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:
SeptemberJune 30, 20172018
 
 
Commission file number:
1-15731

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

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant:  (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

YESX NO 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

YESX NO 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company.  See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer,"  "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

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


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

YES  NOX

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

YES  NOX

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

  Number of Shares Outstanding
Class
 
At NovemberAugust 1, 20172018
Common Shares, $0.01 par value 41,069,69040,855,442


EVEREST RE GROUP, LTD

Table of Contents
Form 10-Q


Page
PART I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.Financial Statements 
   
 Consolidated Balance Sheets SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 (unaudited) 
 and December 31, 201620171
   
 Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the 
 three  and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018  and 20162017 (unaudited)2
   
 Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for the three and 
 and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018  and 20162017 (unaudited)3
   
 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the ninesix months ended 
 SeptemberJune 30, 20172018  and 20162017 (unaudited)4
   
 Notes to Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (unaudited)5
   
Item 2.Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and 
 Results of Operation3432
   
Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk59
   
Item 4.Controls and Procedures6059
   

PART II

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.Legal Proceedings6059
   
Item 1A.Risk Factors6059
   
Item 2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds6160
   
Item 3.Defaults Upon Senior Securities6160
   
Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures6160
   
Item 5.Other Information6160
   
Item 6.Exhibits6261
   

EVEREST RE GROUP, LTD.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS



 September 30, December 31, June 30,  December 31, 
(Dollars and share amounts in thousands, except par value per share) 2017 2016 2018  2017 
 (unaudited)    (unaudited)    
ASSETS:            
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value $14,778,175  $14,107,408  $14,242,890  $14,756,834 
(amortized cost: 2017, $14,626,754; 2016, $13,932,613)        
Equity securities - available for sale, at market value (cost: 2017, $128,116; 2016, $129,553)  127,425   119,067 
(amortized cost: 2018, $14,435,792; 2017, $14,689,598)        
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at fair value  3,192   - 
Equity securities - available for sale, at market value (cost: 2018, $0; 2017, $130,287)  -   129,530 
Equity securities - available for sale, at fair value  1,141,146   1,010,085   1,220,770   963,572 
Short-term investments  362,376   431,478   293,191   509,682 
Other invested assets (cost: 2017, $1,484,599; 2016, $1,333,069)  1,487,519   1,333,129 
Other invested assets (cost: 2018, $1,826,148; 2017, $1,628,753)  1,826,148   1,631,850 
Cash  585,395   481,922   619,493   635,067 
Total investments and cash  18,482,036   17,483,089   18,205,684   18,626,535 
Accrued investment income  101,092   96,473   98,585   97,704 
Premiums receivable  2,071,714   1,485,990   1,961,388   1,844,881 
Reinsurance receivables  1,366,890   1,018,325   1,779,581   1,348,226 
Funds held by reinsureds  269,783   260,644   368,680   292,927 
Deferred acquisition costs  396,858   344,052   418,167   411,587 
Prepaid reinsurance premiums  314,949   191,768   368,665   288,211 
Income taxes  415,182   177,704   280,696   299,438 
Other assets  517,765   263,459   404,439   382,283 
TOTAL ASSETS $23,936,269  $21,321,504  $23,885,885  $23,591,792 
                
LIABILITIES:                
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses $12,455,357  $10,312,313  $12,043,334  $11,884,321 
Future policy benefit reserve  54,279   55,074   48,845   51,014 
Unearned premium reserve  1,992,907   1,577,546   2,141,399   2,000,556 
Funds held under reinsurance treaties  21,768   21,278   17,087   18,030 
Commission reserves  40,075   70,335 
Other net payable to reinsurers  269,230   190,986   312,474   218,017 
Losses in course of payment  205,215   67,107 
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044  396,804   396,714   396,894   396,834 
6.6% Long term notes due 5/1/2067  236,536   236,462   236,610   236,561 
Accrued interest on debt and borrowings  7,564   3,537   3,010   2,727 
Equity index put option liability  16,006   22,059   9,218   12,477 
Unsettled securities payable  54,711   27,927   54,563   38,743 
Other liabilities  216,486   264,770   381,102   363,280 
Total liabilities  15,966,938   13,246,108   15,644,536   15,222,560 
                
Commitments and contingencies (Note 8)                
                
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:                
Preferred shares, par value: $0.01; 50,000 shares authorized;                
no shares issued and outstanding  -   -   -   - 
Common shares, par value: $0.01; 200,000 shares authorized; (2017) 69,040        
and (2016) 68,871 outstanding before treasury shares  691   689 
Common shares, par value: $0.01; 200,000 shares authorized; (2018) 69,181        
and (2017) 69,044 outstanding before treasury shares  692   691 
Additional paid-in capital  2,158,143   2,140,783   2,172,701   2,165,768 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income tax expense                
(benefit) of $21,672 at 2017 and $8,240 at 2016  (84,247)  (216,764)
Treasury shares, at cost; 27,972 shares 2017 and 2016  (3,272,244)  (3,272,244)
(benefit) of ($15,938) at 2018 and $9,356 at 2017  (445,338)  (160,891)
Treasury shares, at cost; 28,321 shares (2018) and 28,208 shares (2017)  (3,347,548)  (3,322,244)
Retained earnings  9,166,988   9,422,932   9,860,842   9,685,908 
Total shareholders' equity  7,969,331   8,075,396   8,241,349   8,369,232 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $23,936,269  $21,321,504  $23,885,885  $23,591,792 
                
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.                

1

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



 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
 (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited) 
REVENUES:                        
Premiums earned $1,598,875  $1,371,474  $4,280,653  $3,879,201  $1,729,818  $1,369,681  $3,349,245  $2,681,778 
Net investment income  136,973   122,657   393,770   357,918   141,322   134,508   279,616   256,797 
Net realized capital gains (losses):                                
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities  (1,485)  (867)  (5,188)  (31,130)  (888)  (2,475)  (958)  (3,703)
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities                                
transferred to other comprehensive income (loss)  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 
Other net realized capital gains (losses)  43,020   1,247   124,719   (10,091)  16,664   27,743   (8,167)  81,699 
Total net realized capital gains (losses)  41,535   380   119,531   (41,221)  15,776   25,268   (9,125)  77,996 
Net derivative gain (loss)  2,656   6,510   6,052   5,486   2,987   766   3,260   3,396 
Other income (expense)  (54,568)  9,435   (59,146)  (20,998)  3,036   388   15,100   (4,578)
Total revenues  1,725,471   1,510,456   4,740,860   4,180,386   1,892,939   1,530,611   3,638,096   3,015,389 
                                
CLAIMS AND EXPENSES:                                
Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses  2,210,082   786,168   3,842,145   2,344,733   1,341,314   861,275   2,398,491   1,632,063 
Commission, brokerage, taxes and fees  333,113   309,545   915,338   880,053   383,402   299,956   741,041   582,225 
Other underwriting expenses  73,145   78,563   227,901   222,750   93,099   78,869   189,383   154,756 
Corporate expenses  5,932   6,400   21,308   21,403   6,633   6,919   15,629   15,376 
Interest, fees and bond issue cost amortization expense  7,266   8,893   24,289   27,194   7,728   8,059   15,146   17,023 
Total claims and expenses  2,629,538   1,189,569   5,030,981   3,496,133   1,832,176   1,255,078   3,359,690   2,401,443 
                                
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES  (904,067)  320,887   (290,121)  684,253   60,763   275,533   278,406   613,946 
Income tax expense (benefit)  (264,693)  25,493   (188,064)  61,481   (9,132)  29,859   (1,807)  76,629 
                                
NET INCOME (LOSS) $(639,374) $295,394  $(102,057) $622,772  $69,895  $245,674  $280,213  $537,317 
                                
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:                                
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities arising during the period  (5,671)  (9,032)  18,745   258,286   (41,776)  4,868   (232,400)  24,416 
Reclassification adjustment for realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)  (5,537)  (3,222)  (16,729)  27,711   249   (8,993)  (8,523)  (11,192)
Total URA(D) on securities arising during the period  (11,208)  (12,254)  2,016   285,997   (41,527)  (4,125)  (240,923)  13,224 
                                
Foreign currency translation adjustments  77,564   2,816   125,124   17,639   (63,652)  35,667   (45,953)  47,560 
                                
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss) for the period  -   -   -   - 
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of net (gain) loss included in net income (loss)  1,369   1,268   5,377   3,949   1,815   2,004   3,630   4,008 
Total benefit plan net gain (loss) for the period  1,369   1,268   5,377   3,949   1,815   2,004   3,630   4,008 
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax  67,725   (8,170)  132,517   307,585   (103,364)  33,546   (283,246)  64,792 
                                
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) $(571,649) $287,224  $30,460  $930,357  $(33,469) $279,220  $(3,033) $602,109 
                                
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:                                
Basic $(15.73) $7.11  $(2.51) $14.80  $1.71  $5.98  $6.85  $13.10 
Diluted  (15.73)  7.06   (2.51)  14.70   1.70   5.95   6.81   13.02 
Dividends declared  1.25   1.15   3.75   3.45   1.30   1.25   2.60   2.50 
                                
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.                                

2

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



 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands, except share and dividends per share amounts) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
 (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited) 
COMMON SHARES (shares outstanding):                        
Balance, beginning of period  41,065,212   41,883,430   40,898,864   42,694,252   40,978,634   41,057,991   40,835,272   40,898,864 
Issued during the period, net  2,896   17,621   169,244   215,887   (5,718)  7,221   137,644   166,348 
Treasury shares acquired  -   (1,013,857)  -   (2,022,945)  (112,747)  -   (112,747)  - 
Balance, end of period  41,068,108   40,887,194   41,068,108   40,887,194   40,860,169   41,065,212   40,860,169   41,065,212 
                                
COMMON SHARES (par value):                                
Balance, beginning of period $691  $688  $689  $686  $692  $691  $691  $689 
Issued during the period, net  -   -   2   2   -   -   1   2 
Balance, end of period  691   688   691   688   692   691   692   691 
                                
ADDITIONAL PAID-IN CAPITAL:                                
Balance, beginning of period  2,150,659   2,120,581   2,140,783   2,103,638   2,163,519   2,141,653   2,165,768   2,140,783 
Share-based compensation plans  7,484   8,730   17,360   25,673   9,182   9,006   6,933   9,876 
Balance, end of period  2,158,143   2,129,311   2,158,143   2,129,311   2,172,701   2,150,659   2,172,701   2,150,659 
                                
ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS),                                
NET OF DEFERRED INCOME TAXES:                                
Balance, beginning of period  (151,972)  84,000   (216,764)  (231,755)  (341,974)  (185,518)  (160,891)  (216,764)
Net increase (decrease) during the period  67,725   (8,170)  132,517   307,585   (103,364)  33,546   (283,246)  64,792 
Cumulative change due to adoption of Accounting Standards Update 2016-01  -   -   (1,201)  - 
Balance, end of period  (84,247)  75,830   (84,247)  75,830   (445,338)  (151,972)  (445,338)  (151,972)
                                
RETAINED EARNINGS:                                
Balance, beginning of period  9,857,664   8,852,512   9,422,932   8,621,972   9,844,187   9,663,294   9,685,908   9,422,932 
Net income (loss)  (639,374)  295,394   (102,057)  622,772   69,895   245,674   280,213   537,317 
Dividends declared ($1.25 per share in third quarter 2017 and $3.75 year-to-date                
per share in 2017 and $1.15 per share in third quarter 2016 and $3.45                
year-to-date per share in 2016)  (51,302)  (47,459)  (153,887)  (144,297)
Dividends declared ($1.30 per share in second quarter 2018 $2.60 year-to-dateDividends declared ($1.30 per share in second quarter 2018 $2.60 year-to-date             
per share in 2018 and $1.25 per share in second quarter 2017 and $2.50                
year-to-date per share in 2017)  (53,240)  (51,304)  (106,480)  (102,585)
Cumulative change due to adoption of Accounting Standards Update 2016-01  -   -   1,201   - 
Balance, end of period  9,166,988   9,100,447   9,166,988   9,100,447   9,860,842   9,857,664   9,860,842   9,857,664 
                                
TREASURY SHARES AT COST:                                
Balance, beginning of period  (3,272,244)  (3,072,313)  (3,272,244)  (2,885,956)  (3,322,244)  (3,272,244)  (3,322,244)  (3,272,244)
Purchase of treasury shares  -   (192,871)  -   (379,228)  (25,304)  -   (25,304)  - 
Balance, end of period  (3,272,244)  (3,265,184)  (3,272,244)  (3,265,184)  (3,347,548)  (3,272,244)  (3,347,548)  (3,272,244)
                                
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY, END OF PERIOD $7,969,331  $8,041,092  $7,969,331  $8,041,092  $8,241,349  $8,584,798  $8,241,349  $8,584,798 
                                
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.                                


3

EVEREST RE GROUP, LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS



 Nine Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2018  2017 
 (unaudited)  (unaudited) 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:            
Net income (loss) $(102,057) $622,772  $280,213  $537,317 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:                
Decrease (increase) in premiums receivable  (564,080)  (185,559)  (126,355)  (337,069)
Decrease (increase) in funds held by reinsureds, net  (4,742)  46,134   (77,794)  (7,980)
Decrease (increase) in reinsurance receivables  (245,275)  (87,807)  (467,011)  8,270 
Decrease (increase) in income taxes  (247,571)  15,935   43,516   18,362 
Decrease (increase) in prepaid reinsurance premiums  (109,913)  (66,147)  (86,044)  (87,091)
Increase (decrease) in reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses  1,927,538   470,560   223,202   97,493 
Increase (decrease) in future policy benefit reserve  (795)  (1,912)  (2,169)  (836)
Increase (decrease) in unearned premiums  389,731   89,013   151,528   161,009 
Increase (decrease) in other net payable to reinsurers  59,356   85,493   101,970   65,929 
Increase (decrease) in losses in course of payment  137,805   7,673   162,073   288,557 
Change in equity adjustments in limited partnerships  (54,155)  (33,289)  (45,898)  (31,032)
Distribution of limited partnership income  36,859   52,913   42,269   22,992 
Change in other assets and liabilities, net  (116,623)  (154,765)  (111,220)  (61,763)
Non-cash compensation expense  23,011   20,359   17,566   15,725 
Amortization of bond premium (accrual of bond discount)  34,657   38,151   17,677   22,475 
Amortization of underwriting discount on senior notes  3   3 
Net realized capital (gains) losses  (119,531)  41,221   9,125   (77,996)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities  1,044,218   960,748   132,648   634,362 
                
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                
Proceeds from fixed maturities matured/called - available for sale, at market value  1,619,552   1,439,002   1,099,762   1,145,162 
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at market value  1,691,937   888,761   1,225,373   991,209 
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at fair value  -   1,588   1,065   - 
Proceeds from equity securities sold - available for sale, at market value  18,802   155   -   18,802 
Proceeds from equity securities sold - available for sale, at fair value  316,087   542,560   576,382   258,226 
Distributions from other invested assets  3,555,941   3,600,587   2,978,865   2,476,399 
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary (net of cash disposed)  -   47,721 
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at market value  (3,774,584)  (2,974,792)  (2,163,331)  (2,880,188)
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at fair value  -   (3,940)  (4,381)  - 
Cost of equity securities acquired - available for sale, at market value  (19,196)  (4,194)  -   (2,610)
Cost of equity securities acquired - available for sale, at fair value  (351,220)  (269,544)  (722,797)  (258,543)
Cost of other invested assets acquired  (3,676,606)  (4,131,419)  (3,168,655)  (2,431,281)
Net change in short-term investments  74,000   488,047   213,242   105,566 
Net change in unsettled securities transactions  (219,208)  44,494   (33,351)  47,800 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities  (764,495)  (330,974)  2,174   (529,458)
                
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                
Common shares issued during the period, net  (5,650)  5,315 
Common shares issued during the period for share-based compensation, net of expense  (9,431)  (5,847)
Purchase of treasury shares  -   (379,228)  (25,304)  - 
Dividends paid to shareholders  (153,887)  (144,297)  (106,480)  (102,585)
Cost of shares withheld for taxes on settlements of share-based compensation awards  (12,707)  (10,017)  (14,859)  (12,407)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities  (172,244)  (528,227)  (156,074)  (120,839)
                
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH  (4,006)  50,590   5,678   3,218 
                
Net increase (decrease) in cash  103,473   152,137   (15,574)  (12,717)
Cash, beginning of period  481,922   283,658   635,067   481,922 
Cash, end of period $585,395  $435,795  $619,493  $469,205 
                
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:                
Income taxes paid (recovered) $58,701  $40,072  $(44,151) $57,772 
Interest paid  19,783   18,227   14,754   17,818 
                
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.                

4

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

For the Three and NineSix Months Ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 20162017

1.   GENERAL

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

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

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

Effective August 24, 2016, the Company sold its wholly-owned subsidiary, Heartland Crop Insurance Company ("Heartland"), a managing agent for crop insurance, to CGB Diversified Services, Inc. ("CGB"). The operating results of Heartland through August 24, 2016, are included within the Company's financial statements.

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

During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company established new subsidiaries, Everest Preferred International Holdings, Ltd. ("Preferred International"), a Bermuda based company and Everest International Holdings (Bermuda), Ltd. ("International Holdings"), a Bermuda based company.  These new subsidiaries were part of a capital restructuring within the Company to support a planned increase in international business production, which includes directly supporting Group's new Lloyd's of London Syndicate corporate member.

2.   BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 20162017 include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, which, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair statement of the results on an interim basis.  Certain financial information, which is normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"), has been omitted since it is not required for interim reporting purposes.  The December 31, 20162017 consolidated balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by GAAP.  The results for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 20162017 are not necessarily indicative of the results for a full year.  These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 2015 and 20142015 included in the Company's most recent Form 10-K filing.

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

Effective January 1, 2016,The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2015-02, "Consolidation (Topic 810) Amendments toreported amounts of assets and liabilities (and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities) at the Consolidation Analysis"  issued by the United States Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB"), which changed the method in which the Company determines whether entities are consolidated by the Company. The adoption of this amended accounting guidance was implemented utilizing a full retrospective application for prior periods.

5


The amended guidance includes changes in the identificationdate of the primary beneficiaryfinancial statements and the reported amounts of companies considered to be VIEs. These changes resulted inrevenues and expenses during the Company concluding that Mt. Logan Re is a VIE given it has insufficient equity at risk and that each underlying separate segregated account is likewise a VIE.  The Company has concluded that it is the primary beneficiary of Mt. Logan Re, but not of the underlying separate segregated accounts and therefore has deconsolidated these segregated accounts.  This change had no impact to the net income or retained earnings of the Company.reporting period.  Ultimate actual results could differ, possibly materially, from those estimates.

All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Certain reclassifications and format changes have been made to prior years'year's amounts to conform to the 20172018 presentation.

5


Application of Recently Issued Accounting Standard Changes.

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

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

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

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

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

Intra-Entity Asset Transfers.  In October 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-16 which outlines guidance on the tax accounting for intra-entity asset sales and transfers, other than inventory.  The new guidance requires that reporting entities recognize tax expense from the intra-entity transfer of an asset in the seller's tax jurisdiction at the time of transfer and recognize any deferred tax asset in the buyer's tax jurisdiction at the time of transfer.  The guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017.  The Company does not expectadopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018.  The adoption of ASU 2016-16 todid not have a material impact on itsthe Company's financial statements.
6


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

6


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

The following table presents certain financial statement line items as previously reported in 2016, the effect of those line items due to treating the cost of shares withheld upon settlement of share-based compensation awards as a financing activity with the Statements of Cash Flows and the line items as currently reported within the financial statements.


Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows: Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 
     Effect of    
     adoption of    
  As previously  new accounting    
  reported  policy  As adopted 
(Dollars in thousands)         
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:         
Change in other assets and liabilities, net $(164,782) $10,017  $(154,765)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities  950,731   10,017   960,748 
             
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:            
Cost of shares withheld for taxes on settlements of            
share-based compensation awards  -   (10,017)  (10,017)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities  (518,210)  (10,017)  (528,227)


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

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

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

7


Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share.  In May 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-07, which removes the requirement to categorize, within the fair value hierarchy, investments for which fair values are estimated using the net asset value practical expedient provided by Accounting Standards Codification 820, Fair Value Measurement.  The updated guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015.  The adoption did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

Debt Issuance Costs. In April 2015, The FASB issued ASU 2015–03, authoritative guidance on the presentation of debt issuance costs.  This guidance requires that debt issuance costs be presented within the balance sheet as a reduction of the carrying value of the debt liability, rather than as a separate asset.  This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and related interim reporting periods.  The Company implemented this guidance effective in the second quarter of 2016.  The adoption did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

Consolidation. In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, authoritative guidance regarding consolidation of reporting entities.  The new guidance focuses on the required evaluation of whether certain legal entities should be consolidated.  This guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015.  Based upon this guidance, the Company has determined that the separate segregated accounts associated with Mt. Logan Re should not be consolidated.  The Company implemented the guidance effective January 1, 2016.

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

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

7


3.     INVESTMENTS

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


 At September 30, 2017  At June 30, 2018 
 Amortized  Unrealized  Unrealized  Market  OTTI in AOCI  Amortized  Unrealized  Unrealized  Market  OTTI in AOCI 
(Dollars in thousands) Cost  Appreciation  Depreciation  Value  (a)  Cost  Appreciation  Depreciation  Value  (a) 
Fixed maturity securities                              
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of                              
U.S. government agencies and corporations $1,141,002  $12,475  $(6,608) $1,146,869  $-  $1,158,844  $10,522  $(24,870) $1,144,496  $- 
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions  652,525   24,061   (4,744)  671,842   -   525,087   14,731   (1,934)  537,884   420 
Corporate securities  5,599,904   108,072   (31,814)  5,676,162   2,902   5,783,255   50,084   (122,678)  5,710,661   2,740 
Asset-backed securities  555,451   1,390   (444)  556,397   -   491,885   127   (6,056)  485,956   - 
Mortgage-backed securities                                        
Commercial  253,154   1,462   (1,825)  252,791   -   229,450   -   (6,475)  222,975   - 
Agency residential  2,390,238   13,680   (23,589)  2,380,329   -   2,144,163   7,389   (66,926)  2,084,626   - 
Non-agency residential  519   42   (44)  517   -   22   38   -   60   - 
Foreign government securities  1,317,697   46,225   (34,489)  1,329,433   182   1,256,344   33,478   (52,825)  1,236,997   136 
Foreign corporate securities  2,716,264   89,202   (41,631)  2,763,835   961   2,846,742   59,779   (87,286)  2,819,235   588 
Total fixed maturity securities $14,626,754  $296,609  $(145,188) $14,778,175  $4,045  $14,435,792  $176,148  $(369,050) $14,242,890  $3,884 
Equity securities $128,116  $2,542  $(3,233) $127,425  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $- 


8

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


  At December 31, 2016 
  Amortized  Unrealized  Unrealized  Market  OTTI in AOCI 
(Dollars in thousands) Cost  Appreciation  Depreciation  Value  (a) 
Fixed maturity securities               
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of               
U.S. government agencies and corporations $1,115,208  $20,410  $(5,303) $1,130,315  $- 
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions  723,938   18,016   (11,970)  729,984   - 
Corporate securities  5,059,388   131,651   (35,758)  5,155,281   7,936 
Asset-backed securities  488,824   1,110   (1,286)  488,648   - 
Mortgage-backed securities                    
Commercial  308,827   1,983   (3,878)  306,932   - 
Agency residential  2,415,901   17,478   (27,910)  2,405,469   - 
Non-agency residential  642   44   (45)  641   - 
Foreign government securities  1,254,175   61,226   (57,241)  1,258,160   115 
Foreign corporate securities  2,565,710   130,714   (64,446)  2,631,978   1,184 
Total fixed maturity securities $13,932,613  $382,632  $(207,837) $14,107,408  $9,235 
Equity securities $129,553  $2,298  $(12,784) $119,067  $- 
(a)  Represents the amount of OTTI recognized in AOCI.  Amount includes unrealized gains and losses on impaired securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.

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

8


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


 At September 30, 2017  At December 31, 2016  At June 30, 2018  At December 31, 2017 
 Amortized  Market  Amortized  Market  Amortized  Market  Amortized  Market 
(Dollars in thousands) Cost  Value  Cost  Value  Cost  Value  Cost  Value 
Fixed maturity securities – available for sale:                        
Due in one year or less $1,091,257  $1,095,288  $956,945  $966,970  $1,157,956  $1,158,176  $1,041,885  $1,050,094 
Due after one year through five years  7,267,248   7,334,494   6,769,585   6,870,056   7,151,383   7,045,835   7,545,731   7,554,248 
Due after five years through ten years  2,096,762   2,124,265   2,020,215   2,052,733   2,435,785   2,395,193   2,214,473   2,231,456 
Due after ten years  972,125   1,034,094   971,674   1,015,959   825,148   850,069   882,384   944,239 
Asset-backed securities  555,451   556,397   488,824   488,648   491,885   485,956   532,473   531,360 
Mortgage-backed securities:                                
Commercial  253,154   252,791   308,827   306,932   229,450   222,975   235,794   234,041 
Agency residential  2,390,238   2,380,329   2,415,901   2,405,469   2,144,163   2,084,626   2,236,361   2,210,902 
Non-agency residential  519   517   642   641   22   60   497   494 
Total fixed maturity securities $14,626,754  $14,778,175  $13,932,613  $14,107,408  $14,435,792  $14,242,890  $14,689,598  $14,756,834 


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


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Increase (decrease) during the period between the market value and cost                        
of investments carried at market value, and deferred taxes thereon:                        
Fixed maturity securities $(13,993) $(13,544) $(18,184) $324,147  $(40,921) $(22,246) $(260,406) $(4,191)
Fixed maturity securities, other-than-temporary impairment  306   (1,836)  (5,189)  7,088   456   (994)  267   (5,495)
Equity securities  2,603   2,527   9,795   9,898   -   1,193   -   7,192 
Other invested assets  1,595   -   2,860   -   -   821   -   1,265 
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax  (9,489)  (12,853)  (10,718)  341,133   (40,465)  (21,226)  (260,139)  (1,229)
Deferred tax benefit (expense)  (1,774)  (256)  11,343   (53,666)  (1,007)  16,990   19,292   13,117 
Deferred tax benefit (expense), other-than-temporary impairment  55   855   1,391   (1,470)  (55)  111   (76)  1,336 
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation),                                
net of deferred taxes, included in shareholders' equity $(11,208) $(12,254) $2,016  $285,997  $(41,527) $(4,125) $(240,923) $13,224 

9


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

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


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

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

10


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


 Duration of Unrealized Loss at September 30, 2017 By Security Type  Duration of Unrealized Loss at June 30, 2018 By Security Type 
 Less than 12 months  Greater than 12 months  Total  Less than 12 months  Greater than 12 months  Total 
    Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross 
    Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized 
(Dollars in thousands) Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation 
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale                                    
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of                                    
U.S. government agencies and corporations $376,128  $(4,865) $53,039  $(1,743) $429,167  $(6,608) $740,474  $(14,053) $265,737  $(10,817) $1,006,211  $(24,870)
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions  89,509   (2,104)  67,956   (2,640)  157,465   (4,744)  45,254   (651)  36,939   (1,283)  82,193   (1,934)
Corporate securities  1,214,762   (20,914)  283,985   (10,900)  1,498,747   (31,814)  3,629,848   (78,597)  807,050   (44,081)  4,436,898   (122,678)
Asset-backed securities  189,752   (369)  6,262   (75)  196,014   (444)  315,541   (4,760)  92,906   (1,296)  408,447   (6,056)
Mortgage-backed securities                                                
Commercial  63,101   (540)  40,432   (1,285)  103,533   (1,825)  156,895   (3,104)  66,079   (3,371)  222,974   (6,475)
Agency residential  1,345,113   (13,416)  450,890   (10,173)  1,796,003   (23,589)  582,748   (11,118)  1,321,462   (55,808)  1,904,210   (66,926)
Non-agency residential  -   -   77   (44)  77   (44)  -   -   -   -   -   - 
Foreign government securities  385,494   (14,007)  258,478   (20,482)  643,972   (34,489)  302,046   (8,212)  412,970   (44,613)  715,016   (52,825)
Foreign corporate securities  660,017   (17,136)  312,821   (24,495)  972,838   (41,631)  1,332,956   (35,840)  584,790   (51,446)  1,917,746   (87,286)
Total fixed maturity securities $4,323,876  $(73,351) $1,473,940  $(71,837) $5,797,816  $(145,188) $7,105,762  $(156,335) $3,587,933  $(212,715) $10,693,695  $(369,050)
Equity securities  -   -   112,015   (3,233)  112,015   (3,233)  -   -   -   -   -   - 
Total $4,323,876  $(73,351) $1,585,955  $(75,070) $5,909,831  $(148,421) $7,105,762  $(156,335) $3,587,933  $(212,715) $10,693,695  $(369,050)



 Duration of Unrealized Loss at September 30, 2017 By Maturity  Duration of Unrealized Loss at June 30, 2018 By Maturity 
 Less than 12 months  Greater than 12 months  Total  Less than 12 months  Greater than 12 months  Total 
    Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross 
    Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized 
(Dollars in thousands) Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation 
Fixed maturity securities                                    
Due in one year or less $270,695  $(848) $123,092  $(13,069) $393,787  $(13,917) $628,144  $(2,598) $149,820  $(13,881) $777,964  $(16,479)
Due in one year through five years  1,680,251   (31,686)  644,557   (37,591)  2,324,808   (69,277)  3,911,655   (78,589)  1,547,737   (106,257)  5,459,392   (184,846)
Due in five years through ten years  639,836   (22,619)  136,548   (6,469)  776,384   (29,088)  1,270,453   (42,618)  367,885   (29,885)  1,638,338   (72,503)
Due after ten years  135,128   (3,873)  72,082   (3,131)  207,210   (7,004)  240,326   (13,548)  42,044   (2,217)  282,370   (15,765)
Asset-backed securities  189,752   (369)  6,262   (75)  196,014   (444)  315,541   (4,760)  92,906   (1,296)  408,447   (6,056)
Mortgage-backed securities  1,408,214   (13,956)  491,399   (11,502)  1,899,613   (25,458)  739,643   (14,222)  1,387,541   (59,179)  2,127,184   (73,401)
Total fixed maturity securities $4,323,876  $(73,351) $1,473,940  $(71,837) $5,797,816  $(145,188) $7,105,762  $(156,335) $3,587,933  $(212,715) $10,693,695  $(369,050)

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The aggregate market value and gross unrealized losses related to investments in an unrealized loss position at SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 were $5,909,831$10,693,695 thousand and $148,421$369,050 thousand, respectively.  The market value of securities for the single issuer (the United States government) whose securities comprised the largest unrealized loss position at SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, did not exceed 0.4%7.1% of the overall market value of the Company's fixed maturity securities.  The market value of the securities for the issuer with the second largest unrealized loss comprised less than 1.1% of the Company's fixed maturity securities.  In addition, as indicated on the above table, there was no significant concentration of unrealized losses in any one market sector.  The $73,351$156,335 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed maturity securities that have been in an unrealized loss position for less than one year were generally comprised of domestic and foreign corporate securities, U.S. government agencies and corporations, agency residential mortgage-backed securities and foreign government securities.  Of these unrealized losses, $69,276$135,754 thousand were related to securities that were rated investment grade by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating agency.  The $71,837$212,715 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed maturity securities in an unrealized loss position for more than one year related primarily to domestic andagency residential mortgage-backed securities, foreign corporate securities, foreign government securities, domestic corporate securities and agency residential mortgage-backed securities.U.S. government agencies and corporations.  Of these unrealized losses, $67,753$207,796 thousand were related to securities that were rated investment grade by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating agency.  The majority of these unrealized losses are attributable to net unrealized foreign exchange losses, as the U.S. dollar has strengthened against other currencies.  There was no gross unrealized depreciation for mortgage-backed securities related to sub-prime and alt-A loans.  In all instances, there were no projected cash flow shortfalls to recover the full book value of the investments and the related interest obligations.
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The mortgage-backed securities still have excess credit coverage and are current on interest and principal payments.

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

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


 Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2016 By Security Type  Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2017 By Security Type 
 Less than 12 months  Greater than 12 months  Total  Less than 12 months  Greater than 12 months  Total 
    Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross 
    Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized 
(Dollars in thousands) Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation 
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale                                    
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of                                    
U.S. government agencies and corporations $638,740  $(5,303) $-  $-  $638,740  $(5,303) $1,077,051  $(8,380) $224,189  $(5,696) $1,301,240  $(14,076)
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions  221,088   (11,486)  564   (484)  221,652   (11,970)  4,400   (27)  37,886   (417)  42,286   (444)
Corporate securities  1,360,743   (24,023)  177,153   (11,735)  1,537,896   (35,758)  1,779,292   (24,942)  700,098   (16,233)  2,479,390   (41,175)
Asset-backed securities  150,023   (565)  18,786   (721)  168,809   (1,286)  301,316   (1,467)  72,780   (515)  374,096   (1,982)
Mortgage-backed securities                                                
Commercial  143,554   (3,223)  7,184   (655)  150,738   (3,878)  101,821   (572)  64,272   (1,797)  166,093   (2,369)
Agency residential  1,618,372   (22,461)  189,665   (5,449)  1,808,037   (27,910)  610,941   (4,836)  1,343,547   (31,002)  1,954,488   (35,838)
Non-agency residential  -   -   113   (45)  113   (45)  -   -   69   (44)  69   (44)
Foreign government securities  360,289   (12,041)  236,820   (45,200)  597,109   (57,241)  327,790   (12,811)  331,432   (22,036)  659,222   (34,847)
Foreign corporate securities  687,599   (12,769)  295,500   (51,677)  983,099   (64,446)  691,865   (19,381)  450,860   (29,025)  1,142,725   (48,406)
Total fixed maturity securities $5,180,408  $(91,871) $925,785  $(115,966) $6,106,193  $(207,837) $4,894,476  $(72,416) $3,225,133  $(106,765) $8,119,609  $(179,181)
Equity securities  -   -   105,507   (12,784)  105,507   (12,784)  -   -   113,506   (3,372)  113,506   (3,372)
Total $5,180,408  $(91,871) $1,031,292  $(128,750) $6,211,700  $(220,621) $4,894,476  $(72,416) $3,338,639  $(110,137) $8,233,115  $(182,553)


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 Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2016 By Maturity  Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2017 By Maturity 
 Less than 12 months  Greater than 12 months  Total  Less than 12 months  Greater than 12 months  Total 
    Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross     Gross 
    Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Unrealized 
(Dollars in thousands) Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation  Market Value  Depreciation 
Fixed maturity securities                                    
Due in one year or less $178,281  $(1,122) $78,153  $(14,318) $256,434  $(15,440) $247,927  $(962) $206,113  $(7,643) $454,040  $(8,605)
Due in one year through five years  2,123,113   (26,263)  538,130   (84,803)  2,661,243   (111,066)  2,930,977   (42,480)  1,200,414   (52,143)  4,131,391   (94,623)
Due in five years through ten years  680,334   (22,555)  86,631   (8,754)  766,965   (31,309)  612,702   (20,154)  292,245   (12,680)  904,947   (32,834)
Due after ten years  286,731   (15,682)  7,123   (1,221)  293,854   (16,903)  88,792   (1,945)  45,693   (941)  134,485   (2,886)
Asset-backed securities  150,023   (565)  18,786   (721)  168,809   (1,286)  301,316   (1,467)  72,780   (515)  374,096   (1,982)
Mortgage-backed securities  1,761,926   (25,684)  196,962   (6,149)  1,958,888   (31,833)  712,762   (5,408)  1,407,888   (32,843)  2,120,650   (38,251)
Total fixed maturity securities $5,180,408  $(91,871) $925,785  $(115,966) $6,106,193  $(207,837) $4,894,476  $(72,416) $3,225,133  $(106,765) $8,119,609  $(179,181)


The aggregate market value and gross unrealized losses related to investments in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 20162017 were $6,211,700$8,233,115 thousand and $220,621$182,553 thousand, respectively.  The market value of securities for the single issuer (the United States government) whose securities comprised the largest unrealized loss position at December 31, 2016,2017, did not exceed 1.1%8.9% of the overall market value of the Company's fixed maturity securities.  The market value of the securities for the issuer with the second largest unrealized loss comprised less than 1.1% of the Company's fixed maturity securities.  In addition, as indicated on the above table, there was no significant concentration of unrealized losses in any one market sector.  The $91,871$72,416 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed maturity securities that have been in an unrealized loss position for less than one year were generally comprised of domestic and foreign corporate securities, foreign government securities, U.S. government agencies and corporations and agency residential mortgage-backed securities, foreign government securities and obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions.securities.  Of these unrealized losses, $85,078$68,107 thousand were related to securities that were rated investment grade by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating agency.  The $115,966$106,765 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed
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maturity securities in an unrealized loss position for more than one year related primarily to foreign governmentagency residential mortgage-backed securities, foreign corporate securities, andforeign government securities, domestic corporate securities.securities and U.S. government agencies and corporations.  Of these unrealized losses, $112,132$103,739 thousand is attributablewere related to net unrealized foreign exchange losses, as the U.S. dollar has strengthened against other currencies.securities that were rated investment grade by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating agency.  There was no gross unrealized depreciation for mortgage-backed securities related to sub-prime and alt-A loans.  In all instances, there were no projected cash flow shortfalls to recover the full book value of the investments and the related interest obligations.  The mortgage-backed securities still have excess credit coverage and are current on interest and principal payments.

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


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Fixed maturities $107,969  $100,752  $319,336  $306,128  $114,824  $108,122  $223,506  $211,367 
Equity securities  8,590   9,905   25,701   31,967   6,672   8,366   13,499   17,111 
Short-term investments and cash  974   475   2,439   1,220   2,092   835   3,824   1,465 
Other invested assets                                
Limited partnerships  23,315   17,077   54,373   33,922   21,996   20,060   45,377   31,058 
Other  2,095   1,033   6,652   1,334   2,659   2,285   6,984   4,557 
Gross investment income before adjustments  142,943   129,242   408,501   374,571   148,243   139,668   293,190   265,558 
Funds held interest income (expense)  2,284   1,538   7,156   5,818   1,939   1,724   5,569   4,872 
Future policy benefit reserve income (expense)  (280)  (517)  (1,015)  (1,243)  (359)  (416)  (568)  (735)
Gross investment income  144,947   130,263   414,642   379,146   149,823   140,976   298,191   269,695 
Investment expenses  (7,974)  (7,606)  (20,872)  (21,228)  (8,501)  (6,468)  (18,575)  (12,898)
Net investment income $136,973  $122,657  $393,770  $357,918  $141,322  $134,508  $279,616  $256,797 


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

The Company had contractual commitments to invest up to an additional $663,222$689,337 thousand in limited partnerships at SeptemberJune 30, 2017.2018.  These commitments will be funded when called in accordance with the partnership agreements, which have investment periods that expire, unless extended, through 2023.

The Company's other invested assets at SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 20162017 included $367,966$387,160 thousand and $378,862$447,915 thousand, respectively, related to a private placement liquidity sweep facility.  The primary purpose of the facility is to enhance the Company's return on its short-term investments and cash positions.  The facility invests in high quality, short-duration securities and permits daily liquidity.

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


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Fixed maturity securities, market value:                        
Other-than-temporary impairments $(1,485) $(867) $(5,188) $(31,130) $(888) $(2,475) $(958) $(3,703)
Gains (losses) from sales  7,998   5,912   32,913   (7,670)  (43)  13,543   10,349   24,915 
Fixed maturity securities, fair value:                                
Gains (losses) from sales  -   (1)  -   (1,855)  (1,068)  -   (1,082)  - 
Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments  -   42   -   1,381   958   -   958   - 
Equity securities, market value:                                
Gains (losses) from sales  -   -   (3,436)  65   -   -   -   (3,436)
Equity securities, fair value:                                
Gains (losses) from sales  (1,525)  5,850   3,796   (10,266)  (1,563)  805   (1,523)  5,321 
Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments  36,463   17,475   91,367   36,284   17,800   13,397   (17,453)  54,904 
Sale of subsidiary  -   (28,032)  -   (28,032)
Other invested assets  85   -   84   -   581   (2)  584   (1)
Short-term investments gain (loss)  (1)  1   (5)  2   (1)  -   -   (4)
Total net realized capital gains (losses) $41,535  $380  $119,531  $(41,221) $15,776  $25,268  $(9,125) $77,996 


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

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


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Proceeds from sales of fixed maturity securities $700,728  $293,998  $1,691,937  $890,349  $862,150  $562,718  $1,226,438  $991,209 
Gross gains from sales  13,743   15,028   46,321   32,674   6,824   17,105   19,826   32,578 
Gross losses from sales  (5,745)  (9,117)  (13,408)  (42,199)  (7,935)  (3,563)  (10,559)  (7,663)
                                
Proceeds from sales of equity securities $57,861  $112,451  $334,889  $542,715  $376,507  $117,911  $576,382  $277,028 
Gross gains from sales  2,258   7,308   14,351   14,040   7,359   3,885   14,046   12,093 
Gross losses from sales  (3,783)  (1,458)  (13,991)  (24,241)  (8,922)  (3,080)  (15,569)  (10,208)


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

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


 Nine Months Ended  Twelve Months Ended  Six Months Ended  Twelve Months Ended 
 September 30,  December 31,  June 30,  December 31, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2018  2017 
Gross reserves at beginning of period $10,312,313  $9,951,798  $11,884,321  $10,312,313 
Less reinsurance recoverables  (990,862)  (881,503)  (1,212,649)  (990,862)
Net reserves at beginning of period  9,321,451   9,070,295   10,671,672   9,321,451 
                
Incurred related to:                
Current year  3,843,434   3,434,964   1,963,766   4,815,967 
Prior years  (1,289)  (295,335)  434,725   (293,386)
Total incurred losses and LAE  3,842,145   3,139,629   2,398,491   4,522,581 
                
Paid related to:                
Current year  948,897   745,642   490,884   1,280,605 
Prior years  1,265,713   2,042,972   2,089,606   2,062,634 
Total paid losses and LAE  2,214,610   2,788,614   2,580,490   3,343,239 
                
Foreign exchange/translation adjustment  208,246   (99,859)  (67,978)  170,879 
                
Net reserves at end of period  11,157,232   9,321,451   10,421,695   10,671,672 
Plus reinsurance recoverables  1,298,125   990,862   1,621,639   1,212,649 
Gross reserves at end of period $12,455,357  $10,312,313  $12,043,334  $11,884,321 


Current year incurred losses were $3,843,434 thousand for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $3,434,964 thousand for the full year 2016.  The increase in current year incurred losses was primarily due to $1,443,746 thousand of catastrophe losses incurred in the nine months ended September 30, 2017, mainly related to Hurricane Irma, Hurricane Maria, Hurricane Harvey and the Mexico City earthquake.  The $307,263 thousand increase in reinsurance recoverables from December 31, 2016 is primarily due to recoverables from these catastrophe losses.

Incurred prior years' reserves decreasedincreased by $1,289 thousand and $295,335$434,725 thousand for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and decreased by $293,386 thousand for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016, respectively.2017.  The increase for the six months ended June 30, 2018, was due to $532,155 thousand of adverse development on prior years catastrophe losses, primarily related to Hurricane Harvey, Irma and Maria as well as the California wildfires.  The increase in loss estimates for Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria was mostly driven by re-opened claims reported in the second quarter of 2018 and loss inflation from higher than expected loss adjustment expenses and in particular, their impact on aggregate covers.  This reserve increase was partially offset by $97,430 thousand of favorable development on prior years attritional losses which mainly related to U.S. and international property and casualty reinsurance business.  The favorable development was primarily identified through reserve studies completed in the second quarter of 2018.  The decrease for the twelve months ended December 31, 20162017 was attributable to favorable development in the reinsurance segments of $468,749$238,378 thousand, related primarily to property and short-tail business in the U.S., property business in Canada, Latin America, Middle East and Africa,Bermuda as well as favorable development on prior year catastrophe losses, partially offset by $53,909$37,137 thousand of adverse development on asbestos and environmental ("A&E")&E reserves.  Part of theThe insurance segment also experienced favorable development on prior year reserves of $55,007 thousand mainly on its workers compensation business, which is largely written in theCalifornia.

14


The $408,990 thousand increase in reinsurance segmentsrecoverables from December 31, 2017 to June 30, 2018 is primarily related to the 2015 loss from the explosion at the Chinese port of Tianjin.  In 2015, this loss was originally estimated to be $60,000 thousand.  At December 31, 2016, this loss was projected to be $16,720 thousand resulting in $43,280 thousand of favorable development in 2016.  The net favorable developmentadditional catastrophe losses incurred in the second quarter of 2018 as well as a retroactive reinsurance segments was partially offset by $173,414 thousand of unfavorable developmenttransaction with a Mt. Logan Re segregated account effective in the insurance segment primarily related to run-off construction liability and umbrella program business.

15

second quarter of 2018.

5.     DERIVATIVES

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

The Company has five remaining equity index put option contracts, based on the Standard & Poor's 500 ("S&P 500") index.  Based on historical index volatilities and trends and the SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 S&P 500 index value, the Company estimates the probability that each equity index put option contract of the S&P 500 index falling below the strike price on the exercise date to be less than 2%.  The theoretical maximum payouts under these five equity index put option contracts would occur if on each of the exercise dates the S&P 500 index value were zero.  At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the present value of these theoretical maximum payouts using a 3% discount factor was $397,561$406,448 thousand.  Conversely, if the contracts had all expired on SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, with the S&P index at $2,519.36,$2,718.37, there would have been no settlement amount.

The Company has one equity index put option contract based on the FTSE 100 index.  Based on historical index volatilities and trends and the SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 FTSE 100 index value, the Company estimates the probability that the equity index put option contract of the FTSE 100 index will fall below the strike price on the exercise date to be less than 15%10%.  The theoretical maximum payout under the equity index put option contract would occur if on the exercise date the FTSE 100 index value was zero.  At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the present value of the theoretical maximum payout using a 3% discount factor and current exchange rate was $41,134$41,076 thousand.  Conversely, if the contract had expired on SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, with the FTSE index at ₤7,372.76,₤7,636.93, there would have been no settlement amount.

At SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, the fair value for these equity put options was $16,006$9,218 thousand and $22,059$12,477 thousand, respectively.

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


(Dollars in thousands)                
Derivatives not designated as Location of fair value At  At  Location of fair value At  At 
hedging instruments in balance sheets September 30, 2017  December 31, 2016  in balance sheets June 30, 2018  December 31, 2017 
                
Equity index put option contracts Equity index put option liability $16,006  $22,059  Equity index put option liability $9,218  $12,477 
Total   $16,006  $22,059    $9,218  $12,477 


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


(Dollars in thousands)   For the Three Months Ended  For the Nine Months Ended    For the Three Months Ended  For the Six Months Ended 
Derivatives not designated as Location of gain (loss) in statements of September 30,  September 30,  Location of gain (loss) in statements of June 30,  June 30, 
hedging instruments operations and comprehensive income (loss) 2017  2016  2017  2016  operations and comprehensive income (loss) 2018  2017  2018  2017 
                            
Equity index put option contracts Net derivative gain (loss) $2,656  $6,510  $6,052  $5,486  Net derivative gain (loss) $2,987  $766  $3,260  $3,396 
Total   $2,656  $6,510  $6,052  $5,486    $2,987  $766  $3,260  $3,396 


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6.     FAIR VALUE

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

The levels in the hierarchy are defined as follows:

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

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

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

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

In limited instances where prices are not provided by pricing services or in rare instances when a manager may not agree with the pricing service, price quotes on a non-binding basis are obtained from investment brokers.  The investment asset managers do not make any changes to prices received from either the pricing services or the investment brokers.  In addition, the investment asset managers have procedures in place to review the reasonableness of the prices from the service providers and may request verification of the prices.  In addition, the Company continually performs analytical reviews of price changes and tests the prices on a random basis to an independent pricing source.  No material variances were noted during these price validation procedures.  In limited situations, where financial markets are inactive or illiquid, the Company may use its own assumptions about future cash flows and risk-adjusted discount rates to determine fair value.  Due to the unavailability of prices for fifty-oneninety-one private placement securities theat June 30, 2018, an investment manager's valuation committee valued the fiftyeighty-five of these private placement securities at $105,987$247,863 thousand.  A majority of the fair values determined by the valuation committee are substantiated by valuations from independent third parties.  Four of the private placement securities totaling $95,444 thousand are valued by the investment manager at September 30, 2017.amortized cost.  In addition, the Company valued two private placement securities at $53,715 thousand, representing par value.  Due to the unavailability of prices for sixty-six private placement securities at December 31, 2017, an investment manager's valuation committee valued sixty-five of these private placement securities at $165,173 thousand.  In addition, the Company valued one private placement security at $51,965 thousand, representing par value.  Due to the unavailability of prices for forty-two private placement securities, the investment manager's valuation committee valued the forty-two securities at $86,536 thousand at December 31, 2016.

The Company internally manages a public equity portfolio which had a fair value at SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 20162017 of $361,608$490,863 thousand and $256,041$386,241 thousand, respectively, and all prices were obtained from publicallypublicly published sources.

1716


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18


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


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

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

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


    Fair Value Measurement Using:     Fair Value Measurement Using: 
    Quoted Prices           Quoted Prices       
    in Active  Significant        in Active  Significant    
    Markets for  Other  Significant     Markets for  Other  Significant 
    Identical  Observable  Unobservable     Identical  Observable  Unobservable 
    Assets  Inputs  Inputs     Assets  Inputs  Inputs 
(Dollars in thousands) September 30, 2017 (Level 1)  (Level 2)  (Level 3)  June 30, 2018  (Level 1)  (Level 2)  (Level 3) 
Assets:                        
Fixed maturities, market value                        
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of                        
U.S. government agencies and corporations $1,146,869  $-  $1,146,869  $-  $1,144,496  $-  $1,144,496  $- 
Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions  671,842   -   671,842   -   537,884   -   537,884   - 
Corporate securities  5,676,162   -   5,522,128   154,034   5,710,661   -   5,329,446   381,215 
Asset-backed securities  556,397   -   556,397   -   485,956   -   485,956   - 
Mortgage-backed securities                                
Commercial  252,791   -   252,791   -   222,975   -   222,975   - 
Agency residential  2,380,329   -   2,380,329   -   2,084,626   -   2,084,626   - 
Non-agency residential  517   -   517   -   60   -   60   - 
Foreign government securities  1,329,433   -   1,329,433   -   1,236,997   -   1,236,997   - 
Foreign corporate securities  2,763,835   -   2,759,917   3,918   2,819,235   -   2,806,620   12,615 
Total fixed maturities, market value  14,778,175   -   14,620,223   157,952   14,242,890   -   13,849,060   393,830 
                                
Equity securities, market value  127,425   112,015   15,410   - 
Fixed maturities, fair value  3,192   -   -   3,192 
Equity securities, fair value  1,141,146   1,094,754   46,392   -   1,220,770   1,180,851   39,919   - 
                                
Liabilities:                                
Equity index put option contracts $16,006  $-  $-  $16,006  $9,218  $-  $-  $9,218 


There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017.2018.

1918


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


    Fair Value Measurement Using:     Fair Value Measurement Using: 
    Quoted Prices           Quoted Prices       
    in Active  Significant        in Active  Significant    
    Markets for  Other  Significant     Markets for  Other  Significant 
    Identical  Observable  Unobservable     Identical  Observable  Unobservable 
    Assets  Inputs  Inputs     Assets  Inputs  Inputs 
(Dollars in thousands) December 31, 2016  (Level 1)  (Level 2)  (Level 3)  December 31, 2017  (Level 1)  (Level 2)  (Level 3) 
Assets:                        
Fixed maturities, market value                        
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of                        
U.S. government agencies and corporations $1,130,315  $-  $1,130,315  $-  $1,536,692  $-  $1,536,692  $- 
Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions  729,984   -   729,984   -   585,469   -   585,469   - 
Corporate securities  5,155,281   -   5,090,084   65,197   5,699,005   -   5,488,819   210,186 
Asset-backed securities  488,648   -   488,648   -   531,360   -   531,360   - 
Mortgage-backed securities                                
Commercial  306,932   -   306,932   -   234,041   -   234,041   - 
Agency residential  2,405,469   -   2,405,469   -   2,210,902   -   2,210,902   - 
Non-agency residential  641   -   641   -   494   -   494   - 
Foreign government securities  1,258,160   -   1,258,160   -   1,314,027   -   1,314,027   - 
Foreign corporate securities  2,631,978   -   2,629,440   2,538   2,644,844   -   2,637,892   6,952 
Total fixed maturities, market value  14,107,408   -   14,039,673   67,735   14,756,834   -   14,539,696   217,138 
                                
Equity securities, market value  119,067   105,507   13,560   -   129,530   113,506   16,024   - 
Equity securities, fair value  1,010,085   949,523   60,562   -   963,572   941,739   21,833   - 
                                
Liabilities:                                
Equity index put option contracts $22,059  $-  $-  $22,059  $12,477  $-  $-  $12,477 


In addition, $70,657$96,162 thousand and $18,801$79,505 thousand of investments within other invested assets on the consolidated balance sheets as of SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, respectively, are not included within the fair value hierarchy tables as the assets are valued using themeasured at NAV as a practical expedient guidance within ASU 2015-07.

20

to determine fair value.

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


 Total Fixed Maturities, Market Value 
 Three Months Ended September 30, 2017  Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017  Three Months Ended June 30, 2018  Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 
 Corporate  Foreign     Corporate  Foreign     Corporate  Foreign     Corporate  Foreign    
(Dollars in thousands) Securities  Corporate  Total  Securities  Corporate  Total  Securities  Corporate  Total  Securities  Corporate  Total 
Beginning balance $138,105  $3,151  $141,256  $65,197  $2,538  $67,735 
Beginning balance fixed maturities at market value $220,555  $11,368  $231,923  $210,186  $6,952  $217,138 
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized)                                                
Included in earnings  283   209   492   1,208   313   1,521   624   (504)  120   1,346   (410)  936 
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)  18   (184)  (166)  161   (184)  (23)  190   -   190   425   -   425 
Purchases, issuances and settlements  15,628   742   16,370   87,468   1,251   88,719   159,846   1   159,847   169,258   4,323   173,581 
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   1,750   1,750   -   1,750   1,750 
Ending balance $154,034  $3,918  $157,952  $154,034  $3,918  $157,952  $381,215  $12,615  $393,830  $381,215  $12,615  $393,830 
                                                
The amount of total gains or losses for the period                                                
included in earnings (or changes in net assets)                                                
attributable to the change in unrealized gains                                                
or losses relating to assets still held                                                
at the reporting date $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $- 
                                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                                

19



  Total Fixed Maturities, Market Value 
  Three Months Ended June 30, 2017  Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 
  Corporate  Foreign     Corporate  Foreign    
(Dollars in thousands) Securities  Corporate  Total  Securities  Corporate  Total 
Beginning balance fixed maturities at market value $84,322  $2,802  $87,124  $65,197  $2,538  $67,735 
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized)                        
Included in earnings  711   128   839   925   104   1,029 
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)  172   -   172   143   -   143 
Purchases, issuances and settlements  52,900   221   53,121   71,840   509   72,349 
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3  -   -   -   -   -   - 
Ending balance $138,105  $3,151  $141,256  $138,105  $3,151  $141,256 
                         
The amount of total gains or losses for the period                        
included in earnings (or changes in net assets)                        
attributable to the change in unrealized gains                        
or losses relating to assets still held                        
 at the reporting date $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $- 
                         
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                        



 Total Fixed Maturities, Fair Value 
 Three Months Ended September 30, 2016  Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016  Three Months Ended June 30, 2018  Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 
 Corporate     Foreign     Corporate     Foreign     Foreign     Foreign    
(Dollars in thousands) Securities  CMBS  Corporate  Total  Securities  CMBS  Corporate  Total  Corporate  Total  Corporate  Total 
Beginning balance $32,410  $-  $2,021  $34,431  $3,933  $-  $1,593  $5,526 
Beginning balance fixed maturities at fair value $1,821  $1,821  $-  $- 
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized)                                                
Included in earnings  (12)  -   27   15   (22)  -   (970)  (992)  (142)  (142)  (156)  (156)
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)  (48)  (38)  (1,285)  (1,371)  (81)  (38)  140   21   32   32   32   32 
Purchases, issuances and settlements  25,877   (44)  2,231   28,064   54,397   (44)  2,231   56,584   1,481   1,481   3,316   3,316 
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3  (1,932)  3,947   -   2,015   (1,932)  3,947   -   2,015   -   -   -   - 
Ending balance $56,295  $3,865  $2,994  $63,154  $56,295  $3,865  $2,994  $63,154  $3,192  $3,192  $3,192  $3,192 
                                                
The amount of total gains or losses for the period                                                
included in earnings (or changes in net assets)                                                
attributable to the change in unrealized gains                                                
or losses relating to assets still held                                                
at the reporting date $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $(997) $(997) $-  $-  $-  $- 
                                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                                

Total Fixed Maturities, Fair Value
Three Months Ended June 30, 2017Six Months Ended June 30, 2017
ForeignForeign
(Dollars in thousands)CorporateTotalCorporateTotal
Beginning balance fixed maturities at fair value$-$-$-$-
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings----
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)----
Purchases, issuances and settlements----
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3----
Ending balance$-$-$-$-
The amount of total gains or losses for the period
included in earnings (or changes in net assets)
attributable to the change in unrealized gains
or losses relating to assets still held
 at the reporting date$-$-$-$-
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)


The net transfers to/(from) level 3, fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs were $0$1,750 thousand for both the three and $2,015 thousand of investments for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.2018 for fixed maturities, market value.  The $2,015 thousand of investments for the nine months ended September 30, 2016transfers related to the net impact of securities no longerthat were priced byusing a recognized pricing service.service as of December 31, 2017.  The securities were subsequently priced using single non-binding broker quotes as of June 30, 2018.

2120


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


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Liabilities:                        
Balance, beginning of period $18,662  $41,729  $22,059  $40,705  $12,205  $19,429  $12,477  $22,059 
Total (gains) or losses (realized/unrealized)                                
Included in earnings  (2,656)  (6,510)  (6,052)  (5,486)  (2,987)  (766)  (3,260)  (3,396)
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 
Purchases, issuances and settlements  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 
Balance, end of period $16,006  $35,219  $16,006  $35,219  $9,218  $18,662  $9,218  $18,662 
                                
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings                                
(or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized                                
gains or losses relating to liabilities still held at the reporting date $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $- 
                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                


7.     EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding.  Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution that would occur if options granted under various share-based compensation plans were exercised resulting in the issuance of common shares that would participate in the earnings of the entity.

Net income (loss) per common share has been computed as per below, based upon weighted average common basic and dilutive shares outstanding.  The dilutive calculation is not applicable for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 due to net losses.


   Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended    Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
   September 30,  September 30,   June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 2017  2016  2017  2016 (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 2018  2017  2018  2017 
Net income (loss) per share:Net income (loss) per share:            Net income (loss) per share:            
NumeratorNumerator            Numerator            
Net income (loss)Net income (loss) $(639,374) $295,394  $(102,057) $622,772 Net income (loss) $69,895  $245,674  $280,213  $537,317 
Less: dividends declared-common shares and nonvested common sharesLess: dividends declared-common shares and nonvested common shares  (51,302)  (47,463)  (153,887)  (144,299)Less: dividends declared-common shares and nonvested common shares  (53,240)  (51,304)  (106,480)  (102,585)
Undistributed earningsUndistributed earnings  (690,676)  247,932   (255,944)  478,472 Undistributed earnings  16,655   194,370   173,733   434,731 
Percentage allocated to common shareholders (1)
Percentage allocated to common shareholders (1)
  100.0%  98.9%  100.0%  98.9%
Percentage allocated to common shareholders (1)
  98.9%  98.9%  98.9%  98.9%
   (690,676)  245,248   (255,944)  473,372    16,477   192,279   171,881   430,035 
Add: dividends declared-common shareholdersAdd: dividends declared-common shareholders  51,302   46,985   153,887   142,839 Add: dividends declared-common shareholders  52,705   50,790   105,403   101,543 
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common shareNumerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share $(639,374) $292,233  $(102,057) $616,211 Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share $69,183  $243,068  $277,284  $531,577 
                                  
DenominatorDenominator                Denominator                
Denominator for basic earnings per weighted-average common sharesDenominator for basic earnings per weighted-average common shares  40,638   41,101   40,597   41,626 Denominator for basic earnings per weighted-average common shares  40,504   40,624   40,487   40,577 
Effect of dilutive securities:Effect of dilutive securities:                Effect of dilutive securities:                
OptionsOptions  245   284   255   305 Options  206   250   213   259 
Denominator for diluted earnings per adjusted weighted-average common sharesDenominator for diluted earnings per adjusted weighted-average common shares  40,883   41,386   40,852   41,931 Denominator for diluted earnings per adjusted weighted-average common shares  40,710   40,874   40,699   40,836 
                                  
Per common share net income (loss)Per common share net income (loss)                Per common share net income (loss)                
BasicBasic $(15.73) $7.11  $(2.51) $14.80 Basic $1.71  $5.98  $6.85  $13.10 
DilutedDiluted $(15.73) $7.06  $(2.51) $14.70 Diluted $1.70  $5.95  $6.81  $13.02 
                                  
(1)
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding  40,638   41,101   40,597   41,626 Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding  40,504   40,624   40,487   40,577 
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding and nonvested common shares expected to vest  40,638   41,551   40,597   42,074 Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding and nonvested common shares expected to vest  40,943   41,066   40,923   41,020 
Percentage allocated to common shareholders  100.0%  98.9%  100.0%  98.9%Percentage allocated to common shareholders  98.9%  98.9%  98.9%  98.9%
                                  
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                

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There were no anti-diluted options outstanding for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016.2017.

All outstanding options expire on or between February 20, 201818, 2019 and September 19, 2022.


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8.     COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

In the ordinary course of business, the Company is involved in lawsuits, arbitrations and other formal and informal dispute resolution procedures, the outcomes of which will determine the Company's rights and obligations under insurance and reinsurance agreements.  In some disputes, the Company seeks to enforce its rights under an agreement or to collect funds owing to it.  In other matters, the Company is resisting attempts by others to collect funds or enforce alleged rights.  These disputes arise from time to time and are ultimately resolved through both informal and formal means, including negotiated resolution, arbitration and litigation.  In all such matters, the Company believes that its positions are legally and commercially reasonable.  The Company considers the statuses of these proceedings when determining its reserves for unpaid loss and loss adjustment expenses.

Aside from litigation and arbitrations related to these insurance and reinsurance agreements, the Company is not a party to any other material litigation or arbitration.

The Company has entered into separate annuity agreements with The Prudential Insurance Company of America ("The Prudential") and an additional unaffiliated life insurance company in which the Company has either purchased annuity contracts or become the assignee of annuity proceeds that are meant to settle claim payment obligations in the future.  In both instances, the Company would become contingently liable if either The Prudential or the unaffiliated life insurance company were unable to make payments related to the respective annuity contract.

The table below presents the estimated cost to replace all such annuities for which the Company was contingently liable for the periods indicated:


 At September 30,  At December 31,  At June 30,  At December 31, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2018  2017 
The Prudential $144,331  $146,507  $144,353  $144,618 
Unaffiliated life insurance company  33,769   33,860   33,372   34,444 


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9.    OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

The following tables present the components of comprehensive income (loss) in the consolidated statements of operations for the periods indicated:


 Three Months Ended September 30, 2017  Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017  Three Months Ended June 30, 2018  Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 
(Dollars in thousands) Before Tax  Tax Effect  Net of Tax  Before Tax  Tax Effect  Net of Tax  Before Tax  Tax Effect  Net of Tax  Before Tax  Tax Effect  Net of Tax 
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary $(3,197) $(2,835) $(6,032) $18,844  $3,699  $22,543  $(41,271) $(906) $(42,177) $(250,431) $17,840  $(232,591)
URA(D) on securities - OTTI  306   55   361   (5,189)  1,391   (3,798)  456   (55)  401   267   (76)  191 
Reclassification of net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)  (6,598)  1,061   (5,537)  (24,373)  7,644   (16,729)  350   (101)  249   (9,975)  1,452   (8,523)
Foreign currency translation adjustments  96,022   (18,458)  77,564   148,395   (23,271)  125,124   (69,202)  5,550   (63,652)  (51,857)  5,904   (45,953)
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss)  -   -   -   -   -   - 
Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss)  2,107   (738)  1,369   8,273   (2,896)  5,377   2,297   (482)  1,815   4,595   (965)  3,630 
Total other comprehensive income (loss) $88,640  $(20,915) $67,725  $145,950  $(13,433) $132,517  $(107,370) $4,006  $(103,364) $(307,401) $24,155  $(283,246)



 Three Months Ended September 30, 2016  Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016  Three Months Ended June 30, 2017  Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 
(Dollars in thousands) Before Tax  Tax Effect  Net of Tax  Before Tax  Tax Effect  Net of Tax  Before Tax  Tax Effect  Net of Tax  Before Tax  Tax Effect  Net of Tax 
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary $(5,972) $(2,079) $(8,051) $295,311  $(42,643) $252,668  $(9,165) $14,916  $5,751  $22,041  $6,534  $28,575 
URA(D) on securities - OTTI  (1,836)  855   (981)  7,088   (1,470)  5,618   (994)  111   (883)  (5,495)  1,336   (4,159)
Reclassification of net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)  (5,045)  1,823   (3,222)  38,734   (11,023)  27,711   (11,067)  2,074   (8,993)  (17,775)  6,583   (11,192)
Foreign currency translation adjustments  1,393   1,423   2,816   32,601   (14,962)  17,639   38,560   (2,893)  35,667   52,373   (4,813)  47,560 
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss)  -   -   -   -   -   - 
Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss)  1,951   (683)  1,268   6,076   (2,127)  3,949   3,083   (1,079)  2,004   6,166   (2,158)  4,008 
Total other comprehensive income (loss) $(9,510) $1,340  $(8,170) $379,809  $(72,224) $307,585  $20,417  $13,129  $33,546  $57,310  $7,482  $64,792 

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The following table presents details of the amounts reclassified from AOCI for the periods indicated:


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended    Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended   
 September 30,  September 30,  Affected line item within the statements of June 30,  June 30,  Affected line item within the statements of
AOCI component 2017  2016  2017  2016  operations and comprehensive income (loss) 2018  2017  2018  2017  operations and comprehensive income (loss)
(Dollars in thousands)                                    
URA(D) on securities $(6,598) $(5,045) $(24,373) $38,734  Other net realized capital gains (losses) $350  $(11,067) $(9,975) $(17,775) Other net realized capital gains (losses)
  1,061   1,823   7,644   (11,023) Income tax expense (benefit)  (101)  2,074   1,452   6,583  Income tax expense (benefit)
 $(5,537) $(3,222) $(16,729) $27,711  Net income (loss) $249  $(8,993) $(8,523) $(11,192) Net income (loss)
                                              
Benefit plan net gain (loss) $2,107  $1,951  $8,273  $6,076  Other underwriting expenses $2,297  $3,083  $4,595  $6,166  Other underwriting expenses
  (738)  (683)  (2,896)  (2,127) Income tax expense (benefit)  (482)  (1,079)  (965)  (2,158) Income tax expense (benefit)
 $1,369  $1,268  $5,377  $3,949  Net income (loss) $1,815  $2,004  $3,630  $4,008  Net income (loss)

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The following table presents the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, in the consolidated balance sheets for the periods indicated:


 Nine Months Ended  Twelve Months Ended  Six Months Ended  Twelve Months Ended 
 September 30,  December 31,  June 30,  December 31, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2018  2017 
Beginning balance of URA (D) on securities $115,558  $42,811  $49,969  $115,558 
Current period change in URA (D) of investments - temporary  5,814   66,802   (241,114)  (67,268)
Current period change in URA (D) of investments - non-credit OTTI  (3,798)  5,945   191   (4,030)
Reclass due to early adoption of ASU 2018-02  -   5,709 
Cumulative change due to ASU 2016-01  (1,201)  - 
Ending balance of URA (D) on securities  117,574   115,558   (192,155)  49,969 
                
Beginning balance of foreign currency translation adjustments  (266,818)  (211,477)  (138,931)  (266,818)
Current period change in foreign currency translation adjustments  125,124   (55,341)  (45,953)  121,917 
Reclass due to early adoption of ASU 2018-02  -   5,970 
Ending balance of foreign currency translation adjustments  (141,694)  (266,818)  (184,884)  (138,931)
                
Beginning balance of benefit plan net gain (loss)  (65,504)  (63,089)  (71,929)  (65,504)
Current period change in benefit plan net gain (loss)  5,377   (2,415)  3,630   6,504 
Reclass due to early adoption of ASU 2018-02  -   (12,929)
Ending balance of benefit plan net gain (loss)  (60,127)  (65,504)  (68,299)  (71,929)
                
Ending balance of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $(84,247) $(216,764) $(445,338) $(160,891)
        
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)        


10.  CREDIT FACILITIES

The Company has two active credit facilities for a total commitment of up to $1,000,000$1,050,000 thousand and an additional credit facility for a total commitment of up to £145,000 thousand, providing for the issuance of letters of credit and/or unsecured revolving credit lines.  The following table presents the interest and fees incurred in connection with the two credit facilities for the periods indicated:


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Credit facility interest and fees incurred $105  $35  $315  $618  $105  $106  $210  $210 
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The terms and outstanding amounts for each facility are discussed below:

Group Credit Facility

Effective May 26, 2016, Group, Everest Reinsurance (Bermuda), Ltd. ("Bermuda Re") and Everest International Reinsurance, Ltd. ("Everest International"), both direct subsidiaries of Group, entered into a five year, $800,000 thousand senior credit facility with a syndicate of lenders, which amended and restated in its entirety the June 22, 2012, four year, $800,000 thousand senior credit facility.  Both the May 26, 2016 and June 22, 2012 senior credit facilities, which have similar terms, are referred to as the "Group Credit Facility".  Wells Fargo Corporation ("Wells Fargo Bank") is the administrative agent for the Group Credit Facility, which consists of two tranches.  Tranche one provides up to $200,000 thousand of unsecured revolving credit for liquidity and general corporate purposes, and for the issuance of unsecured standby letters of credit.  The interest on the revolving loans shall, at the Company's option, be either (1) the Base Rate (as defined below) or (2) an adjusted London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus a margin.  The Base Rate is the higher of (a) the prime commercial lending rate established by Wells Fargo Bank, (b) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5% per annum or (c) the one month LIBOR Rate plus 1.0% per annum.  The amount of margin and the fees payable for the Group Credit Facility depends on Group's senior unsecured debt rating.  Tranche two exclusively provides up to $600,000 thousand for the issuance of standby letters of credit on a collateralized basis.

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The Group Credit Facility requires Group to maintain a debt to capital ratio of not greater than 0.35 to 1 and to maintain a minimum net worth.  Minimum net worth is an amount equal to the sum of $5,370,979 thousand plus 25% of consolidated net income for each of Group's fiscal quarters, for which statements are available ending on or after March 31, 2016 and for which consolidated net income is positive, plus 25% of any increase in consolidated net worth during such period attributable to the issuance of ordinary and preferred shares, which at SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, was $5,723,052$5,939,502 thousand.  As of SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the Company was in compliance with all Group Credit Facility covenants.


(Dollars in thousands)  At September 30, 2017 At December 31, 2016(Dollars in thousands) At June 30, 2018 At December 31, 2017
Bank  Commitment  In Use Date of Expiry Commitment  In Use Date of ExpiryBank Commitment  In Use Date of Expiry Commitment  In Use Date of Expiry
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit FacilityTranche One $200,000  $-   $200,000  $-  Tranche One $200,000  $-   $200,000  $-  
Tranche Two   600,000   507,916 12/31/2017  600,000   478,233 12/31/2017Tranche Two   600,000   571,792 12/31/2018  600,000   538,214 12/31/2018
Total Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility  $800,000  $507,916   $800,000  $478,233  Total Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility $800,000  $571,792   $800,000  $538,214  


Bermuda Re Letter of Credit Facility

Effective December 30, 2016,29, 2017, Bermuda Re renewed its letter of credit issuance facility with Citibank N.A. referred to as the "Bermuda Re Letter of Credit Facility", which commitment is reconfirmed annually with updated fees.  The current renewal of the Bermuda Re Letter of Credit Facility provides for the issuance of up to $200,000$250,000 thousand of secured letters of credit to collateralize reinsurance obligations as a non-admitted reinsurer.  The interest on drawn letters of credit shall be (A) 0.35% per annum of the principal amount of issued standard letters of credit (expiry of 15 months or less) and (B) 0.45% per annum of the principal amount of issued extended tenor letters of credit (expiry maximum of up to 60 months).  The commitment fee on undrawn credit shall be 0.15% per annum.

The following table summarizes the outstanding letters of credit for the periods indicated:


(Dollars in thousands) At September 30, 2017 At December 31, 2016 At June 30, 2018 At December 31, 2017
Bank Commitment  In Use Date of Expiry Commitment  In Use Date of Expiry Commitment  In Use Date of Expiry Commitment  In Use Date of Expiry
Citibank Bilateral Letter of Credit Agreement $200,000  $3,672 11/24/2017 $200,000  $4,058 2/28/2017 $250,000  $3,672 11/24/2018 $250,000  $3,297 2/28/2018
      68,353 12/31/2017      3,672 11/24/2017      64,126 12/31/2018      3,672 11/24/2018
      3,297 2/28/2018      69,404 12/31/2017      2,412 2/28/2019      73,626 12/31/2018
      353 8/30/2018      269 8/30/2018      328 8/30/2019      344 8/30/2019
      4,019 12/31/2018      1,163 12/31/2018      2,416 12/31/2019      93,855 12/30/2021
      105,485 9/30/2021      93,180 12/30/2020      91,905 6/30/2022      -  
Total Citibank Bilateral Agreement $200,000  $185,179   $200,000  $171,746   $250,000  $164,859   $250,000  $174,794  


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Everest International Credit Facility

Effective November 9, 2016, Everest International renewed its credit facility with Lloyds Bank plc ("Everest International Credit Facility").  The current renewal of the Everest International Credit Facility, along with a May 17, 2017 amendment, has a four year term and provides up to £145,000 thousand for the issuance of standby letters of credit on a collateralized basis.  The Company pays a commitment fee of 0.1% per annum on the average daily amount of the remainder of (1) the aggregate amount available under the facility and (2) the aggregate amount of drawings outstanding under the facility.  The Company pays a credit commission fee of 0.35% per annum on drawings outstanding under the facility.

The Everest International Credit Facility requires Group to maintain a debt to capital ratio of not greater than 0.35 to 1 and to maintain a minimum net worth.  Minimum net worth is an amount equal to the sum of $5,326,009 thousand (70% of consolidated net worth as of December 31, 2015), plus 25% of consolidated net income for each of Group's fiscal quarters, for which statements are available ending on or after January 1, 2015 and for which net income is positive, plus 25% of any increase in consolidated net worth of Group during such period attributable to the issuance of ordinary and preferred shares, which at SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, was $5,723,052$5,939,502 thousand.  As of SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the Company was in compliance with all Everest International Credit Facility requirements.

26


The following table summarizes the outstanding letters of credit for the periods indicated:


(Dollars in thousands) At September 30, 2017 At December 31, 2016 At June 30, 2018 At December 31, 2017
Bank Commitment  In Use Date of Expiry Commitment  In Use Date of Expiry Commitment  In Use Date of Expiry Commitment  In Use Date of Expiry
Lloyds Bank plc £145,000  £140,964 12/31/2020 £140,000  £130,606 12/31/2019
Lloyd's Bank plc £145,000  £-   £145,000  £-  
  -   -    -   -    -   -    -   -  
Total Lloyds Bank plc Credit Facility £145,000  £140,964   £140,000  £130,606  
Total Lloyd's Bank Credit Facility £145,000  £-   £145,000  £-  


11.  COLLATERALIZED REINSURANCE AND TRUST AGREEMENTS

Certain subsidiaries of Group have established trust agreements, which effectively use the Company's investments as collateral, as security for assumed losses payable to certain non-affiliated ceding companies.  At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the total amount on deposit in trust accounts was $794,469$897,645 thousand.

The Company reinsures some of its catastrophe exposures with the segregated accounts of Mt. Logan Re.  Mt. Logan Re is a Class 3 insurer registered in Bermuda effective February 27, 2013 under The Segregated Accounts Companies Act 2000 and 100% of the voting common shares are owned by Group.  Separate segregated accounts for Mt. Logan Re began being established effective July 1, 2013 and non-voting, redeemable preferred shares have been issued to capitalize the segregated accounts.  Each segregated account invests predominately in a diversified set of catastrophe exposures, diversified by risk/peril and across different geographic regions globally.

The following table summarizes the premiums and losses that are ceded by the Company to Mt. Logan Re segregated accounts and assumed by the Company from Mt. Logan Re segregated accounts.


 Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
 September 30, September 30, June 30, June 30,
Mt. Logan Re Segregated Accounts 2017 2016 2017 2016 2018 2017 2018 2017
(Dollars in thousands)                
Ceded written premiums  64,003  65,093  160,949  157,939  45,887  42,728  126,923  96,946
Ceded earned premiums  55,708  53,007  154,191  143,856  65,067  57,886  126,476  98,483
Ceded losses and LAE  197,395  8,725  241,792  38,459  133,762  24,812  154,831  44,397
                
Assumed written premiums  2,587  5,032  9,082  11,666  1,604  3,763  4,647  6,495
Assumed earned premiums  2,587  5,032  9,082  11,666  1,604  3,763  4,647  6,495
Assumed losses and LAE  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -


25


Each segregated account is permitted to assume net risk exposures equal to the amount of its available posted collateral, which in the aggregate was $832,679$1,151,595 thousand and $932,243$837,202 thousand at SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, respectively.  Of this amount, Group had investments valued at $50,935$46,095 thousand and $58,955$50,373 thousand at SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, respectively, in the segregated accounts.

Effective April 1, 2018, the Company entered into a retroactive reinsurance transaction with one of the Mt. Logan Re segregated accounts to retrocede $269,198 thousand of casualty reserves held by Bermuda Re related to accident years 2002 through 2015.  As consideration for entering the agreement, the Company transferred cash of $252,000 thousand to the Mt. Logan Re segregated account.  The maximum liability to be retroceded under the agreement will be $319,000 thousand.  The Company will retain liability for any amounts exceeding the maximum liability.

On April 24, 2014, the Company entered into two collateralized reinsurance agreements with Kilimanjaro Re Limited ("Kilimanjaro"), a Bermuda based special purpose reinsurer, to provide the Company with catastrophe reinsurance coverage.  These agreements are multi-year reinsurance contracts which cover specified named storm and earthquake events.  The first agreement provides up to $250,000 thousand of reinsurance coverage from named storms in specified states of the Southeastern United States.  The second agreement provides up to $200,000 thousand of reinsurance coverage from named storms in specified states of the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions of the United States and Puerto Rico as well as reinsurance coverage from earthquakes in specified states of the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, Northeast and West regions of the United States, Puerto Rico and British Columbia.  These reinsurance agreements expired in April, 2018.

On November 18, 2014, the Company entered into a collateralized reinsurance agreement with Kilimanjaro to provide the Company with catastrophe reinsurance coverage.  This agreement is a multi-year reinsurance contract which covers specified earthquake events.  The agreement provides up to $500,000 thousand of reinsurance coverage from earthquakes in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada.

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On December 1, 2015 the Company entered into two collateralized reinsurance agreements with Kilimanjaro to provide the Company with catastrophe reinsurance coverage.  These agreements are multi-year reinsurance contracts which cover named storm and earthquake events.  The first agreement provides up to $300,000 thousand of reinsurance coverage from named storms and earthquakes in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada.  The second agreement provides up to $325,000 thousand of reinsurance coverage from named storms and earthquakes in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada.

On April 13, 2017 the Company entered into six collateralized reinsurance agreements with Kilimanjaro to provide the Company with annual aggregate catastrophe reinsurance coverage.  The initial three agreements are four year reinsurance contracts which cover named storm and earthquake events.  These agreements provide up to $225,000 thousand, $400,000 thousand and $325,000 thousand, respectively, of annual aggregate reinsurance coverage from named storms and earthquakes in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada.  The subsequent three agreements are five year reinsurance contracts which cover named storm and earthquake events.  These agreements provide up to $50,000 thousand, $75,000 thousand and $175,000 thousand, respectively, of annual aggregate reinsurance coverage from named storms and earthquakes in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada.

On April 30, 2018 the Company entered into four collateralized reinsurance agreements with Kilimanjaro Re to provide the Company with catastrophe reinsurance coverage.  These agreements are multi-year reinsurance contracts which cover named storm and earthquake events.  The first two agreements are four year reinsurance contracts which provide up to $62,500 thousand and $200,000 thousand, respectively, of annual aggregate reinsurance coverage from named storms and earthquakes in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada.  The remaining two agreements are five year reinsurance contracts which provide up to $62,500 thousand and $200,000 thousand, respectively, of annual aggregate reinsurance coverage from named storms and earthquakes in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada.

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Recoveries under these collateralized reinsurance agreements with Kilimanjaro are primarily dependent on estimated industry level insured losses from covered events, as well as, the geographic location of the events.  The estimated industry level of insured losses is obtained from published estimates by an independent recognized authority on insured property losses.  As of September 30,December 31, 2017, none of the published insured loss estimates for the 2017 catastrophe events have exceeded the single event retentions under the terms of the agreements that would result in a recovery.  In addition, the aggregation of the to dateto-date published insured loss estimates for the 2017 covered events have not exceeded the aggregated retentions for recovery.  However, if the published estimates for insured losses for the covered 2017 events increase, or if there are additional covered events during the remainder of 2017, the aggregate losses may exceed the aggregate event retentions under the agreements resulting in a recovery.

Kilimanjaro has financed the various property catastrophe reinsurance coverages by issuing catastrophe bonds to unrelated, external investors.  On April 24, 2014, Kilimanjaro issued $450,000 thousand of notes ("Series 2014-1 Notes").  The $450,000 thousand of Series 2014-1 Notes were fully redeemed on April 30, 2018 and are no longer outstanding.  On November 18, 2014, Kilimanjaro issued $500,000 thousand of notes ("Series 2014-2 Notes").  On December 1, 2015, Kilimanjaro issued $625,000 thousand of notes ("Series 2015-1 Notes).  On April 13, 2017, Kilimanjaro issued $950,000 thousand of notes ("Series 2017-1 Notes) and $300,000 thousand of notes ("Series 2017-2 Notes).  On April 30, 2018, Kilimanjaro issued $262,500 thousand of notes ("Series 2018-1 Notes") and $262,500 thousand of notes ("Series 2018-2 Notes").  The proceeds from the issuance of the Notes listed above are held in reinsurance trust throughout the duration of the applicable reinsurance agreements and invested solely in US government money market funds with a rating of at least "AAAm" by Standard & Poor's.

12.  SENIOR NOTES

The table below displays Holdings' outstanding senior notes.  Market value is based on quoted market prices, but due to limited trading activity, these senior notes are considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.


       September 30, 2017  December 31, 2016         June 30, 2018  December 31, 2017 
       Consolidated Balance     Consolidated Balance            Consolidated Balance     Consolidated Balance    
(Dollars in thousands)Date Issued Date Due Principal Amounts  Sheet Amount  Market Value  Sheet Amount  Market Value  Date Issued Date Due Principal Amounts  Sheet Amount  Market Value  Sheet Amount  Market Value 
4.868% Senior notes06/05/2014 06/01/2044  400,000  $396,804  $420,008  $396,714  $383,612  06/05/2014 06/01/2044  400,000  $396,894  $396,728  $396,834  $420,340 


On June 5, 2014, Holdings issued $400,000 thousand of 30 year senior notes at 4.868%, which will mature on June 1, 2044.  Interest will be paid semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year.

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Interest expense incurred in connection with these senior notes is as follows for the periods indicated:


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Interest expense incurred $4,868  $4,868  $14,604  $14,604  $4,868  $4,868  $9,736  $9,736 


13.  LONG TERM SUBORDINATED NOTES

The table below displays Holdings' outstanding fixed to floating rate long term subordinated notes.  Market value is based on quoted market prices, but due to limited trading activity, these subordinated notes are considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.


     Maturity Date September 30, 2017  December 31, 2016      Maturity Date June 30, 2018  December 31, 2017 
   Original       Consolidated Balance     Consolidated Balance       Original       Consolidated Balance     Consolidated Balance    
(Dollars in thousands)Date Issued Principal Amount  Scheduled Final Sheet Amount  Market Value  Sheet Amount  Market Value Date Issued Principal Amount  Scheduled Final Sheet Amount  Market Value  Sheet Amount  Market Value 
6.6% Long term subordinated notes04/26/2007 $400,000  05/15/2037 05/01/2067 $236,536  $221,380  $236,462  $204,636 04/26/2007 $400,000  05/15/2037 05/01/2067 $236,610  $236,651  $236,561  $233,072 


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During the fixed rate interest period from May 3, 2007 through May 14, 2017, interest was at the annual rate of 6.6%, payable semi-annually in arrears on November 15 and May 15 of each year, commencing on November 15, 2007.  During the floating rate interest period from May 15, 2017 through maturity, interest will be based on the 3 month LIBOR plus 238.5 basis points, reset quarterly, payable quarterly in arrears on February 15, May 15, August 15 and November 15 of each year, subject to Holdings' right to defer interest on one or more occasions for up to ten consecutive years.  Deferred interest will accumulate interest at the applicable rate compounded quarterly for periods from and including May 15, 2017.  The reset quarterly interest rate for May 15, 2018 to August 15, 2017 to November 15, 201714, 2018 is 3.70%4.73%.

Holdings may redeem the long term subordinated notes on or after May 15, 2017, in whole or in part at 100% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest; however, redemption on or after the scheduled maturity date and prior to May 1, 2047 is subject to a replacement capital covenant.  This covenant is for the benefit of certain senior note holders and it mandates that Holdings receive proceeds from the sale of another subordinated debt issue, of at least similar size, before it may redeem the subordinated notes.  Effective upon the maturity of the Company's 5.40% senior notes on October 15, 2014, the Company's 4.868% senior notes, due on June 1, 2044, have become the Company's long term indebtedness that ranks senior to the long term subordinated notes.

On March 19, 2009, Group announced the commencement of a cash tender offer for any and all of the 6.60% fixed to floating rate long term subordinated notes.  Upon expiration of the tender offer, the Company had reduced its outstanding debt by $161,441 thousand.

Interest expense incurred in connection with these long term subordinated notes is as follows for the periods indicated:


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Interest expense incurred $2,240  $3,937  $9,210  $11,811  $2,702  $3,033  $5,093  $6,970 


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14.   SEGMENT REPORTING

The U.S. Reinsurance operation writes property and casualty reinsurance and specialty lines of business, including Marine, Aviation, Surety and Accident and Health ("A&H") business, on both a treaty and facultative basis, through reinsurance brokers, as well as directly with ceding companies primarily within the U.S.  The International operation writes non-U.S. property and casualty reinsurance through Everest Re's branches in Canada and Singapore and through offices in Brazil, Miami and New Jersey.  The Bermuda operation provides reinsurance and insurance to worldwide property and casualty markets through brokers and directly with ceding companies from its Bermuda office and reinsurance to the United Kingdom and European markets through its UK branch and Ireland Re.  The Insurance operation writes property and casualty insurance directly and through brokers, surplus lines brokers and general agents within the U.S., Canada and Canada.Europe.

These segments are managed independently, but conform with corporate guidelines with respect to pricing, risk management, control of aggregate catastrophe exposures, capital, investments and support operations.  Management generally monitors and evaluates the financial performance of these operating segments based upon their underwriting results.

Underwriting results include earned premium less losses and loss adjustment expenses ("LAE") incurred, commission and brokerage expenses and other underwriting expenses.  We measure our underwriting results using ratios, in particular loss, commission and brokerage and other underwriting expense ratios, which, respectively, divide incurred losses, commissions and brokerage and other underwriting expenses by premiums earned.

For inter-affiliate reinsurance and business written through the Lloyd's Syndicate, business is generally reported within the segment in which the business was first produced, consistent with how the business is managed.


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The Company does not maintain separate balance sheet data for its operating segments.  Accordingly, the Company does not review and evaluate the financial results of its operating segments based upon balance sheet data.

The following tables present the underwriting results for the operating segments for the periods indicated:


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
U.S. Reinsurance
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Gross written premiums $908,256  $654,770  $1,962,207  $1,597,005  $652,109  $474,993  $1,296,331  $1,053,951 
Net written premiums  809,298   678,848   1,711,934   1,491,155   566,303   385,267   1,112,134   902,636 
                                
Premiums earned $649,772  $519,160  $1,609,790  $1,478,974  $603,884  $478,494  $1,167,269  $960,018 
Incurred losses and LAE  925,436   276,272   1,455,123   732,306   509,653   267,621   1,054,846   529,687 
Commission and brokerage  113,449   116,667   328,230   354,608   148,712   112,423   276,032   214,781 
Other underwriting expenses  12,095   14,265   40,624   39,856   15,472   14,278   32,358   28,529 
Underwriting gain (loss) $(401,208) $111,956  $(214,187) $352,204  $(69,953) $84,172  $(195,967) $187,021 



 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
International
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Gross written premiums $344,805  $348,812  $931,008  $925,028  $399,024  $319,786  $765,748  $586,203 
Net written premiums  330,761   316,207   848,792   799,908   355,309   272,369   700,464   518,031 
                                
Premiums earned $305,951  $282,442  $841,348  $823,493  $363,795  $263,816  $707,399  $535,397 
Incurred losses and LAE  563,082   122,181   895,071   531,580   301,406   172,488   428,430   331,989 
Commission and brokerage  68,441   78,384   199,438   209,348   92,088   64,847   174,265   130,997 
Other underwriting expenses  8,307   11,030   27,601   26,822   10,349   9,814   20,925   19,294 
Underwriting gain (loss) $(333,879) $70,847  $(280,762) $55,743  $(40,048) $16,667  $83,779  $53,117 



  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
Bermuda
 June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2018  2017  2018  2017 
Gross written premiums $369,440  $237,570  $785,126  $558,692 
Net written premiums  355,236   217,814   750,204   522,846 
                 
Premiums earned $353,698  $263,457  $672,832  $498,563 
Incurred losses and LAE  250,097   165,305   379,610   293,737 
Commission and brokerage  80,318   63,486   161,805   121,909 
Other underwriting expenses  10,762   9,022   20,895   18,502 
Underwriting gain (loss) $12,521  $25,644  $110,522  $64,415 



  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
Insurance
 June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2018  2017  2018  2017 
Gross written premiums $645,948  $569,300  $1,150,923  $1,003,747 
Net written premiums  469,530   463,683   855,782   809,434 
                 
Premiums earned $408,441  $363,914  $801,745  $687,800 
Incurred losses and LAE  280,158   255,861   535,605   476,650 
Commission and brokerage  62,284   59,200   128,939   114,538 
Other underwriting expenses  56,516   45,755   115,205   88,431 
Underwriting gain (loss) $9,483  $3,098  $21,996  $8,181 


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  Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended 
Bermuda
 September 30,  September 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016 
Gross written premiums $311,781  $245,995  $870,473  $612,657 
Net written premiums  287,591   229,373   810,437   562,128 
                 
Premiums earned $267,488  $215,761  $766,051  $610,466 
Incurred losses and LAE  301,315   127,236   595,052   348,586 
Commission and brokerage  83,861   59,605   205,770   169,413 
Other underwriting expenses  9,049   8,785   27,551   26,290 
Underwriting gain (loss) $(126,737) $20,135  $(62,322) $66,177 



  Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended 
Insurance
 September 30,  September 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016 
Gross written premiums $480,060  $533,039  $1,483,807  $1,364,465 
Net written premiums  370,439   340,216   1,179,873   1,047,863 
                 
Premiums earned $375,664  $354,111  $1,063,464  $966,268 
Incurred losses and LAE  420,249   260,479   896,899   732,261 
Commission and brokerage  67,362   54,889   181,900   146,684 
Other underwriting expenses  43,694   44,483   132,125   129,782 
Underwriting gain (loss) $(155,641) $(5,740) $(147,460) $(42,459)


The following table reconciles the underwriting results for the operating segments to income before taxes as reported in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated:


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Underwriting gain (loss) $(1,017,465) $197,198  $(704,731) $431,665  $(87,997) $129,581  $20,330  $312,734 
Net investment income  136,973   122,657   393,770   357,918   141,322   134,508   279,616   256,797 
Net realized capital gains (losses)  41,535   380   119,531   (41,221)  15,776   25,268   (9,125)  77,996 
Net derivative gain (loss)  2,656   6,510   6,052   5,486   2,987   766   3,260   3,396 
Corporate expenses  (5,932)  (6,400)  (21,308)  (21,403)  (6,633)  (6,919)  (15,629)  (15,376)
Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense  (7,266)  (8,893)  (24,289)  (27,194)  (7,728)  (8,059)  (15,146)  (17,023)
Other income (expense)  (54,568)  9,435   (59,146)  (20,998)  3,036   388   15,100   (4,578)
Income (loss) before taxes $(904,067) $320,887  $(290,121) $684,253  $60,763  $275,533  $278,406  $613,946 


The Company produces business in the U.S., Bermuda and internationally.  The net income deriving from and assets residing in the individual foreign countries in which the Company writes business are not identifiable in the Company's financial records.  Based on gross written premium, the table below presents the largest country, other than the U.S., in which the Company writes business, for the periods indicated:


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
United Kingdom gross written premium $204,774  $182,786  $580,559  $511,994  $177,072  $204,965  $435,331  $375,785 


No other country represented more than 5% of the Company's revenues.

15.  SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS

For the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, share-based compensation awards granted were 3,855375 restricted shares, granted on September 6, 2017,May 15, 2018, with a fair value of $230.52$226.950 per share.

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16.  RETIREMENT BENEFITS

The Company maintains both qualified and non-qualified defined benefit pension plans and a retiree health plan for its U.S. employees employed prior to April 1, 2010.

Net periodic benefit cost for U.S. employees included the following components for the periods indicated:


Pension Benefits
 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Service cost $2,737  $2,731  $9,335  $8,524  $2,977  $3,299  $5,954  $6,598 
Interest cost  2,509   2,371   7,060   7,093   2,585   2,276   5,170   4,552 
Expected return on plan assets  (3,263)  (2,789)  (9,572)  (7,757)  (3,670)  (3,154)  (7,341)  (6,309)
Amortization of prior service cost  -   -   -   - 
Amortization of net (income) loss  2,091   1,984   8,172   6,012   2,237   3,041   4,473   6,081 
Net periodic benefit cost $4,074  $4,297  $14,995  $13,872  $4,129  $5,461  $8,256  $10,921 



Other Benefits
 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in thousands) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Service cost $392  $354  $1,273  $1,230  $446  $441  $893  $881 
Interest cost  296   252   793   844   307   249   614   498 
Amortization of prior service cost  (33)  (33)  (98)  (33)  (33)  (33)  (66)  (66)
Amortization of net (income) loss  48   -   199   96   94   75   188   151 
Net periodic benefit cost $703  $573  $2,167  $2,137  $814  $732  $1,629  $1,464 
                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                
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The service cost component of net periodic benefit costs is included within other underwriting expenses on the consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss).  In accordance with ASU 2017-07, other staff compensation costs are also primarily recorded within this line item.

The Company contributed $10,000 thousanddid not make any contributions to the qualified pension benefit plan for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017.  The Company contributed $30,000 thousand to the qualified pension benefit plan for the three2018 and nine months ended September 30, 2016.2017.

17.  INCOME TAXES

The Company is domiciled in Bermuda and has significant subsidiaries and/or branches in Canada, Ireland, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States.  The Company's Bermuda domiciled subsidiaries are exempt from income taxation under Bermuda law until 2035.  The Company's non-Bermudian subsidiaries and branches are subject to income taxation at varying rates in their respective domiciles.

The Company generally applies the estimated annual effective tax rate approach for calculating its tax provision for interim periods as prescribed by ASC 740-270, Interim Reporting.  Under the estimated annual effective tax rate approach, the estimated annual effective tax rate is applied to the interim year-to-date pre-tax income/loss to determine the income tax expense or benefit for the year-to-date period.  If the annual effective tax rate approach produces a year-to-date tax benefit which exceeds the amount which is estimated to be recoverable for the full year, then the tax benefit for the interim reporting period will be limited as prescribed under ASC 740-270 to the estimated recoverable based on the year-to-date result.  The tax expense or benefit for the quarter represents the difference between the year-to-date tax expense or benefit for the current year-to-date period less such amount for the immediately preceding year-to-date period.  Management considers the impact of all known events in its estimation of the Company's annual pre-tax income/loss and effective tax rate.

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18.  DISPOSITION

On August 24, 2016, the Company sold Heartland, its crop Managing General Agent to CGB for $49,000 thousand.  The sale agreement includes a provision for a long term strategic reinsurance relationship with CGB.  The Company has recognized an after-tax loss on the sale of Heartland of $12,942 thousand.  Under the terms of the reinsurance arrangement, there has not been a material fluctuation in the level of crop business, although it has been reflected as reinsurance rather than insurance.

19.  SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

The Company has evaluated known recognized and non-recognized subsequent events.  In October 2017, Hurricane Nate impacted the Southern United States and Central America and Hurricane Ophelia impacted Ireland, the United Kingdom and Northern Europe.  Also, in October 2017, a number of wildfires affected California.  DueThe Company does not have any subsequent events to the recentness of these events, the Company is unable to estimate the amount of losses related to Hurricane Nate, Hurricane Ophelia or the California wildfires at this time.  However, the Company anticipates that these events will adversely impact the fourth quarter 2017 financial results.report.

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ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION

Industry Conditions.
The worldwide reinsurance and insurance businesses are highly competitive, as well as cyclical by product and market.  As such, financial results tend to fluctuate with periods of constrained availability, higher rates and stronger profits followed by periods of abundant capacity, lower rates and constrained profitability.  Competition in the types of reinsurance and insurance business that we underwrite is based on many factors, including the perceived overall financial strength of the reinsurer or insurer, ratings of the reinsurer or insurer by A.M. Best and/or Standard & Poor's, underwriting expertise, the jurisdictions where the reinsurer or insurer is licensed or otherwise authorized, capacity and coverages offered, premiums charged, other terms and conditions of the reinsurance and insurance business offered, services offered, speed of claims payment and reputation and experience in lines written.  Furthermore, the market impact from these competitive factors related to reinsurance and insurance is generally not consistent across lines of business, domestic and international geographical areas and distribution channels.

We compete in the U.S., Bermuda and international reinsurance and insurance markets with numerous global competitors. Our competitors include independent reinsurance and insurance companies, subsidiaries or affiliates of established worldwide insurance companies, reinsurance departments of certain insurance companies, domestic and international underwriting operations, including underwriting syndicates at Lloyd's of London and certain government sponsored risk transfer vehicles.  Some of these competitors have greater financial resources than we do and have established long term and continuing business relationships, which can be a significant competitive advantage.  In addition, the lack of strong barriers to entry into the reinsurance business and recently, the securitization of reinsurance and insurance risks through capital markets provide additional sources of potential reinsurance and insurance capacity and competition.

Worldwide insurance and reinsurance market conditions continued to be very competitive, particularly in the property catastrophe and casualty reinsurance lines of business.  Generally, there was ample insurance and reinsurance capacity relative to demand, as well as, additional capital from the capital markets through insurance linked financial instruments.  These financial instruments such as side cars, catastrophe bonds and collateralized reinsurance funds, provide capital markets with access to insurance and reinsurance risk exposure.  The capital markets demand for these products is being primarily driven by the current low interest environment and the desire to achieve greater risk diversification and potentially higher returns on their investments.  This increased competition is generally having a negative impact on rates, terms and conditions; however, the impact varies widely by market and coverage.

Rates tend to fluctuate by specific region and products, particularly areas recently impacted by large catastrophic events.  There was an unprecedented series of catastrophes in the third quarter of 2017 with Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, as well as a significant earthquake in Mexico City.  Additional catastrophe events occurred in Octoberthe fourth quarter of 2017 with Hurricanes Nate and Ophelia and the wild fires in California.California and Hurricanes Nate and Ophelia.  The total industry losses for all of these worldwide events couldhave been estimated to exceed $100$140 billion.  This iswas the second consecutive year with higher than average catastrophe losses.  During 2016, catastrophe losses included the Fort McMurray Canadian wildfire, Hurricane Matthew which affected a large area of the Caribbean and southeastern United States, storms and an earthquake in Ecuador.  There are industry reports that the catastrophe losses for 2016 reached their highest level in four years and the United States experienced the most loss events since 1980 and the highest total losses since 2012.  While the future impact on market conditions from these catastrophes cannot be determined at this time, there was some firming in the markets impacted by the 2016 catastrophes and as catastrophe losses continue to increaseincreased in 2017, there is a growing industry consensus that there will be a generalsome firming of the (re)insurance markets resulting in rate increases, not onlyrates for catastrophe exposures, but also potentially for most other lines of business.the areas impacted by the catastrophes.

Commencing in 2015, we initiated a strategic build out of our insurance platform through the investment in key leadership hires which in turn has brought significant underwriting talent and stronger direction in achieving our insurance program strategic goals of increased premium volume and improved underwriting results.  Recent growth is coming from highly diversified areas including newly launched lines of business, as well as, product and geographic expansion in existing lines of business.  We are building a world-class
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insurance platform capable of offering products across lines and geographies, complementing our leading
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global reinsurance franchise.  As part of this initiative, we received approval fromlaunched a new syndicate through Lloyd's of London to launch a new syndicate in 2016 which providedand formed Ireland Insurance, providing us access to additional international business and new product opportunities to further diversify and broaden our insurance portfolio.

Overall, we believe that given our size, strong ratings, distribution system, reputation, expertise and capital market vehicle activity the current marketplace conditions provide profit opportunities.  We continue to employ our strategy of targeting business that offers the greatest profit potential, while maintaining balance and diversification in our overall portfolio.

Financial Summary.
We monitor and evaluate our overall performance based upon financial results.  The following table displays a summary of the consolidated net income (loss), ratios and shareholders' equity for the periods indicated.


 Three Months Ended  Percentage  Nine Months Ended  Percentage  Three Months Ended  Percentage  Six Months Ended  Percentage 
 September 30,  Increase/  September 30,  Increase/  June 30,  Increase/  June 30,  Increase/ 
(Dollars in millions) 2017  2016  (Decrease)  2017  2016  (Decrease)  2018  2017  (Decrease)  2018  2017  (Decrease) 
Gross written premiums $2,044.9  $1,782.6   14.7% $5,247.5  $4,499.2   16.6% $2,066.5  $1,601.6   29.0% $3,998.1  $3,202.6   24.8%
Net written premiums  1,798.1   1,564.6   14.9%  4,551.0   3,901.1   16.7%  1,746.4   1,339.1   30.4%  3,418.6   2,752.9   24.2%
                                                
REVENUES:                                                
Premiums earned $1,598.9  $1,371.5   16.6% $4,280.7  $3,879.2   10.3% $1,729.8  $1,369.7   26.3% $3,349.2  $2,681.8   24.9%
Net investment income  137.0   122.7   11.7%  393.8   357.9   10.0%  141.3   134.5   5.1%  279.6   256.8   8.9%
Net realized capital gains (losses)  41.5   0.4  NM   119.5   (41.2) NM   15.8   25.3   -37.6%  (9.1)  78.0   -111.7%
Net derivative gain (loss)  2.7   6.5   -59.2%  6.1   5.5   10.3%  3.0   0.8  NM   3.3   3.4   -4.0%
Other income (expense)  (54.6)  9.4  NM   (59.1)  (21.0)  181.7%  3.0   0.4  NM   15.1   (4.6) NM 
Total revenues  1,725.5   1,510.5   14.2%  4,740.9   4,180.4   13.4%  1,892.9   1,530.6   23.7%  3,638.1   3,015.4   20.7%
                                                
CLAIMS AND EXPENSES:                                                
Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses  2,210.1   786.2   181.1%  3,842.1   2,344.7   63.9%  1,341.3   861.3   55.7%  2,398.5   1,632.1   47.0%
Commission, brokerage, taxes and fees  333.1   309.5   7.6%  915.3   880.1   4.0%  383.4   300.0   27.8%  741.0   582.2   27.3%
Other underwriting expenses  73.1   78.6   -6.9%  227.9   222.8   2.3%  93.1   78.9   18.0%  189.4   154.8   22.4%
Corporate expenses  5.9   6.4   -7.3%  21.3   21.4   -0.4%  6.6   6.9   -4.1%  15.6   15.4   1.6%
Interest, fees and bond issue cost amortization expense  7.3   8.9   -18.3%  24.3   27.2   -10.7%  7.7   8.1   -4.1%  15.1   17.0   -11.0%
Total claims and expenses  2,629.5   1,189.6   121.0%  5,031.0   3,496.1   43.9%  1,832.2   1,255.1   46.0%  3,359.7   2,401.4   39.9%
                                                
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES  (904.1)  320.9  NM   (290.1)  684.3   -142.4%  60.8   275.5   -77.9%  278.4   613.9   -54.7%
Income tax expense (benefit)  (264.7)  25.5  NM   (188.1)  61.5  NM   (9.1)  29.9   -130.6%  (1.8)  76.6   -102.4%
NET INCOME (LOSS) $(639.4) $295.4  NM  $(102.1) $622.8   -116.4% $69.9  $245.7   -71.5% $280.2  $537.3   -47.8%
                                                
RATIOS:         Point Change          Point Change          Point Change          Point Change 
Loss ratio  138.2%  57.3%  80.9   89.8%  60.4%  29.4   77.5%  62.9%  14.6   71.6%  60.8%  10.8 
Commission and brokerage ratio  20.8%  22.6%  (1.8)  21.4%  22.7%  (1.3)  22.2%  21.9%  0.3   22.1%  21.7%  0.4 
Other underwriting expense ratio  4.6%  5.7%  (1.1)  5.3%  5.8%  (0.5)  5.4%  5.7%  (0.3)  5.7%  5.8%  (0.1)
Combined ratio  163.6%  85.6%  78.0   116.5%  88.9%  27.6   105.1%  90.5%  14.6   99.4%  88.3%  11.1 
                                                
             At  At  Percentage              At  At  Percentage 
             September 30, December 31, Increase/              June 30,  December 31,  Increase/ 
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)              2017  2016 (Decrease)               2018   2017  (Decrease) 
Balance sheet data:                                                
Total investments and cash             $18,482.0  $17,483.1   5.7%             $18,205.7  $18,626.5   -2.3%
Total assets              23,936.3   21,321.5   12.3%              23,885.9   23,591.8   1.2%
Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves              12,455.4   10,312.3   20.8%              12,043.3   11,884.3   1.3%
Total debt              633.3   633.2   0.0%              633.5   633.4   0.0%
Total liabilities              15,966.9   13,246.1   20.5%              15,644.5   15,222.6   2.8%
Shareholders' equity              7,969.3   8,075.4   -1.3%              8,241.3   8,369.2   -1.5%
Book value per share              194.05   197.45   -1.7%              201.70   204.95   -1.6%
                                                
(NM, not meaningful)                                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                                

3533


Revenues.
Premiums.  Gross written premiums increased by 14.7%29.0% to $2,044.9$2,066.5 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared to $1,782.6$1,601.6 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016,2017, reflecting a $315.3$388.2 million, or 25.2%37.6%, increase in our reinsurance business and a $53.0$76.6 million, or 9.9%, decrease in our insurance business.  The increase in reinsurance premiums was mainly due to the new crop reinsurance transactions, increases in financial lines of business and the influx of reinstatement premiums related to multiple catastrophe events in the third quarter.  The decline in insurance premiums was due to the sale of Heartland Crop Insurance, Inc. ("Heartland") which accounted for $162.4 million of gross written premium in the third quarter of 2016. Excluding the impact of Heartland, insurance premiums rose by $109.4 million due to increased production in many lines of business, including retail casualty, surety, accident and health and business written through the Lloyd's Syndicate.  Gross written premiums increased by 16.6% to $5,247.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to $4,499.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, reflecting a $629.0 million, or 20.1%, increase in our reinsurance business and a $119.3 million, or 8.7%13.5%, increase in our insurance business.  The increase in reinsurance premiums was mainly due to the new crop reinsurance transactions, increases in treaty property and financial lines ofbusiness, treaty casualty business, Latin American business and the influx of reinstatement premiums related to multiple catastrophe events in the third quarter.business written through our U.K. branch and Ireland office.  The rise in insurance premiums was primarily due to increases in many lines of business, including retail casualty, accident and health surety and business written through the Lloyd's Syndicate, partially offsetSyndicate.  Gross written premiums increased by 24.8% to $3,998.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018, compared to $3,202.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017, reflecting a $648.4 million, or 29.5%, increase in our reinsurance business and a $147.2 million, or 14.7%, increase in our insurance business.  The increase in reinsurance premiums was mainly due to increases in treaty property business, treaty casualty business, Latin American business and business written through our U.K. branch and Ireland office, as well as a positive impact of $25.0 million from the salemovement of Heartland.foreign exchange rates.  The rise in insurance premiums was primarily due to increases in many lines of business, including casualty, accident and health and business written through the Lloyd's Syndicate.

Net written premiums increased by 14.9%30.4% to $1,798.1$1,746.4 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared to $1,564.6$1,339.1 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  Net written premiums increased by 16.7%24.2% to $4,551.0$3,418.6 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared to $3,901.1$2,752.9 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  These changes are consistent with the changes in gross written premiums.  Premiums earned increased by 16.6%26.3% to $1,598.9$1,729.8 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared to $1,371.5$1,369.7 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  Premiums earned increased by 10.3%24.9% to $4,280.7$3,349.2 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared to $3,879.2$2,681.8 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  The change in premiums earned relative to net written premiums is the result of timing; premiums are earned ratably over the coverage period whereas written premiums are recorded at the initiation of the coverage period.

Net Investment Income.  Net investment income increased by 11.7%5.1% to $137.0$141.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared with investment income of $122.7$134.5 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  Net investment income increased by 10.0%8.9% to $393.8$279.6 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared with investment income of $357.9$256.8 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  Net pre-tax investment income, as a percentage of average invested assets, was 3.1% for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018 compared to 2.9%3.0% for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  Net pre-tax investment income, as a percentage of average invested assets, was 3.0%3.1% for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018 compared to 2.9% for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  The increases in both income and yield for both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 were primarily the result of higher income from our limited partnerships and higher income from the growingour fixed income portfolio, partially offset by lower dividend income from our equity portfolio.

Net Realized Capital Gains (Losses).  Net realized capital gains were $41.5$15.8 million and $0.4$25.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.  The net realized capital gains of $41.5$15.8 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 were comprised of $36.518.8 million of net gains from fair value re-measurements, and $6.5partially offset by $2.1 million of net realized capital gainslosses from sales on our fixed maturityof investments and equity securities, partially offset by $1.5$0.9 million of other-than-temporary impairments.  The net realized capital gains of $0.4$25.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017 were comprised of $17.614.4 million of net realized capital gains from sales of investments and $13.4 million of net gains from fair value re-measurements, partially offset by $2.5 million of other-than-temporary impairments.
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Net realized capital losses were $9.1 million and net realized capital gains were $78.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively.  The net realized capital losses of $9.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 were comprised of $16.5 million of net losses from fair value re-measurements and $1.0 million of other-than-temporary impairments, partially offset by $8.4 million of net realized capital gains from sales of investments.  The net realized capital gains of $78.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017 were comprised of $54.9 million of net gains from fair value re-measurements and $11.6$26.8 million of net realized capital gains from sales on our fixed maturity and equity securities,of investments, partially offset by net realized capital losses of $28.0 million from the sale of our Heartland subsidiary and $0.8$3.7 million of other-than-temporary impairments.

36


Net realized capital gains were $119.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and net realized capital losses were $41.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.  The net realized capital gains of $119.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 were comprised of $91.4 million of net gains from fair value re-measurements and $33.3 million of net realized capital gains from sales on our fixed maturity and equity securities, partially offset by $5.2 million of other-than-temporary impairments.  The net realized capital losses of $41.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 were comprised of $31.1 million of other-than-temporary impairments, net realized capital losses of $28.0 million from the sale of our Heartland subsidiary and $19.8 million of net realized capital losses from sales on our fixed maturity and equity securities, partially offset by $37.7 million of net gains from fair value re-measurements.

Net Derivative Gain (Loss).  In 2005 and prior, we sold seven equity index put option contracts, six of which remain outstanding.  These contracts meet the definition of a derivative in accordance with FASB guidance and as such, are fair valued each quarter with the change recorded as net derivative gain or loss in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).  As a result of these adjustments in value, we recognized net derivative gains of $2.7$3.0 million and $6.5$0.8 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively, and net derivative gains of $6.1$3.3 million and $5.5$3.4 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018 and 2017, and 2016, respectively. The change in the fair value of these equity index put option contracts is generally indicative of the change in the equity markets and interest rates over the same periods.

Other Income (Expense).  We recorded other expenseincome of $54.6$3.0 million and other income of $9.4$0.4 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.  We recorded other income of $15.1 million and other expense of $59.1$4.6 million and $21.0 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018 and 2017, and 2016, respectively. TheThe changes were primarily the result of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, and other income related to Mt. Logan Re for the corresponding periods.and changes in deferred gains related to any retroactive reinsurance transactions.  We incurredrecognized foreign currency exchange income of $19.1 million and foreign currency exchange expense of $43.2$1.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively.  We recognized foreign currency exchange income of $29.0 million and foreign currency exchange incomeexpense of $1.9$5.0 million for the threesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018 and 2017, and 2016, respectively.  We incurred foreign currency exchange expense of $48.2 million and $29.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  The increase in expenses for the three and nine month periods in 2017 mainly related to the impact on loss reserves from the strengthening of the Canadian dollar, the British Pound Sterling and the Euro against the U.S. dollar.  The expense incurred for the nine months period in 2016 was primarily generated from our United Kingdom operations as a result of the decline in the British Pound Sterling in relation to other major currencies resulting from the United Kingdom vote to leave the European Union.  Although we have foreign currency investments to mitigate the impact of foreign exchange movements, the offsetting foreign exchange impacts on the investments is reflected through Other Comprehensive Income.

3735


Claims and Expenses.
Incurred Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses.  The following tables present our incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses ("LAE") for the periods indicated.


 Three Months Ended September 30, Three Months Ended June 30,
 Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/ Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2018
                             
Attritional $941.6   54.3%  $(97.4)  -5.6%  $844.2   48.7% 
Catastrophes  65.0   3.8%   432.2   25.0%   497.2   28.8% 
Total $1,006.6   58.1%  $334.8   19.4%  $1,341.3   77.5% 
                                    
2017
                                                                
Attritional $840.7   52.6%  $(0.9)  -0.1%  $839.8   52.5%  $808.3   59.0%  $(0.6)  0.0%  $807.8   59.0% 
Catastrophes  1,370.2   85.7%   -   0.0%   1,370.2   85.7%   53.5   3.9%   -   0.0%   53.5   3.9% 
Total $2,210.9   138.3%  $(0.9)  -0.1%  $2,210.1   138.2%  $861.8   62.9%  $(0.6)  0.0%  $861.3   62.9% 
                                                                        
2016
                                   
Variance 2018/2017
                                   
Attritional $769.3   56.0%  $(0.7)  0.0%  $768.7   56.0%  $133.3   (4.7)pts $(96.8)  (5.6)pts $36.4   (10.3)pts
Catastrophes  59.7   4.4%   (42.2)  -3.1%   17.5   1.3%   11.5   (0.1)pts  432.2   25.0 pts  443.6   24.9 pts
Total $829.0   60.4%  $(42.9)  -3.1%  $786.2   57.3%  $144.8   (4.8)pts $335.2   19.4 pts $480.0   14.6 pts
                                    
Variance 2017/2016
                                   
Attritional $71.4   (3.4)pts $(0.2)  (0.1)pts $71.1   (3.5)pts
Catastrophes  1,310.5   81.3 pts  42.2   3.1 pts  1,352.7   84.4 pts
Total $1,381.9   77.9 pts $42.0   3.0 pts $1,423.9   80.9 pts



 Nine Months Ended September 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
 Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/ Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2018
                             
Attritional $1,898.8   56.7%  $(97.4)  -2.9%  $1,801.3   53.8% 
Catastrophes  65.0   1.9%   532.2   15.9%   597.2   17.8% 
Total $1,963.8   58.6%  $434.7   13.0%  $2,398.5   71.6% 
                                    
2017
                                                                
Attritional $2,399.7   56.1%  $(1.3)  0.0%  $2,398.4   56.1%  $1,559.0   58.1%  $(0.4)  0.0%  $1,558.6   58.1% 
Catastrophes  1,443.7   33.7%   -   0.0%   1,443.7   33.7%   73.5   2.7%   -   0.0%   73.5   2.7% 
Total $3,843.4   89.8%  $(1.3)  0.0%  $3,842.1   89.8%  $1,632.5   60.8%  $(0.4)  0.0%  $1,632.1   60.8% 
                                                                        
2016
                                   
Attritional $2,197.4   56.6%  $(3.8)  -0.1%  $2,193.7   56.5% 
Catastrophes  219.2   5.7%   (68.2)  -1.8%   151.0   3.9% 
Total $2,416.6   62.3%  $(72.0)  -1.9%  $2,344.7   60.4% 
                                    
Variance 2017/2016
                                   
Variance 2018/2017
                                   
Attritional $202.2   (0.5)pts $2.5   0.1 pts $204.7   (0.4)pts $339.8   (1.4)pts $(97.0)  (2.9)pts $242.7   (4.3)pts
Catastrophes  1,224.5   28.0 pts  68.2   1.8 pts  1,292.7   29.8 pts  (8.5)  (0.8)pts  532.2   15.9 pts  523.7   15.1 pts
Total $1,426.8   27.5 pts $70.7   1.9 pts $1,497.4   29.4 pts $331.3   (2.2)pts $435.1   13.0 pts $766.4   10.8 pts
                                                                        
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                                                      


Incurred losses and LAE increased by 181.1%55.7% to $2,210.1$1,341.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared to $786.2$861.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016,2017, primarily due to an increaseunfavorable development of $1,310.5$432.2 million in current yearon prior years catastrophe losses, mainly related to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, and an increase in current year attritional losses of $71.4$133.3 million, mainly due to the impact of the increase in premiums earned and $42.2 millionchanges in the mix of business.  The increase in loss estimates for Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria was mostly driven by re-opened claims reported in the second quarter of 2018 and loss inflation from higher than expected loss adjustment expenses and in particular, their impact on aggregate covers.  These increases in losses were partially offset by favorable development on prior years catastropheattritional losses of $97.4 million in 2016, primarily related to the 2011 Japan earthquake, which did not recur in 2017.2018.  The current year catastrophe losses of $1,370.2$65.0 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017 primarily2018 related to Hurricane IrmaCyclone Mekunu ($574.9 million), Hurricane Maria ($415.5 million), Hurricane Harvey ($286.450.0 million) and the Mexico City earthquakeU.S. winter storms ($93.415.0 million).  The current year catastrophe losses of $59.7$53.5 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017 related to the Fort McMurray Canada wildfireSouth Africa Knysna fires ($27.8 million), Hurricane Hermine ($13.5 million), 2016 U.S. storms ($13.425.0 million), the 2016 Taiwan earthquake2017 U.S. Midwest storms ($4.615.0 million) and the 2016 Ecuador earthquakePeru storms ($0.313.5 million).
36


Incurred losses and LAE increased by 63.9%47.0% to $3,842.1$2,398.5 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared to $2,344.7$1,632.1 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016,2017, primarily due to an increaseunfavorable development of $1,224.5$532.2 million in current yearon prior years catastrophe losses, mainly related to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria and the 2017 California wildfires, and an increase in current year attritional losses of $202.2$339.8 million, mainly due to the impact of the increase in premiums earned and changes in the mix of business.  The increase in loss estimates for Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria was mostly driven by re-opened claims reported in the second quarter of 2018 and loss inflation from higher than expected loss adjustment expenses and in particular, their impact of the new crop reinsurance contract, and $68.2 million ofon aggregate covers.  The increase in losses was partially offset by favorable development on prior years catastropheattritional losses in
38


2016, primarily related to the 2011 Japan earthquake, which did not recurof $97.4 million in 2017.2018.  The current year catastrophe losses of $1,443.7$65.0 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 related to Hurricane IrmaCyclone Mekunu ($574.9 million), Hurricane Maria ($415.5 million), Hurricane Harvey ($286.4 million), the Mexico City earthquake ($93.4 million), the South Africa Knysna fires ($24.8 million), Cyclone Debbie in Australia ($19.0 million), the 2017 US Midwest storms ($15.750.0 million) and the PeruU.S. winter storms ($13.915.0 million).  The current year catastrophe losses of $219.2$73.5 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017 related to the Fort McMurray Canada wildfireSouth Africa Knysna fires ($117.625.0 million), Cyclone Debbie in Australia ($20.0 million), the 20162017 U.S. Midwest storms ($49.9 million), the 2016 Ecuador earthquake ($23.2 million), the 2016 Taiwan earthquake ($15.115.0 million) and Hurricane Herminethe Peru storms ($13.5 million).

Commission, Brokerage, Taxes and Fees.  Commission, brokerage, taxes and fees increased by 7.6%27.8% to $333.1$383.4 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $309.5$300.0 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  Commission, brokerage, taxes and fees increased by 4.0%27.3% to $915.3$741.0 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $880.1$582.2 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  The changes were primarily due to the impact of the increases in premiums earned and changes in the mix of business towards additional pro rata business.

Other Underwriting Expenses.  Other underwriting expenses were $73.1$93.1 million and $78.6$78.9 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018 and 2017, and 2016, respectively.  The decrease for the three month period was primarily due to lower variable compensation costs.  Other underwriting expenses were $227.9$189.4 million and $222.8$154.8 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.  The increase for the nine month period wasincreases in other underwriting expenses were mainly due to the impact of the increases in premiums earned and costs incurred to support the increased premium production, including costs related to the continued expansion of the insurance business.

Corporate Expenses.  Corporate expenses, which are general operating expenses that are not allocated to segments, were relatively flatremained consistent at $5.9$6.6 million and $6.4$6.9 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively, and $21.3$15.6 million and $21.4$15.4 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.

Interest, Fees and Bond Issue Cost Amortization Expense.  Interest, fees and other bond amortization expense was $7.3$7.7 million and $8.9$8.1 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.  Interest, fees and other bond amortization expense was $24.3$15.1 million and $27.2$17.0 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.  The decreases in expense for both the three and ninesix month periods were primarily due to the conversion of the long term subordinated notes from a fixed rate of 6.6% to a floating rate, which is reset quarterly per the note agreement.  The floating rate was 3.70%4.7% as of SeptemberJune 30, 2017.2018.

Income Tax Expense (Benefit).  We had an income tax benefit of $264.7$9.1 million and $188.1an income tax expense of $29.9 million for the three and nine months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively.  We hadrespectively, and income tax benefit of $1.8 million and an income tax expense of $25.5 million and $61.5$76.6 million for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016,2018 and 2017, respectively.  Income tax expense is primarily a function of the geographic location of the Company's pre-tax income and the statutory tax rates in those jurisdictions, as affected by tax-exempt investment income and foreign tax credits and as calculated under the annualized effective tax rate ("AETR") method.  Variations in the AETR generally result from changes in the relative levels of pre-tax income, including the impact of catastrophe losses and net capital gains (losses), among jurisdictions with different tax rates.  However, if the AETR approach produces a year-to-date tax benefit which exceeds the amount which is estimated to be recoverable for the full year, then the tax benefit for the interim reporting period will be limited, as prescribed under ASC 740-270, to the estimated tax recoverable based on the year-to-date result.  The decreasechange in income tax expense (benefit) for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017 was primarily due to the significantadditional unfavorable catastrophe losses incurred duringloss development in 2018.  In addition, the third quarter oftax rate was lowered from 35% in 2017 to 21% in 2018 under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("TCJA") which was enacted on December 22, 2017.
37


Net Income (Loss).
Our net lossincome was $639.4$69.9 million and net income was $295.4$245.7 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.  Our net lossincome was $102.1$280.2 million and net income was $622.8$537.3 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.  The changes were primarily driven by the financial component fluctuations explained above.
39


Ratios.
Our combined ratio increased by 78.014.6 points to 163.6%105.1% for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared to 85.6%90.5% for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016,2017, and increased by 27.611.1 points to 116.5%99.4% for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared to 88.9%88.3% for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  The loss ratio componentscomponent increased 80.914.6 points and 29.410.8 points for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, respectively, over the same periods last year.  The changes wereyear mainly due to the increases in currenthigher prior year catastrophe losses.losses primarily related to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria and the 2017 California wildfires.  The commission and brokerage ratio components decreasedincreased slightly to 20.8% from 22.6%22.2% for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018 compared to 21.9% for the three months ended June 30, 2017, and 2016, respectively, and decreasedincreased slightly to 21.4% from 22.7%22.1% for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018 compared to 21.7% for the six months ended June 30, 2017, and 2016, respectively, reflecting changes in the mix of business and the impact from reinstatement premiums.business.  The other underwriting expense ratios decreased to 4.6% fromwere comparable at 5.4% and 5.7% for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively, and decreased to 5.3% from5.7% and 5.8% for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018 and 2017, and 2016, respectively, mainly due to a reduction in variable compensation combined with the growth in premiums earned.respectively.

Shareholders' Equity.
Shareholders' equity decreased by $106.1$127.9 million to $7,969.3$8,241.3 million at SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 from $8,075.4$8,369.2 million at December 31, 2016,2017, principally as a result of $153.9240.9 million of unrealized depreciation on investments net of tax, $106.5 million of shareholder dividends, and $102.1 million of net loss, partially offset by $125.1$46.0 million of net foreign currency translation adjustments and repurchase of 0.1 million common shares for $25.3 million, partially offset by $17.4280.2 million of net income, $6.9 million of share-based compensation transactions $5.4and $3.6 million of net benefit plan obligation adjustments, and $2.0 million of unrealized appreciation on investments, net of tax.

Consolidated Investment Results

Net Investment Income.
Net investment income increased by 11.7%5.1% to $137.0$141.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared with investment income of $122.7$134.5 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  Net investment income increased by 10.0%8.9% to $393.8$279.6 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared with investment income of $357.9$256.8 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  The increases for the three and nine month periods were primarily due to an increase in limited partnership income and higher income from the growingour fixed income portfolio, partially offset by lower dividend income from our equity portfolio.

The following table shows the components of net investment income for the periods indicated.


 Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
 September 30,  September 30,  June 30,  June 30, 
(Dollars in millions) 2017  2016  2017  2016  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Fixed maturities $108.0  $100.8  $319.3  $306.1  $114.8  $108.1  $223.5  $211.4 
Equity securities  8.6   9.9   25.7   32.0   6.7   8.4   13.5   17.1 
Short-term investments and cash  1.0   0.5   2.4   1.2   2.1   0.9   3.8   1.5 
Other invested assets                                
Limited partnerships  23.3   17.1   54.4   33.9   22.0   20.1   45.4   31.1 
Other  2.1   1.0   6.7   1.3   2.7   2.3   7.0   4.6 
Gross investment income before adjustments  142.9   129.3   408.5   374.6   148.2   139.7   293.2   265.6 
Funds held interest income (expense)  2.3   1.5   7.2   5.8   1.9   1.7   5.6   4.9 
Future policy benefit reserve income (expense)  (0.3)  (0.5)  (1.0)  (1.2)  (0.4)  (0.4)  (0.6)  (0.7)
Gross investment income  144.9   130.3   414.6   379.1   149.8   141.0   298.2   269.7 
Investment expenses  (8.0)  (7.6)  (20.9)  (21.2)  (8.5)  (6.5)  (18.6)  (12.9)
Net investment income $137.0  $122.7  $393.8  $357.9  $141.3  $134.5  $279.6  $256.8 
                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                

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The following tables show a comparison of various investment yields for the periods indicated.


At AtAt At
September 30, December 31,June 30, December 31,
2017 20162018 2017
Imbedded pre-tax yield of cash and invested assets3.0% 2.9%3.3% 3.0%
Imbedded after-tax yield of cash and invested assets2.5% 2.4%2.9% 2.8%



Three Months Ended Nine Months EndedThree Months Ended Six Months Ended
September 30, September 30,June 30, June 30,
2017 2016 2017 20162018 2017 2018 2017
Annualized pre-tax yield on average cash and invested assets3.1% 2.9% 3.0% 2.9%3.1% 3.0% 3.1% 2.9%
Annualized after-tax yield on average cash and invested assets2.5% 2.4% 2.5% 2.4%2.7% 2.5% 2.7% 2.5%


Net Realized Capital Gains (Losses).
The following table presents the composition of our net realized capital gains (losses) for the periods indicated.


 Three Months Ended September 30,  Nine Months Ended September 30,  Three Months Ended June 30,  Six Months Ended June 30, 
(Dollars in millions) 2017  2016  Variance  2017  2016  Variance  2018  2017  Variance  2018  2017  Variance 
Gains (losses) from sales:
                                    
Fixed maturity securities, market value:                                    
Gains $13.7  $15.1  $(1.4) $46.3  $32.7  $13.6  $6.8  $17.1  $(10.3) $19.8  $32.6  $(12.8)
Losses  (5.7)  (9.2)  3.5   (13.4)  (40.4)  27.0   (6.9)  (3.6)  (3.3)  (9.5)  (7.7)  (1.8)
Total  8.0   5.9   2.1   32.9   (7.8)  40.7   (0.1)  13.5   (13.6)  10.3   24.9   (14.6)
                                                
Fixed maturity securities, fair value:                                                
Gains  -   -   -   -   -   -  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $- 
Losses  -   -   -   -   (1.9)  1.9   (1.1)  -   (1.1)  (1.1)  -   (1.1)
Total  -   -   -   -   (1.9)  1.9   (1.1)  -   (1.1)  (1.1)  -   (1.1)
                                                
Equity securities, market value:                                                
Gains  -   -   -   -   0.1   (0.1)  -   -   -   -   -   - 
Losses  -   -   -   (3.4)  -   (3.4)  -   -   -   -   (3.4)  3.4 
Total  -   -   -   (3.4)  0.1   (3.5)  -   -   -   -   (3.4)  3.4 
                                                
Equity securities, fair value:                                                
Gains  2.3   7.3   (5.0)  14.4   14.0   0.4   7.3   3.9   3.4   14.0   12.1   1.9 
Losses  (3.8)  (1.4)  (2.4)  (10.6)  (24.2)  13.6   (9.0)  (3.1)  (5.9)  (15.6)  (6.8)  (8.8)
Total  (1.5)  5.8   (7.3)  3.8   (10.3)  14.1   (1.6)  0.8   (2.4)  (1.5)  5.3   (6.8)
                                                
Other Invested Assets                        
Gains  0.6   -   0.6   0.6   -   0.6 
Losses  -   -   -   -   -   - 
Total  0.6   -   0.6   0.6   -   0.6 
                        
Total net realized capital gains (losses) from sales:                                                
Gains  16.0   22.3   (6.3)  60.7   46.8   13.9   14.8   21.0   (6.2)  34.5   44.7   (10.2)
Losses  (9.5)  (10.5)  1.0   (27.4)  (66.4)  39.0   (16.9)  (6.7)  (10.2)  (26.1)  (17.9)  (8.2)
Total  6.5   11.6   (5.1)  33.3   (19.8)  53.1   (2.1)  14.4   (16.5)  8.4   26.8   (18.4)
                        
Loss on sale of subsidiary:
  -   (28.0)  28.0   -   (28.0)  28.0 
                                                
Other-than-temporary impairments:
  (1.5)  (0.8)  (0.7)  (5.2)  (31.1)  25.9   (0.9)  (2.5)  1.6   (1.0)  (3.7)  2.7 
                                                
Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments:
                                                
Fixed maturities, fair value  -   0.1   (0.1)  -   1.4   (1.4)  1.0   -   1.0   1.0   -   1.0 
Equity securities, fair value  36.5   17.5   19.0   91.4   36.3   55.1   17.8   13.4   4.4   (17.5)  54.9   (72.4)
Total  36.5   17.6   18.9   91.4   37.7   53.7   18.8   13.4   5.4   (16.5)  54.9   (71.4)
                                                
Total net realized capital gains (losses) $41.5  $0.4  $41.1  $119.5  $(41.2) $160.7  $15.8  $25.3  $(9.4) $(9.1) $78.0  $(87.1)
                                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                                

39


Net realized capital gains were $41.5$15.8 million and $0.4$25.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.  For the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018, we recorded $36.5$18.8 million of net gains from fair value re-measurements, partially offset by $2.1 million of net realized capital losses from sales of investments and $6.5$0.9 million of other-than-temporary impairments.  For the three months ended June 30, 2017, we recorded $14.4 million of net realized capital gains from sales on our fixed maturityof investments and equity securities, partially offset by $1.5 million of other-than-temporary impairments.  For
41


the three months ended September 30, 2016, we recorded $17.6$13.4 million of net gains from fair value re-measurements, and $11.6 million of net realized capital gains from sales on our fixed maturity and equity securities, partially offset by net realized capital losses of $28.0 million from the sale of our Heartland subsidiary and $0.8$2.5 million of other-than-temporary impairments.  The fixed maturity and equity sales for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 20162017 related primarily to adjusting the portfolios for overall market changes and individual credit shifts.

Net realized capital gainslosses were $119.5$9.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and net realized capital lossesgains were $41.2$78.0 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2018 and 2017, respectively.  For the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018, we recorded $16.5 million of net losses from fair value re-measurements and $1.0 million of other-than-temporary impairments, partially offset by $8.4 million of net realized capital gains from sales of investments.  For the six months ended June 30, 2017, we recorded $91.4$54.9 million of net gains from fair value re-measurements and $33.3$26.8 million of net realized capital gains from sales on our fixed maturity and equity securities,of investments, partially offset by $5.2$3.7 million of other-than-temporary impairments.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2016, we recorded $31.1 million of other-than-temporary impairments, $28.0 million of net realized capital losses of from the sale of our Heartland subsidiary and $19.8 million of net realized capital losses from sales on our fixed maturity and equity securities, partially offset by $37.7 million of net gains from fair value re-measurements.  The fixed maturity and equity sales for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 20162017 related primarily to adjusting the portfolios for overall market changes and individual credit shifts.

Segment Results.
The U.S. Reinsurance operation writes property and casualty reinsurance and specialty lines of business, including Marine, Aviation, Surety and Accident and Health ("A&H") business, on both a treaty and facultative basis, through reinsurance brokers, as well as directly with ceding companies primarily within the U.S.  The International operation writes non-U.S. property and casualty reinsurance through Everest Re's branches in Canada and Singapore and through offices in Brazil, Miami and New Jersey.  The Bermuda operation provides reinsurance and insurance to worldwide property and casualty markets through brokers and directly with ceding companies from its Bermuda office and reinsurance to the United Kingdom and European markets through its UK branch and Ireland Re.  The Insurance operation writes property and casualty insurance directly and through brokers, surplus lines brokers and general agents within the U.S., Canada and Canada.Europe.

These segments are managed independently, but conform with corporate guidelines with respect to pricing, risk management, control of aggregate catastrophe exposures, capital, investments and support operations.  Management generally monitors and evaluates the financial performance of these operating segments based upon their underwriting results.

Underwriting results include earned premium less losses and loss adjustment expenses ("LAE") incurred, commission and brokerage expenses and other underwriting expenses.  We measure our underwriting results using ratios, in particular loss, commission and brokerage and other underwriting expense ratios, which, respectively, divide incurred losses, commissions and brokerage and other underwriting expenses by premiums earned.

For inter-affiliate reinsurance and business written through the Lloyd's Syndicate, business is generally reported within the segment in which the business was first produced, consistent with how the business is managed.

The Company does not maintain separate balance sheet data for its operating segments.  Accordingly, the Company does not review and evaluate the financial results of its operating segments based upon balance sheet data.

Our loss and LAE reserves are management's best estimate of our ultimate liability for unpaid claims.  We re-evaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis, including all prior period reserves, taking into consideration all available information and, in particular, recently reported loss claim experience and trends related to prior periods.  Such re-evaluations are recorded in incurred losses in the period in which re-evaluation is made.

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The following discusses the underwriting results for each of our segments for the periods indicated.

U.S. Reinsurance.
The following table presents the underwriting results and ratios for the U.S. Reinsurance segment for the periods indicated.


 Three Months Ended September 30,  Nine Months Ended September 30,  Three Months Ended June 30,  Six Months Ended June 30, 
(Dollars in millions) 2017  2016  Variance  % Change  2017  2016  Variance  % Change  2018  2017  Variance  % Change  2018  2017  Variance  % Change 
Gross written premiums $908.3  $654.8  $253.5   38.7% $1,962.2  $1,597.0  $365.2   22.9% $652.1  $475.0  $177.1   37.3% $1,296.3  $1,054.0  $242.3   23.0%
Net written premiums  809.3   678.8   130.5   19.2%  1,711.9   1,491.2   220.8   14.8%  566.3   385.3   181.0   47.0%  1,112.1   902.6   209.5   23.2%
                                                                
Premiums earned $649.8  $519.2  $130.6   25.2% $1,609.8  $1,479.0  $130.8   8.8% $603.9  $478.5  $125.4   26.2% $1,167.3  $960.0  $207.3   21.6%
Incurred losses and LAE  925.4   276.3   649.1   235.0%  1,455.1   732.3   722.8   98.7%  509.7   267.6   242.1   90.4%  1,054.8   529.7   525.1   99.1%
Commission and brokerage  113.4   116.7   (3.2)  -2.8%  328.2   354.6   (26.4)  -7.4%  148.7   112.4   36.3   32.3%  276.0   214.8   61.3   28.5%
Other underwriting expenses  12.1   14.3   (2.2)  -15.2%  40.6   39.9   0.8   1.9%  15.5   14.3   1.2   8.4%  32.4   28.5   3.8   13.4%
Underwriting gain (loss) $(401.2) $112.0  $(513.2) NM  $(214.2) $352.2  $(566.4)  -160.8% $(70.0) $84.2  $(154.1)  -183.0% $(196.0) $187.0  $(383.0)  -204.8%
                                                                
             Point Chg              Point Chg              Point Chg              Point Chg 
Loss ratio  142.5%  53.2%      89.3   90.4%  49.5%      40.9   84.4%  55.9%      28.5   90.4%  55.2%      35.2 
Commission and brokerage ratio  17.4%  22.5%      (5.1)  20.4%  24.0%      (3.6)  24.6%  23.5%      1.1   23.6%  22.4%      1.2 
Other underwriting expense ratio  1.8%  2.7%      (0.9)  2.5%  2.7%      (0.2)  2.6%  3.0%      (0.4)  2.8%  2.9%      (0.1)
Combined ratio  161.7%  78.4%      83.3   113.3%  76.2%      37.1   111.6%  82.4%      29.2   116.8%  80.5%      36.3 
                                                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                                               


Premiums.  Gross written premiums increased by 38.7%37.3% to $908.3$652.1 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 from $654.8$475.0 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017, primarily due to an increaseincreases in the new crop reinsurancetreaty property business, related to the sale of Heartlandtreaty casualty business and the influx of reinstatement premiums due to the catastrophe losses.marine and aviation business.  Net written premiums increased by 19.2%47.0% to $809.3$566.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $678.8$385.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  The difference between the change in gross written premiums compared to the change in net written premiums is primarily due to varying utilization of reinsurance.  Premiums earned increased by 25.2%26.2% to $649.8$603.9 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared to $519.2$478.5 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  The change in premiums earned relative to net written premiums is primarily the result of changes in the mix of business towards additional pro rata business and timing; premiums are earned ratably over the coverage period whereas written premiums are recorded at the initiation of the coverage period.

Gross written premiums increased by 22.9%23.0% to $1,962.2$1,296.3 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 from $1,597.0$1,054.0 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017, primarily due to an increaseincreases in the new crop reinsurancetreaty property business, an increase in treaty casualty business and the influx of reinstatement premiums due to the catastrophe losses.marine and aviation business.  Net written premiums increased by 14.8%23.2% to $1,711.9$1,112.1 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $1,491.2$902.6 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.  The difference between2017, which is consistent with the change in gross written premiums compared to the change in net written premiums is primarily due to varying utilization of reinsurance.premiums.  Premiums earned increased by 8.8%21.6% to $1,609.8$1,167.3 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, compared to $1,479.0$960.0 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  The change in premiums earned relative to net written premiums is primarily the result of changes in the mix of business and timing; premiums are earned ratably over the coverage period whereas written premiums are recorded at the initiation of the coverage period.

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Incurred Losses and LAE.  The following tables present the incurred losses and LAE for the U.S. Reinsurance segment for the periods indicated.


 Three Months Ended September 30, Three Months Ended June 30,
 Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/ Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2018
                             
Attritional $293.8   48.6%  $(69.1)  -11.4%  $224.7   37.2% 
Catastrophes  4.5   0.7%   280.5   46.5%   285.0   47.2% 
Total Segment $298.3   49.3%  $211.4   35.1%  $509.7   84.4% 
                                    
2017
                                    ��                           
Attritional $286.3   44.1%  $(0.9)  -0.1%  $285.4   44.0%  $278.6   58.2%  $(7.6)  -1.6%  $271.0   56.6% 
Catastrophes  639.1   98.4%   1.0   0.1%   640.0   98.5%   2.8   0.6%   (6.2)  -1.3%   (3.4)  -0.7% 
Total Segment $925.4   142.5%  $0.1   0.0%  $925.4   142.5%  $281.4   58.8%  $(13.8)  -2.9%  $267.6   55.9% 
                                                                        
2016
                                   
Variance 2018/2017
                                   
Attritional $263.7   50.8%  $(5.0)  -1.0%  $258.7   49.8%  $15.2   (9.6)pts $(61.5)  (9.8)pts $(46.3)  (19.4)pts
Catastrophes  28.7   5.5%   (11.1)  -2.1%   17.6   3.4%   1.7   0.1 pts  286.7   47.8 pts  288.4   47.9 pts
Total Segment $292.4   56.3%  $(16.1)  -3.1%  $276.3   53.2%  $16.9   (9.5)pts $225.2   38.0 pts $242.1   28.5 pts
                                    
Variance 2017/2016
                                   
Attritional $22.6   (6.7)pts $4.1   0.9 pts $26.7   (5.8)pts
Catastrophes  610.4   92.9 pts  12.1   2.2 pts  622.4   95.1 pts
Total Segment $633.0   86.2 pts $16.2   3.1 pts $649.1   89.3 pts



 Nine Months Ended September 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
 Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/ Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2018
                             
Attritional $620.2   53.1%  $(69.1)  -5.9%  $551.0   47.2% 
Catastrophes  4.5   0.4%   499.3   42.8%   503.8   43.2% 
Total Segment $624.7   53.5%  $430.2   36.9%  $1,054.8   90.4% 
                                    
2017
                                                                
Attritional $827.4   51.4%  $(9.6)  -0.6%  $817.7   50.8%  $541.1   56.4%  $(8.8)  -0.9%  $532.3   55.5% 
Catastrophes  642.8   39.9%   (5.4)  -0.3%   637.4   39.6%   3.8   0.4%   (6.4)  -0.7%   (2.6)  -0.3% 
Total Segment $1,470.2   91.3%  $(15.0)  -0.9%  $1,455.1   90.4%  $544.9   56.8%  $(15.2)  -1.6%  $529.7   55.2% 
                                                                        
2016
                                   
Attritional $736.8   49.8%  $(9.5)  -0.6%  $727.3   49.2% 
Catastrophes  31.6   2.1%   (26.5)  -1.8%   5.1   0.3% 
Total Segment $768.4   51.9%  $(36.0)  -2.4%  $732.3   49.5% 
                                    
Variance 2017/2016
                                   
Variance 2018/2017
                                   
Attritional $90.6   1.6 pts $(0.1)  - pts $90.4   1.6 pts $79.1   (3.3)pts $(60.3)  (5.0)pts $18.7   (8.3)pts
Catastrophes  611.2   37.8 pts  21.1   1.5 pts  632.3   39.3 pts  0.7   - pts  505.7   43.5 pts  506.4   43.5 pts
Total Segment $701.8   39.4 pts $21.0   1.5 pts $722.8   40.9 pts $79.8   (3.3)pts $445.4   38.5 pts $525.1   35.2 pts
                                                                        
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                                                      


Incurred losses increased by 235.0%90.4% to $925.4$509.7 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018, compared to $276.3$267.6 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017,.  The increase was primarily due to an increase$280.5 million of $610.4 millionunfavorable development on prior years catastrophe losses in current year catastrophe losses2018, primarily related to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria and an increase of $22.6$15.2 million in current year attritional losses resulting mainly fromdue to the impact of the increase in premiums earnedearned.  The increase in loss estimates for Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria was mostly driven by re-opened claims reported in the second quarter of 2018 and loss inflation from higher than expected loss adjustment expenses and in particular, their impact on aggregate covers.  The increases were partially offset by $69.1 million favorable development on prior years attritional losses in 2018 mainly related to property and casualty business.  The current year catastrophe losses of $4.5 million for the new crop reinsurance contract which generally has a higher loss ratio.  three months ended June 30, 2018 related primarily to the U.S. winter storms ($4.5 million).  The $639.1$2.8 million of current year catastrophe losses for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017 mainly related to Hurricanethe 2017 U.S. Midwest storms ($3.0 million).
42


Incurred losses increased by 99.1% to $1,054.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018, compared to $529.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017.  The increase was primarily due to $499.3 million of unfavorable development on prior years catastrophe losses in 2018 primarily related to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma ($378.1 million), Hurricane Harvey ($172.9 million), Hurricaneand Maria ($84.9 million) and the Mexico City earthquake2017 California wildfires and an increase of $79.1 million in current year attritional losses mainly due to the impact of the increase in premiums earned.  The increase in loss estimates for Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria was mostly driven by re-opened claims reported in the second quarter of 2018 and loss inflation from higher than expected loss adjustment expenses and in particular, their impact on aggregate covers.  The increases were partially offset by $69.1 million of favorable development on prior years attritional losses in 2018 mainly related to property and casualty business.  The current year catastrophe losses of $4.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 related primarily to the U.S. winter storms ($3.54.5 million).  The $28.7$3.8 million of current year catastrophe losses for the threesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016 were2017 mainly duerelated to Hurricane Hermine ($13.5 million), the 20162017 U.S. Midwest storms ($12.73.0 million) and the Fort McMurray Canada wildfireCyclone Debbie in Australia ($2.60.9 million).

Incurred losses increased by 98.7% to $1,455.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $732.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, primarily due to an increase of $611.2 million in current year catastrophe losses and an increase of $90.6 million in current year attritional losses, resulting mainly from the impact of the increase in premiums earned and the impact of the new crop reinsurance contract.  The $642.8 million of current year catastrophe losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 related to Hurricane Irma ($378.1 million), Hurricane Harvey ($172.9 million), Hurricane Maria ($84.9 million), the 2017 US Midwest storms ($3.7 million) and the Mexico City earthquake
44


($3.5 million).  The $31.6 million of current year catastrophe losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 were due to the 2016 U.S. storms ($19.1 million) and Hurricane Hermine ($13.5 million).

Segment Expenses.  Commission and brokerage expenses decreasedincreased by 2.8%32.3% to $113.4$148.7 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $116.7$112.4 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  Commission and brokerage expenses decreasedincreased by 7.4%28.5% to $328.2$276.0 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $354.6$214.8 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  The decreasesincreases are mainly due to the impact of the new crop reinsurance contract which generally has a lower expense ratioincreases in premiums earned and other changes in the mix of business towards additional pro rata business.

Segment other underwriting expenses decreasedincreased to $12.1$15.5 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 from $14.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.  The decrease for the three month period was primarily due2017 and increased to lower variable compensation costs.  Segment other underwriting expenses increased slightly to $40.6$32.4 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 from $39.9$28.5 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  The increases were mainly due to the impact of the increases in premiums earned and changes in the mix of business.

International.
The following table presents the underwriting results and ratios for the International segment for the periods indicated.


 Three Months Ended September 30,  Nine Months Ended September 30,  Three Months Ended June 30,  Six Months Ended June 30, 
(Dollars in millions) 2017  2016  Variance  % Change  2017  2016  Variance  % Change  2018  2017  Variance  % Change  2018  2017  Variance  % Change 
Gross written premiums $344.8  $348.8  $(4.0)  -1.1% $931.0  $925.0  $6.0   0.6% $399.0  $319.8  $79.2   24.8% $765.7  $586.2  $179.5   30.6%
Net written premiums  330.8   316.2   14.6   4.6%  848.8   799.9   48.9   6.1%  355.3   272.4   82.9   30.5%  700.5   518.0   182.4   35.2%
                                                                
Premiums earned $306.0  $282.4  $23.5   8.3% $841.3  $823.5  $17.9   2.2% $363.8  $263.8  $100.0   37.9% $707.4  $535.4  $172.0   32.1%
Incurred losses and LAE  563.1   122.2   440.9  NM   895.1   531.6   363.5   68.4%  301.4   172.5   128.9   74.7%  428.4   332.0   96.4   29.0%
Commission and brokerage  68.4   78.4   (9.9)  -12.7%  199.4   209.3   (9.9)  -4.7%  92.1   64.8   27.2   42.0%  174.3   131.0   43.3   33.0%
Other underwriting expenses  8.3   11.0   (2.7)  -24.7%  27.6   26.8   0.8   2.9%  10.3   9.8   0.5   5.5%  20.9   19.3   1.6   8.5%
Underwriting gain (loss) $(333.9) $70.8  $(404.7) NM  $(280.8) $55.7  $(336.5) NM  $(40.0) $16.7  $(56.7) NM  $83.8  $53.1  $30.7   57.7%
                                                                
             Point Chg              Point Chg              Point Chg              Point Chg 
Loss ratio  184.0%  43.2%      140.8   106.5%  64.5%      42.0   82.8%  65.4%      17.4   60.5%  62.0%      (1.5)
Commission and brokerage ratio  22.4%  27.8%      (5.4)  23.7%  25.4%      (1.7)  25.3%  24.6%      0.7   24.6%  24.5%      0.1 
Other underwriting expense ratio  2.7%  3.9%      (1.2)  3.2%  3.3%      (0.1)  2.9%  3.7%      (0.8)  3.1%  3.6%      (0.5)
Combined ratio  209.1%  74.9%      134.2   133.4%  93.2%      40.2   111.0%  93.7%      17.3   88.2%  90.1%      (1.9)
                                                                
(NM, not meaningful)                                                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                                                


Premiums.  Gross written premiums decreasedincreased by 1.1%24.8% to $344.8$399.0 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $348.8$319.8 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017, primarily due to the declineincreases in Latin American business and a negative impact of $5.6 million from the movement of foreign exchange rates.business written through our Canada and Singapore branches.  Net written premiums increased by 4.6%30.5% to $330.8$355.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $316.2$272.4 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  The difference between the change in gross written premiums compared to the change in net written premiums iswas primarily due to varying utilization of reinsurance related to quota share contracts.reinsurance.  Premiums earned increased 8.3%37.9% to $306.0$363.8 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $282.4$263.8 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  The change in
43


premiums earned relative to net written premiums is primarily the result of timing; premiums are earned ratably over the coverage period whereas written premiums are recorded at the initiation of the coverage period.

Gross written premiums increased by 0.6%30.6% to $931.0$765.7 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $925.0$586.2 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017, primarily due to the increases in Middle Eastern, African and Asian business and a positive impact of $17.7 million from the movement of foreign exchange rates, partially offset by the decline in Latin American, Middle East/Africa, Asian and Canadian business.  Net written premiums increased by 6.1%35.2% to $848.8$700.5 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $799.9$518.0 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  The difference between the change in gross written premiums compared to the change in net written premiums iswas primarily due to varying
45


utilization of reinsurance related to quota share contracts.reinsurance.  Premiums earned increased 2.2%32.1% to $841.3$707.4 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $823.5$535.4 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  The change in premiums earned relative to net written premiums is primarily the result of timing; premiums are earned ratably over the coverage period whereas written premiums are recorded at the initiation of the coverage period.

Incurred Losses and LAE. The following tables present the incurred losses and LAE for the International segment for the periods indicated.


 Three Months Ended September 30, Three Months Ended June 30,
 Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/ Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2018
                             
Attritional $174.6   48.0%  $(27.3)  -7.5%  $147.3   40.5% 
Catastrophes  50.0   13.7%   104.1   28.6%   154.1   42.3% 
Total Segment $224.6   61.7%  $76.8   21.1%  $301.4   82.8% 
                                    
2017
                                                                
Attritional $150.2   49.1%  $-   0.0%  $150.2   49.1%  $132.0   50.0%  $-   0.0%  $132.0   50.0% 
Catastrophes  415.0   135.6%   (2.2)  -0.7%   412.8   134.9%   37.7   14.3%   2.8   1.1%   40.5   15.4% 
Total Segment $565.2   184.7%  $(2.2)  -0.7%  $563.1   184.0%  $169.7   64.3%  $2.8   1.1%  $172.5   65.4% 
                                                                        
2016
                                   
Variance 2018/2017
                                   
Attritional $132.6   46.9%  $-   0.0%  $132.6   46.9%  $42.6   (2.0)pts $(27.3)  (7.5)pts $15.3   (9.5)pts
Catastrophes  20.5   7.2%   (30.9)  -10.9%   (10.4)  -3.7%   12.3   (0.6)pts  101.3   27.5 pts  113.6   26.9 pts
Total Segment $153.1   54.1%  $(30.9)  -10.9%  $122.2   43.2%  $54.9   (2.6)pts $74.0   20.0 pts $128.9   17.4 pts
                                    
Variance 2017/2016
                                   
Attritional $17.6   2.2 pts $-   - pts $17.6   2.2 pts
Catastrophes  394.5   128.4 pts  28.7   10.2 pts  423.2   138.6 pts
Total Segment $412.1   130.6 pts $28.7   10.2 pts $440.9   140.8 pts



 Nine Months Ended September 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
 Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/ Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2018
                             
Attritional $356.6   50.4%  $(27.3)  -3.9%  $329.3   46.5% 
Catastrophes  50.0   7.1%   49.1   6.9%   99.1   14.0% 
Total Segment $406.6   57.5%  $21.8   3.0%  $428.4   60.5% 
                                    
2017
                                                                
Attritional $423.9   50.4%  $-   0.0%  $423.9   50.4%  $273.6   51.1%  $-   0.0%  $273.6   51.1% 
Catastrophes  470.8   56.0%   0.4   0.1%   471.2   56.1%   55.8   10.4%   2.6   0.5%   58.4   10.9% 
Total Segment $894.7   106.4%  $0.4   0.1%  $895.1   106.5%  $329.4   61.5%  $2.6   0.5%  $332.0   62.0% 
                                                                        
2016
                                   
Attritional $437.3   53.1%  $(11.2)  -1.4%  $426.1   51.7% 
Catastrophes  138.7   16.8%   (33.2)  -4.0%   105.5   12.8% 
Total Segment $576.0   69.9%  $(44.4)  -5.4%  $531.6   64.5% 
                                    
Variance 2017/2016
                                   
Variance 2018/2017
                                   
Attritional $(13.4)  (2.7)pts $11.2   1.4 pts $(2.2)  (1.3)pts $83.0   (0.7)pts $(27.3)  (3.9)pts $55.7   (4.6)pts
Catastrophes  332.1   39.2 pts  33.6   4.1 pts  365.7   43.3 pts  (5.8)  (3.3)pts  46.5   6.4 pts  40.7   3.1 pts
Total Segment $318.7   36.5 pts $44.8   5.5 pts $363.5   42.0 pts $77.2   (4.0)pts $19.2   2.5 pts $96.4   (1.5)pts
                                                                        
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                                                      

44


Incurred losses and LAE increased by 74.7% to $563.1$301.4 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $122.2$172.5 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016,2017, primarily due to an increase$104.1 million of $394.5 million in current year catastrophe losses, favorableunfavorable development on prior years catastrophe losses in 2016, which did not recur in2018 related to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria and the 2017 Mexico City earthquake and an increase of $42.6 million in current year attritional losses of $17.6 million mainly relateddue to the impact of the increase in premiums earned.  The $415.0increases were partially offset by favorable development of $27.3 million on prior years attritional losses in 2018 mainly related to property and casualty business.  The current year catastrophe losses of $50.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 related primarily to Cyclone Mekunu ($50.0 million).  The $37.7 million of current year catastrophe losses for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017 primarily related to Hurricane Mariathe South Africa Knysna fires ($260.3 million), Hurricane Irma ($82.4 million), the Mexico City earthquake ($70.0 million), Hurricane Harvey ($2.025.0 million) and the Peru storms ($0.513.7 million).

Incurred losses and LAE increased by 29.0% to $428.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to $332.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017, primarily due to an increase of $83.0 million in current year attritional losses related to the increase in premiums earned and $49.1 million of unfavorable development on prior years catastrophe losses in 2018 related to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria and the Mexico City earthquake. These increases in losses were partially offset by favorable development of $27.3 million on prior years attritional losses in 2018 mainly related to property and casualty business.  The current year catastrophe losses of $50.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 related primarily to Cyclone Mekunu ($50.0 million).  The $20.5$55.8 million of current year catastrophe losses for the threesix months ended September 30, 2016 were mainly due to the Fort McMurray Canada wildfire ($14.8 million), the 2016 Taiwan earthquake ($4.6 million), the 2016 U.S. storms ($0.6 million) and the Ecuador earthquake ($0.4 million).
46


Incurred losses and LAE increased by 68.4% to $895.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $531.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, primarily due to an increase of $332.1 million in current year catastrophe losses and favorable development of $33.2 million on prior years catastrophe losses in 2016 which did not recur in 2017.  The $470.8 million of current year catastrophe losses for the nine months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017 related to Hurricane Maria ($260.3 million), Hurricane Irma ($82.4 million), the Mexico City earthquake ($70.0 million), the South Africa Knysna fires ($25.0 million), Cyclone Debbie in Australia ($16.917.1 million), and the Peru storms ($14.213.7 million) and Hurricane Harvey ($2.0 million).The $138.7 million of current year catastrophe losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 were due to the Fort McMurray Canada wildfire ($99.2 million), the Ecuador earthquake ($23.6 million), the 2016 Taiwan earthquake ($15.3 million) and the 2016 U.S. storms ($0.6 million).

Segment Expenses.Expenses.  Commission and brokerage decreasedincreased by 12.7%42.0% to $68.4$92.1 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $78.4$64.8 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  Commission and brokerage decreasedincreased by 4.7%33.0% to $199.4$174.3 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $209.3$131.0 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.  The decreases were primarily 2017.  These increases are mainly due to the impact of the increases in premiums earned and changes in the mix of business and the impact of the quota share contracts..

Segment other underwriting expenses decreasedincreased slightly to $8.3$10.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $11.0$9.8 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016,2017 andincreased slightly to $27.6$20.9 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $26.8$19.3 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  The decrease for the three month period is primarily due to lower variable compensation costs.
45


Bermuda.
The following table presents the underwriting results and ratios for the Bermuda segment for the periods indicated.


 Three Months Ended September 30,  Nine Months Ended September 30,  Three Months Ended June 30,  Six Months Ended June 30, 
(Dollars in millions) 2017  2016  Variance  % Change  2017  2016  Variance  % Change  2018  2017  Variance  % Change  2018  2017  Variance  % Change 
Gross written premiums $311.8  $246.0  $65.8   26.7% $870.5  $612.7  $257.8   42.1% $369.4  $237.6  $131.9   55.5% $785.1  $558.7  $226.4   40.5%
Net written premiums  287.6   229.4   58.2   25.4%  810.4   562.1   248.3   44.2%  355.2   217.8   137.4   63.1%  750.2   522.8   227.4   43.5%
                                                                
Premiums earned $267.5  $215.8  $51.7   24.0% $766.1  $610.5  $155.6   25.5% $353.7  $263.5  $90.2   34.3% $672.8  $498.6  $174.3   35.0%
Incurred losses and LAE  301.3   127.2   174.1   136.8%  595.1   348.6   246.5   70.7%  250.1   165.3   84.8   51.3%  379.6   293.7   85.9   29.2%
Commission and brokerage  83.9   59.6   24.3   40.7%  205.8   169.4   36.4   21.5%  80.3   63.5   16.8   26.5%  161.8   121.9   39.9   32.7%
Other underwriting expenses  9.0   8.8   0.3   3.0%  27.6   26.3   1.3   4.8%  10.8   9.0   1.7   19.3%  20.9   18.5   2.4   12.9%
Underwriting gain (loss) $(126.7) $20.1  $(147.0) NM  $(62.3) $66.2  $(128.5)  -194.2% $12.5  $25.6  $(13.1)  -51.2% $110.5  $64.4  $46.1   71.6%
                                                                
             Point Chg              Point Chg              Point Chg              Point Chg 
Loss ratio  112.6%  59.0%      53.6   77.6%  57.0%      20.6   70.7%  62.7%      8.0   56.5%  58.9%      (2.4)
Commission and brokerage ratio  31.4%  27.6%      3.8   26.9%  27.8%      (0.9)  22.7%  24.1%      (1.4)  24.0%  24.5%      (0.5)
Other underwriting expense ratio  3.4%  4.1%      (0.7)  3.6%  4.4%      (0.8)  3.1%  3.5%      (0.4)  3.1%  3.7%      (0.6)
Combined ratio  147.4%  90.7%      56.7   108.1%  89.2%      18.9   96.5%  90.3%      6.2   83.6%  87.1%      (3.5)
                                                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                                                


Premiums.  Gross written premiums increased by 26.7%55.5% to $311.8$369.4 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $246.0$237.6 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017, primarily due to increased casualty business written through the Bermuda office, increased production from the U.K. officeand Ireland offices, an increase in Bermuda property business and a positive impact of $2.9$6.8 million from the movement of foreign exchange rates.  Net written premiums increased by 25.4%63.1% to $287.6$355.2 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $229.4$217.8 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  The change in net premiums is comparable todifference between the change in gross written premiums.premiums compared to the change in net written premiums was primarily due to varying utilization of reinsurance.  Premiums earned increased 24.0%34.3% to $267.5$353.7 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $215.8$263.5 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.  The change in premiums earned relative to net written premiums is the result of timing; premiums are earned ratably over the coverage period whereas written premiums are recorded at the initiation of the coverage period.
47


Gross written premiums increased by 42.1% to $870.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $612.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, primarily due to increased casualty and financial lines of business written through the Bermuda office and increased production from the U.K. and Ireland offices, partially offset by a negative impact of $12.1 million from the movement of foreign exchange rates.  Net written premiums increased by 44.2% to $810.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $562.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.  The change in net premiums is comparable to the change in gross written premiums.  Premiums earned increased 25.5% to $766.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $610.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.  The change in premiums earned relative to net written premiums is the result of timing; premiums are earned ratably over the coverage period whereas written premiums are recorded at the initiation of the coverage period.

Incurred Losses and LAE.  The following tables present the incurred losses and LAE for the Bermuda segment for the periods indicated.


  Three Months Ended September 30,
  Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2017
                             
Attritional $147.2   55.0%  $-   0.0%  $147.2   55.0% 
Catastrophes  153.2   57.3%   0.9   0.3%   154.1   57.6% 
Total Segment $300.4   112.3%  $0.9   0.3%  $301.3   112.6% 
                                     
2016
                                   
Attritional $117.0   54.2%  $-   0.0%  $117.0   54.2% 
Catastrophes  10.6   4.9%   (0.3)  -0.1%   10.3   4.8% 
Total Segment $127.5   59.1%  $(0.3)  -0.1%  $127.2   59.0% 
                                     
Variance 2017/2016
                                   
Attritional $30.2   0.8 pts $-   - pts $30.2   0.8 pts
Catastrophes  142.6   52.4 pts  1.2   0.4 pts  143.8   52.8 pts
Total Segment $172.9   53.2 pts $1.2   0.4 pts $174.1   53.6 pts



  Nine Months Ended September 30,
  Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2017
                             
Attritional $436.1   56.9%  $-   0.0%  $436.1   56.9% 
Catastrophes  154.1   20.1%   4.9   0.6%   159.0   20.7% 
Total Segment $590.2   77.0%  $4.9   0.6%  $595.1   77.6% 
                                     
2016
                                   
Attritional $342.7   56.1%  $3.6   0.6%  $346.3   56.7% 
Catastrophes  10.6   1.7%   (8.3)  -1.4%   2.3   0.3% 
Total Segment $353.3   57.8%  $(4.7)  -0.8%  $348.6   57.0% 
                                     
Variance 2017/2016
                                   
Attritional $93.4   0.8 pts $(3.6)  (0.6)pts $89.8   0.2 pts
Catastrophes  143.5   18.4 pts  13.2   2.0 pts  156.7   20.4 pts
Total Segment $236.9   19.2 pts $9.6   1.4 pts $246.5   20.6 pts
                                     
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                   


Incurred losses and LAE increased by 136.8% to $301.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $127.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016, primarily due to an increase of $142.6 million in current year catastrophe losses and an increase of $30.2 million in current year attritional losses related primarily to the impact of the increase in premiums earned.  The $153.2 million of current year catastrophe losses for the three months ended September 30, 2017 primarily related to Hurricane Maria ($56.4 million), Hurricane Irma ($42.4 million), Hurricane Harvey ($37.5 million) and the
48


Mexico City earthquake ($17.0 million).  The $10.6 million of current year catastrophe losses for the three months ended September 30, 2016 were mainly due to the Fort McMurray Canada wildfire ($10.4 million) and the 2016 U.S. storms ($0.1 million).

Incurred losses and LAE increased by 70.7% to $595.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $348.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, primarily due to an increase of $143.5 million in current year catastrophe losses, an increase of $93.4 million in current year attritional losses related primarily to the impact of the increase in premiums earned and less favorable development of $13.2 million on prior years catastrophe losses in 2017 compared to 2016.  The $154.1 million of current year catastrophe losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 primarily related to Hurricane Maria ($56.4 million), Hurricane Irma ($42.4 million), Hurricane Harvey ($37.5 million), the Mexico City earthquake ($17.0 million) and Cyclone Debbie in Australia ($0.9 million).  The $10.6 million of current year catastrophe losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 were mainly due to the Fort McMurray Canada wildfire ($10.4 million) and the 2016 U.S. storms ($0.1 million).

Segment Expenses. Commission and brokerage increased by 40.7% to $83.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $59.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016.  Commission and brokerage increased by 21.5% to $205.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $169.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.  The increases were mainly due to the impact of the increase in premiums earned and higher contingent commissions.

Segment other underwriting expenses increased slightly to $9.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $8.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and increased slightly to $27.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to $26.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

Insurance.
The following table presents the underwriting results and ratios for the Insurance segment for the periods indicated.


  Three Months Ended September 30,  Nine Months Ended September 30, 
(Dollars in millions) 2017  2016  Variance  % Change  2017  2016  Variance  % Change 
Gross written premiums $480.1  $533.0  $(53.0)  -9.9% $1,483.8  $1,364.5  $119.3   8.7%
Net written premiums  370.4   340.2   30.2   8.9%  1,179.9   1,047.9   132.0   12.6%
                                 
Premiums earned $375.7  $354.1  $21.6   6.1% $1,063.5  $966.3  $97.2   10.1%
Incurred losses and LAE  420.2   260.5   159.8   61.3%  896.9   732.3   164.6   22.5%
Commission and brokerage  67.4   54.9   12.5   22.8%  181.9   146.7   35.2   24.0%
Other underwriting expenses  43.7   44.5   (0.8)  -1.8%  132.1   129.8   2.3   1.8%
Underwriting gain (loss) $(155.6) $(5.7) $(149.9) NM  $(147.5) $(42.5) $(105.0)  247.3%
                                 
              Point Chg              Point Chg 
Loss ratio  111.9%  73.5%      38.4   84.4%  75.8%      8.6 
Commission and brokerage ratio  17.9%  15.5%      2.4   17.1%  15.2%      1.9 
Other underwriting expense ratio  11.6%  12.6%      (1.0)  12.4%  13.4%      (1.0)
Combined ratio  141.4%  101.6%      39.8   113.9%  104.4%      9.5 
                                 
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                


Premiums.  Gross written premiums decreasedincreased by 9.9%40.5% to $480.1$785.1 million for the threesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $533.0$558.7 million for the threesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  This decrease was, primarily due to increased production from the sale of Heartland, which accounted for $162.4 million of gross written premiumsU.K. and Ireland offices, an increase in the third quarter of 2016.  Excluding theBermuda property business and a positive impact of Heartland, gross written premiums increased by $109.4$20.1 million due to higher production from many linesthe movement of business, including retail casualty, surety, accident and health and business written through the Lloyd's Syndicate.foreign exchange rates.  Net written premiums increased by 8.9%43.5% to $370.4$750.2 million for the threesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $340.2$522.8 million for the threesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.  The difference between2017, which is consistent with the change in gross written premiums compared to the change in net written premiums is mainly due to the more conservative reinsurance position that we have taken to support our new business.  premiums.  Premiums earned increased 6.1%35.0% to $375.7
49


$672.8 million for the threesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $354.1$498.6 million for the threesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  The change in premiums earned relative to net written premiums is the result of timing; premiums are earned ratably over the coverage period whereas written premiums are recorded at the initiation of the coverage period, as well asperiod.
46


Incurred Losses and LAE.  The following tables present the incurred losses and LAE for the Bermuda segment for the periods indicated.


  Three Months Ended June 30,
  Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2018
                             
Attritional $202.6   57.3%  $-   0.0%  $202.6   57.3% 
Catastrophes  -   0.0%   47.5   13.4%   47.5   13.4% 
Total Segment $202.6   57.3%  $47.5   13.4%  $250.1   70.7% 
                                     
2017
                                   
Attritional $161.9   61.4%  $-   0.0%  $161.9   61.4% 
Catastrophes  -   0.0%   3.4   1.3%   3.4   1.3% 
Total Segment $161.9   61.4%  $3.4   1.3%  $165.3   62.7% 
                                     
Variance 2018/2017
                                   
Attritional $40.7   (4.1)pts $-   - pts $40.7   (4.1)pts
Catastrophes  -   - pts  44.1   12.1 pts  44.1   12.1 pts
Total Segment $40.7   (4.1)pts $44.1   12.1 pts $84.8   8.0 pts



  Six Months Ended June 30,
  Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2018
                             
Attritional $391.3   58.2%  $-   0.0%  $391.3   58.2% 
Catastrophes  -   0.0%   (11.7)  -1.7%   (11.7)  -1.7% 
Total Segment $391.3   58.2%  $(11.7)  -1.7%  $379.6   56.5% 
                                     
2017
                                   
Attritional $288.9   57.9%  $-   0.0%  $288.9   57.9% 
Catastrophes  0.9   0.2%   3.9   0.8%   4.8   1.0% 
Total Segment $289.8   58.1%  $3.9   0.8%  $293.7   58.9% 
                                     
Variance 2018/2017
                                   
Attritional $102.4   0.3 pts $-   - pts $102.4   0.3 pts
Catastrophes  (0.9)  (0.2)pts  (15.6)  (2.5)pts  (16.5)  (2.7)pts
Total Segment $101.5   0.1 pts $(15.6)  (2.5)pts $85.9   (2.4)pts
                                     
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                   


Incurred losses and LAE increased by 51.3% to $250.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 compared to $165.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017, primarily due to $47.5 million of unfavorable development on prior years catastrophe losses in 2018 mainly related to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria and an increase of $40.7 million in current year attritional losses related primarily to the impact of the increase in premiums earned.  There were no current year catastrophe losses for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017.

Incurred losses and LAE increased by 29.2% to $379.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to $293.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017, primarily due to an increase of $102.4 million in current year attritional losses related primarily to the impact of the increase in premiums earned, partially offset by $11.7 million of favorable development on prior years catastrophe losses in 2018.  There were no current year catastrophe losses for the six months ended June 30, 2018.  The $0.9 million of current year catastrophe losses for the six months ended June 30, 2017 were due to Cyclone Debbie in Australia ($0.9 million).
47


Segment Expenses.  Commission and brokerage increased by 26.5% to $80.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 compared to $63.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017.  Commission and brokerage increased by 32.7% to $161.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to $121.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017.  The increases were mainly due to the impact of the increase in premiums earned.

Segment other underwriting expenses increased to $10.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 compared to $9.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and increased to $20.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to $18.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017The increases are mainly due to the impact of the increases in premiums earned and changes in the mix of business.

Insurance.
The following table presents the underwriting results and ratios for the Insurance segment for the periods indicated.


  Three Months Ended June 30,  Six Months Ended June 30, 
(Dollars in millions) 2018  2017  Variance  % Change  2018  2017  Variance  % Change 
Gross written premiums $645.9  $569.3  $76.6   13.5% $1,150.9  $1,003.7  $147.2   14.7%
Net written premiums  469.5   463.7   5.8   1.3%  855.8   809.4   46.3   5.7%
                                 
Premiums earned $408.4  $363.9  $44.5   12.2% $801.7  $687.8  $113.9   16.6%
Incurred losses and LAE  280.2   255.9   24.3   9.5%  535.6   476.7   58.9   12.4%
Commission and brokerage  62.3   59.2   3.1   5.2%  128.9   114.5   14.4   12.6%
Other underwriting expenses  56.5   45.8   10.8   23.5%  115.2   88.4   26.8   30.3%
Underwriting gain (loss) $9.5  $3.1  $6.4   206.1% $22.0  $8.2  $13.8   168.9%
                                 
              Point Chg              Point Chg 
Loss ratio  68.7%  70.3%      (1.6)  66.8%  69.3%      (2.5)
Commission and brokerage ratio  15.2%  16.3%      (1.1)  16.1%  16.7%      (0.6)
Other underwriting expense ratio  13.8%  12.5%      1.3   14.4%  12.8%      1.6 
Combined ratio  97.7%  99.1%      (1.4)  97.3%  98.8%      (1.5)
                                 
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                


Premiums.Gross written premiums increased by 8.7%13.5% to $1,483.8$645.9 million for the ninethree months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $1,364.5$569.3 million for ninethe three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  Excluding the impact of the sale of Heartland, which accounted for $229.9 million of gross written premiums in the nine months ended September 30, 2016, gross written premiums increased $349.3 million.  This increase was primarily driven by expansion ofimprovement in various insurance lines of business including retail casualty, retail property, surety, accident and health and premiums written through the Lloyd's Syndicate.  Net written premiums increased by 12.6%1.3% to $1,179.9$469.5 million for the ninethree months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $1,047.9$463.7 million for the ninethree months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  The difference between the change in gross written premiums compared to the change in net written premiums is mainlywas primarily due to the more conservative reinsurance position that we have taken to support our new business.varying utilization of reinsurance.  Premiums earned increased 10.1%12.2% to $1,063.5$408.4 million for the ninethree months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $966.3$363.9 million for the ninethree months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  The change in premiums earned relative to net written premiums is the result of timing; premiums are earned ratably over the coverage period whereas written premiums are recorded at the initiation of the coverage period.

Gross written premiums increased by 14.7% to $1,150.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to $1,003.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017.  This increase was driven by expansion of various insurance lines of business including casualty, accident and health and premiums written through the Lloyd's Syndicate.  Net written premiums increased by 5.7% to $855.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to $809.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017.  The difference between the change in gross written premiums compared to the change in net written premiums was primarily due to varying utilization of reinsurance.  Premiums earned increased 16.6% to $801.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to $687.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017.  The change in premiums earned relative to net written premiums is the result of timing; premiums
48


are earned ratably over the coverage period as well as changes inwhereas written premiums are recorded at the mixinitiation of business.the coverage period.

Incurred Losses and LAE.  The following tables present the incurred losses and LAE for the Insurance segment for the periods indicated.


 Three Months Ended September 30, Three Months Ended June 30,
 Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/ Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2018
                             
Attritional $270.7   66.3%  $(1.0)  -0.2%  $269.7   66.1% 
Catastrophes  10.5   2.6%   -   0.0%   10.5   2.6% 
Total Segment $281.2   68.9%  $(1.0)  -0.2%  $280.2   68.7% 
                                    
2017
                                                                
Attritional $257.0   68.4%  $0.0   0.0%  $257.0   68.4%  $235.8   64.8%  $7.0   1.9%  $242.8   66.7% 
Catastrophes  163.0   43.4%   0.3   0.1%   163.3   43.5%   13.1   3.6%   -   0.0%   13.1   3.6% 
Total Segment $420.0   111.8%  $0.3   0.1%  $420.2   111.9%  $248.9   68.4%  $7.0   1.9%  $255.9   70.3% 
                                                                        
2016
                                   
Variance 2018/2017
                                   
Attritional $256.1   72.3%  $4.3   1.2%  $260.5   73.5%  $34.9   1.5 pts $(8.0)  (2.1)pts $26.9   (0.6)pts
Catastrophes  -   0.0%   -   0.0%   -   0.0%   (2.6)  (1.0)pts  -   - pts  (2.6)  (1.0)pts
Total Segment $256.1   72.3%  $4.3   1.2%  $260.5   73.5%  $32.3   0.5 pts $(8.0)  (2.1)pts $24.3   (1.6)pts
                   ��                
Variance 2017/2016
                                   
Attritional $0.9   (3.9)pts $(4.3)  (1.2)pts $(3.5)  (5.1)pts
Catastrophes  163.0   43.4 pts  0.3   0.1 pts  163.3   43.5 pts
Total Segment $163.9   39.5 pts $(4.0)  (1.1)pts $159.8   38.4 pts



 Nine Months Ended September 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
 Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/ Current  Ratio %/ Prior  Ratio %/ Total  Ratio %/
(Dollars in millions) Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change Year  Pt Change Years  Pt Change Incurred  Pt Change
2018
                             
Attritional $530.7   66.2%  $(1.0)  -0.1%  $529.7   66.1% 
Catastrophes  10.5   1.3%   (4.6)  -0.6%   5.9   0.7% 
Total Segment $541.2   67.5%  $(5.6)  -0.7%  $535.6   66.8% 
                                    
2017
                                                                
Attritional $712.4   67.0%  $8.4   0.8%  $720.7   67.8%  $455.4   66.2%  $8.3   1.2%  $463.7   67.4% 
Catastrophes  176.0   16.6%   0.1   0.0%   176.2   16.6%   13.1   1.9%   (0.1)  0.0%   13.0   1.9% 
Total Segment $888.4   83.6%  $8.5   0.8%  $896.9   84.4%  $468.5   68.1%  $8.2   1.2%  $476.7   69.3% 
                                                                        
2016
                                   
Attritional $680.7   70.4%  $13.3   1.4%  $694.1   71.8% 
Catastrophes  38.4   4.0%   (0.2)  0.0%   38.2   4.0% 
Total Segment $719.1   74.4%  $13.2   1.4%  $732.3   75.8% 
                                    
Variance 2017/2016
                                   
Variance 2018/2017
                                   
Attritional $31.7   (3.4)pts $(4.9)  (0.6)pts $26.6   (4.0)pts $75.3   - pts $(9.3)  (1.3)pts $66.0   (1.3)pts
Catastrophes  137.6   12.6 pts  0.3   - pts  138.0   12.6 pts  (2.6)  (0.6)pts  (4.5)  (0.6)pts  (7.1)  (1.2)pts
Total Segment $169.3   9.2 pts $(4.6)  (0.6)pts $164.6   8.6 pts $72.7   (0.6)pts $(13.8)  (1.9)pts $58.9   (2.5)pts
                                                                        
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                                                      

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Incurred losses and LAE increased by 61.3%9.5% to $420.2$280.2 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $260.5$255.9 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017, mainly due to an increase of $163.0$34.9 million in current year attritional losses primarily related to the increase in premiums earned, partially offset by favorable development on prior years attritional losses in 2017 of $7.0 million which did not recur in 2018The current year catastrophe losses.  losses of $10.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 related primarily to the U.S. winter storms ($10.5 million).  The $163.0$13.1 million of current year catastrophe losses for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017 were due to Hurricane Harveythe 2017 U.S. Midwest storms ($74.012.0 million), Hurricane Irma ($72.0 million), Hurricane Maria ($14.0 million), and the Mexico City earthquakeCyclone Debbie ($3.01.0 million).
49There were no current year catastrophe losses for the three months ended September 30, 2016.


Incurred losses and LAE increased by 22.5%12.4% to $896.9$535.6 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $732.3$476.7 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017, mainly due to an increase of $137.6 million in current year catastrophe losses and an increase of $31.7$75.3 million in current year attritional losses, primarily related primarily to the increase in premiums earned.  earned, partially offset by a decrease in prior years attritional losses of $9.3 millionThe $176.0current year catastrophe losses of $10.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 related primarily to the U.S. winter storms ($10.5 million).  The $13.1 million of current year catastrophe losses for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017 were due to Hurricane Harvey ($74.0 million), Hurricane Irma ($72.0 million), Hurricane Maria ($14.0 million), the 2017 USU.S. Midwest storms ($12.0 million), the Mexico City earthquake ($3.0 million) and Cyclone Debbie in Australia ($1.0 million).  The $38.4 million of current year catastrophe losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 were due to the 2016 U.S. storms ($30.0 million) and the Fort McMurray Canada wildfire ($8.4 million).

Segment Expenses.  Commission and brokerage increased by 22.8%5.2% to $67.4$62.3 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $54.9$59.2 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  Commission and brokerage increased by 24.0%12.6% to $181.9$128.9 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $146.7$114.5 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162017.  The increases were mainly due to the impact of the increaseincreases in premiums earned and changes in the mix of business.earned.

Segment other underwriting expenses decreased slightlyincreased to $43.7$56.5 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $44.5$45.8 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  Segment other underwriting expenses increased slightly to $132.1$115.2 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to $129.8$88.4 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016.2017.  The increases were mainly due to the impact of the increases in premiums earned and increased expenses related to the continued build out of the insurance business.

FINANCIAL CONDITION

Cash and Invested Assets.  Aggregate invested assets, including cash and short-term investments, were $18,482.0$18,205.7 million at SeptemberJune 30, 2017, an increase2018, a decrease of $998.9420.9 million compared to $17,483.1$18,626.5 million at December 31, 2016.2017.  This increasedecrease was primarily the result of $1,044.2$262.5 million of cash flows from operations, $254.7pre-tax unrealized depreciation, $158.4 million in fair value re-measurements, $106.5 million paid out in dividends to shareholders, $78.4 million due to fluctuations in foreign currencies, $54.2$33.4 million of unsettled securities, $17.7 million of amortization of bond premium and $1.0 million of other-than-temporary impairments, partially offset by $132.6 million of cash flows from operations and $45.9 million in equity adjustments of our limited partnership investments and $37.1 million in fair value re-measurements, partially offset by $219.2 million of unsettled securities, $153.9 million paid out in dividends to shareholders, $34.7 million of amortization bond premium, $10.7 million of pre-tax unrealized depreciation and $5.2 million of other-than-temporary impairments.investments.

Our principal investment objectives are to ensure funds are available to meet our insurance and reinsurance obligations and to maximize after-tax investment income while maintaining a high quality diversified investment portfolio.  Considering these objectives, we view our investment portfolio as having two components: 1) the investments needed to satisfy outstanding liabilities (our core fixed maturities portfolio) and 2) investments funded by our shareholders' equity.

For the portion needed to satisfy global outstanding liabilities, we generally invest in taxable and tax-preferenced fixed income securities with an average credit quality of Aa3.A1.  For the U.S. portion of this portfolio, our mix of taxable and tax-preferenced investments is adjusted periodically, consistent with our current and projected U.S. operating results, market conditions and our tax position.  This global fixed maturity securities portfolio is externally managed by an independent, professional investment manager using portfolio guidelines approved by internal management.

Over the past several years, we have expanded the allocation of our investments funded by shareholders' equity to include:  1) a greater percentage of publicly traded equity securities, 2) emerging market fixed maturities through mutual fund structures, as well as individual holdings, 3) high yield fixed maturities, 4) bank and private loan securities and 5) private equity limited partnership investments.  The objective of this portfolio
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diversification is to enhance the risk-adjusted total return of the investment portfolio by allocating a prudent portion of the portfolio to higher return asset classes, which are also less subject to changes in value with movements in interest rates.  We limit our allocation to these asset classes because of 1) the potential for volatility in their values and 2) the impact of these investments on regulatory and rating agency capital adequacy models.  We use investment managers experienced in these markets and adjust our allocation to these investments based upon market conditions.  At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the market value of investments in these investment market sectors, carried at both market and fair value, approximated 52.9%55.0% of shareholders' equity.
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The Company's limited partnership investments are comprised of limited partnerships that invest in private equities.  Generally, the limited partnerships are reported on a quarter lag.  We receive annual audited financial statements for all of the limited partnerships which are prepared using fair value accounting in accordance with FASB guidance.  For the quarterly reports, the Company's staff performs reviews of the financial reports for any unusual changes in carrying value.  If the Company becomes aware of a significant decline in value during the lag reporting period, the loss will be recorded in the period in which the Company identifies the decline.

The tables below summarize the composition and characteristics of our investment portfolio as of the dates indicated.


(Dollars in millions) At September 30, 2017  At December 31, 2016  At June 30, 2018  At December 31, 2017 
Fixed maturities, market value $14,778.2   80.0% $14,107.4   80.7% $14,242.9   78.2% $14,756.8   79.2%
Fixed maturities, fair value  3.2   0.0%  -   0.0%
Equity securities, market value  127.4   0.7%  119.1   0.7%  -   0.0%  129.5   0.7%
Equity securities, fair value  1,141.1   6.2%  1,010.1   5.8%  1,220.8   6.7%  963.6   5.2%
Short-term investments  362.4   2.0%  431.5   2.5%  293.2   1.6%  509.7   2.7%
Other invested assets  1,487.5   8.0%  1,333.1   7.6%  1,826.1   10.1%  1,631.9   8.8%
Cash  585.4   3.1%  481.9   2.7%  619.5   3.4%  635.1   3.4%
Total investments and cash $18,482.0   100.0% $17,483.1   100.0% $18,205.7   100.0% $18,626.5   100.0%
                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                



At AtAt At
September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
Fixed income portfolio duration (years)3.2 3.33.2 3.1
Fixed income composite credit qualityAa3 Aa3A1 Aa3
Imbedded end of period yield, pre-tax3.0% 2.9%3.3% 3.0%
Imbedded end of period yield, after-tax2.5% 2.4%2.9% 2.8%


The following table provides a comparison of our total return by asset class relative to broadly accepted industry benchmarks for the periods indicated:


Nine Months Ended Twelve Months EndedSix Months Ended Twelve Months Ended
September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
Fixed income portfolio total return2.4%  3.1% -0.2%  2.5% 
Barclay's Capital - U.S. aggregate index3.1%  2.7% -1.6%  3.5% 
          
Common equity portfolio total return10.1%  8.4% 0.4%  14.6% 
S&P 500 index14.2%  12.0% 2.7%  21.8% 
          
Other invested asset portfolio total return5.9%  4.3% 4.0%  8.4% 


The pre-tax equivalent total return for the bond portfolio was approximately 3.6%0.8% and 5.0%4.3%, respectively, for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and the twelve months ended December 31, 2016.2017.  The pre-tax equivalent return adjusts the yield on tax-exempt bonds to the fully taxable equivalent.

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Our fixed income and equity portfolios have different compositions than the benchmark indexes.  Our fixed income portfolios have a shorter duration because we align our investment portfolio with our liabilities.  We also hold foreign securities to match our foreign liabilities while the index is comprised of only U.S. securities.  Our equity portfolios reflect an emphasis on dividend yield and growth equities, while the index is comprised of the largest 500 equities by market capitalization.

Reinsurance Receivables.
Reinsurance receivables for both paid and recoverable on unpaid losses totaled $1,779.6 million and $1,366.91,348.2 million and $1,018.3 million at SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, respectively.  At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, $329.9630.9 million, or 24.135.5%, was receivable from Mt. Logan Re collateralized segregated accounts; $156.3165.9 million, or 11.49.3%, was receivable from Zurich Vericherungs Gesellschaft ("Zurich"); and $135.5 million, or 7.6%, was receivable from Resolution Group Reinsurance (Barbados) Limited ("Resolution Group"); $118.8 million, or 8.7%, was receivable from Zurich Vericherungs Gesellschaft ("Zurich"); $114.6 million, or 8.4%, was receivable from C.V. Starr (Bermuda) ("C.V. Starr"); $78.9 million, or 5.8%, was receivable from Tokio Millenium Re Ltd. ("Tokio")  and $73.6 million, or 5.4%, was receivable from Munich Reinsurance America, Inc. ("Munich Re").  The receivables from Resolution Group and C.V. Starr are fully collateralized by an individual trust agreements.agreement.  No other retrocessionaire accounted for more than 5% of our receivables.
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Loss and LAE Reserves.   Gross loss and LAE reserves totaled $12,455.4$12,043.3 million and $11,884.3 million at SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and $10,312.3 million at December 31, 2016.2017, respectively.

The following tables summarize gross outstanding loss and LAE reserves by segment, classified by case reserves and IBNR reserves, for the periods indicated.


 At September 30, 2017  At June 30, 2018 
 Case  IBNR  Total  % of  Case  IBNR  Total  % of 
(Dollars in millions) Reserves  Reserves  Reserves  Total  Reserves  Reserves  Reserves  Total 
U.S. Reinsurance $1,416.4  $2,857.0  $4,273.5   34.3% $1,960.7  $1,895.6  $3,856.3   32.0%
International  1,006.5   1,352.1   2,358.6   18.9%  1,108.7   984.4   2,093.1   17.4%
Bermuda  938.2   1,478.3   2,416.5   19.4%  1,144.8   1,461.7   2,606.5   21.6%
Insurance  972.1   2,019.1   2,991.2   24.0%  1,023.6   2,066.5   3,090.1   25.7%
Total excluding A&E  4,333.3   7,706.5   12,039.7   96.7%  5,237.8   6,408.2   11,646.0   96.7%
A&E  266.6   149.0   415.6   3.3%  299.4   98.0   397.4   3.3%
Total including A&E $4,599.9  $7,855.5  $12,455.4   100.0% $5,537.1  $6,506.2  $12,043.3   100.0%
                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                



 At December 31, 2016  At December 31, 2017 
 Case  IBNR  Total  % of  Case  IBNR  Total  % of 
(Dollars in millions) Reserves  Reserves  Reserves  Total  Reserves  Reserves  Reserves  Total 
U.S. Reinsurance $1,316.3  $2,033.9  $3,350.3   32.5% $1,719.6  $2,041.0  $3,760.6   31.6%
International  893.5   850.3   1,743.8   16.9%  1,147.6   1,022.9   2,170.5   18.3%
Bermuda  770.0   1,189.0   1,959.1   19.0%  1,037.8   1,417.0   2,454.8   20.7%
Insurance  1,018.5   1,799.5   2,818.1   27.3%  1,049.4   2,000.0   3,049.4   25.7%
Total excluding A&E  3,998.4   5,872.8   9,871.2   95.7%  4,954.3   6,481.0   11,435.3   96.2%
A&E  293.5   147.6   441.1   4.3%  306.0   143.0   449.0   3.8%
Total including A&E $4,291.9  $6,020.4  $10,312.3   100.0% $5,260.4  $6,623.9  $11,884.3   100.0%
                                
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)                                


Changes in premiums earned and business mix, reserve re-estimations, catastrophe losses and changes in catastrophe loss reserves and claim settlement activity all impact loss and LAE reserves by segment and in total.

Our loss and LAE reserves represent management's best estimate of our ultimate liability for unpaid claims.  We continuously re-evaluate our reserves, including re-estimates of prior period reserves, taking into consideration all available information and, in particular, newly reported loss and claim experience.  Changes in reserves resulting from such re-evaluations are reflected in incurred losses in the period when the re-
53


evaluationre-evaluation is made.  Our analytical methods and processes operate at multiple levels including individual contracts, groupings of like contracts, classes and lines of business, internal business units, segments, legal entities, and in the aggregate.  In order to set appropriate reserves, we make qualitative and quantitative analyses and judgments at these various levels.  Additionally, the attribution of reserves, changes in reserves and incurred losses among accident years requires qualitative and quantitative adjustments and allocations at these various levels.  We utilize actuarial science, business expertise and management judgment in a manner intended to ensure the accuracy and consistency of our reserving practices.  Nevertheless, our reserves are estimates, which are subject to variation, which may be significant.

There can be no assurance that reserves for, and losses from, claim obligations will not increase in the future, possibly by a material amount.  However, we believe that our existing reserves and reserving methodologies lessen the probability that any such increase would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
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Asbestos and Environmental Exposures.  A&E exposures represent a separate exposure group for monitoring and evaluating reserve adequacy.  The following table summarizes the outstanding loss reserves with respect to A&E reserves on both a gross and net of retrocessions basis for the periods indicated.


 At  At  At  At 
 September 30,  December 31,  June 30,  December 31, 
(Dollars in millions) 2017  2016  2018  2017 
Gross reserves $415.6  $441.1  $397.4  $449.0 
Reinsurance receivable  (122.6)  (122.0)  (114.5)  (130.9)
Net reserves $293.0  $319.1  $282.9  $318.1 
        
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)        


With respect to asbestos only, at SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, we had net asbestos loss reserves of $281.0$273.2 million, or 95.9%96.6%, of total net A&E reserves, all of which was for assumed business.

On July 13, 2015, we sold Mt. McKinley to Clearwater Insurance Company.  Concurrently with the closing, we entered into a retrocession treaty with an affiliate of Clearwater.  Per the retrocession treaty, we retroceded 100% of the liabilities associated with certain Mt. McKinley policies, which had been reinsured by Bermuda Re.  As consideration for entering into the retrocession treaty, Bermuda Re transferred cash of $140.3 million, an amount equal to the net loss reserves as of the closing date.  Of the $140.3 million of net loss reserves retroceded, $100.5 million were related to A&E business.  The maximum liability retroceded under the retrocession treaty will be $440.3 million, equal to the retrocession payment plus $300.0 million.  We will retain liability for any amounts exceeding the maximum liability retroceded under the retrocession treaty.

Ultimate loss projections for A&E liabilities cannot be accomplished using standard actuarial techniques.  We believe that our A&E reserves represent management's best estimate of the ultimate liability; however, there can be no assurance that ultimate loss payments will not exceed such reserves, perhaps by a significant amount.

Industry analysts use the "survival ratio" to compare the A&E reserves among companies with such liabilities.  The survival ratio is typically calculated by dividing a company's current net reserves by the three year average of annual paid losses.  Hence, the survival ratio equals the number of years that it would take to exhaust the current reserves if future loss payments were to continue at historical levels.  Using this measurement, our net three year asbestos survival ratio was 5.6 years at SeptemberJune 30, 2017.2018.  These metrics can be skewed by individual large settlements occurring in the prior three years and therefore, may not be indicative of the timing of future payments.

Shareholders' Equity.  Our shareholders' equity decreased to $7,969.3$8,241.3 million as of SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 from $8,075.4$8,369.2 million as of December 31, 2016.2017.  This decrease was the result of $153.9240.9 million of unrealized depreciation on investments net of tax, $106.5 million of shareholder dividends, and $102.1 million of net loss, partially offset by $125.1$46.0 million of net foreign currency translation adjustments and the repurchase of 0.1 million common shares for $25.3 million, partially offset by $17.4280.2 million of net income, $6.9 million of share-based compensation transactions $5.4and $3.6 million of net benefit plan obligation adjustments, and $2.0 million of unrealized appreciation on investments, net of tax.
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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Capital.  Shareholders' equity at SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 20162017 was $7,969.3$8,241.3 million and $8,075.4$8,369.2 million, respectively.  Management's objective in managing capital is to ensure its overall capital level, as well as the capital levels of its operating subsidiaries, exceed the amounts required by regulators, the amount needed to support our current financial strength ratings from rating agencies and our own economic capital models.  The Company's capital has historically exceeded these benchmark levels.

Our two main operating companies Bermuda Re and Everest Re are regulated by the Bermuda Monetary Authority ("BMA") and the State of Delaware, Department of Insurance, respectively.  Both regulatory bodies have their own capital adequacy models based on statutory capital as opposed to GAAP basis equity.  Failure to meet the required statutory capital levels could result in various regulatory restrictions, including business activity and the payment of dividends to their parent companies.
53


Commencing in 2017, the regulatory targeted capital required by the State of Delaware, Department of Insurance was expanded to include a provision for catastrophe exposure.  This additional requirement added $759.8 million of regulatory targeted capital for Everest Re as of December 31, 2017.

The regulatory targeted capital and the actual statutory capital for Bermuda Re and Everest Re were as follows:


 
Bermuda Re (1)
  
Everest Re (2)
  
Bermuda Re (1)
  
Everest Re (2)
 
 At December 31,  At December 31,  At December 31,  At December 31, 
(Dollars in millions) 2016  2015  2016  2015  2017  2016  2017  2016 
Regulatory targeted capital $2,025.7  $2,079.0  $1,411.4  $1,355.7  $2,368.6  $2,025.7  $2,076.9  $1,411.4 
Actual capital $2,950.5  $2,635.7  $3,635.1  $3,210.9  $3,085.9  $2,950.5  $3,391.9  $3,635.1 
 
(1)Regulatory targeted capital represents the target capital level from the applicable year's BSCR calculation.
(2)  Regulatory targeted capital represents 200% of the RBC authorized control level calculation for the applicable year.

Our financial strength ratings as determined by A.M. Best, Standard & Poor's and Moody's are important as they provide our customers and investors with an independent assessment of our financial strength using a rating scale that provides for relative comparisons.  We continue to possess significant financial flexibility and access to debt and equity markets as a result of our financial strength, as evidenced by the financial strength ratings as assigned by independent rating agencies.

We maintain our own economic capital models to monitor and project our overall capital, as well as, the capital at our operating subsidiaries.  A key input to the economic models is projected income and this input is continually compared to actual results, which may require a change in the capital strategy.

During 2016 and throughSince the third quarterbeginning of 2017, we repurchased 2.10.3 million shares for $386.3$75.3 million in the open market and paid $349.3$313.7 million in dividends to adjust our capital position and enhance long term expected returns to our shareholders.  We may at times enter into a Rule 10b5-1 repurchase plan agreement to facilitate the repurchase of shares.  On November 19, 2014, our existing Board authorization to purchase up to 25 million of our shares was amended to authorize the purchase of up to 30 million shares.  As of SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, we had repurchased 28.028.3 million shares under this authorization.

Liquidity.  Our liquidity requirements are generally met from positive cash flow from operations.  Positive cash flow results from reinsurance and insurance premiums being collected prior to disbursements for claims, which disbursements generally take place over an extended period after the collection of premiums, sometimes a period of many years.  Collected premiums are generally invested, prior to their use in such disbursements, and investment income provides additional funding for loss payments.  Our net cash flows from operating activities were $1,044.2$132.6 million and $960.7$634.4 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.  Additionally, these cash flows reflected net tax recoveries of $44.2 million and net tax payments of $58.7 million and $40.1$57.8 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively, and net catastrophe loss payments of $305.3$573.2 million and $103.5$116.6 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.

If disbursements for claims and benefits, policy acquisition costs and other operating expenses were to exceed premium inflows, cash flow from reinsurance and insurance operations would be negative.  The effect on cash flow from insurance operations would be partially offset by cash flow from investment income.
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Additionally, cash inflows from investment maturities and dispositions, both short-term investments and longer term maturities are available to supplement other operating cash flows.
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As the timing of payments for claims and benefits cannot be predicted with certainty, we maintain portfolios of long term invested assets with varying maturities, along with short-term investments that provide additional liquidity for payment of claims.  At SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, we held cash and short-term investments of $947.8$912.7 million and $913.4$1,144.7 million, respectively.  Our short-term investments are generally readily marketable and can be converted to cash.  Starting in the first quarter of 2016, we implemented a new liquidity sweep facility with investments in short maturity, investment grade, U.S. dollar denominated fixed income securities.  The facility is structured as a limited liability corporation so it is classified on our balance sheet as part of other invested assets.  This facility had $368.0387.2 million of available liquidity at SeptemberJune 30, 2017.2018.  In addition to these cash and short-term investments, at SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, we had $1,095.3$1,158.1 million of available for sale fixed maturity securities maturing within one year or less, $7,334.5$7,045.8 million maturing within one to five years and $3,158.4$3,245.3 million maturing after five years.  Our $1,268.6$1,220.8 million of equity securities are comprised primarily of publicly traded securities that can be easily liquidated.  We believe that these fixed maturity and equity securities, in conjunction with the short-term investments and positive cash flow from operations, provide ample sources of liquidity for the expected payment of losses in the near future.  We do not anticipate selling a significant amount of securities or using available credit facilities to pay losses and LAE but have the ability to do so.  Sales of securities might result in realized capital gains or losses.  At SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 we had $150.7$192.9 million of net pre-tax unrealized appreciationdepreciation related to fixed maturity and equity securities, comprised of $299.1$369.0 million of pre-tax unrealized appreciationdepreciation and $148.4$176.1 million of pre-tax unrealized depreciation.appreciation.

Management generally expects annual positive cash flow from operations, which reflects the strength of overall pricing.  However, given the recent set of catastrophic events, cash flow from operations will probably decline and could become negative in the near term as significant claim payments are made related to the catastrophes.  However, as indicated above, the Company has ample liquidity to settle its catastrophe claims.

In addition to our cash flows from operations and liquid investments, we also have multiple credit facilities that provide up to $200.0 million of unsecured revolving credit for liquidity but more importantly provide for up to $600.0 million and £145.0 million of collateralized standby letters of credit to support business written by our Bermuda operating subsidiaries.

Effective May 26, 2016, Group, Bermuda Re and Everest International entered into a five year, $800.0 million senior credit facility with a syndicate of lenders, which amended and restated in its entirety the June 22, 2012, four year, $800.0 million senior credit facility.  Both the May 26, 2016 and June 22, 2012 senior credit facilities, which have similar terms, are referred to as the "Group Credit Facility".  Wells Fargo Corporation ("Wells Fargo Bank") is the administrative agent for the Group Credit Facility, which consists of two tranches.  Tranche one provides up to $200.0 million of unsecured revolving credit for liquidity and general corporate purposes, and for the issuance of unsecured standby letters of credit.  The interest on the revolving loans shall, at the Company's option, be either (1) the Base Rate (as defined below) or (2) an adjusted London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus a margin.  The Base Rate is the higher of (a) the prime commercial lending rate established by Wells Fargo Bank, (b) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5% per annum or (c) the one month LIBOR Rate plus 1.0% per annum.  The amount of margin and the fees payable for the Group Credit Facility depends on Group's senior unsecured debt rating.  Tranche two exclusively provides up to $600.0 million for the issuance of standby letters of credit on a collateralized basis.

The Group Credit Facility requires Group to maintain a debt to capital ratio of not greater than 0.35 to 1 and to maintain a minimum net worth.  Minimum net worth is an amount equal to the sum of $5,371.0 million plus 25% of consolidated net income for each of Group's fiscal quarters, for which statements are available ending on or after March 31, 2016 and for which consolidated net income is positive, plus 25% of any increase in consolidated net worth during such period attributable to the issuance of ordinary and preferred shares, which at SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, was $5,723.1 $5,939.5 million.  As of SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the Company was in compliance with all Group Credit Facility covenants.
5655


At SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, the Company had no outstanding short-term borrowings from the Group Credit Facility revolving credit line.  At SeptemberJune 30, 2018, the Group Credit Facility had no outstanding letters of credit under tranche one and $571.8 million outstanding letters of credit under tranche two.  At December 31, 2017, the Group Credit Facility had no outstanding letters of credit under tranche one and $507.9538.2 million outstanding letters of credit under tranche two.  At December 31, 2016, the Group Credit Facility had no outstanding letters of credit under tranche one and $478.2 million outstanding letters of credit under tranche two.

Effective November 9, 2016, Everest International renewed its credit facility with Lloyds Bank plc ("Everest International Credit Facility").  The current renewal of the Everest International Credit Facility, along with a May 17, 2017 amendment, has a four year term and provides up to £145.0 million for the issuance of standby letters of credit on a collateralized basis.  The Company pays a commitment fee of 0.1% per annum on the average daily amount of the remainder of (1) the aggregate amount available under the facility and (2) the aggregate amount of drawings outstanding under the facility.  The Company pays a credit commission fee of 0.35% per annum on drawings outstanding under the facility.

The Everest International Credit Facility requires Group to maintain a debt to capital ratio of not greater than 0.35 to 1 and to maintain a minimum net worth.  Minimum net worth is an amount equal to the sum of $5,326.0 million (70% of consolidated net worth as of December 31, 2015), plus 25% of consolidated net income for each of Group's fiscal quarters, for which statements are available ending on or after January 1, 2015 and for which net income is positive, plus 25% of any increase in consolidated net worth of Group during such period attributable to the issuance of ordinary and preferred shares, which at SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, was $5,723.1$5,939.5 million.  As of SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the Company was in compliance with all Everest International Credit Facility requirements.

At SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, Everest International Credit Facility had £141.0£0.0 million and £130.6 million, respectively, outstanding letters of credit.

Costs incurred in connection with the Group Credit Facility and Everest International Credit Facility were $0.1 million and $0.03$0.1 million for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.  Costs incurred in connection with the Group Credit Facility and Everest International Credit Facility were $0.3 million and $0.6$0.2 million for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.

Market Sensitive Instruments.
The SEC's Financial Reporting Release #48 requires registrants to clarify and expand upon the existing financial statement disclosure requirements for derivative financial instruments, derivative commodity instruments and other financial instruments (collectively, "market sensitive instruments").  We do not generally enter into market sensitive instruments for trading purposes.

Our current investment strategy seeks to maximize after-tax income through a high quality, diversified, taxable and tax-preferenced fixed maturity portfolio, while maintaining an adequate level of liquidity.  Our mix of taxable and tax-preferenced investments is adjusted periodically, consistent with our current and projected operating results, market conditions and our tax position.  The fixed maturity securities in the investment portfolio are comprised of non-trading available for sale securities.  Additionally, we have invested in equity securities.

The overall investment strategy considers the scope of present and anticipated Company operations.  In particular, estimates of the financial impact resulting from non-investment asset and liability transactions, together with our capital structure and other factors, are used to develop a net liability analysis.  This analysis includes estimated payout characteristics for which our investments provide liquidity.  This analysis is considered in the development of specific investment strategies for asset allocation, duration and credit quality.  The change in overall market sensitive risk exposure principally reflects the asset changes that took place during the period.
56


Interest Rate Risk.  Our $18.5$18.2 billion investment portfolio, at SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, is principally comprised of fixed maturity securities, which are generally subject to interest rate risk and some foreign currency exchange rate risk, and some equity securities, which are subject to price fluctuations and some foreign exchange rate risk.  The overall economic impact of the foreign exchange risks on the investment portfolio is partially mitigated by changes in the dollar value of foreign currency denominated liabilities and their associated income statement impact.
57


Interest rate risk is the potential change in value of the fixed maturity securities portfolio, including short-term investments, from a change in market interest rates.  In a declining interest rate environment, it includes prepayment risk on the $2,633.6$2,307.7 million of mortgage-backed securities in the $14,778.2$14,246.1 million fixed maturity portfolio.  Prepayment risk results from potential accelerated principal payments that shorten the average life and thus the expected yield of the security.

The table below displays the potential impact of market value fluctuations and after-tax unrealized appreciation on our fixed maturity portfolio (including $362.4$293.2 million of short-term investments) for the period indicated based on upward and downward parallel and immediate 100 and 200 basis point shifts in interest rates.  For legal entities with a U.S. dollar functional currency, this modeling was performed on each security individually.  To generate appropriate price estimates on mortgage-backed securities, changes in prepayment expectations under different interest rate environments were taken into account.  For legal entities with a non-U.S. dollar functional currency, the effective duration of the involved portfolio of securities was used as a proxy for the market value change under the various interest rate change scenarios.


 Impact of Interest Rate Shift in Basis Points Impact of Interest Rate Shift in Basis Points
 At September 30, 2017 At June 30, 2018
  -200  -100  0  100   200  -200  -100  0  100   200
(Dollars in millions)                                        
Total Market/Fair Value $16,035.6  $15,596.4  $15,140.6  $14,658.9  $14,174.9  $15,445.6  $15,001.9  $14,539.3  $14,064.4  $13,589.7 
Market/Fair Value Change from Base (%)  5.9%  3.0%  0.0%  -3.2%  -6.4%  6.2%  3.2%  0.0%  -3.3%  -6.5%
Change in Unrealized Appreciation                                        
After-tax from Base ($) $750.9  $383.0  $-  $(406.2) $(814.4) $821.3  $420.3  $-  $(432.8) $(865.6)


We had $12,455.4$12,043.3 million and $10,312.3$11,884.3 million of gross reserves for losses and LAE as of SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, respectively.  These amounts are recorded at their nominal value, as opposed to present value, which would reflect a discount adjustment to reflect the time value of money.  Since losses are paid out over a period of time, the present value of the reserves is less than the nominal value.  As interest rates rise, the present value of the reserves decreases and, conversely, as interest rates decline, the present value increases.  These movements are the opposite of the interest rate impacts on the fair value of investments.  While the difference between present value and nominal value is not reflected in our financial statements, our financial results will include investment income over time from the investment portfolio until the claims are paid.  Our loss and loss reserve obligations have an expected duration of approximately 3.73.6 years, which is reasonably consistent with our fixed income portfolio.  If we were to discount our loss and LAE reserves, net of ceded reserves, the discount would be approximately $1.3$1.3 billion resulting in a discounted reserve balance of approximately $9.8$9.1 billion, representing approximately 65.0%62.8% of the value of the fixed maturity investment portfolio funds.

Equity Risk.  Equity risk is the potential change in fair and/or market value of the common stock, preferred stock and mutual fund portfolios arising from changing prices.  Our equity investments consist of a diversified portfolio of individual securities and mutual funds, which invest principally in high quality common and preferred stocks that are traded on the major exchanges, and mutual fund investments in emerging market debt.  The primary objective of the equity portfolio is to obtain greater total return relative to our core bonds over time through market appreciation and income.
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The table below displays the impact on fair/market value and after-tax change in fair/market value of a 10% and 20% change in equity prices up and down for the period indicated.


 Impact of Percentage Change in Equity Fair/Market Values Impact of Percentage Change in Equity Fair/Market Values
 At September 30, 2017 At June 30, 2018
(Dollars in millions) -20% -10% 0% 10% 20%  -20%   -10%   0%   10%   20%
Fair/Market Value of the Equity Portfolio $1,014.9  $1,141.7  $1,268.6  $1,395.4  $1,522.3  $976.6  $1,098.7  $1,220.8  $1,342.8  $1,464.9 
After-tax Change in Fair/Market Value $(173.4) $(86.7) $-  $86.7  $173.4  $(198.8) $(99.4) $-  $99.4  $198.8 


58


Foreign Currency Risk.  Foreign currency risk is the potential change in value, income and cash flow arising from adverse changes in foreign currency exchange rates.  Each of our non-U.S./Bermuda ("foreign") operations maintains capital in the currency of the country of its geographic location consistent with local regulatory guidelines.  Each foreign operation may conduct business in its local currency, as well as the currency of other countries in which it operates.  The primary foreign currency exposures for these foreign operations are the Canadian Dollar, the Singapore Dollar, the British Pound Sterling and the Euro.  We mitigate foreign exchange exposure by generally matching the currency and duration of our assets to our corresponding operating liabilities.  In accordance with FASB guidance, the impact on the market value of available for sale fixed maturities due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates, in relation to functional currency, is reflected as part of other comprehensive income.  Conversely, the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, in relation to functional currency, on other assets and liabilities is reflected through net income as a component of other income (expense).  In addition, we translate the assets, liabilities and income of non-U.S. dollar functional currency legal entities to the U.S. dollar.  This translation amount is reported as a component of other comprehensive income.

In June 2016, the United Kingdom approved a referendum to exit the European Union (commonly referred to as "Brexit") which resulted in volatility in global stock markets and currency exchange rates, and has increased political, economic and global market uncertainty.  The formal negotiation process for the United Kingdom to exit the European Union was triggered on March 29, 2017 by the filing of a notice to withdraw and now negotiations will occur as todetermine the timing and terms of such an exit.  The Company has a Lloyd's of London Syndicate and Bermuda Re has a branch operation in the United Kingdom.  The nature and extent of the impact of Brexit on regulation, interest rates, currency exchange rates and financial markets is still uncertain and may adversely affect our operations.

Safe Harbor Disclosure.
This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. federal securities laws.  We intend these forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements in the federal securities laws.  In some cases, these statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "may", "will", "should", "could", "anticipate", "estimate", "expect", "plan", "believe", "predict", "potential" and "intend".  Forward-looking statements contained in this report include information regarding our reserves for losses and LAE, the impact of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act, the adequacy of capital in relation to regulatory required capital, the adequacy of our provision for uncollectible balances, estimates of our catastrophe exposure, the effects of catastrophic events on our financial statements, the ability of Everest Re, Holdings, Holdings Ireland, Dublin Holdings, Bermuda Re and Everest International to pay dividends and the settlement costs of our specialized equity index put option contracts.  Forward-looking statements only reflect our expectations and are not guarantees of performance.  These statements involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions.  Actual events or results may differ materially from our expectations.  Important factors that could cause our actual events or results to be materially different from our expectations include those discussed under the caption ITEM 1A, "Risk Factors".  We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market Risk Instruments.  See "Liquidity and Capital Resources - Market Sensitive Instruments" in PART I – ITEM 2.


59


ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

As of the end of the period covered by this report, our management carried out an evaluation, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act")).  Based on their evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms.  Our management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, also conducted an evaluation of our internal control over financial reporting to determine whether any changes occurred during the quarter covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.  Based on that evaluation, there has been no such change during the quarter covered by this report.


PART II

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In the ordinary course of business, the Company is involved in lawsuits, arbitrations and other formal and informal dispute resolution procedures, the outcomes of which will determine the Company's rights and obligations under insurance and reinsurance agreements.  In some disputes, the Company seeks to enforce its rights under an agreement or to collect funds owing to it.  In other matters, the Company is resisting attempts by others to collect funds or enforce alleged rights.  These disputes arise from time to time and are ultimately resolved through both informal and formal means, including negotiated resolution, arbitration and litigation.  In all such matters, the Company believes that its positions are legally and commercially reasonable.  The Company considers the statuses of these proceedings when determining its reserves for unpaid loss and loss adjustment expenses.

Aside from litigation and arbitrations related to these insurance and reinsurance agreements, the Company is not a party to any other material litigation or arbitration.


ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS

No material changes.


6059


ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.


Issuer Purchases of Equity SecuritiesIssuer Purchases of Equity SecuritiesIssuer Purchases of Equity Securities 
 (a)  (b)  (c)  (d)  (a)  (b)  (c)  (d) 
          Maximum Number (or           Maximum Number (or 
       Total Number of  Approximate Dollar        Total Number of  Approximate Dollar 
       Shares (or Units)  Value) of Shares (or        Shares (or Units)  Value) of Shares (or 
       Purchased as Part  Units) that May Yet        Purchased as Part  Units) that May Yet 
 Total Number of     of Publicly  Be Purchased Under  Total Number of     of Publicly  Be Purchased Under 
 Shares (or Units)  Average Price Paid  Announced Plans or  the Plans or  Shares (or Units)  Average Price Paid  Announced Plans or  the Plans or 
Period Purchased  per Share (or Unit)  Programs  
Programs (1)
  Purchased  per Share (or Unit)  Programs  
Programs (1)
 
July 1 - 31, 2017  0  $-   0   2,022,000 
August 1 - 31, 2017  0  $-   0   2,022,000 
September 1 - 30, 2017  1,128  $228.1993   0   2,022,000 
April 1 - 30, 2018  0  $-  0   1,785,507 
May 1 - 31, 2018  67,877  $224.1978  67,000   1,718,507 
June 1 - 30, 2018  45,747  $224.8436  45,747   1,672,760 
Total  1,128  $-   0   2,022,000   113,624  $-  112,747   1,672,760 


(1) On September 21, 2004, the Company's board of directors approved an amended share repurchase program authorizing the Company and/or its subsidiary Holdings to purchase up to an aggregate of 5,000,000 of the Company's common shares through open market transactions, privately negotiated transactions or both.  On July 21, 2008; February 24, 2010; February 22, 2012; May 15, 2013; and November 19, 2014, the Company's executive committee of the Board of Directors has approved subsequent amendments to the share repurchase program authorizing the Company and/or its subsidiary Holdings, to purchase up to a current aggregate of 30,000,000 of the Company's shares (recognizing that the number of shares authorized for repurchase has been reduced by those shares that have already been purchased) in open market transactions, privately negotiated transactions or both.


ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

None.


ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.


ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

None.


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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

Exhibit Index
  
Exhibit No.
Description
  
   31.1Section 302 Certification of Dominic J. Addesso
  
   31.2Section 302 Certification of Craig Howie
  
   32.1Section 906 Certification of Dominic J. Addesso and Craig Howie
  
   101.INSXBRL Instance Document
  
   101.SCHXBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
  
   101.CALXBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
  
   101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
  
   101.LABXBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase
  
   101.PREXBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase
  
  
  
  


6261

Everest Re Group, Ltd.

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.



Everest Re Group, Ltd.
(Registrant)
  
  
/S/ CRAIG HOWIE 
Craig Howie 
Executive Vice President and
   Chief Financial Officer
 
(Duly Authorized Officer and Principal Financial Officer)


Dated:  NovemberAugust 9, 2017










2018