on any substantive changes in facts and circumstances involving the VIE and its variable interests.

The Company evaluates issuer-sponsored SPEs initially to determine if an entity is a VIE, and is required to reconsider its initial determination if certain events occur. For all entities determined to be VIEs, MBIA performs an ongoing reassessment to determine whether its guarantee to provide credit protection on obligations issued by VIEs provides the Company with a controlling financial interest. Based on its ongoing reassessment of controlling financial interest, the Company determines whether a VIE is required to be consolidated or deconsolidated.

The Company makes its determination for consolidation based on a qualitative assessment of the purpose and design of a VIE, the terms and characteristics of variable interests of an entity, and the risks a VIE is designed to create and pass through to holders of variable interests. The Company generally provides credit protection on obligations issued by VIEs, and holds certain contractual rights according to the purpose and design of a VIE. The Company may have the ability to direct certain activities of a VIE depending on facts and circumstances, including the occurrence of certain contingent events, and these activities may be considered the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance. The Company generally considers its guarantee of principal and interest payments of insured obligations, given nonperformance by a VIE, to be an obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE. At the time the Company determines it has the ability to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the entity based on facts and circumstances, MBIA is deemed to have a controlling financial interest in the VIE and is required to consolidate the entity as primary beneficiary. The Company performs an ongoing reassessment of controlling financial interest that may result in consolidation or deconsolidation of any VIE.

Nonconsolidated VIEs

The following tables present the total assets of nonconsolidated VIEs in which the Company holds a variable interest as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, through its insurance operations. The following tables also present the Company’s maximum exposure to loss for nonconsolidated VIEs and carrying values of the assets and liabilities for its interests in these VIEs as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. The Company has aggregated nonconsolidated VIEs based on the underlying credit exposure of the insured obligation. The nature of the Company’s variable interests in nonconsolidated VIEs is related to financial guarantees, insured credit default swap (“CDS”) contracts and any investments in obligations issued by nonconsolidated VIEs.

 

                                                                            
     March 31, 2017  
                 Carrying Value of Assets      Carrying Value of Liabilities  

In millions

   VIE
Assets
     Maximum
Exposure
to Loss
     Investments(1)      Premiums
Receivable(2)
     Insurance  Loss
Recoverable(3)
     Unearned
Premium
Revenue(4)
     Loss and Loss
Adjustment
Expense
Reserves(5)
 

Insurance:

                    

Global structured finance:

                    

Collateralized debt obligations

   $ 1,955      $ 995      $ 13      $ 1      $ -      $ -      $ -  

Mortgage-backed residential

     8,575        4,499        20        27        282        25        396  

Mortgage-backed commercial

     247        132        -        -        -        -        -  

Consumer asset-backed

     5,059        1,267        -        6        2        5        10  

Corporate asset-backed

     2,406        2,015        -        16        -        18        -  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total global structured finance

     18,242        8,908        33        50        284        48        406  

Global public finance

     19,035        3,062        -        11        -        18        -  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total insurance

   $ 37,277      $ 11,970      $ 33      $ 61      $ 284      $ 66      $ 406  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Reported within “Investments” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

(2) - Reported within “Premiums receivable” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

(3) - Reported within “Insurance loss recoverable” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

(4) - Reported within “Unearned premium revenue” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

(5) - Reported within “Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 4: Variable Interest Entities (continued)

 

                                                                            
     December 31, 2016  
                 Carrying Value of Assets      Carrying Value of Liabilities  

In millions

   VIE
Assets
     Maximum
Exposure
to Loss
     Investments(1)      Premiums
Receivable(2)
     Insurance  Loss
Recoverable(3)
     Unearned
Premium
Revenue(4)
     Loss and Loss
Adjustment
Expense
Reserves(5)
 

Insurance:

                    

Global structured finance:

                    

Collateralized debt obligations

   $ 3,167      $ 1,914      $ 51      $ 2      $ -      $ -      $ 73  

Mortgage-backed residential

     9,146        4,796        20        28        304        27        325  

Mortgage-backed commercial

     257        145        -        -        -        -        -  

Consumer asset-backed

     4,893        1,331        -        7        2        5        8  

Corporate asset-backed

     2,625        2,205        5        18        -        20        -  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total global structured finance

     20,088        10,391        76        55        306        52        406  

Global public finance

     44,306        12,051        -        11        -        18        -  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total insurance

   $ 64,394      $ 22,442      $ 76      $ 66      $ 306      $ 70      $ 406  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Reported within “Investments” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

(2) - Reported within “Premiums receivable” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets. Excludes $125 million that is included within “Assets held for sale” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet.

 

(3) - Reported within “Insurance loss recoverable” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

(4) - Reported within “Unearned premium revenue” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets. Excludes $134 million that is included within “Liabilities held for sale” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet.

 

(5) - Reported within “Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

The maximum exposure to loss as a result of MBIA’s variable interests in VIEs is represented by insurance in force. Insurance in force is the maximum future payments of principal and interest which may be required under commitments to make payments on insured obligations issued by nonconsolidated VIEs.

Consolidated VIEs

The carrying amounts of assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs were $3.3 billion and $2.5 billion, respectively, as of March 31, 2017, and $2.7 billion and $2.2 billion, respectively, as of December 31, 2016. The carrying amounts of assets and liabilities are presented separately in “Assets of consolidated variable interest entities” and “Liabilities of consolidated variable interest entities” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. VIEs are consolidated or deconsolidated based on an ongoing reassessment of controlling financial interest, when events occur or circumstances arise, and whether the ability to exercise rights that constitute power to direct activities of any VIEs are present according to the design and characteristics of these entities. Two additional VIEs were consolidated during the three months ended March 31, 2017 and one additional VIE was consolidated during the three months ended March 31, 2016.

Holders of insured obligations of issuer-sponsored VIEs related to the Company’s international and structured finance insurance segment do not have recourse to the general assets of MBIA. In the event of nonpayment of an insured obligation issued by a consolidated VIE, the Company is obligated to pay principal and interest, when due, on the respective insured obligation only. The Company’s exposure to consolidated VIEs is limited to the credit protection provided on insured obligations and any additional variable interests held by MBIA.

Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves

U.S. Public Finance Insurance

U.S. public finance insured transactions consist of municipal bonds, including tax-exempt and taxable indebtedness of U.S. political subdivisions, as well as utilities, airports, health care institutions, higher educational facilities, student loan issuers, housing authorities and other similar agencies and obligations issued by private entities that finance projects that serve a substantial public purpose. The Company estimates future losses by using probability-weighted cash flow scenarios that are customized to each insured transaction. Future loss estimates consider debt service due for each insured transaction, which includes par outstanding and interest due, as well as recoveries for such payments, if any. Gross par outstanding for capital appreciation bonds represents the par amount at the time of issuance of the insurance policy.

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves (continued)

 

Certain local governments remain under financial and budgetary stress and a few have filed for protection under the United States Bankruptcy Code, or have entered into state statutory proceedings established to assist municipalities in managing through periods of severe fiscal stress. This could lead to an increase in defaults by such entities on the payment of their obligations and losses or impairments in greater amounts on the Company’s insured transactions. The Company monitors and analyzes these situations closely, however, the overall extent and duration of such events are uncertain. Also, the filing for protection under the United States Bankruptcy Code or entering state statutory proceedings does not necessarily result in a default or indicate that an ultimate loss will occur.

International and Structured Finance Insurance

The international and structured finance insurance segment’s case basis reserves and insurance loss recoveries recorded in accordance with GAAP do not include estimates for policies insuring credit derivatives or on financial guarantee VIEs that are eliminated in consolidation. Policies insuring credit derivative contracts are accounted for as derivatives and are carried at fair value in the Company’s consolidated financial statements under GAAP. The fair values of insured credit derivative contracts are influenced by a variety of market and transaction-specific factors that may be unrelated to potential future claim payments under the Company’s insurance policies. In the absence of credit impairments on insured credit derivative contracts or the early termination of such contracts at a loss, the cumulative unrealized losses recorded from these contracts should reverse before or at the maturity of the contracts. As the Company’s insured credit derivatives have similar terms, conditions, risks, and economic profiles to its financial guarantee insurance policies, the Company evaluates them for impairment, under Statutory accounting, in the same way that it estimates loss and loss adjustment expense (“LAE”) for its financial guarantee policies. Refer to “Note 8: Derivative Instruments” for a further discussion of the Company’s use of derivatives and their impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

RMBS Case Basis Reserves (Financial Guarantees)

The Company’s RMBS reserves and recoveries relate to financial guarantee insurance policies, excluding those on consolidated VIEs. The Company’s first-lien RMBS case basis reserves primarily relate to RMBS backed by alternative A-paper and subprime mortgage loans. The Company’s second-lien RMBS case basis reserves relate to RMBS backed by home equity lines of credit and closed-end second mortgages. The Company calculated RMBS case basis reserves as of March 31, 2017 for both first and second-lien RMBS transactions using a process called the “Roll Rate Methodology.” The Roll Rate Methodology is a multi-step process using databases of loan level information, proprietary internal cash flow models, and commercially available models to estimate potential losses and recoveries on insured bonds. Refer to “Note 6: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, for additional information on the Company’s Roll Rate Methodology for its RMBS case basis reserves.

The Company monitors portfolio performance on a monthly basis against projected performance, reviewing delinquencies, roll rates, and prepayment rates (including voluntary and involuntary). However, loan performance remains difficult to predict and losses may exceed expectations. In the event of a material deviation in actual performance from projected performance, the Company would increase or decrease the case basis reserves accordingly.

RMBS Recoveries

The Company primarily records two types of recoveries related to insured RMBS exposures: excess spread that is generated from the trust structures in the insured transactions; and second-lien “put-back” claims related to those mortgage loans whose inclusion in an insured securitization failed to comply with representations and warranties (“ineligible loans”).

Excess Spread

Excess spread within insured RMBS securitizations is the difference between interest inflows on mortgage loan collateral and interest outflows on the insured RMBS notes. The aggregate amount of excess spread depends on the future loss trends (which include future delinquency trends, average time to charge-off/liquidate delinquent loans, and the availability of pool mortgage insurance), the future spread between Prime and the London Interbank Offered Rate interest rates, and borrower refinancing behavior (which may be affected by changes in the interest rate environment) that results in voluntary prepayments. Minor deviations in loss trends and voluntary prepayments may substantially impact the amounts collected from excess spread. Excess spread may also include estimated recoverables from mortgage insurance contracts and subsequent recoveries on charged-off loans associated with the insured RMBS securitizations.

 

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Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves (continued)

 

Second-lien Put-Back Claims Related to Ineligible Mortgage Loans

To date, MBIA has settled the majority of the Company’s put-back claims. Only its claims against Credit Suisse remain outstanding. To date, settlement amounts have been consistent with the put-back recoveries that had been included in the Company’s financial statements at the times preceding the settlements.

The put-back contract claim remaining with Credit Suisse is related to the inclusion of ineligible mortgage loans in the 2007-2 Home Equity Mortgage Trust securitization. Credit Suisse has challenged the Company’s assessment of the ineligibility of individual mortgage loans and the dispute is the subject of litigation for which there is no assurance that the Company will prevail.

Based on the Company’s assessment of the strength of its contractual put-back rights against Credit Suisse, as well as on its prior settlements with other sellers/servicers and success of other monolines’ put-back settlements, the Company believes it will prevail in enforcing its contractual rights and that it is entitled to collect the full amount of its incurred losses, which totaled $440 million through March 31, 2017. The Company is also entitled to collect interest on amounts paid; it believes that in the context of its put-back litigation, the appropriate interest rate should be the New York State statutory rate. However, the Company currently calculates its put-back recoveries using the contractual interest rate, which is lower than the New York State statutory rate.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, uncertainty remains with respect to the ultimate outcome of the litigation with Credit Suisse, which is contemplated in the probability-weighted cash flow scenario based-modeling the Company uses. The Credit Suisse recovery scenarios are based on the amount of incurred losses measured against certain probabilities of ultimate resolution of the dispute with Credit Suisse. Most of the probability weight is assigned to partial recovery scenarios and are discounted using the current risk-free discount rates associated against the underlying transaction’s cash flows.

The Company continues to consider relevant facts and circumstances in developing its assumptions on expected cash inflows, probability of potential recoveries (including the outcome of litigation) and recovery period. The estimated amount and likelihood of potential recoveries are expected to be revised and supplemented to the extent there are developments in the pending litigation and/or changes to the financial condition of Credit Suisse. While the Company believes it will be successful in realizing its recoveries from its put-back contract claims against Credit Suisse, the ultimate amount recovered may be materially different from that recorded by the Company given the inherent uncertainty of the manner of resolving the claims (i.e., litigation and/or negotiated out-of-court settlement) and the assumptions used in the required estimation process for accounting purposes which are based, in part, on judgments and other information that are not easily corroborated by historical data or other relevant benchmarks.

CDO Reserves

The Company also has loss and LAE reserves on certain transactions within its collateralized debt obligation (“CDO”) portfolio, including its multi-sector CDO and high yield corporate CDO asset classes that were insured in the form of financial guarantee policies. MBIA’s insured multi-sector CDOs are transactions that include a variety of collateral ranging from corporate bonds to structured finance assets (which includes, but are not limited to, RMBS-related collateral, multi-sector and corporate CDOs). MBIA’s high yield corporate CDO portfolio consists of a middle-market/special-opportunity corporate loan transaction.

Zohar Recoveries

MBIA Corp. will seek to recover the payments it made (plus interest and expenses) with respect to Zohar I and the Zohar II Claim. MBIA Corp. anticipates that the primary source of the recovery of the Zohar II Claim will come from the monetization of the assets of Zohar II, which include, among other things, loans made to, and equity interests in, companies purportedly controlled by the sponsor and former collateral manager of Zohar I and Zohar II (the “Zohar Sponsor”) (all the assets of Zohar II, the “Zohar II Assets”).

In connection with the exercise of its rights and remedies, MBIA Corp. directed the trustee for Zohar I to commence an auction (the “Auction”) of all of the assets of Zohar I, which occurred in 2016. MBIA Corp. was the winning bidder in the Auction, and in connection therewith, acquired the beneficial ownership of the Zohar I assets, which include loans made to, and equity interests in, companies purportedly controlled by the Zohar Sponsor (all the assets of Zohar I, the “Zohar I Assets”). Over time, MBIA Corp. expects to acquire the legal ownership of the Zohar I Assets and recover all or substantially all of the payment it made (plus interest and expenses) with regards to the Zohar I Claim. As of March 31, 2017, the recoveries of Zohar I and Zohar II are included in “Loans receivable at fair value” which are presented in “Assets of consolidated variable interest entities” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

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Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves (continued)

 

There can be no assurance, however, that the value of the Zohar II Assets and the Zohar I Assets will be sufficient to permit MBIA Corp. to recover all or substantially all of the payments it made on the Zohar II Claim and the Zohar I Claim. Failure to recover a substantial amount of such payments could impede its ability to make payments when due on other policies. MBIA Corp. believes that if the New York State Department of Financial Services (“NYSDFS”) concludes at any time that MBIA Insurance Corporation will not be able to pay its policyholder claims, the NYSDFS would likely put MBIA Insurance Corporation into a rehabilitation or liquidation proceeding under Article 74 of the New York Insurance Law (“NYIL”) and/or take such other actions as the NYSDFS may deem necessary to protect the interests of MBIA Insurance Corporation’s policyholders. The determination to commence such a proceeding or take other such actions is within the exclusive control of the NYSDFS.

Refer to “Note 6: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, for additional information on the Company’s loss reserving process including risk-management activities.

Summary of Loss and LAE Reserves and Recoveries

The Company’s loss and LAE reserves and recoveries before consolidated VIE eliminations, along with amounts that were eliminated as a result of consolidated VIEs, which are included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2017 and December 31,2016 are presented in the following table:

 

                                                                 
     As of March 31, 2017      As of December 31, 2016  

In millions

   Balance Sheet Line Item      Balance Sheet Line Item  
     Insurance
loss
recoverable
     Loan
repurchase
commitments
     Loss and
LAE
reserves
     Insurance
loss
recoverable
     Loan
repurchase
commitments
     Loss and
LAE
reserves
 

U.S. Public Finance Insurance

   $ 197       $      $ 106       $ 174       $      $ 97   

International and Structured Finance Insurance:

 

              

Before VIE eliminations

     1,200         409         687         551         404         650   

VIE eliminations

     (911)               (234)        (221)               (206)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total international and structured finance insurance

     289         409         453         330         404         444   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 486       $ 409       $ 559       $ 504       $ 404       $ 541   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Changes in Loss and LAE Reserves

The following table presents changes in the Company’s loss and LAE reserves for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Changes in loss reserves attributable to the accretion of the claim liability discount, changes in discount rates, changes in amount and timing of estimated claim payments and recoveries, changes in assumptions and changes in LAE reserves are recorded in “Losses and loss adjustment” expenses in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations. As of March 31, 2017, the weighted average risk-free rate used to discount the Company’s loss reserves (claim liability) was 2.14%. LAE reserves are generally expected to be settled within a one-year period and are not discounted. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company’s gross loss and LAE reserves included $62 million and $60 million, respectively, related to LAE.

 

                                                                                       
In millions      Changes in Loss and LAE Reserves for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017         

Gross Loss
and LAE
Reserves as of
December 31,
2016

     Loss
Payments
for Cases
with
Reserves(1)
     Accretion
of
Claim
Liability
Discount
     Changes in
Discount
Rates
     Changes in
Assumptions
     Changes in
Unearned
Premium
Revenue
     Changes in
LAE
Reserves
     Other(2)      Gross Loss
and LAE
Reserves as of
March 31,
2017
 
$ 541      $ (804)      $ 1      $ 5      $ 96      $ 4      $ 2      $ 714      $ 559  

 

(1) -  Includes payments made to satisfy the Zohar II Claim.

 

(2) -  Primarily changes in the amount to satisfy the Zohar II Claim.

The increase in the Company’s gross loss and LAE reserves reflected in the preceding table was primarily related to increases due to changes in assumptions on insured RMBS transactions, partially offset by decreases in changes in amount of payments on CDOs.

 

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Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves (continued)

 

Changes in Insurance Loss Recoverable and Recoveries on Unpaid Losses

Current period changes in the Company’s estimate of potential recoveries may be recorded as an insurance loss recoverable asset, netted against the gross loss and LAE reserve liability, or both. The following table presents changes in the Company’s insurance loss recoverable and changes in recoveries on unpaid losses reported within the Company’s claim liability for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Changes in insurance loss recoverable attributable to the accretion of the discount on the recoverable, changes in discount rates, changes in amount and timing of estimated collections, changes in assumptions and changes in LAE recoveries are recorded in “Losses and loss adjustment” expenses in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

 

                                                                                       
            Changes in Insurance Loss Recoverable and Recoveries on Unpaid Losses
for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
        

In millions

   Gross
Reserve as of
December 31,
2016
     Collections
for Cases
with
Recoveries
     Accretion
of
Recoveries
     Changes in
Discount
Rates
     Changes in
Assumptions
     Changes in
LAE
Recoveries
     Other(1)      Gross
Reserve
as of
March 31,
2017
 

Insurance loss recoverable

   $ 504      $ (42)      $ 2      $ 3      $ (4)      $      $ 23      $ 486  

Recoveries on unpaid losses(2)

     79               -        1        (25)        (4)        -        51  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 583      $ (42)      $ 2      $ 4      $ (29)      $ (4)      $ 23      $ 537  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Primarily changes in amount and timing of collections.

 

(2) - As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, excludes Puerto Rico recoveries, and as of December 31, 2016, the Zohar II recoveries, which have been netted against reserves.

The decrease in the Company’s insurance loss recoverable and recoveries on unpaid losses reflected in the preceding table was primarily due to a decrease in changes in assumptions on insured RMBS transactions.

Loss and LAE Activity

The Company’s financial guarantee insurance losses and LAE (excluding insured credit derivatives and consolidated VIEs), net of reinsurance for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 are presented in the following table:

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  

In millions

   2017      2016  

U.S. Public Finance Insurance Segment

   $ 11      $  

International and Structured Finance Insurance Segment:

     

Second-lien RMBS

     23        12   

First-lien RMBS

     57        26   

CDOs

     2        (31)  

Other(1)

     1         
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Losses and LAE expense (benefit)

   $ 94      $ 22   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Includes non-U.S. public finance and other issues.

For the three months ended March 31, 2017, losses and LAE primarily related to increases in expected payments on insured RMBS transactions and decreases in projected collections from excess spread within insured RMBS securitizations.

For the three months ended March 31, 2016, losses and LAE primarily related to increases in expected payments on insured first-lien RMBS transactions and certain Puerto Rico exposures and decreases in projected collections from excess spread within insured second-lien RMBS securitizations. These were partially offset by decreases in expected payments related to CDOs.

Costs associated with remediating insured obligations assigned to the Company’s surveillance categories are recorded as LAE and included in “Losses and loss adjustment” expenses on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, gross LAE related to remediating insured obligations were $12 million and $8 million, respectively.

 

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Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves (continued)

 

Surveillance Categories

The following table provides information about the financial guarantees and related claim liability included in each of MBIA’s surveillance categories as of March 31, 2017:

 

                                                      
     Surveillance Categories  

$ in millions

   Caution
List
Low
     Caution
List
Medium
     Caution
List
High
     Classified
List
     Total  

Number of policies

     89        5        3        326         423   

Number of issues(1)

     18        4        2        122         146   

Remaining weighted average contract period (in years)

     7.6        4.1        24.4        7.7         9.0   

Gross insured contractual payments outstanding:(2)

              

Principal

   $ 2,779      $ 14      $ 792      $ 6,081       $ 9,666   

Interest

     2,729        3        3,538        2,612         8,882   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 5,508      $ 17      $ 4,330      $ 8,693       $ 18,548   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross Claim Liability(3)

   $ -      $ -      $ -      $ 721       $ 721   

Less:

              

Gross Potential Recoveries

     -        -        -        704         704   

Discount, net(4)

     -        -        -        (35)        (35)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net claim liability (recoverable)

   $ -      $ -      $ -      $ 52       $ 52   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Unearned premium revenue

   $ 8      $ -      $ 25      $ 65       $ 98   

 

(1) - An “issue” represents the aggregate of financial guarantee policies that share the same revenue source for purposes of making debt service payments on the insured debt.

 

(2) - Represents contractual principal and interest payments due by the issuer of the obligations insured by MBIA.

 

(3) - The gross claim liability with respect to Puerto Rico exposures are net of expected recoveries.

 

(4) - Represents discount related to Gross Claim Liability and Gross Potential Recoveries.

The following table provides information about the financial guarantees and related claim liability included in each of MBIA’s surveillance categories as of December 31, 2016:

 

                                                      
     Surveillance Categories  

$ in millions

   Caution
List
Low
     Caution
List
Medium
     Caution
List
High
     Classified
List
     Total  

Number of policies

     90        6        3        331         430   

Number of issues(1)

     17        4        2        126         149   

Remaining weighted average contract period (in years)

     7.5        3.4        7.2        7.0         7.1   

Gross insured contractual payments outstanding:(2)

              

Principal

   $ 2,917      $ 17      $ 320      $ 7,031       $ 10,285   

Interest

     2,795        4        107        2,777         5,683   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 5,712      $ 21      $ 427      $ 9,808       $ 15,968   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross Claim Liability(3)

   $ -      $ -      $ -      $ 718       $ 718   

Less:

              

Gross Potential Recoveries

     -        -        -        770         770   

Discount, net(4)

     -        -        -        (75)        (75)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net claim liability (recoverable)

   $ -      $ -      $ -      $ 23       $ 23   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Unearned premium revenue

   $ 9      $ -      $ 8      $ 68       $ 85   

 

(1) - An “issue” represents the aggregate of financial guarantee policies that share the same revenue source for purposes of making debt service payments on the insured debt.

 

(2) - Represents contractual principal and interest payments due by the issuer of the obligations insured by MBIA.

 

(3) - The gross claim liability with respect to Puerto Rico and Zohar II exposures are net of expected recoveries.

 

(4) - Represents discount related to Gross Claim Liability and Gross Potential Recoveries.

 

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Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves (continued)

 

The gross claim liabilities in the preceding tables represent the Company’s estimate of undiscounted probability-weighted estimated future claim payments. The gross claim liability with respect to Puerto Rico exposure as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, and the Zohar II exposure as of December 31, 2016, is net of expected recoveries. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the gross claim liability primarily related to insured first-lien RMBS transactions.

The gross potential recoveries represent the Company’s estimate of undiscounted probability-weighted recoveries of actual claim payments and recoveries of estimated future claim payments. Gross potential recoveries exclude amounts related to Puerto Rico exposure as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, and the Zohar II exposure as of December 31, 2016 that have been netted against the claim liability. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the gross potential recoveries principally related to U.S. public finance transactions and insured second-lien RMBS transactions. As of March 31, 2017, these potential recoveries exclude the recoveries of Zohar I and Zohar II that are included in “Loans receivable at fair value” which are presented in “Assets of consolidated variable interest entities” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. The Company’s recoveries have been, and remain based on either salvage rights, the rights conferred to MBIA through the transactional documents (inclusive of the insurance agreement), or subrogation rights embedded within financial guarantee insurance policies. Expected salvage and subrogation recoveries, as well as recoveries from other remediation efforts, reduce the Company’s claim liability. Once a claim payment has been made, the claim liability has been satisfied and MBIA’s right to recovery is no longer considered an offset to future expected claim payments, it is recorded as a salvage asset. The amount of recoveries recorded by the Company is limited to paid claims plus the present value of projected estimated future claim payments. As claim payments are made, the recorded amount of potential recoveries may exceed the remaining amount of the claim liability for a given policy. The gross claim liability and gross potential recoveries reflect the elimination of claim liabilities and potential recoveries related to VIEs consolidated by the Company. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, reinsurance recoverable on paid and unpaid losses was $6 million and was included in “Other assets” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair Value Measurement

Financial Assets

Financial assets held by the Company primarily consist of investments in debt securities. Substantially all of the Company’s investments are priced by independent third parties, including pricing services and brokers. Typically, the Company receives one pricing service value or broker quote for each instrument, which represents a non-binding indication of value. The Company, along with its third-party portfolio manager, reviews the assumptions, inputs and methodologies used by pricing services and brokers to obtain reasonable assurance that the prices used in its valuations reflect fair value. When the Company and its third-party portfolio manager believe a third-party quotation differs significantly from its internally developed expectation of fair value, whether higher or lower, the Company reviews its data or assumptions with the provider. This review includes comparing significant assumptions such as prepayment speeds, default ratios, forward yield curves, credit spreads and other significant quantitative inputs to internal assumptions, and working with the price provider to reconcile the differences. The price provider may subsequently provide an updated price. In the event that the price provider does not update its price, and the Company still does not agree with the price provided, its third-party portfolio manager will obtain a price from another third-party provider or use an internally developed price which it believes represents the fair value of the investment. The fair values of investments for which internal prices were used were not significant to the aggregate fair value of the Company’s investment portfolio as of March 31, 2017 or 2016. All challenges to third-party prices are reviewed by staff of the Company as well as its third-party portfolio manager with relevant expertise to ensure reasonableness of assumptions. A pricing analysis is reviewed and approved by the Company’s valuation committee.

Financial Liabilities (excluding derivative liabilities)

Financial liabilities, excluding derivative liabilities, issued by the Company primarily consist of debt issued for general corporate purposes within its corporate segment, medium-term notes (“MTNs”), investment agreements, debt issued by consolidated VIEs and warrants. The majority of the financial liabilities that the Company has elected to fair value or that require fair value reporting or disclosures are valued based on the estimated value of the underlying collateral, the Company’s or a third-party’s estimate of discounted cash flow model estimates, or quoted market values for similar products. These valuations include adjustments for expected nonperformance risk of the Company.

 

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Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

Derivative Liabilities

The Company’s derivative liabilities are primarily interest rate swaps and insured credit derivatives. The Company’s insured credit derivative contracts are non-traded structured credit derivative transactions. Since insured derivatives are highly customized and there is generally no observable market for these derivatives, the Company estimates their fair values in a hypothetical market based on internal models simulating what a similar company would charge to assume the Company’s position in the transaction at the measurement date. This pricing would be based on the expected loss of the exposure. The Company reviews its valuation model results on a quarterly basis to assess the appropriateness of the assumptions and results in light of current market activity and conditions. This review is performed by internal staff with relevant expertise. When market spreads or securities prices are observable for similar transactions, those spreads are an integral part of the analysis.

Internal Review Process

All significant financial assets and liabilities are reviewed by the valuation committee to ensure compliance with the Company’s policies and risk procedures in the development of fair values of financial assets and liabilities. The valuation committee reviews, among other things, key assumptions used for internally developed prices, significant changes in sources and uses of inputs, including changes in model approaches, and any adjustments from third-party inputs or prices to internally developed inputs or prices. The committee also reviews any significant impairment or improvements in fair values of the financial instruments from prior periods. The committee is comprised of senior finance team members with relevant experience in the financial instruments their committee is responsible for. The committee documents its agreement with the fair value measurements reported in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Valuation Techniques

Valuation techniques for financial instruments measured at fair value or disclosed at fair value are described below.

Fixed-Maturity Securities (including short-term investments) Held as Available-For-Sale, Investments Carried at Fair Value, Investments Pledged as Collateral, Investments Held-to-Maturity, and Other Investments

These investments include investments in U.S. Treasury and government agencies, state and municipal bonds, foreign governments, corporate obligations, mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”), asset-backed securities (“ABS”), money market securities, and perpetual debt and equity securities.

These investments are generally valued based on recently executed transaction prices or quoted market prices. When quoted market prices are not available, fair value is generally determined using quoted prices of similar investments or a valuation model based on observable and unobservable inputs. Inputs vary depending on the type of investment. Observable inputs include contractual cash flows, interest rate yield curves, CDS spreads, prepayment and volatility scores, diversity scores, cross-currency basis index spreads, and credit spreads for structures similar to the financial instrument in terms of issuer, maturity and seniority. Unobservable inputs include cash flow projections and the value of any credit enhancement.

The investment in the fixed-income fund was measured at fair value by applying the net asset value per share practical expedient. The investment in the fixed-income fund may be redeemed on a quarterly basis with prior redemption notification of ninety days subject to withdrawal limitations. The investment is required to be held for a minimum of twelve months, and any subsequent quarterly redemption is limited to 25% of the investment or a complete redemption over four consecutive quarters in the amounts of 25%, 33%, 50%, and 100% of the remaining investment balance as of the first, second, third and fourth consecutive quarters, respectively.

The fair value of the held-to-maturity (“HTM”) investments is determined using discounted cash flow models. Key inputs include unobservable cash flows projected over the expected term of the investment discounted using observable interest rate yield curves of similar securities.

Investments based on quoted market prices of identical investments in active markets are classified as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Level 1 investments generally consist of U.S. Treasury and government agency, foreign government, money market securities and perpetual debt and equity securities. Quoted market prices of investments in less active markets, as well as investments which are valued based on other than quoted prices for which the inputs are observable, such as interest rate yield curves, are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Investments that contain significant inputs that are not observable are categorized as Level 3.

 

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Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Receivable for Investments Sold, Payable for Investments Purchased, and Accrued Investment Income

The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, receivable for investments sold, securities sold, not yet purchased, payable for investments purchased, and accrued investment income approximate fair values due to the short-term nature and credit worthiness of these instruments. These items are categorized in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Loans Receivable at Fair Value

Loans receivable at fair value are comprised of loans held by consolidated VIEs consisting of residential mortgage and corporate loans. Fair values of residential mortgage loans are determined using quoted prices for MBS issued by the respective VIE and adjusted for the fair values of the financial guarantees provided by MBIA Corp. on the related MBS. Fair values of corporate loans are based on discounted cash flow methodologies. Loans receivable at fair value are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy based on an unobservable input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

Loan Repurchase Commitments

Loan repurchase commitments are obligations owed by the sellers/servicers of mortgage loans to MBIA as reimbursement of paid claims. Loan repurchase commitments are assets of the consolidated VIEs. This asset represents the rights of MBIA against the sellers/servicers for breaches of representations and warranties that the securitized residential mortgage loans sold to the trust to comply with stated underwriting guidelines and for the sellers/servicers to cure, replace, or repurchase mortgage loans. Fair value measurements of loan repurchase commitments represent the amounts owed by the sellers/servicers to MBIA as reimbursement of paid claims. Loan repurchase commitments are not securities and no quoted prices or comparable market transaction information are observable or available. Fair values of loan repurchase commitments are determined using discounted cash flow techniques and are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Long-term Debt

The fair value of long-term notes, debentures and surplus notes are estimated based on quoted prices for these or similar securities. The fair value of the accrued interest expense on the surplus notes due in 2033 is determined based on the scheduled interest payments discounted by the market’s perception of the credit risk related to the repayment of the surplus notes. The credit risk related to the repayment of the surplus notes is based on recent trades of the surplus notes.

The carrying amounts of accrued interest expense on all other long-term debt approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of the interest payment. Long-term debt is categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Medium-term Notes

The fair values of certain MTNs are based on quoted market prices provided by third-party sources, where available. When quoted market prices are not available, the Company applies a matrix pricing grid to determine fair value based on the quoted market prices received for similar instruments and considering the MTNs’ stated maturity and interest rate. Nonperformance risk is included in the quoted market prices and the matrix pricing grid. The Company has elected to measure certain MTNs at fair value on a recurring basis with changes in fair value reflected in earnings. MTNs are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Investment Agreements

The fair values of investment agreements are determined using discounted cash flow techniques based on contractual cash flows and observable interest rates currently being offered for similar agreements with comparable maturity dates. Investment agreements contain collateralization and termination agreements that substantially mitigate the nonperformance risk of the Company. As the terms of the notes are private, and the timing and amount of contractual cash flows are not observable, these investment agreements are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Variable Interest Entity Notes

The fair values of VIE notes are determined based on recently executed transaction prices or quoted prices where observable. When position-specific quoted prices are not observable, fair values are based on quoted prices of similar securities. Fair values based on quoted prices of similar securities may be adjusted for factors unique to the securities, including any credit enhancement. When observable quoted prices are not available, fair value is determined based on discounted cash flow techniques of the underlying collateral using observable and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs include interest rate yield curves and bond spreads of similar securities. Unobservable inputs include the value of any credit enhancement. VIE notes are categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

 

19


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

Derivatives

The corporate segment has entered into derivative transactions primarily consisting of interest rate swaps. Fair values of OTC derivatives are determined using valuation models based on observable inputs, nonperformance risk of the Company and nonperformance risk of the counterparties. Observable and market-based inputs include interest rate yields, credit spreads and volatilities. These derivatives are categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

Derivatives—Insurance

The derivative contracts insured by the Company cannot be legally traded and generally do not have observable market prices. The Company determines the fair values of insured credit derivatives using valuation models based on observable inputs and considering nonperformance risk of the Company. Negotiated settlements are also considered to validate the valuation models and to reflect assumptions the Company believes market participants would use.

Valuation Model Overview

For the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Company used an internally developed Direct Price Model to value insured CDS contracts that incorporate market prices or estimated prices of similar securities that are obtained for all collateral within a transaction, the present value of the market-implied potential losses, and nonperformance risk. The valuation of insured derivatives includes the impact of its credit standing. The insured credit derivatives are categorized as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy based on unobservable inputs that are significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

Prior to 2017, the Company used the Binomial Expansion Technique (“BET”) Model and the Direct Price Model to value insured CDS contracts. The BET Model estimates what a bond insurer would charge to guarantee a transaction at the measurement date, based on the market-implied default risk of the underlying collateral and the remaining structural protection in a deductible or subordination. Inputs to the process of determining fair value for structured transactions using the BET Model include estimates of collateral loss, allocation of loss to separate tranches of the capital structure, credit spreads, recovery rates and nonperformance risk and weighted average life.

A significant driver of changes in fair value is MBIA Corp.’s nonperformance risk. In aggregate, the nonperformance calculation resulted in a pre-tax net insured derivative liability that was $12 million and $11 million lower than the net liability that would have been estimated if MBIA Corp. excluded nonperformance risk in its valuation as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively.

The Company has also entered into a derivative contract as a result of a commutation. The fair value of the derivative is determined using a discounted cash flow model. Key inputs include unobservable cash flows projected over the expected term of the derivative, discounted using observable discount rates and CDS spreads.

Warrants

Stock warrants issued by the Company are valued using the Black-Scholes model and are recorded at fair value. Inputs into the warrant valuation include the Company’s stock price, a volatility parameter, interest rates, and dividend data. As all significant inputs are market-based and observable, warrants are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Held For Sale

As of December 31, 2016, the Company estimated the fair value of the assets and liabilities of MBIA UK held for sale based on the fair value of the expected total consideration for the sale of MBIA UK. The fair value of the sale consideration is categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Refer to “Note 1: Business Developments and Risks and Uncertainties” for additional information about the sale of MBIA UK.

Financial Guarantees

Gross Financial Guarantees—The fair value of gross financial guarantees is determined using discounted cash flow techniques based on inputs that include (i) assumptions of expected losses on financial guarantee policies where loss reserves have not been recognized, (ii) amount of losses expected on financial guarantee policies where loss reserves have been established, net of expected recoveries, (iii) the cost of capital reserves required to support the financial guarantee liability, (iv) operating expenses, and (v) discount rates. The MBIA Corp. CDS spread and recovery rate are used as the discount rate for MBIA Corp., while the CDS spread and recovery rate of a similar municipal bond insurance company are used as the discount rate for National, as National does not have a published CDS spread and recovery rate.

 

20


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

The carrying value of the Company’s gross financial guarantees consists of unearned premium revenue and loss and LAE reserves, net of the insurance loss recoverable as reported on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

Ceded Financial Guarantees—The fair value of ceded financial guarantees is determined by applying the percentage ceded to reinsurers to the related fair value of the gross financial guarantees. The carrying value of ceded financial guarantees consists of prepaid reinsurance premiums and reinsurance recoverable on paid and unpaid losses as reported within “Other assets” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.

Significant Unobservable Inputs

The following tables provide quantitative information regarding the significant unobservable inputs used by the Company for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. These tables exclude inputs used to measure fair value that are not developed by the Company, such as broker prices and other third-party pricing service valuations.

 

                                           

In millions

  Fair Value as of
March 31, 2017
   

Valuation Techniques

 

Unobservable Input

  Range
(Weighted Average)
 

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

       

Loans receivable at fair value

  $ 1,716     Market prices adjusted for financial guarantees provided to VIE obligations   Impact of financial guarantee     0% - 34% (5%)  
    Discounted cash flow   Multiples(1)  

Loan repurchase commitments

    409     Discounted cash flow   Recovery rates(2)  
      Breach rates(2)  

Liabilities of consolidated VIEs:

       

Variable interest entity notes

    491     Market prices of VIE assets adjusted for financial guarantees provided   Impact of financial guarantee     0% - 63% (26%)  

Credit derivative liabilities, net:

       

CMBS and multi-sector CDO

    86     Direct Price Model   Nonperformance risk     46% - 46% (46%)  

Other derivative liabilities

    20     Discounted cash flow   Cash flows     $0 - $83 ($42)(3)  

 

(1) - Unobservable inputs are not developed by the Company.

 

(2) - Recovery rates and breach rates include estimates about potential variations in the outcome of litigation with a counterparty.

 

(3) - Midpoint of cash flows are used for the weighted average.

 

21


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

In millions

  Fair Value as of
December 31, 2016
   

Valuation Techniques

 

Unobservable Input

  Range
(Weighted Average)
 

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

       

Loans receivable at fair value

  $ 916     Market prices adjusted for financial guarantees provided to VIE obligations   Impact of financial guarantee     0% - 28% (3%)  
   

Discounted cash flow

 

Multiples(1)

 

Loan repurchase commitments

    404     Discounted cash flow   Recovery rates(2)  
     

Breach rates(2)

 

Liabilities of consolidated VIEs:

       

Variable interest entity notes

    476     Market prices of VIE assets adjusted for financial guarantees provided   Impact of financial guarantee     0% - 54% (24%)  

Credit derivative liabilities, net:

       

CMBS

    62     BET Model   Recovery rates     25% - 40% (33%)  
      Nonperformance risk     10% - 32% (32%)  
      Weighted average life (in years)     1.1 - 1.5 (1.3)  
      CMBS spreads     25% - 35% (30%)  

Multi-sector CDO

    2     Direct Price Model   Nonperformance risk     58% - 58% (58%)  

Other derivative liabilities

    20     Discounted cash flow   Cash flows     $0 - $83 ($42)(3)  

 

(1) - Unobservable inputs are not developed by the Company.

 

(2) - Recovery rates and breach rates include estimates about potential variations in the outcome of litigation with a counterparty.

 

(3) - Midpoint of cash flows are used for the weighted average.

Sensitivity of Significant Unobservable Inputs

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s loans receivable at fair value of consolidated VIEs are the impact of the financial guarantee and multiples. The fair value of loans receivable are calculated by subtracting the value of the financial guarantee from the market value of VIE liabilities and by discounted cash flow methodologies. The value of a financial guarantee is estimated by the Company as the present value of expected cash payments under the policy. As expected cash payments provided by the Company under the insurance policy increase, there is a lower expected cash flow on the underlying loans receivable of the VIE. This results in a lower fair value of the loans receivable in relation to the obligations of the VIE.

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s loan repurchase commitments of consolidated VIEs are the recovery rates and breach rates. Recovery rates reflect the estimates of future cash flows reduced for litigation delays and risks and/or potential financial distress of the sellers/servicers. The estimated recoveries of the loan repurchase commitments may differ from the actual recoveries that may be received in the future. Breach rates represent the rate at which mortgages fail to comply with stated representations and warranties of the sellers/servicers. Significant increases or decreases in the recovery rates and the breach rates would result in significantly higher or lower fair values of the loan repurchase commitments, respectively. Additionally, changes in the legal environment and the ability of the counterparties to pay would impact the recovery rate assumptions, which could significantly impact the fair value measurement. Any significant challenges by the counterparties to the Company’s determination of breaches of representations and warranties could have a material adverse impact on the fair value measurement. Recovery rates and breach rates are determined independently. Changes in one input will not necessarily have any impact on the other input.

The significant unobservable input used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s VIE notes of consolidated VIEs is the impact of the financial guarantee. The fair value of VIE notes is calculated by adding the value of the financial guarantee to the market value of VIE assets. The value of a financial guarantee is estimated by the Company as the present value of expected cash payments under the policy. As the value of the guarantee provided by the Company to the obligations issued by the VIE increases, the credit support adds value to the liabilities of the VIE. This results in an increase in the fair value of the liabilities of the VIE.

 

22


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of MBIA Corp.’s commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) credit derivatives, and multi-sector CDO credit derivatives, which are valued using the Direct Price Model, is nonperformance risk. The nonperformance risk is an assumption of MBIA Corp.’s own ability to pay and whether MBIA Corp. will have the necessary resources to pay the obligations as they come due. Any significant increase or decrease in MBIA Corp.’s nonperformance risk would result in a decrease or increase in the fair value of the derivative liabilities, respectively.

The significant unobservable input used in the fair value measurement of MBIA Corp.’s other derivatives, which are valued using a discounted cash flow model, is the estimates of future cash flows discounted using market rates and CDS spreads. Any significant increase or decrease in future cash flows would result in an increase or decrease in the fair value of the derivative liability, respectively.

Fair Value Measurements

The following tables present the fair value of the Company’s assets (including short-term investments) and liabilities measured and reported at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

 

                                                      
    Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using        

In millions

  Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
    Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
    Significant
Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
    Counterparty
and Cash
Collateral
Netting
    Balance as of
March 31,
2017
 

Assets:

         

Fixed-maturity investments:

         

U.S. Treasury and government agency

  $ 785     $ 110     $     $ -     $ 895  

State and municipal bonds

    -       1,404       1 (1)      -       1,405  

Foreign governments

    -       10             -       10  

Corporate obligations

    75       1,417             -       1,492  

Mortgage-backed securities:

         

Residential mortgage-backed agency

    -       791             -       791  

Residential mortgage-backed non-agency

    -       54             -       54  

Commercial mortgage-backed

    -       40             -       40  

Asset-backed securities:

         

Collateralized debt obligations

    -       39       13 (1)      -       52  

Other asset-backed

    -       261       5 (1)      -       266  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total fixed-maturity investments

    860       4,126       19       -       5,005  

Money market securities

    271       -             -       271  

Perpetual debt and equity securities

    27       9             -       36  

Fixed-income fund

    -       -             -       78 (2) 

Cash and cash equivalents

    112       -             -       112  

Derivative assets:

         

Non-insured derivative assets:

         

Interest rate derivatives

    -       3             -       3  

 

23


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

                                                      
    Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using        

In millions

  Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets (Level 1)
    Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
    Significant
Unobservable
Inputs

(Level 3)
    Counterparty
and Cash
Collateral
Netting
    Balance as of
March 31,
2017
 

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

         

Corporate obligations

          19       6 (1)            25  

Mortgage-backed securities:

         

Residential mortgage-backed non-agency

          145                   145  

Commercial mortgage-backed

    4       45                   49  

Asset-backed securities:

         

Collateralized debt obligations

          7       1 (1)            8  

Other asset-backed

          18       1 (1)            19  

Cash

    40                         40  

Loans receivable at fair value:

         

Residential loans receivable

                844             844  

Corporate loans receivable

                872             872  

Loan repurchase commitments

                409             409  

Derivative assets:

         

Currency derivatives

                13 (1)            13  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

  $ 1,314     $ 4,372     $ 2,165     $     $ 7,929  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities:

         

Medium-term notes

  $     $     $ 104 (1)    $  -      $ 104  

Derivative liabilities:

         

Insured derivatives:

         

Credit derivatives

          2       86             88  

Non-insured derivatives:

         

Interest rate derivatives

          205                   205  

Other

                20             20  

Other liabilities:

         

Warrants

          13                   13  

Liabilities of consolidated VIEs:

         

Variable interest entity notes

          815       491             1,306  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

  $     $ 1,035     $ 701     $     $ 1,736  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) - Unobservable inputs are either not developed by the Company or do not significantly impact the overall fair values of the aggregate financial assets and liabilities.

 

(2) - Investment that was measured at fair value by applying the net asset value per share practical expedient, and was required not to be classified in the fair value hierarchy.

 

24


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

                                                      
     Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using         

In millions

   Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
     Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
     Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
    Counterparty
and Cash
Collateral
Netting
     Balance as of
December 31,
2016
 

Assets:

             

Fixed-maturity investments:

             

U.S. Treasury and government agency

   $ 825      $ 112      $ -     $      $ 937  

State and municipal bonds

     -        1,440        -              1,440  

Foreign governments

     -        9        -              9  

Corporate obligations

     -        1,332        2 (1)             1,334  

Mortgage-backed securities:

             

Residential mortgage-backed agency

     -        868        -              868  

Residential mortgage-backed non-agency

     -        45        -              45  

Commercial mortgage-backed

     -        43        -              43  

Asset-backed securities:

             

Collateralized debt obligations

     -        7        15 (1)             22  

Other asset-backed

     -        257        44 (1)             301  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed-maturity investments

     825        4,113        61              4,999  

Money market securities

     521        -        -              521  

Perpetual debt and equity securities

     26        9        -              35  

Fixed-income funds

     -        -        -              75 (2) 

Cash and cash equivalents

     163        -        -              163  

Derivative assets:

             

Non-insured derivative assets:

             

Interest rate derivatives

     -        3        -              3  

 

25


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

                                                      
     Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using         

In millions

   Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
     Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
     Significant
Unobservable
Inputs

(Level 3)
    Counterparty
and Cash
Collateral
Netting
     Balance as of
December 31,
2016
 

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

             

Corporate obligations

     -        27        -       -        27  

Mortgage-backed securities:

             

Residential mortgage-backed non-agency

     -        149        -       -        149  

Commercial mortgage-backed

     -        52        -       -        52  

Asset-backed securities:

             

Collateralized debt obligations

     -        7        1 (1)      -        8  

Other asset-backed

     -        18        1 (1)      -        19  

Cash

     24        -        -       -        24  

Loans receivable at fair value:

             

Residential loans receivable

     -        -        916       -        916  

Corporate loans receivable

     -        -        150 (1)      -        150  

Loan repurchase commitments

     -        -        404       -        404  

Derivative assets:

             

Currency derivatives

     -        -        19 (1)      -        19  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 1,559      $ 4,378      $ 1,552     $ -      $ 7,564  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities:

Medium-term notes

   $ -      $ -      $ 101 (1)    $  -      $ 101  

Derivative liabilities:

             

Insured derivatives:

             

Credit derivatives

     -        2        64       -        66  

Non-insured derivatives:

             

Interest rate derivatives

     -        213        -       -        213  

Other

     -        -        20       -        20  

Other liabilities:

             

Warrants

     -        33        -       -        33  

Liabilities of consolidated VIEs:

             

Variable interest entity notes

     -        875        476       -        1,351  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total liabilities

   $ -      $ 1,123      $ 661     $ -      $ 1,784  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Unobservable inputs are either not developed by the Company or do not significantly impact the overall fair values of the aggregate financial assets and liabilities.

 

(2) - Investment that were measured at fair value by applying the net asset value per share practical expedient, and was required not to be classified in the fair value hierarchy.

Level 3 assets at fair value as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 represented approximately 27% and 21%, respectively, of total assets measured at fair value. Level 3 liabilities at fair value as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 represented approximately 40% and 37%, respectively, of total liabilities measured at fair value.

 

26


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

The following tables present the fair values and carrying values of the Company’s assets and liabilities that are disclosed at fair value but not reported at fair value on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

 

                                                      
     Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using              

In millions

   Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
    Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
    Significant
Unobservable Inputs

(Level 3)
    Fair Value
Balance as of
March 31,
2017
    Carry Value
Balance as of
March 31,
2017
 

Assets:

          

Other investments

   $ -     $ 2     $ -     $ 2     $ 2  

Accrued investment income(1)

     -       37       -       37       37  

Receivable for investments sold(1)

     -       52       -       52       52  

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

          

Investments held-to-maturity

     -       -       879       879       890  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ -     $ 91     $ 879     $ 970     $ 981  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities:

          

Long-term debt

   $ -     $ 1,047     $ -     $ 1,047     $ 2,034  

Medium-term notes

     -       -       456       456       726  

Investment agreements

     -       -       496       496       390  

Payable for investments purchased(2)

     -       89       -       89       89  

Liabilities of consolidated VIEs:

          

Variable interest entity notes

     -       337       874       1,211       1,211  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

   $ -     $ 1,473     $ 1,826     $ 3,299     $ 4,450  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Financial Guarantees:

          

Gross

   $ -     $ -     $ 2,499     $ 2,499     $ 986  

Ceded

     -       -       35       35       43  

 

(1) - Reported within “Other assets” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

(2) - Reported within “Other liabilities” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

                                                      
     Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using              

In millions

   Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
    Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
    Significant
Unobservable Inputs

(Level 3)
    Fair Value
Balance as of
December 31,
2016
    Carry Value
Balance as of
December 31,
2016
 

Assets:

          

Other investments

   $ -     $ 2     $ -     $ 2     $ 3  

Accrued investment income(1)

     -       40       -       40       40  

Assets held for sale

     -       306       -       306       306  

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

          

Investments held-to-maturity

     -       -       876       876       890  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ -     $ 348     $ 876     $ 1,224     $ 1,239  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities:

          

Long-term debt

   $ -     $ 1,030     $ -     $ 1,030     $ 1,986  

Medium-term notes

     -       -       478       478       794  

Investment agreements

     -       -       508       508       399  

Payable for investments purchased(2)

     -       32       -       32       32  

Liabilities of consolidated VIEs:

          

Variable interest entity notes

     -       -       882       882       890  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

   $ -     $ 1,062     $ 1,868     $ 2,930     $ 4,101  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Financial Guarantees:

          

Gross

   $ -     $ -     $ 2,638     $ 2,638     $ 995  

Ceded

     -       -       18       18       43  

 

(1) - Reported within “Other assets” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

(2) - Reported within “Other liabilities” on MBIA’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

27


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

The following tables present information about changes in Level 3 assets (including short-term investments) and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

Changes in Level 3 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017

 

                                                                                                                                              

In millions

  Balance,
Beginning
of Period
    Realized
Gains /
(Losses)
    Unrealized
Gains /
(Losses)
Included
in
Earnings
    Unrealized
Gains /
(Losses)
Included
in OCI
    Foreign
Exchange
Recognized
in OCI or
Earnings
    Purchases     Issuances     Settlements     Sales     Transfers
into
Level  3(1)
    Transfers
out of
Level 3(1)
    Ending
Balance
    Change in
Unrealized
Gains
(Losses)
for
the Period
Included in
Earnings
for Assets
still held
as of
March 31,
2017
 

Assets:

                         

Corporate obligations

  $ 2     $ -     $     $ -     $     $ -     $ -     $     $ -     $ -     $ (2)     $ -     $  

Collateralized debt obligations

    15       -             -             -       -       (2)       -       -             13        

Other asset-backed

    44       -             2             -       -       (41)       -       -             5        

State and municipal bonds

    -       -             -             -       -             -       1             1        

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

                         

Corporate obligations

    -       -             -             -       -             -       6             6        

Commercial

                         

Collateralized debt obligations

    1       -             -             -       -             -       -             1        

Other asset-backed

    1       -             -             -       -             -       1       (1)       1        

Loans receivable- residential

    916       -       (4)       -             -       -       (68)       -       -             844       (3)  

Loans receivable- corporate

    150       -             -             719       -             -       -             872        

Loan repurchase commitments

    404       -             -             -       -             -       -             409        

Currency derivatives, net

    19       -       (3)       -       (3)       -       -             -       -             13       (6)  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

  $ 1,552     $ -     $     $ 2     $ (3)     $ 719     $ -     $ (111)     $ -     $ 8     $ (3)     $ 2,165     $ (1)  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                              

In millions

  Balance,
Beginning
of Period
    Realized
(Gains) /
Losses
    Unrealized
(Gains) /
Losses
Included
in
Earnings
    Unrealized
(Gains) /
Losses
Included
in OCI
    Foreign
Exchange
Recognized
in OCI or
Earnings
    Purchases     Issuances     Settlements     Sales     Transfers
into
Level  3(1)
    Transfers
out of
Level 3(1)
    Ending
Balance
    Change in
Unrealized
(Gains)
Losses for
the Period
Included in
Earnings
for
Liabilities
still held
as of
March 31,
2017
 

Liabilities:

                         

Medium-term notes

  $ 101     $ -     $ 1     $ -     $ 2     $ -     $ -     $     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 104     $ 3  

Credit derivatives, net

    64       31       22       -       -       -       -       (31)       -       -       -       86       22  

Other derivatives

    20       -       -       -       -       -       -             -       -       -       20       -  

Liabilities of consolidated VIEs:

                         

VIE notes

    476       -       34       -       -       -       -       (19)       -       -       -       491       34  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

  $ 661     $ 31     $ 57     $ -     $ 2     $ -     $ -     $ (50)     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 701     $ 59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) - Transferred in and out at the end of the period.

 

28


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

Changes in Level 3 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

 

                                                                                                                                              

In millions

  Balance,
Beginning
of Period
    Realized
Gains /
(Losses)
    Unrealized
Gains /
(Losses)
Included
in
Earnings
    Unrealized
Gains /
(Losses)
Included
in OCI
    Foreign
Exchange
Recognized
in OCI or
Earnings
    Purchases     Issuances     Settlements     Sales     Transfers
into
Level  3(1)
    Transfers
out of
Level 3(1)
    Ending
Balance
    Change in
Unrealized
Gains
(Losses)
for
the Period
Included in
Earnings
for Assets
still held
as of
March 31,
2016
 

Assets:

                         

Foreign governments

  $ 2     $     $     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $     $ -     $ -     $     $ 2     $  

Corporate obligations

    7                   -       -       -       -             -       -       (6)       1        

Collateralized debt obligations

    29                   -       -       -       -       (3)       -       -             26        

Other asset-backed

    38       (1)       (1)       5       -       -       -       (2)       -       -             39       (1)  

State and municipal bonds

    41                   -       -       -       -       (38)       -       -             3        

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

                         

Corporate obligations

    11             (5)       -       -       -       -             -       -       (5)       1        

Commercial mortgage-backed

    -                   -       -       -       -             -       2             2        

Collateralized debt obligations

    1                   -       -       -       -             -       -             1        

Other asset-backed

    6             (6)       -       -       -       -             -       3             3        

Loans receivable- residential

    1,185             (14)       -       -       -       -       (56)       -       -             1,115       (14)  

Loans receivable-corporate

    107                   -       -       146       -             -       -             253        

Loan repurchase commitments

    396                   -       -       -       -             -       -             399        

Currency derivatives, net

    11             (6)       -       -       -       -             -       -             5       (6)  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

  $ 1,834     $ (1)     $ (29)     $ 5     $ -     $ 146     $ -     $ (99)     $ -     $ 5     $ (11)     $ 1,850     $ (18)  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                              

In millions

  Balance,
Beginning
of Period
    Realized
(Gains) /
Losses
    Unrealized
(Gains) /
Losses
Included
in
Earnings
    Unrealized
(Gains) /
Losses
Included
in OCI
    Foreign
Exchange
Recognized
in OCI or
Earnings
    Purchases     Issuances     Settlements     Sales     Transfers
into
Level  3(1)
    Transfers
out of
Level 3(1)
    Ending
Balance
    Change in
Unrealized
(Gains)
Losses for
the Period
Included in
Earnings
for Liabilities
still held
as of
March 31,
2016
 

Liabilities:

                         

Medium-term notes

  $ 161     $ -     $ (3)     $ -     $ 7     $ -     $ -     $     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 165     $  

Credit derivatives, net

    85       14       14        -       -       -       -       (14)       -       -       -       99       16   

Other derivatives, net

    18       -             -       -       -       -             -       -       -       19        

Liabilities of consolidated VIEs:

                         

VIE notes

    1,267       -       (22)       -       -       9       -       (78)       -       -       -       1,176       (22)  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

  $ 1,531     $ 14     $ (10)     $ -     $ 7     $ 9     $ -     $ (92)     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 1,459     $  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) - Transferred in and out at the end of the period.

For the three months ended March 31, 2017, transfers into Level 3 and out of Level 2 were principally related to corporate obligations, state and municipal bonds and other ABS, where inputs, which are significant to their valuation, became unobservable during the quarter. These inputs included spreads, prepayment speeds, default speeds, default severities, yield curves observable at commonly quoted intervals, and market corroborated inputs. Corporate obligations and other ABS comprised the instruments transferred out of Level 3 where inputs, which are significant to their valuation, became observable during the quarter. There were no transfers into or out of Level 1 for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

 

29


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2016, transfers into Level 3 were principally related to other asset backed and CMBS, where inputs, which are significant to their valuation, became unobservable during the quarter. Corporate obligations comprised the majority of the instruments transferred out of Level 3 where inputs, which are significant to their valuation, became observable during the quarter. These inputs included spreads, prepayment speeds, default speeds, default severities, yield curves observable at commonly quoted intervals, and market corroborated inputs. There were no transfers into or out of Level 1 for the three months ended March 31, 2016.

All Level 1, 2 and 3 designations are made at the end of each accounting period.

Gains and losses (realized and unrealized) included in earnings related to Level 3 assets and liabilities for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 are reported on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations as follows:

 

                                           

In millions

   Three Months Ended March 31, 2017      Three Months Ended March 31, 2016  
   Total Gains
(Losses)
Included in
Earnings
     Change in
Unrealized
Gains
(Losses)
for the
Period
Included
in Earnings
for Assets
and
Liabilities still
held as of
March 31,
2017
     Total Gains
(Losses)
Included
in Earnings
     Change in
Unrealized
Gains
(Losses)
for the
Period
Included
in Earnings
for Assets
and
Liabilities still
held as of
March 31,
2016
 

Revenues:

           

Unrealized gains (losses) on insured derivatives

   $ (22)      $ (22)      $ (14)      $ (16)  

Realized gains (losses) and other settlements on insured derivatives

     (31)               (14)         

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

     (3)        (3)        (7)        (7)  

Revenues of consolidated VIEs:

           

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

     (36)        (35)        (6)         
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ (92)      $ (60)      $ (41)      $ (18)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Fair Value Option

The Company elected to record at fair value certain financial instruments that have been consolidated in connection with the adoption of the accounting guidance for consolidation of VIEs, among others.

The following table presents the changes in fair value included in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 for financial instruments for which the fair value option was elected:

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  

In millions

   2017      2016  

Investments carried at fair value(1)

   $      $  

Fixed-maturity securities held at fair value- VIE(2)

     (8)        (85)  

Loans receivable at fair value:

     

Residential mortgage loans(2)

     (72)        (70)  

Other loans(2)

             

Loan repurchase commitments(2)

             

Medium-term notes(1)

     (3)        (5)  

Variable interest entity notes (2)

     (45)        166   

 

(1) - Reported within “Net gains (losses) of financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange” on MBIA’s consolidated statements of operations.

 

(2) - Reported within “Net gains (losses) of financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange-VIE” on MBIA’s consolidated statements of operations.

 

30


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

The following table reflects the difference between the aggregate fair value and the aggregate remaining contractual principal balance outstanding as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 for loans and notes for which the fair value option was elected:

 

                                                                 

In millions

   As of March 31, 2017      As of December 31, 2016  
   Contractual
Outstanding
Principal
     Fair
Value
     Difference      Contractual
Outstanding
Principal
     Fair
Value
     Difference  
                 

Loans receivable at fair value:

                 

Residential mortgage loans

   $ 890      $ 822      $ 68      $ 965      $ 894      $ 71  

Residential mortgage loans (90 days or more past due)

     163        22        141        143        22        121  

Corporate loans (90 days or more past due)

     890        872        18        150        150         
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total loans receivable at fair value

     1,943        1,716        227        1,258        1,066        192  

Variable interest entity notes

     3,152        1,306        1,846        2,449        1,351        1,098  

Medium-term notes

     160        104        56        158        101        57  

Substantially all gains and losses included in earnings during the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 on loans receivable and VIE notes reported in the preceding table are attributable to credit risk. This is primarily due to the high rate of defaults on loans and the collateral supporting the VIE notes, resulting in depressed pricing of the financial instruments.

Note 7: Investments

Investments, excluding those elected under the fair value option, include debt and equity securities classified as either AFS or HTM. Other AFS investments primarily comprise money market funds.

The following tables present the amortized cost, fair value, corresponding gross unrealized gains and losses and other-than-temporary impairments (“OTTI”) for AFS and HTM investments in the Company’s consolidated investment portfolio as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

 

                                                      
     March 31, 2017  

In millions

   Amortized
Cost
     Gross
Unrealized
Gains
     Gross
Unrealized
Losses
     Fair
Value
     Other-Than-
Temporary
Impairments(1)
 

AFS Investments

              

Fixed-maturity investments:

              

U.S. Treasury and government agency

   $ 865      $ 31      $ (8)      $ 888      $  

State and municipal bonds

     1,364        60        (20)        1,404         

Foreign governments

     10        1        (1)        10         

Corporate obligations

     1,495        20        (90)        1,425        (63)  

Mortgage-backed securities:

              

Residential mortgage-backed agency

     796        2        (13)        785         

Residential mortgage-backed non-agency

     59        1        (6)        54        (2)  

Commercial mortgage-backed

     38                      38         

Asset-backed securities:

              

Collateralized debt obligations

     52                      52         

Other asset-backed

     257        2        (1)        258        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed-maturity investments

     4,936        117        (139)        4,914        (64)  

Money market securities

     267                      267         

Perpetual debt and equity securities

     3        1               4         
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total AFS investments

   $ 5,206      $ 118      $ (139)      $ 5,185      $ (64)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

HTM Investments

              

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

              

Corporate obligations

   $ 890      $      $ (11)      $ 879      $  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total HTM investments

   $ 890      $      $ (11)      $ 879      $  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Represents unrealized gains or losses on OTTI securities recognized in AOCI, which includes the non-credit component of impairments, as well as all subsequent changes in fair value of such impaired securities reported in AOCI.

 

31


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 7: Investments (continued)

 

                                                      
     December 31, 2016  

In millions

   Amortized
Cost
     Gross
Unrealized
Gains
     Gross
Unrealized
Losses
     Fair
Value
     Other-Than-
Temporary
Impairments(1)
 

AFS Investments

              

Fixed-maturity investments:

              

U.S. Treasury and government agency

   $ 909      $ 30      $ (10)      $ 929      $  

State and municipal bonds

     1,382        72        (15)        1,439         

Foreign governments

     8        -               8         

Corporate obligations

     1,352        20        (102)        1,270        (73)  

Mortgage-backed securities:

              

Residential mortgage-backed agency

     871        3        (12)        862         

Residential mortgage-backed non-agency

     50        1        (6)        45        (3)  

Commercial mortgage-backed

     41        -               41         

Asset-backed securities:

              

Collateralized debt obligations

     22        -               22         

Other asset-backed

     294        2        (3)        293        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed-maturity investments

     4,929        128        (148)        4,909        (75)  

Money market securities

     517        -               517         

Perpetual debt and equity securities

     4        1               5         
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total AFS investments

   $ 5,450      $ 129      $ (148)      $ 5,431      $ (75)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

HTM Investments

              

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

              

Corporate obligations

   $ 890      $ -      $ (14)      $ 876      $  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total HTM investments

   $ 890      $ -      $ (14)      $ 876      $  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Represents unrealized gains or losses on OTTI securities recognized in AOCI, which includes the non-credit component of impairments, as well as all subsequent changes in fair value of such impaired securities reported in AOCI.

The following table presents the distribution by contractual maturity of AFS and HTM fixed-maturity securities at amortized cost and fair value as of March 31, 2017. Contractual maturity may differ from expected maturity as borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations.

 

                                           
     AFS Securities      HTM Securities  
                   Consolidated VIEs  

In millions

   Amortized
Cost
     Fair
Value
     Amortized
Cost
     Fair
Value
 

Due in one year or less

   $ 400      $ 399      $ -      $ -  

Due after one year through five years

     1,209        1,215        -        -  

Due after five years through ten years

     773        727        -        -  

Due after ten years

     1,352        1,386        890        879  

Mortgage-backed and asset-backed

     1,202        1,187        -        -  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fixed-maturity investments

   $ 4,936      $ 4,914      $ 890      $ 879  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Deposited and Pledged Securities

The fair value of securities on deposit with various regulatory authorities as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 was $10 million and $11 million, respectively. These deposits are required to comply with state insurance laws.

Pursuant to the Company’s tax sharing agreement, securities held by MBIA Inc. in the Tax Escrow Account are included as “Investments pledged as collateral, at fair value” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.

Investment agreement obligations require the Company to pledge securities as collateral. Securities pledged in connection with investment agreements may not be repledged by the investment agreement counterparty. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the fair value of securities pledged as collateral for these investment agreements approximated $415 million and $416 million, respectively. The Company’s collateral as of March 31, 2017 consisted principally of U.S. Treasury and government agency and state and municipal bonds, and was primarily held with major U.S. banks. Additionally, the Company pledged cash and money market securities as collateral under investment agreements of $6 million as of December 31, 2016.

 

32


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 7: Investments (continued)

 

Impaired Investments

The following tables present the gross unrealized losses related to AFS and HTM investments as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

 

                                                                 
     March 31, 2017  
     Less than 12 Months      12 Months or Longer      Total  
     Fair      Unrealized      Fair      Unrealized      Fair      Unrealized  

In millions

   Value      Losses      Value      Losses      Value      Losses  

AFS Investments

                 

Fixed-maturity investments:

                 

U.S. Treasury and government agency

   $ 479      $ (8)      $ -      $      $ 479      $ (8)  

State and municipal bonds

     441        (20)        8               449        (20)  

Foreign governments

     3        (1)        -               3        (1)  

Corporate obligations

     549        (26)        68        (64)        617        (90)  

Mortgage-backed securities:

                 

Residential mortgage-backed agency

     464        (10)        104        (3)        568        (13)  

Residential mortgage-backed non-agency

     11               28        (6)        39        (6)  

Commercial mortgage-backed

     12               12               24         

Asset-backed securities:

                 

Collateralized debt obligations

     4               13               17         

Other asset-backed

     125        (1)        2               127        (1)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total AFS investments

   $ 2,088      $ (66)      $ 235      $ (73)      $ 2,323      $ (139)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

HTM Investments

                 

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

                 

Corporate obligations

   $ -      $      $ 879      $ (11)      $ 879      $ (11)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total HTM investments

   $ -      $      $ 879      $ (11)      $ 879      $ (11)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

                                                                 
     December 31, 2016  
     Less than 12 Months      12 Months or Longer      Total  
     Fair      Unrealized      Fair      Unrealized      Fair      Unrealized  

In millions

   Value      Losses      Value      Losses      Value      Losses  

AFS Investments

                 

Fixed-maturity investments:

                 

U.S. Treasury and government agency

   $ 432      $ (10)      $ -      $      $ 432      $ (10)  

State and municipal bonds

     339        (13)        18        (2)        357        (15)  

Foreign governments

     5               -               5         

Corporate obligations

     534        (29)        52        (73)        586        (102)  

Mortgage-backed securities:

                 

Residential mortgage-backed agency

     436        (9)        122        (3)        558        (12)  

Residential mortgage-backed non-agency

     1               29        (6)        30        (6)  

Commercial mortgage-backed

     6               15               21         

Asset-backed securities:

                 

Collateralized debt obligations

     7               15               22         

Other asset-backed

     112        (1)        49        (2)        161        (3)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total AFS investments

   $ 1,872      $ (62)      $ 300      $ (86)      $ 2,172      $ (148)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

HTM Investments

                 

Assets of consolidated VIEs:

                 

Corporate obligations

   $ -      $      $ 876      $ (14)      $ 876      $ (14)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total HTM investments

   $ -      $      $ 876      $ (14)      $ 876      $ (14)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

With the weighting applied on the fair value of each security relative to the total fair value, the weighted average contractual maturity of securities in an unrealized loss position as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 was 21 and 22 years, respectively. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, there were 37 and 46 securities, respectively, that were in an unrealized loss position for a continuous twelve-month period or longer, of which, fair values of 13 and 12 securities, respectively, were below book value by more than 5%.

 

33


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 7: Investments (continued)

 

The following table presents the distribution of securities in an unrealized loss position for a continuous twelve-month period or longer where fair value was below book value by more than 5% as of March 31, 2017:

 

                                                                 
     AFS Securities      HTM Securities  

Percentage of Fair Value Below Book Value

   Number of
Securities
     Book Value
(in millions)
     Fair Value
(in millions)
     Number of
Securities
     Book Value
(in millions)
     Fair Value
(in millions)
 

> 5% to 15%

     7      $ 15      $ 14        -      $ -      $ -  

> 15% to 25%

     4        31        25        -        -        -  

> 25% to 50%

     1        1        -        -        -        -  

> 50%

     1        101        38        -        -        -  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     13      $ 148      $ 77        -      $ -      $ -  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The Company concluded that it does not have the intent to sell securities in an unrealized loss position and it is more likely than not, that it would not have to sell these securities before recovery of their cost basis. In making this conclusion, the Company examined the cash flow projections for its investment portfolios, the potential sources and uses of cash in its businesses, and the cash resources available to its business other than sales of securities. It also considered the existence of any risk management or other plans as of March 31, 2017 that would require the sale of impaired securities. Impaired securities that the Company intends to sell before the expected recovery of such securities’ fair values have been written down to fair value.

Other-Than-Temporary Impairments

The Company’s fixed-maturity securities for which fair value is less than amortized cost are reviewed quarterly in order to determine whether a credit loss exists. The portion of certain OTTI losses on fixed-maturity securities that does not represent credit losses is recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”). Refer to “Note 8: Investments” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 for a discussion of the Company’s policy for OTTI and its determination of credit loss. The following table presents the amount of credit loss impairments recognized in earnings on fixed-maturity securities held by MBIA as of the dates indicated, for which a portion of the OTTI losses was recognized in AOCI, and the corresponding changes in such amounts. The additional credit loss impairment for the three months ended March 31, 2017 was primarily related to one impaired security for which a loss was recognized as the difference between its amortized cost and the net present value of its projected cash flows. This OTTI resulted from liquidity concerns and other adverse financial conditions of the issuer.

 

                     

In millions

   Three Months Ended March 31,  

Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings Related to Other-Than-Temporary Impairments

   2017      2016  

Beginning balance

   $ 29      $ 26  

Additions for credit loss impairments recognized in the current period on securities previously impaired

     2        -  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ending balance

   $ 31      $ 26  

The Company does not recognize OTTI on securities insured by MBIA Corp. and National since those securities, whether or not owned by the Company, are evaluated for impairments in accordance with its loss reserving policy. The following table provides information about securities held by the Company as of March 31, 2017 that were in an unrealized loss position and insured by a financial guarantor, along with the amount of insurance loss reserves corresponding to the par amount owned by the Company:

 

                                

In millions

   Fair
Value
     Unrealized
Loss
     Insurance Loss
Reserve (2)
 

Asset-backed:

        

MBIA(1)

   $ 13      $      $ -  

Mortgage-backed:

        

MBIA(1)

     16        (3)        16  

Corporate obligations:

        

MBIA(1)

     41        (2)        -  

Other:

        

MBIA(1)

     6               -  

Other

     2               -  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 78      $ (5)      $ 16  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

  (1) - Includes investments insured by MBIA Corp. and National.

 

  (2) - Insurance loss reserve estimates are based on the proportion of par value owned to the total amount of par value insured.

 

34


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 7: Investments (continued)

 

Sales of Available-for-Sale Investments

Gross realized gains and losses are recorded within “Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange” on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations. The proceeds and the gross realized gains and losses from sales of fixed-maturity securities held as AFS for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:

 

                     
     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 

In millions

   2017      2016  

Proceeds from sales

   $ 271       $ 281   

Gross realized gains

            10   

Gross realized losses

     (1)        (4)  

Note 8: Derivative Instruments

U.S. Public Finance Insurance

The Company’s derivative exposure within its U.S. public finance insurance operations primarily consists of insured interest rate and inflation-linked swaps related to insured U.S. public finance debt issues. These derivatives do not qualify for the financial guarantee scope exception and are accounted for as derivative instruments.

Corporate

The Company has entered into derivative instruments primarily consisting of interest rate swaps to manage the risks associated with fluctuations in interest rates affecting the value of certain assets.

International and Structured Finance Insurance

The Company has entered into derivative instruments to provide financial guarantee insurance to structured finance transactions that do not qualify for the financial guarantee scope exception and, therefore, are accounted for as derivatives. These insured CDS contracts, primarily referencing CMBS, RMBS and ABS, are intended to be held for the entire term of the contract unless a settlement with the counterparty is negotiated. The Company no longer insures new CDS contracts except for transactions related to the restructuring or reduction of existing derivative exposure. The Company’s derivative exposure within its international and structured finance insurance segment also includes insured interest rate and inflation-linked swaps related to insured debt issues.

The Company has also entered into a derivative contract as a result of a commutation occurring in 2014. Changes in the fair value of the Company’s non-insured derivative are included in “Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange” on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

Variable Interest Entities

VIEs consolidated by the Company have entered into derivative instruments consisting of interest rate swaps, interest rate caps and cross currency swaps. Interest rate swaps and interest rate caps are entered into to mitigate the risks associated with fluctuations in interest rates or fair values of certain contracts. Cross currency swaps are entered into to manage the variability in cash flows resulting from fluctuations in foreign currency rates.

Credit Derivatives Sold

The following tables present information about credit derivatives sold by the Company’s insurance operations that were outstanding as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. Credit ratings represent the lower of underlying ratings assigned to the collateral by Moody’s, S&P or MBIA.

 

                                                                                       

$ in millions

   As of March 31, 2017  
     Notional Value         

Credit Derivatives Sold

   Weighted
Average
Remaining
Expected
Maturity
     AAA      AA      A      BBB      Below
Investment
Grade
     Total
Notional
     Fair Value
Asset
(Liability)
 

Insured credit default swaps

     3.9 Years      $      $      $ 115       $      $ 415       $ 530       $ (86)  

Insured swaps

     16.0 Years               133         2,009         731         20         2,893         (2)  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total notional

      $      $ 133       $ 2,124       $ 731       $ 435       $ 3,423      
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total fair value

      $      $      $ (1)      $ (1)      $ (86)         $ (88)  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

35


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 8: Derivative Instruments (continued)

 

                                                                                       

$ in millions

   As of December 31, 2016  
     Notional Value         

Credit Derivatives Sold

   Weighted
Average
Remaining
Expected
Maturity
     AAA      AA      A      BBB      Below
Investment
Grade
     Total
Notional
     Fair
Value
Asset
(Liability)
 

Insured credit default swaps

     3.8 Years      $ -      $ -      $ 115       $      $ 473       $ 588      $ (64)  

Insured swaps

     15.7 Years        -        137        2,146         732         20         3,035        (2)  

Insured swaps — held for sale

     14.3 Years        -        -               420                420         
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total notional

      $ -      $ 137      $ 2,261       $ 1,152       $ 493       $ 4,043     
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total fair value

      $ -      $ -      $ (1)      $ (1)      $ (64)         $ (66)  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

       

 

 

 

Internal credit ratings assigned by MBIA on the underlying collateral are derived by the Company’s surveillance group. In assigning an internal rating, current status reports from issuers and trustees, as well as publicly available transaction-specific information, are reviewed. Also, where appropriate, cash flow analyses and collateral valuations are considered. The maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted) on CDS contracts are estimated as the notional value plus any additional debt service costs, such as interest or other amounts owing on CDS contracts. The maximum amount of future debt service payments that MBIA may be required to make under these guarantees as of March 31, 2017 is $575 million. The maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted) on insured swaps are estimated as the notional value of such contracts.

MBIA may hold recourse provisions with third parties in derivative instruments through subrogation rights, whereby if MBIA makes a claim payment, it may be entitled to any rights of the insured counterparty, including the right to any assets held as collateral.

Counterparty Credit Risk

The Company manages counterparty credit risk on an individual counterparty basis through master netting agreements covering derivative instruments in the corporate segment. These agreements allow the Company to contractually net amounts due from a counterparty with those amounts due to such counterparty when certain triggering events occur. The Company only executes swaps under master netting agreements, which typically contain mutual credit downgrade provisions that generally provide the ability to require assignment or termination in the event either MBIA or the counterparty is downgraded below a specified credit rating.

Under these agreements, the Company may receive or provide cash, U.S. Treasury or other highly rated securities to secure counterparties’ exposure to the Company or its exposure to counterparties, respectively. Such collateral is available to the holder to pay for replacing the counterparty in the event that the counterparty defaults. As of March 31, 2017, the Company did not hold cash collateral to derivative counterparties but posted cash collateral to derivative counterparties of $9 million. All of the $9 million is included within “Other liabilities” as cash collateral netted against accrued interest on derivative liabilities. As of December 31, 2016, the Company did not hold cash collateral to derivative counterparties but posted cash collateral to derivative counterparties of $1 million. All of the $1 million is included within “Other liabilities” as cash collateral netted against accrued interest on derivative liabilities. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company had securities with a fair value of $257 million and $276 million, respectively, posted to derivative counterparties and these amounts are included within “Fixed-maturity securities held as available-for-sale, at fair value” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.

As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the fair value on one Credit Support Annex (“CSA”) was $3 million. This CSA governs collateral posting requirements between MBIA and its derivative counterparties. The Company did not receive collateral due to the Company’s credit rating, which was below the CSA minimum credit ratings level for holding counterparty collateral. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the counterparty was rated A1 by Moody’s and A by S&P.

Financial Statement Presentation

The fair value of amounts recognized for eligible derivative contracts executed with the same counterparty under a master netting agreement, including any cash collateral that may have been received or posted by the Company, is presented on a net basis in accordance with accounting guidance for the offsetting of fair value amounts related to derivative instruments. Insured CDS and insured swaps are not subject to master netting agreements. VIE derivative assets and liabilities are not presented net of any master netting agreements. Counterparty netting of derivative assets and liabilities offsets balances in “Interest rate swaps” as of March 31, 2017.

 

36


Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 8: Derivative Instruments (continued)

 

The following table presents the total fair value of the Company’s derivative assets and liabilities by instrument and balance sheet location, before counterparty netting and posting of cash collateral, as of March 31, 2017:

 

                                                      

In millions

        Derivative Assets (1)     Derivative Liabilities (1)  

Derivative Instruments

  Notional
Amount
Outstanding
    Balance Sheet Location     Fair Value     Balance Sheet Location     Fair Value  

Not designated as hedging instruments:

         

Insured credit default swaps

  $ 530       Other assets     $ -       Derivative liabilities     $ (86)  

Insured swaps

    2,893       Other assets       -       Derivative liabilities       (2)  

Interest rate swaps

    1,057       Other assets       3       Derivative liabilities       (205)  

Interest rate swaps-embedded

    382       Medium-term notes       2       Medium-term notes       (15)  

Currency swaps-VIE

    70       Other assets-VIE       13       Derivative liabilities-VIE        

All other

    83       Other assets       -       Derivative liabilities       (20)  

All other-VIE

    3       Other assets-VIE       -       Derivative liabilities-VIE        

All other-embedded

    2       Other investments       -       Other investments        
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total non-designated derivatives

  $ 5,020       $ 18       $ (328)  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

(1) -  In accordance with the accounting guidance for derivative instruments and hedging activities, the balance sheet location of the Company’s embedded derivative instruments is determined by the location of the related host contract.

The following table presents the total fair value of the Company’s derivative assets and liabilities by instrument and balance sheet location, before counterparty netting and posting of cash collateral, as of December 31, 2016:

 

                                                      

In millions

        Derivative Assets (1)     Derivative Liabilities (1)  

Derivative Instruments

  Notional
Amount
Outstanding
    Balance Sheet Location     Fair Value     Balance Sheet Location     Fair Value  

Not designated as hedging instruments:

         

Insured credit default swaps

  $ 588       Other assets     $ -       Derivative liabilities     $ (64)  

Insured swaps

    3,035       Other assets       -       Derivative liabilities       (2)  

Insured swaps-held for sale

    420       Other assets       -       Derivative liabilities        

Interest rate swaps

    1,062       Other assets       3       Derivative liabilities       (213)  

Interest rate swaps-embedded

    376       Medium-term notes       2       Medium-term notes       (17)  

Currency swaps-VIE

    71       Other assets-VIE       20       Derivative liabilities-VIE        

All other

    83       Other assets       -       Derivative liabilities       (20)  

All other-VIE

    35       Other assets-VIE       -       Derivative liabilities-VIE        

All other-embedded

    5       Other investments       -       Other investments        
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total non-designated derivatives

  $ 5,675       $ 25       $ (316)  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

(1) -  In accordance with the accounting guidance for derivative instruments and hedging activities, the balance sheet location of the Company’s embedded derivative instruments is determined by the location of the related host contract.

The following table presents the effect of derivative instruments on the consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

In millions

                 
Derivatives Not Designated as         Three Months Ended March 31,  

Hedging Instruments

  

Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative

   2017     2016  

Insured credit default swaps

   Unrealized gains (losses) on insured derivatives    $ (22   $ (14

Insured credit default swaps

   Realized gains (losses) and other settlements on insured derivatives      (31     (14

Interest rate swaps

   Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange            (50

Interest rate swaps-VIE

   Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange-VIE             

Currency swaps-VIE

   Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange-VIE      (6     (5

All other

   Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange            (2
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

      $ (55   $ (77
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 9: Debt

 

The Company has disclosed its debt in “Note 10: Debt” in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. The following debt discussion is an update and should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Other Borrowing Arrangements

MBIA Corp. Financing Facility

In connection with the Zohar II Claim in January of 2017, MBIA Corp. entered into the Facility. The initial outstanding principal amount of the Facility was $366 million, of which, $38 million of subordinated financing was provided by MBIA Inc. and eliminated in consolidation. As of March 31, 2017, the consolidated outstanding amount of the Facility was $321 million and included in “Variable interest entity notes” which is presented in “Liabilities of consolidated variable interest entities” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. Under the Facility, MBIA Inc. has agreed to provide an additional $50 million subordinated financing to MZ Funding, which MZ Funding would then lend to MBIA Corp., if needed by MBIA Insurance Corporation for liquidity purposes. The Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in all of MBIA Corp.’s right, title and interest in the recovery of its claims from the assets of Zohar I and Zohar II which include, among other things, loans made to, and equity interests in, companies purportedly controlled by the Zohar Sponsor and any claims that the Company may have against the Zohar Sponsor. MBIA Corp. was obligated to pay a commitment fee of $10 million for this facility. The Facility matures on January 20, 2020 and bears interest at 14% per annum. If funds received from MBIA Corp. under the Facility are insufficient to pay interest on interest payment dates, MZ Funding may elect to pay interest in kind, which increases the outstanding principal amount.

Note 10: Income Taxes

The Company’s income taxes and the related effective tax rates for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  

In millions

   2017      2016  

Income (loss) before income taxes

   $ (120)      $ (101)  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

   $ (48)      $ (23)  

Effective tax rate

     40.0%        22.8%  

For the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Company’s effective tax rate applied to its loss before income taxes is greater than the U.S. statutory tax rate primarily due to tax-exempt interest income and the fluctuation of the value of nontaxable warrants issued by the Company. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company’s effective tax rate applied to its loss before income taxes is less than the U.S. statutory effective tax rate primarily due to a foreign tax credit adjustment and the fluctuation of the value of nondeductible warrants issued by the Company.

Deferred Tax Asset, Net of Valuation Allowance

The Company has come to the conclusion that it is more likely than not that its net deferred tax asset, other than that portion of the asset related to foreign tax credits which have been claimed on its prior years’ tax returns and are being carried forward, will be fully realized after weighing all positive and negative evidence available as required under GAAP. The positive evidence that was considered included the cumulative operating income the Company has earned over the last three years, and the significant unearned premium income to be included in taxable income. The positive evidence outweighs any negative evidence that exists. As such, the Company believes that no valuation allowance is necessary in connection with this deferred tax asset. The Company will continue to analyze the need for a valuation allowance on a quarterly basis.

However, as the prediction of adequate future taxable income and foreign sourced income within the carryforward period is not assured, the Company has concluded that a valuation allowance for the foreign tax credits being carried forward is appropriate. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the valuation allowance was $62 million and $7 million, respectively. The increase in the Company’s valuation allowance was primarily related to foreign tax credits that were generated as a result of the sale of MBIA UK.

Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes

The Company’s policy is to record and disclose any change in unrecognized tax benefits (“UTB”) and related interest and/or penalties to income tax in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company includes interest as a component of income tax expense. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company had no UTB.

Federal income tax returns through 2011 have been examined or surveyed.

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 10: Income Taxes (continued)

 

As of March 31, 2017, the Company’s net operating loss (“NOL”) is approximately $2.6 billion. The NOL will expire between tax years 2030 through 2034. As of March 31, 2017, the Company has a foreign tax credit carryforward of $62 million, which will expire between tax years 2019 through 2027. As of March 31, 2017, the Company has an alternative minimum tax credit carryforward of $26 million, which does not expire.

Note 11: Business Segments

As defined by segment reporting, an operating segment is a component of a company (i) that engages in business activities from which it earns revenue and incurs expenses, (ii) whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the Chief Operating Decision Maker to assess the performance of the segment and to make decisions about the allocation of resources to the segment and, (iii) for which discrete financial information is available.

The Company manages its businesses across three operating segments: 1) U.S. public finance insurance; 2) corporate; and 3) international and structured finance insurance. The Company’s U.S. public finance insurance business is operated through National and its international and structured finance insurance business is operated through MBIA Corp.

The following sections provide a description of each of the Company’s reportable operating segments.

U.S. Public Finance Insurance

The Company’s U.S. public finance insurance segment is principally conducted through National. The financial guarantees issued by National provide unconditional and irrevocable guarantees of the payment of the principal of, and interest or other amounts owing on, U.S. public finance insured obligations when due. The obligations are not subject to acceleration, except that National may have the right, at its discretion, to accelerate insured obligations upon default or otherwise. National issues financial guarantees for municipal bonds, including tax-exempt and taxable indebtedness of U.S. political subdivisions, as well as utilities, airports, health care institutions, higher educational facilities, student loan issuers, housing authorities and other similar agencies and obligations issued by private entities that finance projects that serve a substantial public purpose. Municipal bonds and privately issued bonds used for the financing of public purpose projects are generally supported by taxes, assessments, fees or tariffs related to the use of these projects, lease payments or other similar types of revenue streams.

Corporate

The Company’s corporate segment consists of general corporate activities, including providing general support services to MBIA Inc.’s subsidiaries as well as asset and capital management. General support services are provided by the Company’s service company, MBIA Services Corporation (“MBIA Services”), and include, among others, management, legal, accounting, treasury, information technology, and insurance portfolio surveillance, on a fee-for-service basis. Capital management includes activities related to servicing obligations issued by MBIA Inc. and its subsidiaries, MBIA Global Funding, LLC (“GFL”) and MBIA Investment Management Corp. (“IMC”). MBIA Inc. issued debt to finance the operations of the MBIA group. GFL raised funds through the issuance of MTNs with varying maturities, which were in turn guaranteed by MBIA Corp. GFL lent the proceeds of these MTN issuances to MBIA Inc. IMC, along with MBIA Inc., provided customized investment agreements, guaranteed by MBIA Corp., for bond proceeds and other public funds for such purposes as construction, loan origination, escrow and debt service or other reserve fund requirements. The Company has ceased issuing these MTNs and investment agreements and the outstanding liability balances and corresponding asset balances have declined over time as liabilities mature, terminate or are retired. All of the debt within the corporate segment is managed collectively and is serviced by available liquidity.

International and Structured Finance Insurance

The Company’s international and structured finance insurance segment is principally conducted through MBIA Corp. The financial guarantees issued by MBIA Corp. generally provide unconditional and irrevocable guarantees of the payment of principal of, and interest or other amounts owing on, non-U.S. public finance and global structured finance insured obligations when due, or in the event MBIA Corp. has the right, at its discretion, to accelerate insured obligations upon default or otherwise. MBIA Corp. insures the investment contracts written by MBIA Inc., and if MBIA Inc. were to have insufficient assets to pay amounts due upon maturity or termination, MBIA Corp. would make such payments. MBIA Corp. insures debt obligations of the following affiliates:

 

   

MBIA Inc.;

 

   

GFL;

 

   

IMC; and

 

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Table of Contents

MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 11: Business Segments (continued)

 

   

LaCrosse Financial Products, LLC, a wholly-owned affiliate, in which MBIA Insurance Corporation has written insurance policies guaranteeing the obligations under CDS. Certain policies cover payments potentially due under CDS, including termination payments that may become due in certain circumstances, including the occurrence of certain insolvency or payment defaults under the CDS or derivatives contracts by the insured counterparty or by the guarantor.

MBIA Corp. insures non-U.S. public finance and global structured finance insured obligations, including asset-backed obligations. MBIA Corp. has insured sovereign-related and sub-sovereign bonds, utilities, privately issued bonds used for the financing of projects that include toll roads, bridges, airports, public transportation facilities, and other types of infrastructure projects serving a substantial public purpose. Global structured finance and asset-backed obligations typically are securities repayable from expected cash flows generated by a specified pool of assets, such as residential and commercial mortgages, insurance policies, consumer loans, corporate loans and bonds, trade and export receivables, and leases for equipment, aircraft and real estate property. MBIA Corp. has also written policies guaranteeing obligations under certain other derivative contracts, including termination payments that may become due upon certain insolvency or payment defaults of the financial guarantor or the issuer. The Company is no longer insuring new credit derivative contracts except for transactions related to the restructuring or reduction of existing derivative exposure. MBIA Corp. has not written any meaningful amount of business since 2008.

Segments Results

The following tables provide the Company’s segment results for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                                                      
     Three Months Ended March 31, 2017  

In millions

   U.S. Public
Finance
Insurance
     Corporate      International
and Structured
Finance
Insurance
     Eliminations     Consolidated  

Revenues(1)

   $ 68       $      $ 27       $     $ 103   

Net change in fair value of insured derivatives

                   (53)              (53)  

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

            16         (3)              17   

Net investment losses related to other-than-temporary impairments

     (2)                            (2)  

Net gains (losses) on extinguishment of debt

                                 

Other net realized gains (losses)

            (1)                      

Revenues of consolidated VIEs

                                 

Inter-segment revenues(2)

            16                (30)        
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

     75         47         (15)        (30)       77   

Losses and loss adjustment

     11                83               94   

Operating

     10         18                      36   

Interest

            22         26               48   

Expenses of consolidated VIEs

                   19               19   

Inter-segment expenses(2)

     15                14         (30)        
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

     36         41         150         (30)       197   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

     39                (165)              (120)  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

     12         (4)        (57)              (48)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ 27       $ 10       $ (108)      $ (1)     $ (72)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Identifiable assets

   $ 5,128       $ 2,335       $ 6,502       $ (2,948) (3)    $ 11,017   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) - Represents the sum of third-party financial guarantee net premiums earned, net investment income, insurance-related fees and reimbursements and other fees.

 

(2) - Represents intercompany premium income and expense and intercompany interest income and expense pertaining to intercompany receivables and payables.

 

(3) - Consists of intercompany deferred income taxes, reinsurance balances and repurchase agreements.

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 11: Business Segments (continued)

 

                                                      
     Three Months Ended March 31, 2016  

In millions

   U.S. Public
Finance
Insurance
     Corporate      International
and Structured
Finance
Insurance
     Eliminations     Consolidated  

Revenues(1)

   $ 84      $      $ 26       $     $ 115   

Net change in fair value of insured derivatives

     -               (28)              (28)  

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

     9        (84)                     (69)  

Net investment losses related to other-than-temporary impairments

     -        (1)                     (1)  

Net gains (losses) on extinguishment of debt

     -                             

Other net realized gains (losses)

     -        (1)                     (1)  

Revenues of consolidated VIEs

     -               14               14   

Inter-segment revenues(2)

     6        16         12         (34)        
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenues

     99        (63)        30         (34)       32   

Losses and loss adjustment

     9               13               22   

Operating

     9        22         14               45   

Interest

     -        23         27               50   

Expenses of consolidated VIEs

     -               16               16   

Inter-segment expenses(2)

     18               14         (32)        
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total expenses

     36        45         84         (32)       133   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

     63        (108)        (54)        (2)       (101)  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

     22        (24)        (23)              (23)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ 41      $ (84)      $ (31)      $ (4)     $ (78)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Identifiable assets

   $ 5,268      $ 2,478       $ 7,845       $ (2,840) (3)    $ 12,751   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) - Represents the sum of third-party financial guarantee net premiums earned, net investment income, insurance-related fees and reimbursements and other fees.

 

(2) - Represents intercompany premium income and expense and intercompany interest income and expense pertaining to intercompany receivables and payables.

 

(3) - Consists of intercompany deferred income taxes, reinsurance balances and repurchase agreements.

Premiums on financial guarantees and insured derivatives reported within the Company’s insurance segments are generated within and outside the U.S. The following table summarizes premiums earned on financial guarantees and insured derivatives by geographic location of risk for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  

In millions

   2017      2016  

Total premiums earned:

     

United States

   $ 41       $ 59   

United Kingdom

             

Europe (excluding United Kingdom)

             

Other Americas

             

Asia

             

Other

             
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 50       $ 76   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 12: Earnings Per Share

 

Earnings per share is calculated using the two-class method in which earnings are allocated to common stock and participating securities based on their rights to receive nonforfeitable dividends or dividend equivalents. The Company grants restricted stock and restricted stock units to certain employees and non-employee directors in accordance with the Company’s long-term incentive programs, which entitle the participants to receive nonforfeitable dividends or dividend equivalents during the vesting period on the same basis as those dividends are paid to common shareholders. These unvested stock awards represent participating securities. During periods of net income, the calculation of earnings per share exclude the income attributable to participating securities in the numerator and the dilutive impact of these securities from the denominator. During periods of net loss, no effect is given to participating securities in the numerator and the denominator excludes the dilutive impact of these securities since they do not share in the losses of the Company.

Basic earnings per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the dilutive effect of all stock options, warrants and unvested restricted stock outstanding during the period that could potentially result in the issuance of common stock. The dilution from stock options, warrants and unvested restricted stock are calculated by applying the two-class method and using the treasury stock method. The treasury stock method assumes the proceeds from the exercise of stock options and warrants or the unrecognized compensation expense from unvested restricted stock will be used to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock at the average market price during the period. During periods of net loss, stock options, warrants and unvested restricted stock are excluded from the calculation because they would have an antidilutive affect. Therefore, in periods of net loss, the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share would result in the same value.

The following table presents the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  

$ in millions except per share amounts

   2017      2016  

Basic earnings per share:

     

Net income (loss) available to common shareholders

   $ (72)      $ (78)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Basic weighted average shares (1)

     131.4        135.8  

Net income (loss) per basic common share

   $ (0.55)      $ (0.58)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Diluted earnings per share:

     

Net income (loss) available to common shareholders

     (72)        (78)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Diluted weighted average shares

     131.4        135.8  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss) per diluted common share

   $ (0.55)      $ (0.58)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Potentially dilutive securities excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS because of antidilutive affect

     14.8        16.7  

 

(1) - Includes 0.3 million and 0.7 million of participating securities that met the service condition and were eligible to receive nonforfeitable dividends or dividend equivalents for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 13: Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

 

The following table presents the changes in the components of AOCI for the three months ended March 31, 2017:

 

                                

In millions

   Unrealized
Gains (Losses)
on AFS
Securities, Net
     Foreign Currency
Translation, Net
     Total  

Balance, December 31, 2016

   $      $ (134)      $ (128)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications

     (26)        123         97 (1) 

Amounts reclassified from AOCI

                    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

     (26)        123         97   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2017

   $ (20)      $ (11)      $ (31)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Represents items included in the Company’s loss calculation to adjust the carrying value of MBIA UK to its fair value less costs to sell for the year ended December 31, 2016. The sale was completed in January of 2017 and as such, these amounts included in AOCI were reversed and included in the Sale Transaction.

The following table presents the details of the reclassifications from AOCI for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                                

In millions

  Amounts Reclassified from AOCI       
    Three Months Ended March 31,       

Details about AOCI Components

  2017      2016     

Affected Line Item on the Consolidated

Statements of Operations

Unrealized gains (losses) on AFS securities:

       

Realized gains (losses) on sale of securities

  $      $     

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments

at fair value and foreign exchange

OTTI

    (2)             Net investment losses related to OTTI

Amortization on securities

           (3)      Net investment income
 

 

 

    

 

 

    
                Income (loss) before income taxes
                Provision (benefit) for income taxes
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total reclassifications for the period

  $      $      Net income (loss)
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

Note 14: Commitments and Contingencies

The following commitments and contingencies provide an update of those discussed in “Note 21: Commitments and Contingencies” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, and should be read in conjunction with the complete descriptions provided in the aforementioned Form 10-K.

Litigation

MBIA Insurance Corp. v. Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, et al.; Index No. 603751/2009 (N.Y. Sup. Ct., N.Y. County)

Expert discovery concluded in March of 2016. On March 31, 2017, the court granted in part and denied in part MBIA’s summary judgment motion. The parties have each filed cross-appeals from the court’s March 31, 2017 decision and order.

MBIA Insurance Corp. v. J.P. Morgan Securities LLC (f/k/a Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc.); Index No. 64676/2012 (N.Y. Sup. Ct., County of Westchester)

On June 6, 2016, the court denied J.P. Morgan’s motion for summary judgment. J.P. Morgan filed a notice of appeal of that ruling on July 6, 2016. On November 2, 2016, the Second Department of the Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court (the “Second Department”) issued a decision on J.P. Morgan’s separate appeal, and MBIA Corp.’s cross appeal, from the trial court’s Order of September 18, 2014, which had granted MBIA’s motion for leave to amend its complaint to assert a cause of action for fraudulent concealment, and denied its motion to amend its complaint to assert cause of action alleging material misrepresentation in the procurement of an insurance contract brought under common law as informed by NYIL Section 3105. The Second Department decision affirmed the Order as it pertained to allowing the assertion of the fraudulent concealment claim, and reversed it as to the denial of the motion to add the claim of material misrepresentation in the procurement of an insurance contract. On April 3, 2017, MBIA voluntarily dismissed its claim for material misrepresentation in the procurement of an insurance contract as informed by NYIL Section 3105. A trial date has been set for October 10, 2017.

 

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MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 14: Commitments and Contingencies (continued)

 

Ambac Bond Insurance Coverage Cases, Coordinated Proceeding Case No. JCCP 4555 (Super. Ct. of Cal., County of
San Francisco)

Following an appeal of the dismissal of the plaintiff’s anti-trust claim under California’s Cartwright Act, the California Court of Appeal reinstated those claims against the bond insurer defendants on February 18, 2016. On April 8, 2016, Judge Mary E. Wiss recused and disqualified herself from further proceedings in the matter. On April 14, 2016, Judge Curtis E. A. Karnow was assigned to sit as the Coordination Trial Judge. On June 24, 2016, the defendants, including the MBIA parties, filed their answers to the complaints.

Lynn Tilton and Patriarch Partners XV, LLC v. MBIA Inc. and MBIA Insurance Corp. v.; Index No.68880/2015 (N.Y. Sup. Ct., County of Westchester)

On November 2, 2015, Lynn Tilton and Patriarch Partners XV, LLC filed a complaint in New York State Supreme Court, Westchester County, against MBIA Inc. and MBIA Corp., alleging fraudulent inducement and related claims arising from purported promises made in connection with insurance policies issued by MBIA Corp. on certain collateralized loan obligations managed by Ms. Tilton and affiliated Patriarch entities, and seeking damages. The plaintiffs filed an amended complaint on January 15, 2016. On December 27, 2016, Justice Alan D. Scheinkman granted in part and denied in part MBIA’s motion to dismiss. On January 17, 2017, MBIA filed its answer. A scheduling order was entered on January 6, 2017 setting a Trial Readiness Conference for October 19, 2017.

National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation v. Padilla, Civ. No. 16-cv-2101 (D.P.R. June 15, 2016) (Besosa, J.)

On June 15, 2016, National filed a complaint in federal court in Puerto Rico challenging the Puerto Rico Emergency Moratorium and Financial Rehabilitation Act (Law 21-2016 or the “Moratorium Act”) as unconstitutional under the United States Constitution. On June 22, 2016, National filed a motion for partial summary judgment on its claim that the Moratorium Act is preempted by the federal Bankruptcy Code. On July 7, 2016, the Puerto Rico defendants filed a motion to stay the case pursuant to the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management and Economic Stability Act (“PROMESA”), which was granted by the Court in August of 2016. The defendants filed their answer to the complaint on July 26, 2016. On November 15, 2016, the District Court denied National’s motion to lift the litigation stay granted pursuant to PROMESA and on January 30, 2017, the District Court denied National’s partial motion for a summary judgement without prejudice. On January 11, 2017, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit affirmed the denial of a separate plaintiff’s motion to lift the PROMESA stay in related action challenging the Moratorium Act. Accordingly, the case remained stayed through May 1, 2017, at which time the PROMESA stay expired. However, on May 3, 2017, Puerto Rico filed a Title III petition under PROMESA, thereby staying this dispute under Section 405(e) of PROMESA.

Assured Guaranty Corp. et al. v. Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Case No. 3:17-cv-01578 (D.P.R. May 3, 2017) (Swain, J.)

On May 3, 2017, the Financial Oversight and Management Board filed a petition under Title III of PROMESA to adjust the debts of Puerto Rico. On the same day, National, together with Assured Guaranty Corp. and Assured Guaranty Municipal Corp., filed an adversary complaint in the case commenced by the Title III filing, alleging that the Fiscal Plan and the Fiscal Plan Compliance Act, signed into law by the Governor of Puerto Rico on April 29, 2017, violate PROMESA and the United States Constitution.

For those aforementioned actions in which it is a defendant, the Company is defending against those actions and expects ultimately to prevail on the merits. There is no assurance, however, that the Company will prevail in these actions. Adverse rulings in these actions could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s ability to implement its strategy and on its business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. At this stage of the litigation, there has not been a determination as to the amount, if any, of damages. Accordingly, the Company is not able to estimate any amount of loss or range of loss. The Company similarly can provide no assurance that it will be successful in those actions in which it is a plaintiff.

There are no other material lawsuits pending or, to the knowledge of the Company, threatened, to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party.

Lease Commitments

The Company has a lease agreement for its headquarters in Purchase, New York as well as other immaterial leases for offices in New York, New York, San Francisco, California and London, England. The Purchase, New York initial lease term expires in 2030 with the option to terminate the lease in 2025 upon the payment of a termination amount. This lease agreement included an incentive amount to fund certain leasehold improvements, renewal options, escalation clauses and a free rent period. This lease agreement has been classified as an operating lease, and operating rent expense has been recognized on a straight-line basis since the second quarter of 2014. As of March 31, 2017, total future minimum lease payments remaining on this lease were $38 million.

Note 15: Subsequent Events

Refer to “Note 14: Commitments and Contingencies” for information about legal proceedings that occurred after March 31, 2017.

 

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

The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations of MBIA Inc. should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 and the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in this Form 10-Q. In addition, this discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations includes statements of the opinion of MBIA Inc.’s management which may be forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical earnings and those presently anticipated or projected. Refer to “Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of MBIA Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 for a further discussion of risks and uncertainties.

INTRODUCTION

MBIA Inc., together with its consolidated subsidiaries, (collectively, “MBIA”, the “Company”, “we”, “us”, or “our”) operates one of the largest financial guarantee insurance businesses in the industry. MBIA manages its business within three operating segments: 1) United States (“U.S.”) public finance insurance; 2) corporate; and 3) international and structured finance insurance. Our U.S. public finance insurance business is primarily operated through National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation (“National”), our corporate segment is operated through MBIA Inc. and several of its subsidiaries, including our service company, MBIA Services Corporation (“MBIA Services”) and our international and structured finance insurance business is primarily operated through MBIA Insurance Corporation and its subsidiaries (“MBIA Corp.”). Effective on January 10, 2017, MBIA Corp.’s wholly-owned subsidiary, MBIA UK (Holdings) Limited (“MBIA UK Holdings”), sold its operating subsidiary, MBIA UK Insurance Limited (“MBIA UK”), to Assured Guaranty Corp. (“Assured”), a subsidiary of Assured Guaranty Ltd. References to MBIA Inc. generally refer to activities within our corporate segment and, unless otherwise indicated or the context otherwise requires, references to “MBIA Corp.” are (i) for any references relating to the period ended January 10, 2017, to MBIA Insurance Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, MBIA UK, and MBIA Mexico S.A. de C.V (“MBIA Mexico”) and (ii) for any references relating to the period after January 10, 2017, to MBIA Insurance Corporation together with MBIA Mexico.

National had total insured gross par outstanding of $102.2 billion as of March 31, 2017. National’s primary business is insuring new issue and secondary market municipal bonds, consistent with our portfolio management and return requirements, and to maximize the economics of our existing insured portfolio through effective surveillance and remediation. Our corporate segment consists of general corporate activities, including providing general support services to MBIA’s other operating businesses and asset and capital management. MBIA Corp.’s primary objectives are to satisfy claims of its policyholders, and to maximize future recoveries, if any, for its senior lending and other surplus note holders and, thereafter, its preferred stock holders. MBIA Corp. is executing this strategy by reducing and mitigating potential losses on its insurance exposures and pursuing various actions focused on maximizing the collection of recoveries. We do not expect to write new business in our international and structured finance insurance segment.

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW

Financial Highlights

The following tables present our financial highlights. A detailed discussion of our financial results is presented within the “Results of Operations” section included herein. Refer to the “Capital Resources—Insurance Statutory Capital” section for a discussion of National’s and MBIA Insurance Corporation’s capital positions under statutory accounting principles (“U.S. STAT”).

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  

In millions except per share amounts and policies

   2017      2016  

Net income (loss)

   $ (72)      $ (78)  

Net income (loss) per diluted share

   $ (0.55)      $ (0.58)  

Combined operating income (1)

   $      $ 16   

Combined operating income per diluted share(1)

   $ 0.07       $ 0.12   

Gross par exposure insured

   $ 252       $ 158   

Number of policies written

     44         23   

Cost of shares repurchased

   $ 40       $ 94   

 

(1) - Combined operating income (loss) and combined operating income (loss) per diluted share are non-GAAP measures. Refer to the following “Results of Operations” section for a discussion of operating income (loss) and operating income (loss) per diluted share and a reconciliation of GAAP net income to operating income (loss) and GAAP net income per diluted share to operating income (loss) per diluted share.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW (continued)

 

                     

In millions except per share amounts

   As of
March 31, 2017
     As of
December 31, 2016
 

Shareholders’ equity of MBIA Inc.

   $ 3,214      $ 3,227  

Book value per share

     24.73        23.87  

Adjusted book value per share(1)

     33.69        31.88  

 

  (1) - Adjusted book value per share is a non-GAAP measure. Refer to the following “Results of Operations” section for a discussion of adjusted book value and a reconciliation of GAAP book value per share to adjusted book value per share.

First Quarter of 2017 Key Activities

 

   

Completed the sale of MBIA UK and secured financing which enabled MBIA Corp. to satisfy a claim of $770 million on an insurance policy insuring certain notes issued by Zohar II 2005-1, Limited (“Zohar II”). Refer to the following “Results of Operations” and “Liquidity” sections for a further discussion of the sale of MBIA UK and the financing facility.

 

   

On January 1, 2017, Puerto Rico defaulted on scheduled debt service for certain National insured bonds and National paid gross claims in the aggregate of $24 million as a result. As of March 31, 2017, National had $3.6 billion of gross insured par outstanding ($4.1 billion of gross insured par outstanding when including accreted interest on insured capital appreciation bonds (“CABs”)) related to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and certain of its instrumentalities (“Puerto Rico”). Refer to the “U.S. Public Finance Insurance Puerto Rico Exposures” section for additional information on our Puerto Rico exposures.

Economic and Financial Market Trends

The U.S. economy has continued to improve during the first quarter of 2017. The labor market continued to strengthen with solid job gains while the unemployment rate has remained at similar levels in recent months. Household spending has seen moderate increases and business fixed investment appears to have solidified. In addition, U.S. home prices across the country have maintained a positive trajectory over the past twelve months.

The Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) increased the target range for the federal funds rate by a quarter point in March of 2017. The FOMC stated that it will continue to monitor economic conditions relative to its objectives of maximum employment, stable prices and moderate long-term interest rates. The FOMC also stated that it expects multiple rate increases in 2017 as they work to a path towards a relatively gradual normalization of rates. We expect Congress to focus on tax reform, a reduction in regulation and an increase in infrastructure spending throughout the rest of 2017.

Economic and financial market trends could impact MBIA’s business outlook and its financial results. Many states and municipalities have experienced growing tax collections that resulted from increased economic activity and higher assessed property valuations. The economic improvement at the state and local level strengthens the credit quality of the issuers of our insured municipal bonds, improves the performance of our insured U.S. public finance portfolio and could reduce the amount of National’s incurred losses. A decrease in oil prices could have a positive impact on certain sales taxes to the extent consumer spending increases as a result. However, some states and municipalities will experience a decrease in revenues where their economies are reliant on the oil and gas industries. With higher projected interest rates and the urgent need for renewed investment in our nation’s infrastructure, the value proposition of bond insurance is becoming more compelling and thus we expect that will lead to increased demand for our product.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

We prepare our consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), which requires the use of estimates and assumptions. Management has discussed and reviewed the development, selection, and disclosure of critical accounting estimates with the Company’s Audit Committee. Our most critical accounting estimates include loss and loss adjustment expense (“LAE”) reserves, valuation of financial instruments, and income taxes, since these estimates require significant judgment. Any modifications in these estimates could materially impact our financial results.

For a discussion of the Company’s critical accounting estimates, refer to “Critical Accounting Estimates” in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. In addition, refer to “Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves”, “Note 6: Fair Value of Financial Instruments” and “Note 10: Income Taxes” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a current description of estimates used in our insurance loss reserving process, information about our financial assets and liabilities that are accounted for at fair value, including valuation techniques and significant inputs and estimates involving income taxes.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Refer to “Note 3: Recent Accounting Pronouncements” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of accounting guidance recently adopted by the Company.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Summary of Consolidated Results

The following table presents a summary of our consolidated financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  

In millions except share and per share amounts

   2017      2016  

Total revenues

   $ 77       $ 32   

Total expenses

     197         133   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (120)        (101)  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

     (48)        (23)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ (72)      $ (78)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss) per common share:

     

Basic

   $ (0.55)      $ (0.58)  

Diluted

   $ (0.55)      $ (0.58)  

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:

     

Basic

     131,402,465         135,814,835   

Diluted

     131,402,465         135,814,835   

Consolidated total revenues increased for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 principally due to favorable changes in the value of our interest rate swaps, favorable changes in the fair value of outstanding warrants issued on MBIA Inc. common stock and lower net losses on foreign exchange, partially offset by lower net premiums earned due to higher refunding activity in 2016 and higher net losses on insured derivatives. The net gains on our interest rate swaps were primarily due to the effect of increases in interest rates during the period. The changes in the fair value of outstanding warrants were primarily attributable to a decrease in the price of MBIA Inc.’s common stock and changes in volatility, which are used in the valuation of the warrants. The lower net losses on foreign exchange were primarily associated with our Euro denominated liabilities as a result of favorable changes in the U.S. dollar during the first quarter of 2017. The higher net losses on insured derivatives for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 were principally the result of an increase in claim payments on commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) transactions and an increase in mark-to-market losses on other insured derivative transactions.

Consolidated total expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2017 included $94 million of net insurance loss and LAE compared with $22 million for the same period of 2016. The increase in loss and LAE for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 was primarily due to an increase in expected payments on insured residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”).

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Non-GAAP Operating Income (Loss)

In addition to our results prepared in accordance with GAAP, we also analyze the operating performance of the Company using operating income (loss) and operating income (loss) per diluted common share, both non-GAAP measures. Since operating income (loss) is used by management to assess performance and make business decisions, we consider operating income (loss) and operating income (loss) per diluted common share fundamental measures of periodic financial performance which are useful in understanding our results. Operating income (loss) and operating income (loss) per diluted common share are not substitutes for net income (loss) and net income (loss) per diluted common share determined in accordance with GAAP, and our definitions of operating income (loss) and operating income (loss) per diluted common share may differ from those used by other companies.

Operating income (loss) and operating income (loss) per diluted common share include the combined after-tax results of our U.S. public finance insurance and corporate segments and remove the after-tax results of our international and structured finance insurance segment, which is not part of our ongoing business strategy as we do not expect to write new business in this segment.

In addition to removing our international and structured finance insurance segment, operating income (loss) is adjusted for the following:

 

   

Elimination of the impact of mark-to-market gains (losses) on financial instruments that primarily include interest rate swaps and hybrid financial instruments. Also eliminated are the mark-to-market gains (losses) on warrants issued by the Company. All of these amounts fluctuate based on market interest rates, credit spreads, MBIA Inc.’s common stock price and other market factors.

 

   

Elimination of foreign exchange gains (losses) on the remeasurement of certain assets and liabilities and transactions in non-functional currencies. Given the possibility of volatility in foreign exchange markets, we exclude the impact of foreign exchange gains (losses) to provide a measurement of comparability of operating income (loss).

 

   

Elimination of gains (losses) on the sale of investments, net investment losses related to other-than-temporary impairments (“OTTI”) and net gains (losses) on extinguishment of debt since the timing of these transactions are subject to management’s assessment of market opportunities and capital liquidity positions.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

The following table presents our combined operating income (loss) and operating income (loss) per diluted common share and provides reconciliations of GAAP net income (loss) to operating income (loss) and GAAP net income (loss) per diluted common share to operating income (loss) per diluted common share for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  

In millions except share and per share amounts

   2017     2016  

Net income (loss)

   $ (72)     $ (78)  

Less: operating income adjustments:

    

Income (loss) before income taxes of our international and structured finance insurance segment and eliminations

     (165)       (56)  

Adjustments to income before income taxes of our U.S. public finance insurance and corporate segments:

    

Mark-to-market gains (losses) on financial instruments(1)

     32        (48)  

Foreign exchange gains (losses)(1)

     (7)       (28)  

Net gains (losses) on sales of investments(1)

            

Net investment losses related to OTTI

     (2)       (1)  

Net gains (losses) on extinguishment of debt

            

Other net realized gains (losses)

     (1)       (1)  

Operating income adjustment to the (provision) benefit for income tax (2)

     52        32   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

   $     $ 16   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss) per diluted common share

     0.07 (3)      0.12 (4) 

 

(1) - Reported within “Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange” on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

 

(2) - Reported within “Provision (benefit) for income taxes” on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

 

(3) - Operating income (loss) per diluted common share is calculated by taking operating income (loss) divided by the weighted average number of diluted common shares outstanding, which includes GAAP diluted weighted average number of common shares of 131,402,465 and the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents of 617,622 shares.

 

(4) - Operating income (loss) per diluted common share is calculated by taking operating income (loss) divided by the weighted average number of diluted common shares outstanding, which includes GAAP diluted weighted average number of common shares of 135,814,835 and the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents of 630,484 shares.

Adjusted Book Value

In addition to book value per share, we also analyze adjusted book value (“ABV”) per share, a non-GAAP measure. We consider ABV a measure of fundamental value of the Company and the change in ABV an important measure of financial performance. ABV adjusts GAAP book value to remove the legal entity book value of MBIA Corp., but includes all deferred taxes available to the Company. In addition, ABV adjusts for certain items which the Company believes will reverse from GAAP book value through GAAP earnings and other comprehensive income, as well as to add in the impact of certain items which the Company believes will be realized in GAAP book value in future periods. The Company has limited such adjustments to those items that it deems to be important to fundamental value and performance and for which the likelihood and amount can be reasonably estimated. We have presented ABV to allow investors and analysts to evaluate the Company using the same measure that MBIA’s management regularly uses to measure financial performance and value. ABV is not a substitute for and should not be viewed in isolation of GAAP book value, and our definition of ABV may differ from that used by other companies.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

As of March 31, 2017, ABV per share was $33.69, an increase from $31.88 as of December 31, 2016. The increase in ABV per share was primarily driven by a decrease in common shares outstanding from the share repurchases made by the Company during the three months ended March 31, 2017. The following table provides a reconciliation of consolidated book value per share to consolidated ABV per share:

 

                     

In millions except share and per share amounts

   As of
March 31, 2017
     As of
December 31, 2016
 

Total shareholders’ equity of MBIA Inc.

   $ 3,214       $ 3,227   

Common shares outstanding

     129,959,327         135,200,831   

Book value per share

   $ 24.73       $ 23.87   

Reverse book value of the MBIA Corp. legal entity(1)

     6.07         5.07   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Book value after MBIA Corp. legal entity adjustment

     30.80         28.94   

Other book value adjustments:

     

Reverse net unrealized (gains) losses included in other comprehensive income (loss)

     0.25         0.24   

Add net unearned premium revenue(2)

     4.24         4.31   

Add tax effect on unrealized (gains) losses and unearned premium revenue

     (1.60)        (1.61)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other book value adjustments per share

     2.89         2.94   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Adjusted book value per share

   $ 33.69       $ 31.88   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - The book value of the MBIA Corp. legal entity does not provide significant economic or shareholder value to MBIA Inc. The amount being reversed excludes deferred taxes available to MBIA Inc.

 

(2) - Consists of financial guarantee premiums, net of deferred acquisition costs. The discount rate on financial guarantee installment premiums was the risk-free rate as defined by the accounting principles for financial guarantee insurance contracts.

U.S. Public Finance Insurance

Our U.S. public finance insurance business is primarily conducted through National. The financial guarantees issued by National provide unconditional and irrevocable guarantees of the payment of the principal of, and interest or other amounts owing on, insured obligations when due or, in the event National has exercised, at its discretion, the right to accelerate the payment under its policies upon the acceleration of the underlying insured obligations due to default or otherwise. National’s guarantees insure municipal bonds, including tax-exempt and taxable indebtedness of U.S. political subdivisions, as well as utility districts, airports, healthcare institutions, higher educational facilities, student loan issuers, housing authorities and other similar agencies and obligations issued by private entities that finance projects that serve a substantial public purpose. Municipal bonds and privately issued bonds used for the financing of public purpose projects are generally supported by taxes, assessments, user fees or tariffs related to the use of these projects, lease payments or other similar types of revenue streams.

National’s ability to write new business and to compete with other financial guarantors is largely dependent on the financial strength ratings assigned to National by Kroll Bond Rating Agency (“Kroll”), Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC (“S&P”) and Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (“Moody’s”). As of March 31, 2017, National had the following ratings: AA+ with a stable outlook by Kroll; AA- with a stable outlook by S&P; and A3 with a negative outlook by Moody’s. Subsequent to March 31, 2017, Kroll completed its annual review of National and affirmed the AA+ with a stable outlook rating.

National seeks to generate shareholder value at appropriate risk-adjusted pricing; however, current market conditions and the competitive landscape may limit National’s new business opportunities and our ability to price and underwrite risk with attractive returns. For the issuer, the value of financial guarantee insurance is largely determined by the spread between the interest rate on insured versus uninsured debt. For the investor, the decision to purchase insured bonds is influenced by the overall yield environment. In the current environment of low interest rates, investors may choose to purchase uninsured bonds to increase their returns. An environment of higher interest rates and/or wider spreads would likely enhance the new business opportunities for National. We also believe the current stress in certain sectors of the municipal bond market reinforces the value of National’s guarantee of timely payment of interest and principal.

National pursues opportunities for new business in most municipal sectors. Based on our underwriting and pricing criteria, the majority of our new business is in the general obligation, tax-backed and revenue bond sectors. In addition to the new issue market, we are pursuing opportunities in the secondary market with respect to bonds issued previously that were not insured and that meet our underwriting criteria.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Overall our U.S. public finance insured portfolio continues to perform satisfactorily against a backdrop of relatively stable domestic economic activity. While a stable or growing economy will generally benefit the tax revenues and fees charged for essential municipal services which secure the credits in our insured bond portfolio, some state, local governments and territory obligors we insure remain under financial and budgetary stress. This could lead to defaults by such entities on the payment of their obligations and insurance losses or claim payments on a greater number of our insured transactions. We continue to monitor and analyze these situations and other stressed credits closely, and the overall extent and duration of this stress is uncertain.

The following table presents our U.S. public finance insurance segment results for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                                
     Three Months Ended
March 31,
     Percent  

In millions

   2017      2016      Change  

Net premiums earned

   $ 41       $ 58        -29%  

Net investment income

     31         31        -%  

Fees and reimbursements

            1        -%  

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

            9        -56%  

Net investment losses related to other-than-temporary impairments

     (2)        -        n/m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues

     75         99        -24%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Losses and loss adjustment

     11         9        22%  

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

            12        -33%  

Operating

     17         15        13%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total expenses

     36         36        -%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

     39         63        -38%  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

     12         22        -45%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ 27       $ 41        -34%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

n/m - Percent change not meaningful.

NET PREMIUMS EARNED Net premiums earned on financial guarantees represent gross premiums earned net of premiums ceded to reinsurers, and include scheduled premium earnings and premium earnings from refunded issues. The decrease in net premiums earned for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 resulted from decreases in refunded premiums earned of $11 million and scheduled premiums earned of $6 million. Scheduled premium earnings declined due to the refunding and maturity of insured issues in prior periods. Refunding activity over the past several years has accelerated premium earnings in prior periods and reduced the amount of scheduled premiums that would have been earned in the current period.

NET GAINS (LOSSES) ON FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AT FAIR VALUE AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE The unfavorable change in net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 was principally due to a decrease in net realized gains from the sales of securities from the ongoing management of our U.S. public finance insurance investment portfolio.

NET INVESTMENT LOSSES RELATED TO OTHER-THAN-TEMPORARY IMPAIRMENTS Net investment losses related to OTTI for the three months ended March 31, 2017 were primarily related to one impaired security for which a loss was recognized as the difference between its amortized cost and the net present value of its projected cash flows. This OTTI resulted from liquidity concerns and other adverse financial conditions of the issuer.

LOSS AND LOSS ADJUSTMENT EXPENSES National’s portfolio surveillance group is responsible for monitoring our U.S. public finance segment’s insured obligations. The level and frequency of monitoring of any insured obligation depends on the type, size, rating and our assessed performance of the insured issue.

Refer to “Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to the Company’s loss reserves.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

The following table presents information about our U.S. public finance insurance loss and LAE expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                                
     Three Months Ended
March 31,
     Percent  

In millions

   2017      2016      Change  

Loss and LAE related to actual and expected payments (1)

   $ 36       $ 19         89%  

Recoveries of actual and expected payments

     (25)        (10)        150%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross losses incurred

     11                22%  

Reinsurance

                   -%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Losses and loss adjustment expenses (benefit)

   $ 11       $        22%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Loss and LAE with respect to Puerto Rico exposures are reflected net of expected recoveries on such payments.

For the three months ended March 31, 2017, losses and LAE primarily related to increases in actual and expected payments on certain Puerto Rico exposures, partially offset by increases in recoveries of actual and expected payments on certain Puerto Rico exposures. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, losses and LAE primarily related to increases in expected payments on certain Puerto Rico exposures.

The following table presents information about our U.S. public finance insurance loss and LAE reserves and recoverables as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

 

                                

In millions

   March 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
     Percent
Change
 

Assets:

        

Insurance loss recoverable

   $ 197       $ 174         13%  

Reinsurance recoverable on paid and unpaid losses (1)

                   -%  

Liabilities:

        

Gross loss and LAE reserves (2)

     127         118         8%  

Expected recoveries on unpaid losses

     (21)        (21)        -%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loss and LAE reserves

   $ 106       $ 97         9%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Insurance loss recoverable - ceded (3)

   $ 13       $ 12         8%  

 

(1) - Reported within “Other assets” on our consolidated balance sheets.

 

(2) - Puerto Rico reflects net of expected recoveries on such reserves.

 

(3) - Reported within “Other liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheets.

Insurance loss recoverable as of March 31, 2017 increased compared with December 31, 2016 primarily as a result of increases in expected recoveries related to claims paid on certain Puerto Rico exposures. Loss and LAE reserves as of March 31, 2017 increased compared with December 31, 2016 primarily as a result of increases in actual and expected payments on certain Puerto Rico exposures.

Included in our U.S. public finance loss and LAE reserves are both reserves for insured obligations for estimated future claims payments, which includes insured credits where a payment default has occurred and National has already paid a claim and insured credits where a payment default has not yet occurred. The following table includes LAE reserves as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 for one issue that had no expected future claim payments or par outstanding, but for which National was obligated to pay LAE incurred in prior periods. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, loss and LAE reserves comprised the following:

 

                                                                 

$ in millions

  Number of Issues (1)     Loss and LAE Reserve     Par Outstanding  
    March 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    March 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    March 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
 

Gross of reinsurance:

           

Issues with defaults

    5       5     $ 84     $ 75     $ 1,519     $ 1,519  

Issues without defaults

    6       6       22       22       1,445       1,446  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total gross of reinsurance

    11       11     $ 106     $ 97     $ 2,964     $ 2,965  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) - An “issue” represents the aggregate of financial guarantee policies that share the same revenue source for purposes of making debt service payments on the insured debt.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

POLICY ACQUISITION COSTS AND OPERATING EXPENSES U.S. public finance insurance segment expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 are presented in the following table:

 

                                
     Three Months Ended
March 31,
     Percent  

In millions

   2017      2016      Change  

Gross expenses

   $ 18      $ 15        20%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

   $ 8      $ 12        -33%  

Operating

     17        15        13%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total insurance operating expenses

   $ 25      $ 27        -7%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross expenses represent total insurance expenses before the deferral of any policy acquisition costs. Amortization of deferred acquisition costs decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 due to higher refunding activity in 2016. When an insured obligation refunds, we accelerate any remaining deferred acquisition costs associated with the policy covering the refunded insured obligation. We did not defer a material amount of policy acquisition costs during the first quarters of 2017 or 2016.

NON-GAAP OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) In addition to the above results, we also analyze the operating performance of our U.S. public finance insurance segment using operating income (loss), a non-GAAP measure. We believe operating income (loss), as used by management, is useful for an understanding of the results of operations of the Company. Operating income (loss) is not a substitute for net income (loss) determined in accordance with GAAP, and our definition of operating income (loss) may differ from that used by other companies.

The following table presents a reconciliation of GAAP net income (loss) to operating income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                     
     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 

In millions

   2017      2016  

Net income (loss)

   $ 27       $ 41   

Less: operating income adjustments:

     

Mark-to-market gains (losses) on financial instruments(1)

             

Net gains (losses) on sales of investments(1)

             

Net investment losses related to OTTI

     (2)         

Operating income adjustment to the (provision) benefit for income tax(2)

            (2)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

   $ 25       $ 37   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Reported within “Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange” on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

 

(2) - Reported within “Provision (benefit) for income taxes” on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

INSURED PORTFOLIO EXPOSURE Financial guarantee insurance companies use a variety of approaches to assess the underlying credit risk profile of their insured portfolios. National uses both an internally developed credit rating system as well as third-party rating sources in the analysis of credit quality measures of its insured portfolio. In evaluating credit risk, we obtain, when available, the underlying rating of the insured obligation before the benefit of its insurance policy from nationally recognized rating agencies, Moody’s and S&P. Other companies within the financial guarantee industry may report credit quality information based upon internal ratings that would not be comparable to our presentation. We maintain internal ratings on our entire portfolio, and our ratings may be higher or lower than the ratings assigned by Moody’s or S&P.

The following table presents the credit quality distribution of National’s U.S. public finance outstanding gross par insured as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. CABs are reported at the par amount at the time of issuance of the insurance policy. All ratings are as of the period presented and represent S&P ratings. If transactions are not rated by S&P, a Moody’s equivalent rating is used. If transactions are not rated by either S&P or Moody’s, an internal equivalent rating is used.

 

                                           
     Gross Par Outstanding  

In millions

   March 31, 2017      December 31, 2016  

Rating

   Amount      %      Amount      %  

AAA

   $ 4,938        4.8%      $ 5,167        4.7%  

AA

     45,135        44.1%        49,466        44.8%  

A

     31,993        31.3%        34,544        31.3%  

BBB

     14,368        14.1%        15,120        13.7%  

Below investment grade

     5,798        5.7%        6,070        5.5%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 102,232        100.0%      $ 110,367        100.0%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

U.S. Public Finance Insurance Puerto Rico Exposures

The following is a summary of exposures within the insured portfolio of our U.S. public finance insurance segment related to Puerto Rico as of March 31, 2017.

 

                                           

In millions

   Gross Par
Outstanding
     Gross Par
Outstanding
Plus CAB
Accreted
Interest
     Debt
Service
Outstanding
     National
Internal
Rating

Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA)(1)

   $ 1,250      $ 1,270      $ 1,789      d

Puerto Rico Commonwealth GO(1)

     665        691        900      d

Puerto Rico Public Buildings Authority (PBA)(2)

     190        190        279      d

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority Transportation Revenue (PRHTA)(1)

     586        586        1,053      d

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority - Subordinated Transportation Revenue

     33        33        44      d

Puerto Rico Sales Tax Financing Corporation (COFINA) (1)

     684        1,105        4,170      b1

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority Highway Revenue (PRHTA)(1)

     87        89        120      d

University of Puerto Rico System Revenue

     86        86        125      d

Inter American University of Puerto Rico Inc.

     25        25        33      a3
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total

   $ 3,606      $ 4,075      $ 8,513     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

(1) - Includes CABs that reflect the gross par amount at the time of issuance of the insurance policy.

(2) - Additionally secured by the guarantee of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

For many years Puerto Rico’s economy has suffered from stagnation, net migration of people out of Puerto Rico and weak government fiscal management that has led to recurring budget deficits and increased borrowing to finance such deficits. As a result of mounting debt, deteriorating credit ratings and lack of market confidence, Puerto Rico does not have access to the capital markets at reasonable rates.

Developments concerning Puerto Rico’s fiscal condition have occurred, and are occurring, with more frequency. Set forth below are the developments that are significant to National and its exposures to Puerto Rico.

On June 30, 2016, the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management and Economic Stability Act (“PROMESA”), was signed into law by the President of the United States. PROMESA provides both for the creation of an independent oversight board with powers relating to the development and implementation of a fiscal plan for Puerto Rico as well as a court-supervised process (independent of the Bankruptcy Code) that allows Puerto Rico to restructure its debt if voluntary agreement cannot be reached with creditors through a collective action process.

The Oversight Board originally set a target of certifying a Fiscal and Economic Growth Plan (“FEGP”) no later than January 31, 2017. However, after a request of additional time by the new Governor of Puerto Rico, the Oversight Board moved the date to certify the FEGP until March 15, 2017. Furthermore, the Oversight Board extended the stay provided under PROMESA from February 28, 2017 until May 1, 2017. In extending the deadlines for certifying the FEGP, the Oversight Board set out broad goals, objectives and parameters of the FEGP, outlining five areas that the Governor should address in order to submit a structurally balanced budget by fiscal year 2019. The five areas include: (i) revenue enhancements through adjustments to the tax system and improvements in tax administration; (ii) government right-sizing, efficiency and reduction; (iii) health care spending reductions; (iv) reduction in the amount appropriated by government for higher education; and (v) pension reform, among others.

In February of 2017, the Governor submitted his long-term fiscal plan to the Oversight Board, which closes the baseline budget deficit from the prior administration’s plan by $11.5 billion. The Governor also outlined fiscal measures that are expected to reduce the financing gap by $32.7 billion, and create a 10 year cash flow surplus of $11.6 billion, excluding the benefit of additional Medicaid funding under the Affordable Care Act (“ACA”). Including additional ACA funding, the plan would result in a $27.8 billion surplus prior to approximately $33.4 billion of debt service required over the same 10 year period. The plan reveals little about the intentions for a debt restructuring, however, it promises to undertake a good faith negotiation process with bondholders and insurers within a reasonable period of time to achieve consensual restructuring though a collective action process.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

The initial fiscal plan was rejected by the Oversight Board, which indicated that the plan did not comply with the requirements set forth in PROMESA and, specifically, that the fiscal plan was based on unrealistic projections of economic growth, underestimated spending and reflected overly optimistic revenue projections. Additionally, the Oversight Board cited that the Governor’s plan did not provide a method to achieve fiscal responsibility and access to the capital markets. In response to the Oversight Board’s concerns, the Governor submitted a revised fiscal plan on March 11, 2017.

On March 13, 2017, the Oversight Board approved the Governor’s revised long-term fiscal plan, which decreased the 10 year cumulative cash flow by $3.85 billion from $11.6 billion to $7.8 billion (pre-ACA funding and debt service). Although the Governor’s revised fiscal plan claims to depart meaningfully from the prior administration’s plan delivered in October of 2016 and subsequently revised in December of 2016, the fiscal plans identify the same challenges and several similar solutions. Both administrations identified fiscal cliffs from the loss of ACA funding, the loss of Act 154 excise taxes, and pension contributions under current law. And both suggested similar solutions, including tax reform, improved tax compliance, centralized procurement, headcount reductions, and the extension of the Act 154 excise tax for a period of time. As part of Act 3-2017 passed by the new administration, the Act 154 excise tax was extended until December 31, 2027. Additionally, on April 28, 2017, the Oversight Board certified four instrumentality fiscal plans, including fiscal plans for PREPA and PRHTA, subject to certain requested amendments. Since the Oversight Board’s certification of Puerto Rico’s fiscal plan, there have been numerous concerns raised by creditors regarding the fiscal plan’s shortcomings and, in particular, its failure to comply with the general requirements for fiscal plans outlined under PROMESA, and specifically, the lawful priorities and liens established under Puerto Rico’s constitution, its failure to differentiate between expenses for non-essential services and essential services, its prioritization of all non-debt spending above debt service, and its unexplained economic assumptions. Notwithstanding the foregoing, there can be no assurance that creditors, including National, will be able to reach a consensual restructuring of Puerto Rico’s debts under a collective action process.

Upon expiration of the PROMESA stay, on May 2, 2017, certain creditors filed lawsuits challenging the fiscal plan and its application in any restructuring. On May 3, 2017, the Oversight Board voted to file, and thereafter filed, a petition under Title III of PROMESA for Puerto Rico with the District Court of Puerto Rico (the “Title III Case”). Following the filing of the petition by the Oversight Board, National, together with Assured and Assured Guaranty Municipal Corp., filed an adversary complaint in the Title III Case alleging that the fiscal plan and the Fiscal Plan Compliance Act, as discussed below, violate PROMESA and the United States Constitution.

On April 6, 2016, the Governor of Puerto Rico signed into law The Puerto Rico Emergency Moratorium and Financial Rehabilitation Act (Act 21-2016 or the “Moratorium Act”). The legislation authorized the Governor of Puerto Rico to order a moratorium on the payment of certain obligations of Puerto Rico through January 31, 2017. The Moratorium Act was repealed and replaced by the Financial Emergency and Fiscal Responsibility Act (Act 5-2017) on January 29, 2017. Act 5-2017 provides for an emergency period ending on May 1, 2017, which can be extended by the Governor until August 1, 2017, during which the Governor is authorized to prioritize payment for essential services over debt service. Act 5-2017 further provides that the executive orders issued under the Moratorium Act continue in effect until amended, rescinded, or superseded. On April 29, 2017, the Governor of Puerto Rico signed into law House Bill 938, known as the Fiscal Plan Compliance Act, which permits Puerto Rico to access and divert revenues dedicated to certain instrumentalities. The diversion of assets, among other things, directly contradicts specific provisions of PROMESA. On April 30, 2017, the Governor of Puerto Rico issued an executive order, which, among other things, extends the emergency period until August 1, 2017, and provides that the executive orders issued under the Moratorium Act will remain in force until amended, rescinded, or superseded.

As a result of the Moratorium Act and its subsequent extension, National paid gross claims in the aggregate amount of $24 million and $173 million against GO bonds, PBA bonds and PRHTA bonds, relating to debt service due on January 1, 2017 and July 1, 2016, respectively.

COFINA

In October of 2016, a group of GO bondholders, which had previously initiated litigation against Puerto Rico in July of 2016, moved to amend its complaint to add a challenge to Puerto Rico’s putative diversion of funds to the Puerto Rico Sales Tax Financing Corporation (“COFINA”). The plaintiff group contends that the funds being used to pay bonds issued by COFINA constitute “available resources” within the meaning of article VI, section 8 of the Puerto Rico Constitution, and therefore must be devoted to payment of principal and interest on Puerto Rico’s public debt before they may be used for other purposes. By failing to redirect such funds to pay GO bondholders, the plaintiff group claims that Puerto Rico is improperly diverting funds to COFINA bondholders. After being granted leave to amend, the plaintiffs filed their Second Amended Complaint in November of 2016. In February of 2017, the District Court held that the COFINA-related claims were not stayed under PROMESA, and further allowed the Oversight Board and several COFINA creditors to intervene in the litigation. Several parties appealed, and on April 4, 2017, the First Circuit reversed the district court, holding that the COFINA-related claims were an attempt to exercise control over alleged Puerto Rico property and therefore stayed under PROMESA. Upon expiration of the PROMESA stay, on May 2, 2017, certain creditors filed actions challenging the treatment of COFINA’s pledged revenues under the fiscal plan and the Fiscal Plan Compliance Act, but these actions were stayed by the filing of the Title III Case. Additionally, some creditors have sued COFINA’s Trustee, Bank of New York, for alleged breach of fiduciary duties. Currently, National has exposure to COFINA debt of over $1.1 billion, including CAB accreted interest. As legal opinions from Puerto Rico justice secretaries and bond counsel have confirmed, National believes that the legal structure of COFINA is sound and that it maintains a valid statutory lien on the sales tax revenue stream backing the bonds. Notwithstanding the foregoing, until all legal challenges are resolved, there can be no assurance that the COFINA structure will be upheld and the sales tax revenue lien will be recognized.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

PREPA

National’s largest exposure to Puerto Rico, by gross par outstanding, is to PREPA. On December 23, 2015, National, Assured Guaranty, and the ad hoc group of bondholders (representing approximately $3.0 billion, or 37.0% of the power revenue bonds, (collectively the “Supporting Creditors”)) entered into an RSA with the support of approximately 65% of $8.1 billion of outstanding PREPA bonds, including approximately $1.4 billion of PREPA bonds insured by National. The RSA calls for a newly formed bankruptcy remote special purpose entity (“SPE”) to issue securitized bonds including bonds that are equal in principal amount to the outstanding principal of the PREPA bonds insured by National and by other monoline insurers (“Mirror Bonds”). The Mirror Bonds will bear interest at the same rate and will amortize at the same schedule as the existing insured legacy bonds which they back. The payments on the Mirror Bonds will be used to make payment on the insured legacy bonds.

On December 15, 2016, the Supporting Creditors and PREPA reached an agreement to extend the RSA until March 31, 2017. As part of the extension, PREPA made the full interest payment of $192 million on January 1, 2017. The extension agreement also contained a milestone date of January 31, 2017 for the parties to reach an agreement on the RSA’s implementation under PROMESA, or another mutually agreed upon mechanism. On January 27, 2017, however, the Puerto Rico Fiscal Agency and Financial Advisory Authority (“AAFAF”) announced that it will lead future negotiations on behalf of PREPA, and requested and received an extension of the January 31, 2017 milestone until March 31, 2017. This was further extended to April 5, 2017.

On April 5, 2017, the Governor, AAFAF and PREPA announced their collective intention to enter into a modified RSA with the supporting creditors, subject to final documentation of a modified RSA, which was completed in April of 2017 ; the 11th Supplement to the RSA was entered into on April 26, 2017 and the related 19th supplement to the PREPA Trust Agreement was effective as of April 28, 2017. The amended RSA is effective until June 30, 2017 and remains subject to interim milestones. Specific changes to the RSA with respect to National, certain of which are intended to provide interim rate relief to PREPA customers, include: (i) a reduction in the forward commitment to provide a debt service reserve fund surety policy for the SPV securitization bonds of $172 million; (ii) an extension by 5-years of the maturities of the 2016 Series A-C PREPA Power Revenue Bonds held by National; and (iii) commitment to relend via forward bond purchases of $127 million in July of 2017 and an aggregate amount of $180 million from 2018 to 2022. National’s insured PREPA bonds with original maturities scheduled during this timeframe will continue to mature as per their original maturity dates in accordance with their terms.

The revised RSA and related PREPA fiscal plan were submitted to the PROMESA Oversight Board; the Fiscal Plan was certified by the Board on April 28, 2017 and the RSA awaits further action.

The Puerto Rico Energy Commission (“PREC”) has heard two separate but parallel rate cases. In June of 2016, PREC approved a volumetric transition charge for both residential and non-residential customers. The transition charge will be used to pay the debt issued by the SPE. Also in June of 2016, the PREC issued an order approving a requested provisional rate of approximately $0.013/kWh requested by PREPA. On January 11, 2017, the PREC approved an average permanent rate increase of 1.025 cents/kWh. The increase is smaller than the previously approved temporary rate, so PREPA will have to reimburse the $45 million annualized difference to customers. Among the adjustments made, PREC found that PREPA mistakenly double-counted $37 million of subsidy expenses. PREC also disallowed $41 million of capital expenditures for Aguirre Offshore Gas Port, capping spending on that project to $15 million. This new rate structure went into effect on March 13, 2017.

PRHTA

As set forth above, National has significant exposure to PRHTA. Following the missed payment by the Puerto Rico Infrastructure Authority, certain bond insurers (not including National) filed a lawsuit against Puerto Rico claiming that the clawback of the revenues violated the U.S. constitution and the laws of Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico has made a motion to dismiss that case but it is subject to the stay under PROMESA. The outcome of that legal challenge is uncertain, and further, while adoption of the clawback measure was intended to provide short-term relief, Puerto Rico’s lack of a comprehensive plan or clear evidence of steps to conserve resources necessary to meet its near term debt service obligations raises questions as to whether the intercept will continue to be a short-term measure.

Other

Other than Inter American University of Puerto Rico Inc., S&P, Fitch Ratings and/or Moody’s have downgraded the ratings of all Puerto Rico issuers to below investment grade with a negative outlook due to narrowing liquidity, sluggish economic growth and persistent structural deficits. Additionally, subsequent to the declaration of a state of emergency and suspension of debt service payments by the then Governor of Puerto Rico, S&P revised its rating for Puerto Rico, its GO, PREPA and PRHTA’s subordinated transportation revenue bonds, series 1998, state infrastructure bank, to “D” (default).

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

The following tables presents our scheduled gross debt service due on our Puerto Rico insured exposures for the nine months ending December 31, 2017 and for each of the subsequent four years ending December 31 and thereafter:

 

                                                                            

In millions

   Nine Months
Ending
December 31,
2017
     2018      2019      2020      2021      Thereafter      Total  

Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA)

   $ 153      $ 120      $ 177      $ 115      $ 140      $ 1,084      $ 1,789  

Puerto Rico Commonwealth GO

     47        96        154        223        82        298        900  

Puerto Rico Public Buildings Authority

     10        21        27        11        11        199        279  

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority Transportation Revenue (PRHTA)

     16        35        29        30        30        913        1,053  

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation
Authority - Subordinated Transportation Revenue

     4        5        3        3        3        26        44  

Puerto Rico Sales Tax Financing Corporation (COFINA)

     -        -        -        -        -        4,170        4,170  

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority Highway Revenue (PRHTA)

     19        6        16        17        4        58        120  

University of Puerto Rico System Revenue

     7        7        7        7        7        90        125  

Inter American University of Puerto Rico Inc.

     3        3        3        3        3        18        33  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 259      $ 293      $ 416      $ 409      $ 280      $ 6,856      $ 8,513  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Corporate

Our corporate segment consists of general corporate activities, including providing general support services to MBIA Inc.’s subsidiaries as well as asset and capital management. General support services are provided by our service company, MBIA Services, and include, among others, management, legal, accounting, treasury, information technology, and insurance portfolio surveillance, on a fee-for-service basis. Capital management includes activities related to servicing obligations issued by MBIA Inc. and its subsidiaries, MBIA Global Funding, LLC (“GFL”) and MBIA Investment Management Corp. MBIA Inc. issued debt to finance the operations of the MBIA group. GFL raised funds through the issuance of medium-term notes (“MTNs”) with varying maturities, which were in turn guaranteed by MBIA Corp. GFL lent the proceeds of these MTN issuances to MBIA Inc. IMC, along with MBIA Inc., provided customized investment agreements, guaranteed by MBIA Corp., for bond proceeds and other public funds for such purposes as construction, loan origination, escrow and debt service or other reserve fund requirements. The Company has ceased issuing these MTNs and investment agreements and the outstanding liability balances and corresponding asset balances have declined over time as liabilities mature, terminate or are called or repurchased. All of the debt within the corporate segment is managed collectively and is serviced by available liquidity.

The following table summarizes the consolidated results of our corporate segment for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                                
     Three Months Ended March 31,      Percent  

In millions

   2017      2016      Change  

Net investment income

   $      $        13%  

Fees

     15         13         15%  

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

     16         (84)        -119%  

Net investment losses related to other-than-temporary impairments

            (1)        -100%  

Net gains (losses) on extinguishment of debt

                   n/m  

Other net realized gains (losses)

     (1)        (1)        -%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues

     47         (63)        n/m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Operating

     19         22         -14%  

Interest

     22         23         -4%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total expenses

     41         45         -9%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

            (108)        -106%  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

     (4)        (24)        -83%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ 10       $ (84)        -112%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

n/m - Percent change not meaningful.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

NET GAINS (LOSSES) ON FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AT FAIR VALUE AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE The favorable change in net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 was primarily due to gains from mark-to-market changes of our interest rate swaps during the first quarter of 2017, favorable changes in the fair value of the outstanding warrants issued on MBIA Inc. common stock and lower net foreign exchange losses on Euro denominated liabilities from favorable changes in the U.S. dollar during the first quarter of 2017. The changes in the fair value of outstanding warrants were primarily attributable to a decrease in the price of MBIA Inc.’s common stock and changes in volatility, which are used in the valuation of the warrants.

OPERATING EXPENSES Operating expenses decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 primarily due to a decrease in compensation expense related to employee benefits.

PROVISION (BENEFIT) FOR INCOME TAXES The benefit for income taxes for the three months ended March 31, 2017 was impacted by the fluctuation of the value of nontaxable warrants issued by the Company. The benefit for income taxes for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was lower than the statutory rate of 35% principally due to foreign tax credit adjustments and the fluctuation of the value of nondeductible warrants issued by the Company.

NON-GAAP OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) In addition to the above results, we also analyze the operating performance of our corporate segment using operating income (loss), a non-GAAP measure. We believe operating income (loss), as used by management, is useful for an understanding of the results of operations of the Company. Operating income (loss) is not a substitute for net income (loss) determined in accordance with GAAP, and our definition of operating income (loss) may differ from that used by other companies.

The following table presents a reconciliation of GAAP net income (loss) to operating income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  

In millions

   2017      2016  

Net income (loss)

   $ 10       $ (84)  

Less: operating income adjustments:

     

Mark-to-market gains (losses) on financial instruments(1)

     30         (48)  

Foreign exchange gains (losses)(1)

     (7)        (28)  

Net investment losses related to OTTI

            (1)  

Net gains (losses) on extinguishment of debt

             

Other net realized gains (losses)

     (1)        (1)  

Operating income adjustment to the (provision) benefit for income tax(2)

     (4)        13   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

   $ (16)      $ (21)  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Reported within “Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange” on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

 

(2) - Reported within “Provision (benefit) for income taxes” on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

International and Structured Finance Insurance

Our international and structured finance insurance business is principally operated through MBIA Corp. The financial guarantees issued by MBIA Corp. generally provide unconditional and irrevocable guarantees of the payment of the principal of, and interest or other amounts owing on, non-U.S. public finance and global structured finance insured obligations when due or, in the event MBIA Corp. has the right, at its discretion, to accelerate insured obligations upon default or otherwise. Effective on January 10, 2017, MBIA Corp.’s wholly-owned subsidiary, MBIA UK Holdings, sold MBIA UK to Assured.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

MBIA Corp. has insured sovereign-related and sub-sovereign bonds, privately issued bonds used for the financing of utilities, toll roads, bridges, airports, public transportation facilities, and other types of infrastructure projects serving a substantial public purpose. Global structured finance and asset-backed obligations typically are securities repayable from cash flows generated by a specified pool of assets, such as residential and commercial mortgages, insurance policies, consumer loans, corporate loans and bonds, trade and export receivables, and leases for equipment, aircraft and real estate property. We no longer insure new credit derivative contracts except for transactions related to the restructuring or reduction of existing derivative exposure. MBIA Insurance Corporation insures the investment contracts written by MBIA Inc., and if MBIA Inc. or such subsidiaries were to have insufficient assets to pay amounts due upon maturity or termination, MBIA Insurance Corporation would be required to make such payments under its insurance policies. MBIA Insurance Corporation also insured debt obligations of other affiliates, including GFL and IMC. MBIA Corp. has also written insurance policies guaranteeing the obligations under credit default swap (“CDS”) contracts of an affiliate, LaCrosse Financial Products, LLC and certain other derivative contracts. Certain policies cover payments potentially due under CDS, including termination payments that may become due in certain circumstances, including the occurrence of certain insolvency or payment defaults under the CDS or derivatives contracts by the insured counterparty or by the guarantor. MBIA Insurance Corporation provides reinsurance to MBIA Mexico.

MBIA Corp. has contributed to the Company’s net operating loss carryforward, which is used in the calculation of our consolidated income taxes. If MBIA Corp. becomes profitable, it is not expected to make any tax payments under our tax sharing agreement. Based on MBIA Corp.’s current projected earnings and our expectation that it will not write new business, we believe it is unlikely that MBIA Corp. will generate significant income in the near future. As a result, we believe MBIA Corp. does not provide significant economic or shareholder value to MBIA Inc. and its shareholders.

The following table presents our international and structured finance insurance segment results for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                                
     Three Months Ended March 31,      Percent
Change
 

In millions

   2017      2016     

Net premiums earned

   $ 12       $ 23         -48%  

Net investment income

     16                n/m  

Fees and reimbursements

            12         -33%  

Change in fair value of insured derivatives:

        

Realized gains (losses) and other settlements on insured derivatives

     (31)        (14)        121%  

Unrealized gains (losses) on insured derivatives

     (22)        (14)        57%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net change in fair value of insured derivatives

     (53)        (28)        89%  

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

     (3)               -150%  

Other net realized gains (losses)

                   n/m  

Revenues of consolidated VIEs:

        

Net investment income

            15         -60%  

Net gains (losses) on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange

     (33)        (1)        n/m  

Other net realized gains (losses)

     28               n/m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues

     (15)        30         -150%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Losses and loss adjustment

     83         13         n/m  

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

     10         15         -33%  

Operating

            11         -27%  

Interest

     29         29         -%  

Expenses of consolidated VIEs:

        

Operating

                   -50%  

Interest

     18         12         50%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total expenses

     150         84         79%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (165)        (54)        n/m  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

     (57)        (23)        148%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ (108)      $ (31)        n/m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

n/m - Percent change not meaningful.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

As of March 31, 2017, MBIA Corp.’s total insured gross par outstanding was $18.4 billion. Since December 31, 2007, MBIA Corp.’s total insured gross par outstanding has decreased approximately 94% from $331.2 billion.

On January 20, 2017, MBIA Corp. was presented with and fully satisfied a claim of $770 million (the “Zohar II Claim”) on an insurance policy it had written insuring certain notes (the “Zohar II Notes”) issued by Zohar II 2005-1, Limited (“Zohar II”). In order to satisfy the claim, MBIA Corp. used approximately $60 million from its own resources and executed the following two related transactions: 1) MBIA UK Holdings sold its operating subsidiary, MBIA UK, and made a cash payment of $23 million, to Assured, in exchange for the receipt by MBIA UK Holdings of certain Zohar II Notes owned by Assured, which had an aggregate outstanding principal amount of $347 million as of January 10, 2017, which notes were distributed as a dividend to MBIA Corp. upon consummation of the sale of MBIA UK; and 2) MBIA Corp. consummated a financing facility (the “Facility”) with affiliates of certain holders of 14% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Surplus Notes of MBIA Corp. (collectively, the “Senior Lenders”), and with MBIA Inc., pursuant to which the Senior Lenders provided $325 million of senior financing and MBIA Inc. provided $38 million of subordinated financing to MZ Funding LLC (“MZ Funding”), a newly formed wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, which in turn lent the proceeds of such financing to MBIA Corp. Refer to “Liquidity” for additional information on the Facility.

NET PREMIUMS EARNED Our international and structured finance insurance segment generates net premiums from insurance policies accounted for as financial guarantee contracts. Certain premiums may be eliminated in our consolidated financial statements as a result of the Company consolidating variable interest entities (“VIEs”). In addition, we generate net premiums from insured credit derivatives that are included in “Realized gains (losses) and other settlements on insured derivatives” on our consolidated statements of operations. The following table provides net premiums earned from our financial guarantee contracts for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                                
     Three Months Ended March 31,      Percent
Change
 

In millions

   2017      2016     

Net premiums earned:

        

Non-U.S.

   $ 9      $ 17        -47%  

U.S.

     3        6        -50%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total net premiums earned

   $ 12      $ 23        -48%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

VIE premiums eliminated in consolidation

   $ 2      $ 1        100%  

Net premiums earned represent gross premiums earned net of premiums ceded to reinsurers, and include scheduled premium earnings and premium earnings from refunded issues. Net premiums earned decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 primarily due to decreases in scheduled premiums earned due to the sale of MBIA UK on January 10, 2017 and from the maturity and early settlements of insured transactions with no writings of new insurance policies.

NET INVESTMENT INCOME The increase in net investment income for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 was primarily related to the accretion on certain Zohar II Notes received in exchange for the sale of MBIA UK to Assured on January 10, 2017.

NET CHANGE IN FAIR VALUE OF INSURED DERIVATIVES. Realized losses on insured derivatives include payments made net of premiums and fees earned and salvage received. Premiums earned related to insured credit derivatives will decrease over time as a result of settlements prior to maturity and scheduled amortizations. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, realized losses on insured derivatives primarily resulted from claim payments on CMBS. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, unrealized losses on insured derivatives were principally the result of the effects of favorable changes in the market’s perception of MBIA Corp.’s nonperformance risk on its derivative liabilities. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the fair value of MBIA Corp.’s insured CDS liability was $86 million and $63 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2017, MBIA Corp. had $530 million of gross par outstanding on insured credit derivatives compared with $588 million as of December 31, 2016.

NET GAINS (LOSSES) ON FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AT FAIR VALUE AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE The net losses on financial instruments and foreign exchange for the three months ended March 31, 2017 were primarily related to losses from foreign currency revaluation of loss reserves on Mexican policies, partially offset by gains from foreign revaluation on Chilean Unidad de Fomento denominated premium receivables. The net gains on financial instruments at fair value and foreign exchange for the three months ended March 31, 2016 were primarily related to gains from foreign currency revaluation of Chilean Unidad de Fomento and Euro denominated premium receivables, partially offset by unfavorable mark-to-market fluctuations on financial instruments.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

OTHER NET REALIZED GAINS (LOSSES) Other net realized gains (losses) for the three months ended March 31, 2017 primarily related to adjustments to the loss recorded to adjust the carrying value of MBIA UK to its fair value less costs to sell. On January 10, 2017, MBIA UK was sold to Assured.

REVENUES OF CONSOLIDATED VIEs For the three months ended March 31, 2017, total revenues of consolidated VIEs were $1 million compared with total revenues of $14 million for the same period of 2016. This decrease was primarily due to an increase in mark-to-market losses on assets of consolidated VIEs and a decrease in net investment income from the deconsolidation of VIEs, partially offset by a gain from the consolidation of a VIE. We elected to record at fair value certain instruments that are consolidated under accounting guidance for consolidation of VIEs, and as such, changes in fair value are reflected in earnings.

LOSS AND LOSS ADJUSTMENT EXPENSES MBIA Corp.’s insured portfolio management group within our international and structured finance insurance business is responsible for monitoring international and structured finance insured obligations. The level and frequency of monitoring of any insured obligation depends on the type, size, rating and our assessed performance of the insured issue.

Refer to “Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of the Company’s loss reserving policy and additional information related to its loss reserves.

Summary of Financial Guarantee Insurance Losses and LAE

The following table presents information about our financial guarantee insurance losses and LAE recorded in accordance with GAAP for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                                
     Three Months Ended March 31,      Percent  

In millions

   2017      2016      Change  

Losses and LAE related to actual and expected payments(1)

   $ 60       $        n/m  

Recoveries of actual and expected payments

     24                n/m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross losses incurred

     84         14         n/m  

Reinsurance

     (1)        (1)        -%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Losses and loss adjustment expenses(2)

   $ 83       $ 13         n/m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - For the three months ended March 31, 2016, loss and LAE with respect to Zohar II are reflected net of expected recoveries on such payments.

 

(2) - As a result of consolidation of VIEs, these amounts include the elimination of loss and LAE of $45 million and $25 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

n/m - Percent change not meaningful.

For the three months ended March 31, 2017, losses and LAE primarily related to increases in expected payments on insured RMBS transactions and decreases in projected collections from excess spread within insured RMBS securitizations.

For the three months ended March 31, 2016, losses and LAE primarily related to increases in expected payments on insured first-lien RMBS transactions and decreases in projected collections from excess spread within insured second-lien RMBS securitizations. These were partially offset by decreases in expected payments on collateralized debt obligations (“CDOs”).

Refer to “Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information about our insurance loss recoverable and loss and LAE reserves. The following table presents information about our insurance loss recoverable and reserves as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

 

                                

In millions

   March 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
     Percent
Change
 

Assets:

 

Insurance loss recoverable

   $ 289       $ 330         -12% (1) 

Reinsurance recoverable on paid and unpaid losses(2)

                   -%  

Liabilities:

        

Gross loss and LAE reserves(3)

     483         503         -4%  

Expected recoveries on unpaid losses

     (30)        (59)        -49% (4) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loss and LAE reserves

   $ 453       $ 444         2%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in projected collections of excess spread within insured second-lien RMBS.

 

(2) - Reported within “Other assets” on our consolidated balance sheets.

 

(3) - As of December 31, 2016, Zohar II is reflected net of expected recoveries on such reserves.

 

(4) - The decrease was primarily related to RMBS transactions.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Payment of a claim in November of 2015 on MBIA Corp.’s policy insuring the class A-1 and A-2 notes issued by Zohar CDO 2003-1, Limited (“Zohar I”) and satisfying the Zohar II Claim entitles MBIA Corp. to reimbursement of such amounts plus interest and expenses and/or to exercise certain rights and remedies to seek recovery of such amounts. In connection with the exercise of its rights and remedies, MBIA Corp. directed the trustee for Zohar I to commence an auction (the “Auction”) of all of the assets of Zohar I, which occurred on December 21, 2016. MBIA Corp. was the winning bidder in the Auction, and in connection therewith, acquired the beneficial ownership of the Zohar I assets, which include loans made to, and equity interests in, companies purportedly controlled by the sponsor and former collateral manager of Zohar I and Zohar II. As of March 31, 2017, the recoveries of Zohar I and Zohar II are included in “Loans receivable at fair value” which are presented in “Assets of consolidated variable interest entities” on our consolidated balance sheets. Refer to “Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a further discussion on the Zohar I and Zohar II recoveries.

Included in MBIA Corp.’s loss and LAE reserves are estimated future claims payments for insured obligations for which a payment default has occurred and MBIA Corp. has already paid a claim and for insured obligations where a payment default has not yet occurred. The following table includes LAE reserves as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 for one issue that had no expected future claim payments or par outstanding, but for which MBIA Corp. was obligated to pay LAE incurred in prior periods. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, loss and LAE reserves comprised the following:

 

                                                                 
     Number of Issues(1)      Loss and LAE Reserve      Par Outstanding  

$ in millions

   March 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
     March 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
     March 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
 

Gross of reinsurance:

Issues with defaults

     111        113      $ 447      $ 366      $ 3,083      $ 3,228  

Issues without defaults

     2        4        6        78        34        838  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total gross of reinsurance

     113        117      $ 453      $ 444      $ 3,117      $ 4,066  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - An “issue” represents the aggregate of financial guarantee policies that share the same revenue source for purposes of making debt service payments on the insured debt.

POLICY ACQUISITION COSTS AND OPERATING EXPENSES International and structured finance insurance segment expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 are presented in the following table:

 

                                
     Three Months Ended March 31,      Percent
Change
 

In millions

   2017      2016     

Gross expenses

   $ 8      $ 12        -33%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Amortization of deferred acquisition costs

   $ 10      $ 15        -33%  

Operating

     8        11        -27%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total insurance operating expenses

   $ 18      $ 26        -31%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross expenses represent total insurance expenses before the deferral of any policy acquisition costs. Gross expenses decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 primarily due to decreases in compensation expense and legal fees. Operating expenses decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 due to a decrease in gross expenses.

The decrease in the amortization of deferred acquisition costs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 was due to higher refunding activity in 2016. We did not defer a material amount of policy acquisition costs during the first quarters of 2017 or 2016. Policy acquisition costs in these periods were primarily related to ceding commissions and premium taxes on installment policies written in prior periods.

INTEREST EXPENSE OF CONSOLIDATED VIEs For the three months ended March 31, 2017, total interest expense of consolidated VIEs increased primarily due to $13 million related to a VIE consolidated during the first quarter of 2017.

INSURED PORTFOLIO EXPOSURE The credit quality of our international and structured finance insured portfolio is assessed in the same manner as our U.S. public finance insured portfolio. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, 32% and 25%, respectively, of our international and structured finance insured portfolio, was rated below investment grade, before giving effect to MBIA’s guarantees, based on MBIA’s internal ratings, which are generally more current than the underlying ratings provided by S&P and Moody’s for this subset of our insured portfolio.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

International and Structured Finance Insurance Selected Portfolio Exposures

The following is a summary of selected significant exposures within the insured portfolio of our international and structured finance insurance segment. Many of these sectors are and have been considered volatile over the past several years. We may experience considerable incurred losses and future expected payments in certain of these sectors. There can be no assurance that the loss reserves described below will be sufficient or that we will not experience losses on transactions on which we currently have no loss reserves, in particular if the economy deteriorates. We may seek to purchase, directly or indirectly, obligations guaranteed by MBIA or seek to commute policies. The amount of insurance exposure reduced, if any, and the nature of any such actions will depend on market conditions, pricing levels from time to time, and other considerations. In some cases, these activities may result in a reduction of loss reserves, but in all cases they are intended to limit our ultimate losses and reduce the future volatility in loss development on the related policies. Our ability to purchase guaranteed obligations and to commute policies will depend on management’s assessment of available liquidity.

Residential Mortgage Exposure

MBIA Corp. insures mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”) backed by residential mortgage loans, including second-lien RMBS transactions (revolving home equity lines of credit (“HELOC”) loans and closed-end second (“CES”) mortgages). MBIA Corp. also insures MBS backed by first-lien alternative A-paper (“Alt-A”) and subprime mortgage loans directly through RMBS securitizations. There was considerable stress and deterioration in the mortgage market since 2008 reflected by heightened delinquencies and losses, particularly related to mortgage loans originated during 2005, 2006 and 2007.

The following table presents the gross par outstanding of MBIA Corp.’s total direct RMBS insured exposure as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. Amounts include the gross par outstanding related to transactions that the Company consolidates under accounting guidance for VIEs.

 

                                

In millions

   Gross Par Outstanding as of         

Collateral Type

   March 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
     Percent
Change
 

HELOC Second-lien

   $ 1,258      $ 1,368        -8%  

CES Second-lien

     1,284        1,373        -6%  

Alt-A First-lien(1)

     1,173        1,318        -11%  

Subprime First-lien

     587        606        -3%  

Prime First-lien

     43        56        -23%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 4,345      $ 4,721        -8%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Includes international exposure of $256 million and $349 million as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively.

Collateralized Debt Obligations and Related Instruments

As part of our international and structured finance insurance activities, MBIA Corp. typically provided guarantees on senior and, in a limited number of cases, mezzanine tranches of CDOs, as well as protection on structured CMBS pools and corporate securities, and CDS referencing such securities. The following discussion, including reported amounts and percentages, includes insured CDO transactions consolidated by the Company as VIEs.

As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, MBIA Corp.’s CDO portfolio represented 10% and 8%, respectively, of its total insured gross par outstanding. In addition to the below table, MBIA Corp. insures approximately $337 million in commercial real estate (“CRE”) loan pools, comprising both European and domestic assets. The distribution of our insured CDO and related instruments portfolio by collateral type is presented in the following table:

 

                                

In millions

   Gross Par Outstanding as of         

Collateral Type

   March 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
     Percent
Change
 

Multi-sector CDOs

   $ 388 (1)    $ 401        -3%  

High yield corporate CDOs

     1,123       1,635        -31%  

Structured CMBS pools

     154       188        -18%  

CRE CDOs

     216       326        -34%  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 1,881     $ 2,550        -26%  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Excludes $43 million of gross par outstanding where MBIA’s insured exposure has been fully offset by way of loss remediation transactions.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

U.S. Public Finance and International and Structured Finance Reinsurance

Reinsurance enables the Company to cede exposure for purposes of syndicating risk. When a reinsurer is downgraded by one or more of the rating agencies, less capital credit is given to MBIA under rating agency models and the overall value of the reinsurance to MBIA is reduced. The Company generally retains the right to reassume the business ceded to reinsurers under certain circumstances, including a reinsurer’s rating downgrade below specified thresholds. Currently, we do not intend to use reinsurance on new policies to decrease our insured exposure. The following table presents information about our reinsurance agreements as of March 31, 2017 for our U.S. public finance and international and structured finance insurance operations:

 

                                                      

In millions

                                 

Reinsurers

   Standard & Poor’s
Rating (Status)
     Moody’s Rating
(Status)
    Ceded Par
Outstanding
     Letters of
Credit/Trust
Accounts
     Reinsurance
Recoverable(1)
 

Assured Guaranty Re Ltd.

    
AA
(Stable Outlook)
 
 
     WR(2)     $ 2,202      $ 26      $ -  

Assured Guaranty Corp.

    
AA
(Stable Outlook)
 
 
    
A3
(Stable Outlook)
 
 
    1,215        -        6  

Overseas Private

     AA+        Aaa       267        -        -  

Investment Corporation

     (Stable Outlook)        (Stable Outlook)          

Others

     A- or above        A2 or above       99        3        -  
       

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

        $ 3,783      $ 29      $ 6  
       

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Total reinsurance recoverable is primarily recoverables on unpaid losses.
(2) - Represents a withdrawal of ratings.

MBIA requires certain unauthorized reinsurers to maintain bank letters of credit or establish trust accounts to cover liabilities ceded to such reinsurers under reinsurance contracts. The Company remains liable on a primary basis for all reinsured risk. Based on MBIA’s assessment of the credit risk of its reinsurers and expected claims under the reinsurance agreements, MBIA believes that its reinsurers remain capable of meeting their obligations, although there can be no assurance of such in the future.

As of March 31, 2017, the aggregate amount of insured par outstanding ceded by MBIA to reinsurers under reinsurance agreements was $3.8 billion compared with $4.2 billion as of December 31, 2016. As of March 31, 2017, $3.2 billion of the ceded par outstanding was ceded from our U.S. public finance insurance segment and $621 million was ceded from our international and structured finance insurance segment. Under National’s reinsurance agreement with MBIA Corp., if a reinsurer of MBIA Corp. is unable to pay claims ceded by MBIA Corp. on U.S. public finance exposure, National will assume liability for such ceded claim payments.

Taxes

Provision for Income Taxes

The Company’s income taxes and the related effective tax rates for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 are presented in the following table:

 

                     
     Three Months Ended March 31,  

In millions

   2017      2016  

Income (loss) before income taxes

   $ (120)      $ (101)  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

   $ (48)      $ (23)  

Effective tax rate

     40.0%        22.8%  

For the three months ended March 31, 2017, our effective tax rate applied to our income (loss) before income taxes was higher than the U.S. statutory tax rate of 35% primarily due to the fluctuation of the value of nondeductible warrants issued by the Company and tax-exempt income.

For the three months ended March 31, 2016, our effective tax rate applied to our income (loss) before income taxes was lower than the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to a foreign tax credit adjustment and the fluctuation of the value of nondeductible warrants issued by the Company.

The Company did not pay any income taxes during the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016.

Refer to “Note 10: Income Taxes” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a further discussion of income taxes, including any valuation allowance against the Company’s deferred tax assets and its accounting for tax uncertainties.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

The Company manages its capital resources to minimize its cost of capital while maintaining appropriate claims-paying resources (“CPR”) for National and MBIA Corp. The Company’s capital resources consist of total shareholders’ equity, total debt issued by MBIA Inc. for general corporate purposes, surplus notes issued by MBIA Corp., and the Facility issued by MZ Funding. Total capital resources were $5.0 billion and $4.7 billion as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. MBIA Inc. uses its capital resources to support the business activities of its subsidiaries. As of March 31, 2017, MBIA Inc.’s investments in subsidiaries totaled $3.7 billion.

Our near-term strategy at the holding company is to reduce our leverage to a level consistent with a mid-investment grade capital structure. In addition to scheduled debt maturities, from time to time, we reduce unsecured debt through calls or repurchases. We may also repurchase outstanding MBIA Inc. common shares when we deem it beneficial to our shareholders. MBIA Inc. also supports the MTN and investment agreement obligations issued by the Company. We seek to maintain sufficient liquidity and capital resources to meet the Company’s general corporate needs and debt service. Based on MBIA Inc.’s debt service requirements and expected operating expenses, we expect that MBIA Inc. will have sufficient cash to satisfy its debt obligations and its general corporate needs over time from distributions from its operating subsidiaries; however, there can be no assurance that MBIA Inc. will have sufficient cash in the event of unanticipated payments. In addition, the Company may also consider raising third-party capital. For further information, refer to “Strategic Plan Related and Other Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 and “Liquidity—MBIA Inc. Liquidity” section for additional information about MBIA Inc.’s liquidity.

Securities Repurchases

Repurchases of debt and common stock may be made from time to time in the open market or in private transactions as permitted by securities laws and other legal requirements. We may also choose to redeem debt obligations where permitted by the relevant agreements. MBIA Inc. or its subsidiaries may repurchase or redeem outstanding common shares of MBIA Inc. and outstanding debt obligations at prices that we deem to be economically advantageous.

Equity securities

The Company and its subsidiaries’ share repurchases that were authorized under share repurchase programs, for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 are presented in the following table:

 

                     

In millions except per share amounts

   Three months
ended March 31,
 
     2017      2016  

Number of shares repurchased

     4.8        14.9  

Average price paid per share

   $ 8.31      $ 6.30  

Remaining authorization as of March 31

   $ 48      $ 100  

Subsequent to March 31, 2017 through May 4, 2017, the Company repurchased an additional 521,734 common shares of MBIA Inc. at an average share price of $8.01 under our share repurchase authorization.

Debt securities

During the three months ended March 31, 2017, we repurchased $42 million par value outstanding of GFL MTNs issued by our corporate segment at a weighted average cost of approximately 82% of par value.

Insurance Statutory Capital

National and MBIA Insurance Corporation are incorporated and licensed in, and are subject to primary insurance regulation and supervision by the State of New York. MBIA Mexico is regulated by the Comisión Nacional de Seguros y Fianzas in Mexico. National and MBIA Insurance Corporation each are required to file detailed annual financial statements, as well as interim financial statements, with the New York State Department of Financial Services (“NYSDFS”) and similar supervisory agencies in each of the other jurisdictions in which it is licensed. These financial statements are prepared in accordance with New York State and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ statements of U.S. STAT and assist our regulators in evaluating minimum standards of solvency, including minimum capital requirements, and business conduct.

National

Capital and Surplus

National reported total statutory capital of $3.5 billion as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. As of March 31, 2017, statutory capital comprised $2.8 billion of policyholders’ surplus and $717 million of contingency reserves. National had statutory net income of $32 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. As of March 31, 2017, National’s unassigned surplus was $2.2 billion.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

CAPITAL RESOURCES (continued)

 

In order to maintain its New York State financial guarantee insurance license, National is required to maintain a minimum of $65 million of policyholders’ surplus. National is also required to maintain contingency reserves to provide protection to policyholders in the event of extreme losses in adverse economic events. Refer to the following “MBIA Corp.—Capital and Surplus” section for additional information about contingency reserves under New York Insurance Law (“NYIL”).

NYIL regulates the payment of dividends by financial guarantee insurance companies and provides that such companies may not declare or distribute dividends except out of statutory earned surplus. Under NYIL, the sum of (i) the amount of dividends declared or distributed during the preceding 12-month period and (ii) the dividend to be declared may not exceed the lesser of (a) 10% of policyholders’ surplus, as reported in the latest statutory financial statements or (b) 100% of adjusted net investment income for such 12-month period (the net investment income for such 12-month period plus the excess, if any, of net investment income over dividends declared or distributed during the two-year period preceding such 12-month period), unless the Superintendent of the NYSDFS approves a greater dividend distribution based upon a finding that the insurer will retain sufficient surplus to support its obligations.

National had positive earned surplus as of March 31, 2017, which provides National with dividend capacity. For the foreseeable future, we expect the as-of-right declared and paid dividend amounts from National to be limited to prior year net investment income and similar in amount to the 2016 dividend payment.

Claims-Paying Resources (Statutory Basis)

CPR is a key measure of the resources available to National to pay claims under its insurance policies. CPR consists of total financial resources and reserves calculated on a statutory basis. CPR has been a common measure used by financial guarantee insurance companies to report and compare resources and continues to be used by MBIA’s management to evaluate changes in such resources. We have provided CPR to allow investors and analysts to evaluate National using the same measure that MBIA’s management uses to evaluate National’s resources to pay claims under its insurance policies. There is no directly comparable GAAP measure. Our calculation of CPR may differ from the calculation of CPR reported by other companies.

National’s CPR and components thereto, as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 are presented in the following table:

 

                     
     As of March 31,      As of December 31,  

In millions

   2017      2016  

Policyholders’ surplus

   $ 2,788       $ 2,731   

Contingency reserves

     717         745   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Statutory capital

     3,505         3,476   

Unearned premiums

     741         786   

Present value of installment premiums (1)

     186         187   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Premium resources (2)

     927         973   

Net loss and LAE reserves (1)

     (106)        (98)  

Salvage reserves

     279         256   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross loss and LAE reserves

     173         158   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total claims-paying resources

   $ 4,605       $ 4,607   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Calculated using a discount rate of 3.18% as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

(2) - Includes financial guarantee and insured credit derivative related premiums.

MBIA Insurance Corporation

Capital and Surplus

MBIA Insurance Corporation reported total statutory capital of $524 million as of March 31, 2017 compared with $492 million as of December 31, 2016. As of March 31, 2017, statutory capital comprised $286 million of policyholders’ surplus and $238 million of contingency reserves. As of December 31, 2016, statutory capital comprised $238 million of policyholders’ surplus and $254 million of contingency reserves. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, MBIA Insurance Corporation had statutory net income of $178 million. MBIA Insurance Corporation’s policyholders’ surplus as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 included negative unassigned surplus of $1.7 billion and $1.8 billion, respectively. MBIA Insurance Corporation’s policyholders’ surplus may be further negatively impacted if future additional insured losses are incurred.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

CAPITAL RESOURCES (continued)

 

As of December 31, 2016, MBIA Insurance Corporation’s policyholders’ surplus was negatively impacted by $112 million, as it was not permitted to treat the portion of its investment in subsidiaries in excess of 60% of net admitted assets less the par value of common and preferred stock and liabilities as an admitted asset, as required under NYIL.

The $112 million reduction to policyholders’ surplus was reversed in the first quarter of 2017 to reflect the sale of MBIA UK. In addition, in the first quarter of 2017, MBIA Insurance Corporation released contingency reserves of approximately $20 million related to the maturity of the Zohar II Notes, as well as, recorded income of $20 million related to the appreciation to the par value of the Zohar II Notes received as consideration. Therefore, in the first quarter of 2017, MBIA Insurance Corporation’s policyholders’ surplus increased approximately $152 million as a result of these transactions.

As of March 31, 2017, MBIA Insurance Corporation recognized estimated recoveries of $409 million, net of reinsurance on a statutory basis related to put-backs of ineligible mortgage loans in its insured transactions and $321 million related to excess spread recoveries on RMBS, net of reinsurance. These excess spread recoveries represented 61% of MBIA Insurance Corporation’s statutory capital as of March 31, 2017. In addition, MBIA Insurance Corporation has recorded recoveries related to CDOs. There can be no assurance that we will be successful or that we will not be delayed in realizing these recoveries. Refer to “Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information about these recoveries.

Under NYIL, MBIA Insurance Corporation is also required to establish a contingency reserve to provide protection to policyholders in the event of extreme losses in adverse economic events. The amount of the reserve is based on the percentage of principal insured or premiums earned, depending on the type of obligation (net of collateral, reinsurance, refunding, refinancings and certain insured securities). Reductions in the contingency reserve may be recognized based on excessive reserves and under certain stipulated conditions, subject to the approval of the Superintendent of the NYSDFS. As a result of regulatory approved reductions, MBIA Insurance Corporation’s contingency reserves of $238 million as of March 31, 2017 represented reserves on 33 of the 275 outstanding credits insured by MBIA Insurance Corporation.

In order to maintain its New York State financial guarantee insurance license, MBIA Insurance Corporation is required to maintain a minimum of $65 million of policyholders’ surplus. As of March 31, 2017, MBIA Corp. met the required minimum surplus of $65 million. Under NYIL, MBIA Insurance Corporation is required to invest its minimum surplus and contingency reserves and 50% of its loss reserves and unearned premium reserves in certain qualifying assets. As of March 31, 2017, MBIA Insurance Corporation maintained its minimum requirement of policyholders’ surplus but did not have enough qualifying assets to support its contingency reserves and 50% of its loss reserves and unearned premium reserves. As of March 31, 2017 and 2016, MBIA Insurance Corporation was in compliance with its aggregate risk limits under the NYIL, but was not in compliance with certain of its single risk limits. If MBIA Insurance Corporation is not in compliance with the above mentioned requirements, the NYSDFS may prevent MBIA Insurance Corporation from transacting any new financial guarantee insurance business until it no longer exceeds the limitations.

In connection with MBIA Insurance Corporation obtaining approval from the NYSDFS to release excessive contingency reserves in previous periods, MBIA Insurance Corporation agreed that it would not pay any dividends without prior approval from the NYSDFS. Due to its significant negative earned surplus, MBIA Insurance Corporation has not had the statutory capacity to pay dividends since December 31, 2009. Based on estimated future income, MBIA Insurance Corporation is not expected to have any statutory capacity to pay any dividends.

The NYSDFS has not approved MBIA Insurance Corporation’s requests to make interest payments on MBIA Insurance Corporation’s 14% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Surplus Notes due January 15, 2033 (the “Surplus Notes”) since, and including, the January 15, 2013 interest payment. The NYSDFS has cited both MBIA Insurance Corporation’s liquidity and financial condition as well as the availability of “free and divisible surplus” as the basis for such non-approvals. As of April 15, 2017, the most recent scheduled interest payment date, there was $540 million of unpaid interest on the par amount outstanding of $953 million of the Surplus Notes. Under Section 1307 of the NYIL and the Fiscal Agency Agreement governing the surplus notes, Surplus Note payments may be made only with the prior approval by the NYSDFS and if MBIA Insurance Corporation has sufficient “Eligible Surplus”, or as we believe, “free and divisible surplus” as an appropriate calculation of “Eligible Surplus.” As of March 31, 2017, MBIA Insurance Corporation had negative “free and divisible surplus,” of $5 million. There is no assurance the NYSDFS will approve Surplus Note payments, notwithstanding the sufficiency of MBIA Insurance Corporation’s liquidity and financial condition. The unpaid interest on the Surplus Notes will become due on the first business day on or after which MBIA Insurance Corporation obtains approval to pay some or all of such unpaid interest. No interest has been accrued or will accrue on the deferred interest. For additional information of the Company’s Surplus Notes, refer to “Capital Resources- MBIA Insurance Corporation” in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

CAPITAL RESOURCES (continued)

 

Claims-Paying Resources (Statutory Basis)

CPR is a key measure of the resources available to MBIA Corp. to pay claims under its insurance policies. CPR consists of total financial resources and reserves calculated on a statutory basis. CPR has been a common measure used by financial guarantee insurance companies to report and compare resources, and continues to be used by MBIA’s management to evaluate changes in such resources. We have provided CPR to allow investors and analysts to evaluate MBIA Corp., using the same measure that MBIA’s management uses to evaluate MBIA Corp.’s resources to pay claims under its insurance policies. There is no directly comparable GAAP measure. Our calculation of CPR may differ from the calculation of CPR reported by other companies.

MBIA Corp.’s CPR and components thereto, as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 are presented in the following table:

 

                     
     As of March 31,      As of December 31,  

In millions

   2017      2016  

Policyholders’ surplus

   $ 286       $ 238   

Contingency reserves

     238         254   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Statutory capital

     524         492   

Unearned premiums

     212         319   

Present value of installment premiums (1) (4)

     213         424   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Premium resources (2)

     425         743   

Net loss and LAE reserves (1)

     (892)        (207)  

Salvage reserves (3)

     1,534         917   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross loss and LAE reserves

     642         710   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total claims-paying resources

   $ 1,591       $ 1,945   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

  (1) - Calculated using a discount rate of 5.15% as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

 

  (2) - Includes financial guarantee and insured credit derivative related premiums.

 

  (3) - This amount primarily consists of expected recoveries related to the Company’s excess spread, put-backs and CDOs.

 

  (4) - Based on the Company’s estimate of the remaining life for its insured exposures.

LIQUIDITY

We use a liquidity risk management framework, the primary objective of which is to match liquidity resources to needs. We monitor our cash and liquid asset resources using daily cash forecasting and stress-scenario testing. Members of MBIA’s senior management meet regularly to review liquidity metrics, discuss contingency plans and establish target liquidity levels. We evaluate and manage liquidity on a legal-entity basis to take into account the legal, regulatory and other limitations on available liquidity resources within the enterprise. The following is a discussion of our liquidity resources and requirements for our holding company and our insurance subsidiaries.

National Liquidity

The primary sources of cash available to National are:

 

   

principal and interest receipts on assets held in its investment portfolio; and

 

   

premiums.

The primary uses of cash by National are:

 

   

payments of operating expenses and taxes;

 

   

loss payments on insured transactions; and

 

   

payments of dividends.

As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, National held cash and investments of $4.2 billion, of which $296 million and $366 million, respectively, were highly liquid and comprised highly rated commercial paper, money market funds and municipal, U.S. agency and corporate bonds.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

LIQUIDITY (continued)

 

The insurance policies issued or reinsured by National provide unconditional and irrevocable guarantees of payments of the principal of, and interest or other amounts owing on, insured obligations when due. In the event of a default in payment of principal, interest or other insured amounts by an issuer, National generally promises to make funds available in the insured amount within one to three business days following notification. In some cases, the amount due can be substantial, particularly if the default occurs on a transaction to which National has a large notional exposure or on a transaction structured with large, bullet-type principal maturities. The fact that the U.S. public finance insurance segment’s financial guarantee contracts generally cannot be accelerated by a party other than the insurer helps to mitigate liquidity risk in this segment.

Corporate Liquidity

The primary sources of cash available to MBIA Inc. are:

 

   

dividends from subsidiaries;

 

   

releases under the tax sharing agreement, which is funded by subsidiaries;

 

   

available cash and liquid assets not subject to collateral posting requirements;

 

   

principal and interest receipts on assets held in its investment portfolio; and

 

   

access to capital markets.

The primary uses of cash by MBIA Inc. are:

 

   

servicing outstanding unsecured corporate debt obligations and MTNs;

 

   

meeting collateral requirements under investment agreements and derivative arrangements;

 

   

payments related to interest rate swaps;

 

   

payments of operating expenses; and

 

   

funding share repurchases and debt buybacks.

As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the liquidity positions of MBIA Inc. comprising cash and liquid assets for general corporate purposes, excluding the amounts held in escrow under its tax sharing agreement, were $340 million and $403 million, respectively.

Based on our projections of National’s and MBIA Corp.’s future earnings and losses, we expect that for the foreseeable future National will be the primary source of dividends and tax sharing agreement payments to MBIA Inc. There can be no assurance as to the amount and timing of any such future dividends. Also, for the foreseeable future, absent a special dividend subject to the approval of the NYSDFS, we expect the declared and paid dividend amounts from National to be limited to prior year net investment income and similar in amount to the 2016 dividend payment. Refer to the “Capital Resources – Insurance Statutory Capital” section for additional information on payments of dividends. We do not expect MBIA Inc. to receive distributions from MBIA Corp. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, $94 million was released to MBIA Inc. under the MBIA group tax sharing agreement and related tax escrow account (“Tax Escrow Account”), representing National’s liability under the tax sharing agreement for the 2014 tax year. The release was pursuant to the terms of the tax sharing agreement following the expiration of National’s two-year net operating loss carry-back period under U.S. tax rules. As of March 31, 2017, $216 million was held in escrow for the 2015 through 2017 tax years. We expect to release up to $130 million from the Tax Escrow Account related to the 2015 tax year in January of 2018, subject to the terms and provisions of the Company’s tax sharing agreement. There can be no assurance that payments under the Tax Escrow Account from subsidiaries will be released to MBIA Inc. due to deductible or creditable tax attributes of National and/or the market value performance of the assets supporting the Tax Escrow Account.

Currently, the majority of the cash and securities of MBIA Inc. is pledged against investment agreement liabilities, the Asset Swap and derivatives, which limits its ability to raise liquidity through asset sales. If the market value or rating eligibility of the assets which are pledged against MBIA Inc.’s obligations were to decline, we would be required to pledge additional eligible assets in order to meet minimum required collateral amounts against these liabilities. To mitigate these risks, we seek to maintain cash and liquidity resources that we believe will be sufficient to make all payments due on our obligations and to meet other financial requirements, such as posting collateral. Contingent liquidity resources include: (1) sales of invested assets exposed to credit spread stress risk, which may occur at losses; (2) termination and settlement of interest rate swap agreements; and (3) accessing the capital markets. These actions, if taken, are expected to result in either additional liquidity or reduced exposure to adverse credit spread movements. There can be no assurance that these actions will be sufficient to fully mitigate this risk.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

LIQUIDITY (continued)

 

MBIA Corp. Liquidity

The primary sources of cash available to MBIA Corp. are:

 

   

installment premiums;

 

   

recoveries associated with loss payments; and

 

   

principal and interest receipts on assets held in its investment portfolio.

The primary uses of cash by MBIA Corp. are:

 

   

loss or commutation payments on insured transactions;

 

   

repayment of the Facility;

 

   

payments of operating expenses; and

 

   

payment of principal and interest related to its surplus notes, if and to the extent approved by the NYSDFS. Refer to “Capital Resources—Insurance Statutory Capital” for a discussion on the non-approval of requests to the NYSDFS to pay interest on its surplus notes.

As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, MBIA Corp. held cash and investments of $233 million and $328 million, respectively, of which $111 million and $201 million, respectively, comprised cash and highly liquid assets that were immediately available to MBIA Insurance Corporation.

Insured transactions that require payment in full of the principal insured at maturity could present liquidity risk for MBIA Corp. as any salvage recoveries from such payments could be recovered over an extended period of time after the payment of the principal amount. MBIA Corp. is generally required to satisfy claims within one to three business days, and as a result seeks to identify potential claims in advance through our monitoring process. While our financial guarantee policies generally cannot be accelerated, thereby helping to mitigate liquidity risk, insurance of CDS and certain other derivative contracts may, in certain circumstances, including the occurrence of certain insolvency or payment defaults, be subject to termination by the counterparty, triggering a claim for the fair value of the contract. In order to monitor liquidity risk and maintain appropriate liquidity resources, we use the same methodology as we use to monitor credit quality and losses within our insured portfolio, including stress scenarios. Refer to “Note 5: Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of our loss process.

MBIA Corp. has recorded expected excess spread recoveries of $354 million as of March 31, 2017 associated with insured RMBS issues, including recoveries related to consolidated VIEs. MBIA Corp. has also recorded expected recoveries related to its claims against Credit Suisse for ineligible mortgage loans included in an MBIA Corp. insured RMBS transaction. In addition, MBIA Insurance Corporation has recorded recoveries related to CDOs. There can be no assurance that it will be successful or not be delayed in realizing these recoveries. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, MBIA Corp. collected $45 million of excess spread recoveries related to insured RMBS issues.

MBIA Corp. Financing Facility

In January of 2017, MBIA Corp. entered into the Facility, with the Senior Lenders, and with MBIA Inc., pursuant to which the Senior Lenders provided $325 million of senior financing and MBIA Inc. provided $38 million of subordinated financing to MZ Funding, which in turn lent the proceeds of such financing to MBIA Corp. MBIA Inc. also committed to provide an additional $50 million subordinated financing to MZ Funding under certain circumstances, which MZ Funding would then lend to MBIA Corp. For a further discussion of the Facility, refer to “Liquidity” in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

LIQUIDITY (continued)

 

Consolidated Cash Flows

Information about our consolidated cash flows by category is presented on our consolidated statements of cash flows. The following table presents a summary of our consolidated cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

                                
     Three Months Ended March 31,      Percent  

In millions

           2017                      2016              Change  

Statement of cash flow data:

        

Net cash provided (used) by:

        

Operating activities

   $ (471)      $ 40         n/m  

Investing activities

     311         1,814         -83%  

Financing activities

     124         (2,047)        -106%  

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

                   -67%  

Cash and cash equivalents—beginning of period

     187         522         -64%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents—end of period

   $ 152       $ 332         -54%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

n/m - Percent change not meaningful.

Operating activities

Net cash used by operating activities increased for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 primarily due to an increase in losses and LAE paid of $452 million and a decrease in investment income received of $49 million.

Investing activities

Net cash provided by investing activities decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 primarily due to a decrease in net proceeds from sales, paydowns and maturities of held-to-maturity investments of consolidated VIEs of $1.8 billion.

Financing activities

Net cash provided by financing activities increased for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 primarily due to a decrease in the principal paydowns of consolidated VIE notes of $1.8 billion related to the deconsolidation of VIEs in 2016 as well as an increase in proceeds from the Facility.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

LIQUIDITY (continued)

 

Investments

The following discussion of investments, including references to consolidated investments, excludes investments reported under “Assets of consolidated variable interest entities” on our consolidated balance sheets. Investments of VIEs support the repayment of VIE obligations and are not available to settle obligations of MBIA. Our available-for-sale (“AFS”) investments comprise high-quality fixed-income securities and short-term investments. Refer to “Note 7: Investments” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for detailed discussion about our investments.

The following table presents our investment portfolio as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. As of December 31, 2016, AFS with a fair value of $466 million reported under “Assets held for sale” within our international and structured finance segment are excluded due to the sale of MBIA UK in January of 2017.

 

                                

In millions

   As of March 31,
2017
     As of December 31,
2016
     Percent Change  

Available-for-sale investments(1):

        

U.S. public finance insurance

        

Amortized cost

   $ 3,991       $ 3,975         -%  

Unrealized net gain (loss)

     (69)        (63)        10%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Fair value

     3,922         3,912         -%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Corporate

        

Amortized cost

     1,025         1,218         -16%  

Unrealized net gain (loss)

     43         39         10%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Fair value

     1,068         1,257         -15%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

International and structured finance insurance

        

Amortized cost

     190         257         -26%  

Unrealized net gain (loss)

                   -%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Fair value

     195         262         -26%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total available-for-sale investments:

        

Amortized cost

     5,206         5,450         -4%  

Unrealized net gain (loss)

     (21)        (19)        11%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total available-for-sale investments at fair value

     5,185         5,431         -5%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investments carried at fair value(2):

        

U.S. public finance insurance

     123         120         3%  

Corporate

     81         79         3%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investments carried at fair value

     204         199         3%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other investments at amortized cost:

        

U.S. public finance insurance

                   -%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Consolidated investments at carrying value

   $ 5,392       $ 5,633         -4%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) - Unrealized gains and losses, net of applicable deferred income taxes, are reflected in AOCI in shareholders’ equity.

 

(2) - Changes in fair value and realized gains and losses from the sale of these investments are reflected in net income.

The fair value of the Company’s investments is based on prices which include quoted prices in active markets and prices based on market-based inputs that are either directly or indirectly observable, as well as prices from dealers in relevant markets. Differences between fair value and amortized cost arise primarily as a result of changes in interest rates and general market credit spreads occurring after a fixed-income security is purchased, although other factors may also influence fair value, including specific credit-related changes, supply and demand forces and other market factors. When the Company holds an AFS investment to maturity, any unrealized gain or loss currently recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the shareholders’ equity section of the balance sheet is reversed. As a result, the Company would realize a value substantially equal to amortized cost. However, when investments are sold prior to maturity, the Company will realize any difference between amortized cost and the sale price of an investment as a realized gain or loss within its consolidated statements of operations.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

LIQUIDITY (continued)

 

Credit Quality

The credit quality distribution of the Company’s AFS fixed-maturity investment portfolios, excluding short-term investments, are based on ratings from Moody’s and alternate ratings sources, such as S&P or the best estimate of the ratings assigned by the Company, have been used for a small percentage of securities that are not rated by Moody’s. As of March 31, 2017, the weighted average credit quality ratings and percentage of investment grade of the Company’s AFS fixed-maturity investment portfolios, excluding short-term investments, are presented in the following table:

 

                                           
     U.S. Public
Finance
Insurance
     Corporate      International
and Structured
Finance
Insurance
     Total  

Weighted average credit quality ratings

     Aa        Aa        Aa        Aa  

Investment grade percentage

     95%        96%        88%        95%  

Insured Investments

MBIA’s consolidated investment portfolio includes investments that are insured by various financial guarantee insurers (“Insured Investments”), including investments insured by National and MBIA Corp. (“Company-Insured Investments”). When purchasing Insured Investments, the Company’s third-party portfolio manager independently assesses the underlying credit quality, structure and liquidity of each investment, in addition to the creditworthiness of the insurer. Insured Investments are diverse by sector, issuer and size of holding. The third-party portfolio manager assigns underlying ratings to Insured Investments without giving effect to financial guarantees based on underlying ratings assigned by Moody’s or S&P, when a rating is not published by Moody’s. When a Moody’s or S&P underlying rating is not available, the underlying rating is based on the portfolio manager’s best estimate of the rating of such investment. A downgrade of a financial guarantee insurer has historically had an adverse effect on the fair value of investments insured by the downgraded financial guarantee insurer. If the Company determines that declines in the fair values of Insured Investments are other-than-temporary, the Company will record a realized loss through earnings.

As of March 31, 2017, Insured Investments at fair value represented $493 million or 9% of consolidated investments, of which $336 million or 6% of consolidated investments were Company-Insured Investments. As of March 31, 2017, based on the actual or estimated underlying ratings of our consolidated investment portfolio, without giving effect to financial guarantees, the weighted average rating of only the Insured Investments in the investment portfolio would be in the Baa range. Without giving effect to the National and MBIA Corp. guarantees of the Company-Insured Investments in the consolidated investment portfolio, as of March 31, 2017, based on actual or estimated underlying ratings, the weighted average rating of the consolidated investment portfolio was in the Aa range. The weighted average rating of only the Company-Insured Investments was in the below investment grade range, and investments rated below investment grade in the Company-Insured Investments were 4% of the total consolidated investment portfolio.

Contractual Obligations

The following contractual obligations discussion provides an update and should be read in conjunction to the contractual obligations described under “Liquidity-Contractual Obligations” in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.

In January of 2017, MBIA Corp. consummated the Facility with the Senior Lenders and with MBIA Inc., pursuant to which the Senior Lenders have provided $325 million of senior financing and MBIA Inc. has provided $38 million of subordinated financing to MZ Funding, which in turn lent the proceeds of such financing to MBIA Corp. The loans to MBIA Corp. under the Facility mature on January 20, 2020 and bear interest at 14% per annum. Refer to the previous “Liquidity-MBIA Corp. Liquidity” section for additional information about the Facility. The following table provides the Company’s future estimated cash payments relating to the Facility for the nine months ending December 31, 2017 and the each subsequent four years ending December 31 and thereafter.

 

                                                                            
     As of March 31, 2017  

In millions

   Nine Months
Ending
December 31,
2017
     2018      2019      2020      2021      Thereafter      Total  

International and structured finance insurance segment:

                    

MBIA Corp. Financing Facility

   $ 34      $ 46      $ 46      $ 331      $ -      $ -      $ 457  

 

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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

The Company’s market risk exposures relate to changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates and credit spreads that affect the fair value of its financial instruments, primarily investment securities, MTNs, investment agreement liabilities and certain derivative instruments. The Company’s investments are primarily U.S. dollar-denominated fixed-income securities including municipal bonds, U.S. government bonds, corporate bonds, MBS and asset-backed securities. In periods of rising and/or volatile interest rates, foreign exchange rates and credit spreads, profitability could be adversely affected should the Company have to liquidate these securities. MBIA minimizes its exposure to interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk and credit spread movement through active portfolio management to ensure a proper mix of the types of securities held and to stagger the maturities of its fixed-income securities. For a discussion of our quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk, refer to Part II, Item 7A, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. There were no material changes in market risk since December 31, 2016.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this report, an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15(d)-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s senior management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report. In addition, there have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) during the fiscal quarter to which this report relates that have materially affected, or are likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

For a discussion of the Company’s litigation and related matters, see “Note 14: Commitments and Contingencies” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries in Part I, Item 1. In the normal course of operating its businesses, MBIA Inc. may be involved in various legal proceedings. As a courtesy, the Company posts on its website under the section “Legal Proceedings,” selected information and documents in reference to selected legal proceedings in which the Company is the plaintiff or the defendant. The Company will not necessarily post all documents for each proceeding and undertakes no obligation to revise or update them to reflect changes in events or expectations. The complete official court docket can be publicly accessed by contacting the clerk’s office of the respective court where each litigation is pending.

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

On February 23, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase by the Company and its subsidiaries of up to $100 million of its outstanding shares under a new share repurchase authorization. The table below presents repurchases made by the Company in each month during the first quarter of 2017:

 

                                           

Month

   Total
Number
of Shares
Purchased (1)
     Average
Price
Paid Per
Share
     Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as

Part of Publicly
Announced Plan
     Maximum
Amount That May
Be Purchased
Under the Plan (2)
(in millions)
 

January

     32,985       $ 10.48              $ 88   

February

     26,407         10.37                88   

March

     5,099,057         8.40         4,811,459         48   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    
     5,158,449       $ 8.43         4,811,459       $ 48   

 

(1) - 335,434 shares were repurchased by the Company in open market transactions for settling awards under the Company’s long-term incentive plans and 11,556 shares were purchased in open market transactions as investments in the Company’s non-qualified deferred compensation plan.

 

(2) - On February 23, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of common stock up to $100 million under a new share repurchase program.

Item 5. Other Information

As previously indicated, Mr. Joseph R. Schachinger will replace Mr. Douglas C. Hamilton as Controller effective May 11, 2017.

 

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Item 6. Exhibits

 

+31.1.    Chief Executive Officer - Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
+31.2.    Chief Financial Officer - Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
*32.1.    Chief Executive Officer - Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
*32.2.    Chief Financial Officer - Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
+101.   

Additional Exhibits - MBIA Inc. and Subsidiaries Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated

Financial Statements from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended

March 31, 2017, formatted in XBRL.

 

+ Filed Herewith

* Furnished Herewith

 

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SIGNATURES

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

 

 

MBIA Inc.

Registrant

Date: May 10, 2017  

/s/ Anthony McKiernan

  Anthony McKiernan
  Chief Financial Officer
Date: May 10, 2017  

/s/ Douglas C. Hamilton

  Douglas C. Hamilton
  Controller (Principal Accounting Officer)

 

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