UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)



ý☒	Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 or



¨☐	Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the transition period from to

Commission file number 0-16533

ProAssurance Corporation

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)



Delaware				63-1261433
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)				(IRS Employer Identification No.)

	100 Brookwood Place,	Birmingham,	AL	35209
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)				(Zip Code)

	(205)	877-4400
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)				(Former Name, Former Address, and Former Fiscal Year, if Changed Since Last Report)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:



Title of each class	Trading Symbol(s)	Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share	PRA	New York Stock Exchange

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically ~~and posted on its corporate web site, if any,~~ every Interactive Data File required to be submitted ~~and posted~~ pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter), during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ý☒ No ¨☐

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



Large accelerated filer	ý☒		Accelerated filer	¨
				☐
Non-accelerated filer	¨☐	(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company	¨
				☐
Emerging growth company	¨ ☐

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

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

As of October 31, ~~2017,~~2019, there were ~~53,415,236~~53,791,436 shares of the registrant’s common stock outstanding.

Glossary of Terms and Acronyms

When the following terms and acronyms appear in the text of this report, they have the meanings indicated below.



Term	Meaning
AAD	Annual aggregate deductible
AOCI	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
ASU	Accounting Standards Update
BEAT	Base erosion anti-abuse tax
Board	Board of Directors of ProAssurance Corporation
BOLI	Business owned life insurance
Council of Lloyd's	The governing body for Lloyd's of London
CODM	Chief Operating Decision Maker
Commutation	An agreement between a ceding insurer and the reinsurer that provides for the valuation, payment, and complete discharge of all obligations between the parties under a particular reinsurance contract
DPAC	Deferred policy acquisition costs
Eastern Re	Eastern Re, LTD, S.P.C.
EBUB	Earned but unbilled premium
E&O	Errors and Omissions
FAL	Funds at Lloyd's
FASB	Financial Accounting Standards Board
FHLB	Federal Home Loan Bank
FHLMC	Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation
FNMA	Federal National Mortgage Association
GAAP	Generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America
GILTI	Global intangible low-taxed income
GNMA	Government National Mortgage Association
HCPL	Healthcare professional liability
IBNR	Incurred but not reported
Inova Re	Inova Re, LTD, S.P.C.
IRS	Internal Revenue Service
LIBOR	London Interbank Offered Rate
LLC	Limited liability company
Lloyd's	Lloyd's of London market
LP	Limited partnership
LPT	Loss portfolio transfer
Medical technology liability	Medical technology and life sciences products liability
Mortgage Loans	Two ten-year mortgage loans collectively with an original borrowing amount of approximately $40 million, each entered into by a subsidiary of ProAssurance
NAIC	National Association of Insurance Commissioners
NAV	Net asset value
NOL	Net operating loss
NRSRO	Nationally recognized statistical rating organization
NYSE	New York Stock Exchange
OCI	Other comprehensive income (loss)
OTTI	Other-than-temporary impairment
PCAOB	Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
Revolving Credit Agreement	ProAssurance's $250 million revolving credit agreement



Term	Meaning
ROE	Return on equity
ROU	Right-of-use
SAP	Statutory accounting principles
SEC	Securities and Exchange Commission
SPA	Special Purpose Arrangement
SPC	Segregated portfolio cell
Specialty P&C	Specialty Property and Casualty
Syndicate 1729	Lloyd's of London Syndicate 1729
Syndicate 6131	Lloyd's of London Syndicate 6131, a Special Purpose Arrangement with Lloyd's of London Syndicate 1729
Syndicate Credit Agreement	Unconditional revolving credit agreement with the Premium Trust Fund of Syndicate 1729
TCJA	Tax Cuts and Jobs Act H.R.1 of 2017
U.K.	United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
ULAE	Unallocated loss adjustment expense
VIE	Variable interest entity

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Any statements in this Form 10-Q that are not historical facts are specifically identified as forward-looking statements. These statements are based upon our estimates and anticipation of future events and are subject to significant risks, assumptions and uncertainties that could cause actual results to vary materially from the expected results described in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are identified by words such as, but not limited to, "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "hope," "hopeful," "intend," "likely," "may," "optimistic," "possible," "potential," "preliminary," "project," "should," "will" and other analogous expressions. There are numerous factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Thus, sentences and phrases that we use to convey our view of future events and trends are expressly designated as forward-looking statements as are sections of this Form 10-Q that are identified as giving our outlook on future business.

Forward-looking statements relating to our business include among other things: statements concerning future liquidity and capital requirements, investment valuation and performance, return on equity, financial ratios, net income, premiums, losses and loss reserve, premium rates and retention of current business, competition and market conditions, the expansion of product lines, the development or acquisition of business in new geographical areas, the availability of acceptable reinsurance, actions by regulators and rating agencies, court actions, legislative actions, payment or performance of obligations under indebtedness, payment of dividends and other matters.

These forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks, assumptions and uncertainties, including, among other things, the following factors that could affect the actual outcome of future events:



Ÿ	changes in general economic conditions, including the impact of inflation or deflation and unemployment;
Ÿ	our ability to maintain our dividend payments;
Ÿ	regulatory, legislative and judicial actions or decisions that could affect our business plans or ~~operations;~~operations, including the impact of Brexit;
Ÿ	the enactment or repeal of tort reforms;
Ÿ	formation or dissolution of state-sponsored insurance entities providing coverages now offered by ProAssurance which could remove or add sizable numbers of insureds from or to the private insurance market;
Ÿ	changes in the interest and tax rate environment;
Ÿ	resolution of uncertain tax matters and changes in tax ~~laws;~~laws, including the impact of the TCJA;
Ÿ	changes in ~~U.S.~~ laws or government regulations regarding financial markets or market activity that may affect ~~the U.S. economy and~~ our business;
Ÿ	changes in the ability of the U.S. government to meet its obligations that may affect the U.S. economy and our business;
Ÿ	performance of financial markets affecting the fair value of our investments or making it difficult to determine the value of our investments;
Ÿ	changes in requirements or accounting policies and practices that may be adopted by our regulatory agencies, the FASB, the SEC, the PCAOB or the NYSE that may affect our business;
Ÿ	changes in laws or government regulations affecting the financial services industry, the property and casualty insurance industry or particular insurance lines underwritten by our subsidiaries;
Ÿ	the effect on our insureds, particularly the insurance needs of our insureds, and our loss costs, of changes in the healthcare delivery system and/or changes in the U.S. political climate that may affect healthcare policy or our business;
Ÿ	consolidation of our insureds into or under larger entities which may be insured by competitors, or may not have a risk profile that meets our underwriting criteria or which may not use external providers for insuring or otherwise managing substantial portions of their liability risk;
Ÿ	uncertainties inherent in the estimate of our loss and loss adjustment expense reserve and reinsurance recoverable;
Ÿ	changes in the availability, cost, quality or collectability of insurance/reinsurance;
Ÿ	the results of litigation, including pre- or post-trial motions, trials and/or appeals we undertake;
Ÿ	effects on our claims costs from mass tort litigation that are different from that anticipated by us;
Ÿ	allegations of bad faith which may arise from our handling of any particular claim, including failure to settle;
Ÿ	loss or consolidation of independent agents, agencies, brokers or brokerage firms;
Ÿ	changes in our organization, compensation and benefit plans;



Ÿ	changes in the business or competitive environment may limit the effectiveness of our business strategy and impact our revenues;



Ÿ	our ability to retain and recruit senior management;
Ÿ	the availability, integrity and security of our technology infrastructure or that of our third-party providers of technology infrastructure, including any susceptibility to cyber-attacks which might result in a loss of information or operating capability;
Ÿ	the impact of a catastrophic event, as it relates to both our operations and our insured risks;
Ÿ	the impact of acts of terrorism and acts of war;
Ÿ	the effects of terrorism-related insurance legislation and laws;
Ÿ	guaranty funds and other state assessments;
Ÿ	our ability to achieve continued growth through expansion into new markets or through acquisitions or business combinations;
Ÿ	changes to the ratings assigned by rating agencies to our insurance subsidiaries, individually or as a group;
Ÿ	provisions in our charter documents, Delaware law and state insurance laws may impede attempts to replace or remove management or may impede a takeover;
Ÿ	state insurance restrictions may prohibit assets held by our insurance subsidiaries, including cash and investment securities, from being used for general corporate purposes;
Ÿ	taxing authorities can take exception to our tax positions and cause us to incur significant amounts of legal and accounting costs and, if our defense is not successful, additional tax costs, including interest and penalties; and
Ÿ	expected benefits from completed and proposed acquisitions may not be achieved or may be delayed longer than expected due to business disruption; loss of customers, employees or key agents; increased operating costs or inability to achieve cost savings; and assumption of greater than expected liabilities, among other reasons.
Additional risks, assumptions and uncertainties that could arise from our membership in the Lloyd's ~~of London~~ market and our participation in ~~Syndicate 1729~~Lloyd's Syndicates include, but are not limited to, the following:
Ÿ	members of Lloyd's are subject to levies by the Council of Lloyd's based on a percentage of the member's underwriting capacity, currently a maximum of 3%, but can be increased by Lloyd's;
Ÿ	Syndicate operating results can be affected by decisions made by the Council of Lloyd's which the management of Syndicate 1729 ~~has~~and Syndicate 6131 have little ability to control, such as a decision to not approve the business plan of Syndicate 1729 or Syndicate 6131, or a decision to increase the capital required to continue operations, and by our obligation to pay levies to Lloyd's;
Ÿ	Lloyd's insurance and reinsurance relationships and distribution channels could be disrupted or Lloyd's trading licenses could be revoked, making it more difficult for a Lloyd's Syndicate ~~1729~~ to distribute and market its products;
Ÿ	rating agencies could downgrade their ratings of Lloyd's as a whole; and
Ÿ	Syndicate 1729 and Syndicate 6131 operations are dependent on a small, specialized management team and the loss of their services could adversely affect the Syndicate’s business. The inability to identify, hire and retain other highly qualified personnel in the future could adversely affect the quality and profitability of Syndicate 1729’s or Syndicate 6131's business.

Our results may differ materially from those we expect and discuss in any forward-looking statements. The principal risk factors that may cause these differences are described in "Item 1A, Risk Factors" in our Form 10-K and other documents we file with the SEC, such as our current reports on Form 8-K and our regular reports on Form 10-Q.

We caution readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which are based upon conditions existing only as of the date made, and advise readers that these factors could affect our financial performance and could cause actual results for future periods to differ materially from any opinions or statements expressed with respect to future periods in any current statements. Except as required by law or regulations, we do not undertake and specifically decline any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions that may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.



	TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1.	FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED) - SEPTEMBER 30, ~~2017~~2019 AND DECEMBER 31, ~~2016~~	6

	~~CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN CAPITAL (UNAUDITED) - NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2017 AND 2016~~2018	7

	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN CAPITAL (UNAUDITED) - THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2019 AND 2018	8

	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED) - THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, ~~2017~~2019 AND ~~2016~~2018	810

	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED) - NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, ~~2017~~2019 AND ~~2016~~	9

	~~NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)~~2018	11

	~~ITEM 2.~~NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)	13

	BASIS OF PRESENTATION	13
	FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT	17
	INVESTMENTS	27
	RETROACTIVE INSURANCE CONTRACTS	33
	INCOME TAXES	33
	RESERVE FOR LOSSES AND LOSS ADJUSTMENT EXPENSES	34
	COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	36
	LEASES	37
	DEBT	38
	DERIVATIVES	39
	SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	40
	VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES	41
	EARNINGS PER SHARE	41
	SEGMENT INFORMATION	42

ITEM 2.	MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS	4047

ITEM 3.	QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK	86103

ITEM 4.	CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES	88106

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1.	LEGAL PROCEEDINGS	88106
ITEM 1A.	RISK FACTORS	88106
ITEM 2.	UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS	88106
ITEM 6.	EXHIBITS	89107
SIGNATURE		90108

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)

(In thousands, except share data)


	September 30, 2017			December 31, 2016			September 30, 2019			December 31, 2018
Assets
Investments
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value; amortized cost, $2,429,092 and $2,586,821, respectively	$	2,468,350		$	2,613,406
Equity securities, trading, at fair value; cost, $376,074 and $353,744, respectively	411,796			387,274
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value; amortized cost, $2,251,040 and $2,116,825, respectively							$	2,301,535		$	2,093,798
Fixed maturities, trading, at fair value; cost, $44,766 and $38,445, respectively							45,295			38,188
Equity investments, at fair value; cost, $389,319 and $450,931, respectively							409,100			442,937
Short-term investments	294,379			442,084			270,836			308,319
Business owned life insurance	61,652			60,134			65,653			64,096
Investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries	331,897			340,906			366,606			367,757
Other investments, $51,789 and $31,501 at fair value, respectively, otherwise at cost or amortized cost	103,764			81,892
Other investments, $34,133 and $31,344 at fair value, respectively, otherwise at cost or amortized cost							37,049			34,287
Total Investments	3,671,838			3,925,696			3,496,074			3,349,382
Cash and cash equivalents	119,005			117,347			102,211			80,471
Premiums receivable	262,686			223,480			283,944			261,466
Receivable from reinsurers on paid losses and loss adjustment expenses	7,408			5,446			15,089			11,558
Receivable from reinsurers on unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses	313,876			273,475			357,811			343,820
Prepaid reinsurance premiums	47,529			39,723			53,232			40,631
Deferred policy acquisition costs	51,691			46,809			58,099			54,116
Deferred tax asset, net	13,957			10,256			19,016			29,108
Real estate, net	32,305			31,814			30,629			31,114
Intangible assets	84,496			84,406
Operating lease ROU assets							20,563			—
Intangible assets, net							72,284			76,776
Goodwill	210,725			210,725			210,725			210,725
Other assets	109,638			96,004			104,682			111,559
Total Assets	$	4,925,154		$	5,065,181		$	4,824,359		$	4,600,726
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
Liabilities
Policy liabilities and accruals
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses	$	2,040,698		$	1,993,428		$	2,215,775		$	2,119,847
Unearned premiums	422,009			372,563			459,260			415,211
Reinsurance premiums payable	34,769			30,001			58,552			55,614
Total Policy Liabilities	2,497,476			2,395,992			2,733,587			2,590,672
Operating lease liabilities							21,298			—
Other liabilities	176,328			422,285			193,069			199,295
Debt less debt issuance costs	400,460			448,202
Debt less unamortized debt issuance costs							286,947			287,757
Total Liabilities	3,074,264			3,266,479			3,234,901			3,077,724
Shareholders’ Equity
Common shares, par value $0.01 per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 62,822,376 and 62,660,234 shares issued, respectively	628			627
Shareholders' Equity
Common shares, par value $0.01 per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 63,115,253 and 62,989,421 shares issued, respectively							631			630
Additional paid-in capital	380,595			376,518			385,181			384,713
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred tax expense (benefit) of $13,985 and $9,894, respectively	25,459			17,399
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred tax expense (benefit) of $10,602 and ($4,355), respectively							39,134			(16,911		)
Retained earnings	1,864,136			1,824,088			1,581,789			1,571,847
Treasury shares, at cost, 9,408,925 shares and 9,408,977 shares, respectively	(419,928		)	(419,930		)
Total Shareholders’ Equity	1,850,890			1,798,702
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$	4,925,154		$	5,065,181
Treasury shares, at cost, 9,352,373 shares as of each respective period end							(417,277		)	(417,277		)
Total Shareholders' Equity							1,589,458			1,523,002
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity							$	4,824,359		$	4,600,726

See accompanying notes.

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Capital (Unaudited)

(In thousands)



	Common Stock		Additional Paid-in Capital			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			Retained Earnings			Treasury Stock			Total
Balance at July 1, 2019	$	631	$	385,200		$	31,729		$	1,581,273		$	(417,277	)	$	1,581,556
Common shares issued for compensation and effect of shares reissued to stock purchase plan	—		20			—			—			—			20
Share-based compensation	—		(11		)	—			—			—			(11		)
Net effect of restricted and performance shares issued	—		(28		)	—			—			—			(28		)
Dividends to shareholders	—		—			—			(16,677		)	—			(16,677		)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	—		—			7,405			—			—			7,405
Net income	—		—			—			17,193			—			17,193
Balance at September 30, 2019	$	631	$	385,181		$	39,134		$	1,581,789		$	(417,277	)	$	1,589,458

	Common Stock		Additional Paid-in Capital			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			Retained Earnings			Treasury Stock			Total
Balance at December 31, 2018	$	630	$	384,713		$	(16,911	)	$	1,571,847		$	(417,277	)	$	1,523,002
Cumulative-effect adjustment- ASU 2018-07 adoption*	—		—			—			(444		)	—			(444		)
Common shares issued for compensation and effect of shares reissued to stock purchase plan	—		832			—			—			—			832
Share-based compensation	—		2,309			—			—			—			2,309
Net effect of restricted and performance shares issued	1		(2,673		)	—			—			—			(2,672		)
Dividends to shareholders	—		—			—			(49,992		)	—			(49,992		)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	—		—			56,045			—			—			56,045
Net income	—		—			—			60,378			—			60,378
Balance at September 30, 2019	$	631	$	385,181		$	39,134		$	1,581,789		$	(417,277	)	$	1,589,458
* See Note 1 for discussion of accounting guidance adopted during the period.
Continued on the following page.


Continued from the previous page.																	Continued from the previous page.
	Common Stock		Additional Paid-in Capital			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Retained Earnings			Treasury Stock			Total				Common Stock		Additional Paid-in Capital			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			Retained Earnings			Treasury Stock			Total
Balance at December 31, 2016	$	627	$	376,518		$	17,399	$	1,824,088		$	(419,930	)	$	1,798,702
Cumulative-effect adjustment- ASU 2016-09 adoption*	—		425			—		(276		)	—			149
Common shares reacquired	—		—			—		—			—			—
Balance at July 1, 2018																		$	630	$	383,001		$	(16,143	)	$	1,625,137		$	(418,009	)	$	1,574,616
Common shares issued for compensation and effect of shares reissued to stock purchase plan	—		1,873			—		—			2			1,875				—		34			—			—			—			34
Share-based compensation	—		7,110			—		—			—			7,110				—		1,604			—			—			—			1,604
Net effect of restricted and performance shares issued and stock options exercised	1		(5,331		)	—		—			—			(5,330		)
Net effect of restricted and performance shares issued																		—		(1		)	—			—			—			(1		)
Dividends to shareholders	—		—			—		(49,598		)	—			(49,598		)		—		—			—			(16,622		)	—			(16,622		)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	—		—			8,060		—			—			8,060				—		—			(3,964		)	—			—			(3,964		)
Net income	—		—			—		89,922			—			89,922				—		—			—			31,228			—			31,228
Balance at September 30, 2017	$	628	$	380,595		$	25,459	$	1,864,136		$	(419,928	)	$	1,850,890
Balance at September 30, 2018																		$	630	$	384,638		$	(20,107	)	$	1,639,743		$	(418,009	)	$	1,586,895

	Common Stock		Additional Paid-in Capital			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Retained Earnings			Treasury Stock			Total				Common Stock		Additional Paid-in Capital			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			Retained Earnings			Treasury Stock			Total
Balance at December 31, 2015	$	625	$	365,399		$	23,855	$	1,988,035		$	(419,560	)	$	1,958,354
Common shares reacquired	—		—			—		—			(2,106		)	(2,106		)
Balance at December 31, 2017																		$	628	$	383,077		$	14,911		$	1,614,186		$	(418,007	)	$	1,594,795
Cumulative-effect adjustment- ASU 2016-01 adoption																		—		—			—			8,334			—			8,334
Cumulative-effect adjustment- ASU 2018-02 adoption																		—		—			3,416			(3,416		)	—			—
Common shares issued for compensation and effect of shares reissued to stock purchase plan	1		2,147			—		—			—			2,148				—		1,350			—			—			(2		)	1,348
Share-based compensation	—		7,458			—		—			—			7,458				—		4,083			—			—			—			4,083
Net effect of restricted and performance shares issued and stock options exercised	1		(3,011		)	—		—			—			(3,010		)
Net effect of restricted and performance shares issued																		2		(3,872		)	—			—			—			(3,870		)
Dividends to shareholders	—		—			—		(49,370		)	—			(49,370		)		—		—			—			(50,868		)	—			(50,868		)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	—		—			32,460		—			—			32,460				—		—			(38,434		)	—			—			(38,434		)
Net income	—		—			—		96,233			—			96,233				—		—			—			71,507			—			71,507
Balance at September 30, 2016	$	627	$	371,993		$	56,315	$	2,034,898		$	(421,666	)	$	2,042,167
Balance at September 30, 2018																		$	630	$	384,638		$	(20,107	)	$	1,639,743		$	(418,009	)	$	1,586,895

*See Note 1 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for discussion of accounting guidance adopted during the period.

See accompanying notes.

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)

(In thousands, except per share data)


	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30						Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
	2017			2016			2017			2016			2019			2018			2019			2018
Revenues
Net premiums earned	$	192,303		$	185,275		$	555,559		$	539,587		$	215,788		$	206,070		$	633,086		$	616,819
Net investment income	23,729			25,261			69,592			75,284			23,681			23,266			70,038			67,677
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries	4,164			(3,349		)	8,489			(6,607		)	(1,277		)	5,228			(7,240		)	12,247
Net realized investment gains (losses):
OTTI losses	—			(100		)	(419		)	(10,834		)	(66		)	(86		)	(202		)	(490		)
Portion of OTTI losses recognized in other comprehensive income before taxes	—			—			248			1,068			36			—			124			—
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings	—			(100		)	(171		)	(9,766		)	(30		)	(86		)	(78		)	(490		)
Other net realized investment gains (losses)	7,749			15,837			18,981			28,080			1,164			12,459			47,142			3,141
Total net realized investment gains (losses)	7,749			15,737			18,810			18,314			1,134			12,373			47,064			2,651
Other income	510			1,428			4,581			5,963			2,548			2,388			7,419			7,155
Total revenues	228,455			224,352			657,031			632,541			241,874			249,325			750,367			706,549
Expenses
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	129,356			118,082			364,058			335,936			161,614			147,605			489,808			439,120
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses
Operating expense	32,606			34,060			102,062			101,862			32,778			35,213			100,729			101,634
DPAC amortization	24,505			21,752			70,044			64,873			29,083			26,631			85,231			77,178
Segregated portfolio cells dividend expense (income)	2,891			3,196			14,076			5,895			3,621			5,255			1,375			9,787
Interest expense	4,124			3,748			12,402			11,285			4,274			3,599			12,850			11,262
Total expenses	193,482			180,838			562,642			519,851			231,370			218,303			689,993			638,981
Income before income taxes	34,973			43,514			94,389			112,690			10,504			31,022			60,374			67,568
Provision for income taxes
Current expense (benefit)	13,690			13,736			12,111			16,407			3,013			(1,637		)	4,864			(4,140		)
Deferred expense (benefit)	(7,666		)	(4,056		)	(7,644		)	50			(9,702		)	1,431			(4,868		)	201
Total income tax expense (benefit)	6,024			9,680			4,467			16,457			(6,689		)	(206		)	(4		)	(3,939		)
Net income	28,949			33,834			89,922			96,233			17,193			31,228			60,378			71,507
Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax, net of reclassification adjustments	(605		)	(4,974		)	8,060			32,460			7,405			(3,964		)	56,045			(38,434		)
Comprehensive income	$	28,344		$	28,860		$	97,982		$	128,693
Earnings per share:
Comprehensive income (loss)													$	24,598		$	27,264		$	116,423		$	33,073
Earnings per share
Basic	$	0.54		$	0.64		$	1.68		$	1.81		$	0.32		$	0.58		$	1.12		$	1.33
Diluted	$	0.54		$	0.63		$	1.68		$	1.80		$	0.32		$	0.58		$	1.12		$	1.33
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic	53,413			53,222			53,377			53,199			53,762			53,620			53,732			53,585
Diluted	53,614			53,456			53,586			53,419			53,856			53,773			53,831			53,735
Cash dividends declared per common share	$	0.31		$	0.31		$	0.93		$	0.93		$	0.31		$	0.31		$	0.93		$	0.93

See accompanying notes.

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)

(In thousands)



	Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019			2018
Operating Activities
Net income	$	60,378		$	71,507
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion	14,073			16,544
(Increase) decrease in cash surrender value of BOLI	(1,557		)	(1,525		)
Net realized investment (gains) losses	(47,064		)	(2,651		)
Share-based compensation	2,323			4,145
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	(4,868		)	201
Policy acquisition costs, net of amortization (net deferral)	(3,983		)	(5,989		)
Equity in (earnings) loss of unconsolidated subsidiaries	7,240			(12,247		)
Distributed earnings from unconsolidated subsidiaries	11,690			23,906
Other	2,026			490
Other changes in assets and liabilities:
Premiums receivable	(22,478		)	(45,602		)
Reinsurance related assets and liabilities	(27,185		)	5,741
Other assets	(3,552		)	(1,961		)
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses	95,928			51,446
Unearned premiums	44,049			46,114
Other liabilities	1,783			(3,725		)
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities	128,803			146,394
Investing Activities
Purchases of:
Fixed maturities, available for sale	(553,186		)	(717,119		)
Fixed maturities, trading	(6,339		)	(33,086		)
Equity investments	(74,649		)	(169,160		)
Other investments	(24,088		)	(22,557		)
Funding of qualified affordable housing project tax credit partnerships	(322		)	(74		)
Investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries	(53,630		)	(54,496		)
Proceeds from sales or maturities of:
Fixed maturities, available for sale	416,805			809,095
Equity investments	149,720			138,423
Other investments	24,583			21,853
Return of invested capital from unconsolidated subsidiaries	35,902			48,545
Net sales or maturities (purchases) of short-term investments	37,975			227,513
Unsettled security transactions, net change	15,211			(4,273		)
Purchases of capital assets	(7,133		)	(7,672		)
Repayments (advances) under Syndicate Credit Agreement	13,450			(878		)
Other	(16		)	(1,331		)
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities	(25,717		)	234,783
Continued on the following page.

Nine Months Ended September 30
2017 2016
Operating Activities
Net income $ 89,922
$ 96,233
Adjustments to reconcile income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion 21,024
25,509
(Increase) decrease in cash surrender value of BOLI (1,518 ) (1,537 )
Net realized investment (gains) losses (18,810 ) (18,314 )
Share-based compensation 7,110
7,458
Deferred income taxes (7,644 ) 50
Policy acquisition costs, net of amortization (net deferral) (4,882 ) (5,221 )
Equity in (earnings) loss of unconsolidated subsidiaries (8,489 ) 6,607
Other (548 ) (689 )
Other changes in assets and liabilities:
Premiums receivable (39,206 ) (23,873 )
Reinsurance related assets and liabilities (45,401 ) (19,049 )
Other assets 1,188
16,411
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses 47,270
(7,307 )
Unearned premiums 49,446
44,418
Other liabilities 8,569
8,296
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities 98,031
128,992
Investing Activities
Purchases of:
Fixed maturities, available for sale (449,717 ) (540,370 )
Equity securities, trading (127,916 ) (76,838 )
Other investments (35,445 ) (15,832 )
Funding of qualified affordable housing tax credit limited partnerships (394 ) (963 )
Investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries (30,530 ) (39,051 )
Proceeds from sales or maturities of:
Fixed maturities, available for sale 599,374
582,379
Equity securities, trading 116,833
56,670
Other investments 16,479
10,952
Distributions from unconsolidated subsidiaries 47,364
7,720
Net sales or maturities (purchases) of short-term investments 141,538
(135,743 )
Unsettled security transactions, net change (10,935 ) 16,665
Purchases of capital assets (8,620 ) (7,797 )
Purchases of intangible assets (2,984 ) —
Other (2,745 ) (1,520 )
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities 252,302
(143,728 )
Continued on following page.



	Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019			2018
Continued from the previous page.
Financing Activities
Repayments under Revolving Credit Agreement	—			(123,000		)
Repayments of Mortgage Loans	(1,086		)	(1,047		)
Dividends to shareholders	(76,574		)	(299,894		)
Capital contribution received from (return of capital to) external segregated portfolio cell participants	(983		)	(267		)
Other	(2,703		)	(3,905		)
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities	(81,346		)	(428,113		)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	21,740			(46,936		)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	80,471			134,495
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	102,211		$	87,559
Significant Non-Cash Transactions
Dividends declared and not yet paid	$	16,677		$	16,622
Operating ROU assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities	$	3,729		$	—

Nine Months Ended September 30
2017 2016
Financing Activities
Repayments under revolving credit agreement (48,000 ) —
Repurchase of common stock —
(2,106 )
Dividends to shareholders (298,704 ) (102,354 )
External capital contribution received for segregated portfolio cells 2,989
9,703
Other (4,960 ) (2,704 )
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities (348,675 ) (97,461 )
Increase (decrease) in Cash and cash equivalents 1,658
(112,197 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 117,347
241,100
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 119,005
$ 128,903
Significant non-cash transactions
Dividends declared and not yet paid $ 16,558
$ 16,462

See accompanying notes.

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

1. Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of ProAssurance Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries (ProAssurance, PRA or the Company). The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, have been included. ProAssurance’s results for the nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, ~~2017.~~2019. The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes contained in ProAssurance’s December 31, ~~2016~~2018 report on Form 10-K. In connection with its preparation of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, ProAssurance evaluated events that occurred subsequent to September 30, ~~2017~~2019 for recognition or disclosure in its financial statements and notes to financial statements.

ProAssurance operates in ~~four~~5 reportable segments as follows: Specialty P&C, Workers' Compensation Insurance, Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance, Lloyd's ~~Syndicate~~Syndicates and Corporate. For more information on the Company's segment reporting, including the nature of products and services provided and ~~for~~ financial information by segment, refer to Note ~~11 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.~~

~~Reclassifications~~

In the second quarter of 2017, ProAssurance began presenting separately the components of Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expense as Operating expense and DPAC amortization on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income in order to provide additional details for investors. The Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. Total Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expense as well as Net income for all periods presented was not affected by the change in presentation.14.

Other Liabilities

Other liabilities consisted of the following:



(In thousands)	September 30, 2019		December 31, 2018
SPC dividends payable	$	56,417	$	53,604
Unpaid shareholder dividends	16,677		43,446
All other	119,975		102,245
Total other liabilities	$	193,069	$	199,295

(In thousands) September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016
SPC dividends payable $ 46,353
$ 34,289
Unpaid dividends 16,558
265,659
All other 113,417
122,337
Total other liabilities $ 176,328
$ 422,285

SPC dividends payable ~~are~~represents the ~~cumulative~~ undistributed ~~earnings~~equity contractually payable to the external ~~preferred shareholders~~cell participants of SPCs operated by ProAssurance's Cayman Islands ~~subsidiary,~~subsidiaries, Inova Re and Eastern Re.

Unpaid dividends represent common stock dividends declared by ProAssurance's Board ~~of Directors~~ that had not yet been ~~paid.~~paid as of September 30, 2019. Unpaid dividends at December 31, ~~2016 reflect~~2018 included a special dividend declared in ~~late 2016~~the fourth quarter of 2018 that was paid in January ~~2017.~~2019.

Accounting ~~Changes Adopted~~Policies

~~Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting~~

~~Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those fiscal years,~~Except as added below, the ~~FASB issued guidance~~significant accounting policies followed by ProAssurance in making estimates that ~~simplifies several aspects~~materially affect financial reporting are summarized in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in ProAssurance’s December 31, 2018 report on Form 10-K.

Due to the adoption of ASU 2016-02 at the beginning of 2019, ProAssurance began following the accounting policy described below:

Leases

ProAssurance is involved in a number of leases, primarily for ~~share-based payment transactions, including~~office facilities. The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at the ~~income tax consequences, classification~~inception date of ~~cash flows,~~the contract and ~~the classification of awards~~classifies all leases as either ~~equity~~financing or ~~liabilities. Under~~operating. Operating leases are included in operating lease ROU assets and operating lease liabilities on the ~~new guidance,~~Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2019. The ROU asset represents the ~~difference between~~right to use the ~~deduction~~underlying asset for ~~tax purposes~~the lease term. As of September 30, 2019, ProAssurance has no leases that are classified as financing leases.

Operating ROU assets and ~~the compensation cost recognized for financial reporting purposes is to be~~operating lease liabilities are initially recognized as ~~income tax expense~~of the lease commencement date based on the present value of the remaining lease payments, discounted over the term of the lease using a discount rate determined based on information available as of the commencement date. As the majority of ProAssurance's lessors do not provide an implicit discount rate, the Company uses its collateralized incremental borrowing rate in determining the ~~current period and included with other income tax cash flows as an operating activity. The threshold for equity classification has also been revised to permit withholdings up~~present value of remaining lease payments. Due to the ~~maximum statutory tax rates in~~adoption of ASU 2016-02 (see further discussion that follows), the ~~applicable jurisdictions. The update also provides an accounting policy election to account for forfeitures as they occur. ProAssurance adopted the guidance~~Company used its collateralized incremental borrowing rate as of January 1, ~~2017. The primary effects~~2019 for operating leases that commenced prior to that date. Subsequent to the initial recognition, the operating ROU asset is amortized over the lease term on a straight-line basis as operating lease expense which is included as a component of ~~the adoption~~operating expense on the ~~current period are the following: (1) using a prospective application, ProAssurance recorded unrecognized excess tax benefits~~Condensed Consolidated Statements of $2.6 million as current tax expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 (unrecognized excess tax benefits were nominal for the 2017 three-month period), (2) using a modified retrospective application, ProAssurance elected to recognize forfeitures as they occurIncome and ~~recorded a $0.4 million increase to Additional paid-in capital, and a respective $0.3 million~~

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

~~reduction to Retained earnings~~Comprehensive Income for the three and ~~a $0.1 million increase to deferred taxes to reflect the incremental share-based compensation expense, net~~nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018. Leases with an initial term of ~~related tax impacts, that would have been recognized in prior years under the modified guidance~~twelve months or less are considered short-term and ~~(3) excess tax benefits from share-based compensation of $2.2 million was reclassified from financing activities to operating activities in~~are not recorded on the Condensed Consolidated ~~Statements~~Balance Sheet; lease expense for these leases is also recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Additionally, for leases entered into or reassessed after the adoption of ~~Cash Flows.~~ASU 2016-02, ProAssurance accounts for lease and non-lease components of a contract as a single lease component.

~~Interests Held Through Related Parties~~Operating lease ROU assets are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that ~~are Under Common Control~~the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The carrying amount of a ROU asset is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use of the underlying leased asset over the remaining lease term. That assessment is based on the carrying amount of the ROU asset at the date it is tested for recoverability and an impairment loss is measured and recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the ROU asset exceeds its fair value.

Accounting Changes Adopted

Leases (ASU 2016-02)

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued additional guidance regarding consolidation of legal entities such as LPs/LLCs and securitization structures (collateralized debt obligations, collateralized loan obligations, and mortgage-backed security transactions). The new guidance modifies the criteria used by a reporting entity when determining if it is a primary beneficiary of a VIE when there are entities under common control and the reporting entity has indirect interests in the VIE through related party relationships. ProAssurance adopted the guidance as of January 1, 2017. Adoption of the guidance had no material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations or financial position.

~~Simplifying the Transition to the Equity Method of Accounting~~

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance that eliminates the requirement for retroactive restatement when an investment qualifies for use of the equity method as a result of an increase in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence. The new guidance provides that the cost of acquiring an additional interest in an investee is to be added to the current basis of an investor’s previously held interest and the equity method of accounting adopted as of the date the investment becomes qualified for equity method accounting with no retroactive adjustment of the investment. If an available-for-sale equity security qualifies for the equity method of accounting, the unrealized holding gain or loss in AOCI is to be recognized through earnings at the date the investment becomes qualified for use of the equity method. ProAssurance adopted the guidance as of January 1, 2017. Adoption of the guidance had no material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations or financial position.

~~Clarifying the Definition of a Business~~

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance which provides clarification of the definition of a business, affecting areas such as acquisitions, disposals, goodwill and consolidation. The new guidance intends to assist entities with determining whether a transaction should be accounted for as an acquisition or disposal of assets or a business. The guidance will be applied prospectively to any transaction occurring within the period of adoption. ProAssurance early adopted the guidance during the third quarter of 2017 and adoption of the guidance had no material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations or financial position.

~~Accounting Changes Not Yet Adopted~~

~~Restricted Cash~~

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance related to the classification of restricted cash presented in the statement of cash flows with the objective of reducing diversity in practice. Under the new guidance, entities are required to include restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts as presented on the statement of cash flows. ProAssurance plans to adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2018. Adoption is not expected to have a material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

~~Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory~~

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance which reduces the complexity in accounting standards related to the income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory. Under the new guidance, entities are required to recognize income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of assets other than inventory when the transfer occurs instead of delaying recognition until the asset has been sold to an outside party. ProAssurance is in the process of evaluating the effect the new guidance would have on its results of operations and financial position and plans to adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2018. Adoption of the guidance is not expected to have a material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations or financial position.

~~Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments~~

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance related to the classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments presented in the statement of cash flows with the objective of reducing diversity in practice. ProAssurance plans to adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2018. Adoption is not expected to have a material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

~~Table of Contents~~

~~ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries~~

~~Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)~~

~~September 30, 2017~~

~~Revenue from Contracts with Customers~~

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 the FASB issued guidance related to revenue from contracts with customers. The core principle of the new guidance is that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. ProAssurance plans to adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2018 under the modified retrospective method. As the majority of ProAssurance's revenues come from insurance contracts which fall under the scope of other FASB standards, only an insignificant amount of the Company's revenue is subject to the updated guidance. Therefore, adoption of the guidance is not expected to have a material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations or financial position.

~~Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities~~

~~Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017~~ and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance that requires ~~equity investments (except those accounted~~a lessee to recognize for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) a lease liability, which is a lessee's obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis, and a right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee's right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. ProAssurance adopted the guidance as of January 1, 2019 using a modified retrospective application and elected the transition option provided that allows companies to continue to apply legacy GAAP in comparative periods. Also, ProAssurance elected the package of practical expedients permitted under the ~~equity method of accounting,~~guidance, which allowed the Company to carryforward its historical lease classification, its assessment on whether a contract is or ~~those~~contains a lease and its initial direct costs for any leases that ~~result in consolidation of the investee)~~existed prior to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. The new guidance also specifies that an entity use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes and present financial assets and liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset. Other provisionsadoption of the new ~~guidance include: revised disclosure requirements related~~standard. Furthermore, ProAssurance elected to combine lease and non-lease components and to keep leases with an initial term of 12 months or less off the ~~presentation in comprehensive income of changes~~Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet and recognize the associated lease payments in the ~~fair value~~Condensed Consolidated Statements of ~~liabilities; elimination, for public companies,~~Income and Comprehensive Income on a straight-line basis over the lease term. ProAssurance recognized total ROU assets and total lease liabilities of ~~disclosure requirements relative~~approximately $19 million on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of January 1, 2019 which relate to ProAssurance's real estate operating leases; the ~~method(s) and significant assumptions underlying fair values disclosed for~~Company does not consider these leases to be material to its financial ~~instruments measured at amortized cost; and simplified impairment assessments for equity investments without readily determinable fair values. ProAssurance plans~~position. Adoption of this guidance had no material impact on ProAssurance's results of operation or cash flows.

ProAssurance's Revolving Credit Agreement contains a financial covenant regarding permitted leverage ratios based upon Consolidated Funded Indebtedness to Consolidated Total Capitalization; however, adoption of this guidance had no material impact on this covenant. ProAssurance’s Mortgage Loans also contain a financial covenant regarding permitted leverage ratios, principally based upon SAP Consolidated Net Worth; however, as the NAIC did not adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2018, with the cumulative effect of the adoption made to retained earnings. The majority of ProAssurance's equity investments are either measured at fair value or accounted for under the equity method of accounting. As of September 30, 2017, approximately 1% of the Company's total investments would be impacted by the guidance and therefore,principles found in ASU 2016-02, adoption of the guidance ~~is not expected to have a material effect~~had no impact on ~~ProAssurance’s results of operations or financial position.~~

~~Modification Accounting for Employee Share-Based Payment Awards~~

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance which reduces the complexity in accounting standards when there is a change in the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award. The new guidance clarifies that an entity should apply the modification accounting guidance if the value, vesting conditions or classification of the award changes. ProAssurance plans to adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2018. Adoption of the guidance is not expected to have a material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations or financial position.this covenant.

Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities (ASU 2017-08)

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance that will require the premium for certain callable debt securities to be amortized over a shorter period than is currently required. Currently, amortization is permitted over the contractual life of the instrument, and the guidance shortens the amortization to the earliest call date. The purpose of the guidance is to more closely align the amortization period of premiums to expectations incorporated in market pricing on the underlying securities. ProAssurance ~~plans to adopt~~adopted the guidance ~~beginning~~as of January 1, 2019. ~~Adoption~~As ProAssurance amortizes the premium on callable debt securities to the earliest call date, adoption of the guidance ~~is not expected to have a~~had no material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations, financial position or ~~financial position.~~cash flows.

~~Leases~~Derivatives and Hedging (ASU 2017-12)

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance ~~that~~to improve financial reporting of hedging relationships to better portray the entity's risk management activities in the consolidated financial statements. The new guidance eliminates the requirement to separately measure and report hedge ineffectiveness and requires ~~a lessee to recognize for all leases (with~~ the exception of short-term leases) a lease liability, which is a lessee's obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis, and a right-of-use asset, which is an asset that representsentire change in the ~~lessee's right to use, or control the use~~fair value of a ~~specified asset for~~hedging instrument to be presented in the ~~lease term.~~same income statement line as the hedged item. ProAssurance ~~plans to adopt~~adopted the guidance ~~beginning~~as of January 1, 2019. ~~Adoption of the guidance~~ProAssurance's derivative instrument at September 30, 2019 is not ~~expected to have~~designated as a ~~material~~hedging instrument; therefore, adoption had no effect on ~~ProAssurance’s~~ProAssurance's results of operations, or financial position ~~as ProAssurance does not have any leases it believes to be material.~~or cash flows.

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

Improvements to Nonemployee Share-Based Payment Accounting (ASU 2018-07)

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance which reduces the complexity in accounting for nonemployee share-based payment awards. The new guidance substantially aligns the accounting for nonemployee share-based payment awards with the accounting guidance for employee share-based payment awards with certain exceptions, including the inputs used in estimating the fair value of the nonemployee awards and the period of time and pattern of expense recognition. ProAssurance adopted the guidance as of January 1, 2019 using a modified retrospective application and recorded a cumulative-effect adjustment of approximately $0.4 million to beginning retained earnings in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Capital for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. Adoption had no material effect on ProAssurance's results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

Derivatives and Hedging - Inclusion of the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) Overnight Index Swap as a Benchmark Interest Rate for Hedge Accounting Purposes (ASU 2018-16)

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued new guidance that permits the use of the Overnight Index Swap Rate based on the Secured Financing Rate as a U.S. benchmark interest rate for hedge accounting purposes. ProAssurance adopted the guidance as of January 1, 2019. As of September 30, 2019, ProAssurance's derivative instrument is not designated as a hedging instrument; therefore, adoption had no effect on ProAssurance's results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

Accounting Changes Not Yet Adopted

Improvements to Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (ASU 2016-13)

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance that replaces the incurred loss impairment methodology, which delays recognition of credit losses until a probable loss has been incurred, with a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. Under the new guidance, credit losses are required to be recorded through an allowance for credit losses account and the income statement will reflect the initial recognition of lifetime expected credit losses for any newly recognized financial assets as well as increases or decreases of expected credit losses that have taken place during the period. Credit losses on available-for-sale fixed maturity securities will be required to be presented as an allowance, rather than as a write-down of the asset, limited to the amount by which the fair value is below amortized cost. Adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on ProAssurance's available-for-sale fixed maturity portfolio. In addition, ProAssurance's premiums receivable and receivables from reinsurers are also included in the scope of this new guidance; however, ProAssurance has not historically experienced material credit losses due to the financial condition of an insured or reinsurer. ProAssurance plans to adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2020 and is in the process of evaluating the effect the new guidance would have on its results of operations and financial position.

Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment (ASU 2017-04)

Effective for the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance that simplifies the requirements to test goodwill for impairment for business entities that have goodwill reported in their financial statements. The guidance eliminates the second step of the impairment test which measures a goodwill impairment loss by comparing the implied fair value of a reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount. In addition, the guidance also eliminates the requirements for any reporting unit with a zero or negative carrying amount to perform a qualitative assessment. ProAssurance plans to adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2020. Adoption is not expected to have a material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations, financial position or ~~financial position.~~cash flows.

~~Improvements~~Changes to ~~Financial Instruments - Credit Losses~~the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (ASU 2018-13)

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued guidance that ~~replaces the incurred loss impairment methodology, which delays recognition of credit losses until a probable loss has been incurred, with a methodology that reflects expected credit losses~~eliminates, modifies and ~~requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information~~adds certain disclosure requirements related to ~~inform credit loss estimates. Under the~~fair value measurements. The new guidance ~~credit losses are required~~eliminates the requirements to ~~be recorded through an allowance~~disclose the transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, the policy for ~~credit losses account~~the timing of transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy and the ~~income statement reflects~~valuation process for Level 3 fair value measurements while it modifies existing disclosure requirements related to measurement uncertainty and the ~~measurement~~requirement to disclose the timing of liquidation of an investee's assets for ~~newly recognized financial assets,~~investments in certain entities that calculate NAV. The new guidance also adds requirements to disclose changes in unrealized gains and losses included in OCI for recurring Level 3 fair value measurements as well as ~~increases~~the range and weighted average used to develop significant unobservable inputs for Level 3 fair value measurements. An entity is permitted to early adopt any eliminated or ~~decreases~~modified disclosure requirements and delay adoption of ~~expected credit losses that have taken place during~~ the period. ProAssurance is in the process of evaluating the effect the new guidance would have on its results of operations and financial position and plans to adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2020. Adoption ofadditional disclosure requirements until the guidance is ~~not expected~~effective. During the third quarter of 2018, ProAssurance elected to ~~have~~early adopt the provisions that eliminate and modify certain disclosure requirements within Note 2 on a ~~material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations or financial position.~~retrospective basis and

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Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

adoption of these certain provisions had no material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows as it affected disclosures only. ProAssurance plans to adopt the additional disclosure requirements beginning January 1, 2020 and adoption is not expected to have a material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

Intangibles - Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (ASU 2018-15)

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB amended the new standard regarding accounting for implementation costs in cloud computing arrangements. The amended guidance substantially aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software. ProAssurance plans to adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2020. Adoption is not expected to have a material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

Targeted Improvements to Related Party Guidance for VIEs (ASU 2018-17)

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB amended guidance which improves the consistency of the application of the VIE guidance for common control arrangements. The amended guidance requires an entity to consider indirect interests held through related parties under common control on a proportional basis rather than as the equivalent of a direct interest in its entirety when determining whether a decision-making fee is a variable interest. ProAssurance plans to adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2020. As of September 30, 2019 ProAssurance does not have any material indirect interests held through related parties under common control; therefore, adoption is not expected to have a material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

Collaborative Arrangements (ASU 2018-18)

Effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 and interim periods within those fiscal years, the FASB issued new guidance which clarifies how to assess whether certain transactions between participants in a collaborative arrangement should be accounted for under the revenue from contracts with customers accounting standard when the counterpart is a customer. In addition, the guidance precludes an entity from presenting consideration from a transaction in a collaborative arrangement as revenue from contracts with customers if the counterparty is not a customer for that transaction. ProAssurance plans to adopt the guidance beginning January 1, 2020 and adoption is not expected to have a material effect on ProAssurance’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

Table of Contents

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

2. Fair Value Measurement

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. A three level hierarchy has been established for valuing assets and liabilities based on how transparent (observable) the inputs are that are used to determine fair value, with the inputs considered most observable categorized as Level 1 and those that are the least observable categorized as Level 3. Hierarchy levels are defined as follows:



	Level 1:	quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities. For ProAssurance, Level 1 inputs are generally quotes for debt or equity securities actively traded in exchange or over-the-counter markets.



	Level 2:	market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs). For ProAssurance, Level 2 inputs generally include quoted prices in markets that are not active, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, and results from pricing models that use observable inputs such as interest rates and yield curves that are generally available at commonly quoted intervals.



	Level 3:	the reporting ~~entity's~~entity’s own assumptions about market participant assumptions based on the best information available in the circumstances (non-observable inputs). For ProAssurance, Level 3 inputs are used in situations where little or no Level 1 or 2 inputs are available or are inappropriate given the particular circumstances. Level 3 inputs include results from pricing models for which some or all of the inputs are not observable, discounted cash flow methodologies, single non-binding broker quotes and adjustments to externally quoted prices that are based on management judgment or estimation.

Fair values of assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and December 31, ~~2016~~2018 are shown in the following tables. Where applicable, the tables also indicate the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized to determine those fair values. For some assets, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. When this is the case, the asset is categorized based on the level of the most significant input to the fair value measurement. Assessments of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement require judgment and consideration of factors specific to the assets being valued.

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Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019


	September 30, 2017								September 30, 2019
	Fair Value Measurements Using						Total		Fair Value Measurements Using						Total
(In thousands)	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Fair Value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Fair Value
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations	$	—	$	148,372	$	—	$	148,372	$	—	$	120,920	$	—	$	120,920
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	—		18,772		—		18,772		—		22,334		—		22,334
State and municipal bonds	—		693,398		—		693,398		—		293,397		—		293,397
Corporate debt, multiple observable inputs	2,406		1,255,413		—		1,257,819		—		1,344,542		—		1,344,542
Corporate debt, limited observable inputs	—		—		14,963		14,963		—		—		4,107		4,107
Residential mortgage-backed securities	—		201,691		—		201,691		—		201,843		—		201,843
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities	—		11,835		—		11,835		—		10,182		—		10,182
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities	—		16,190		—		16,190		—		71,411		1,126		72,537
Other asset-backed securities	—		101,770		3,540		105,310		—		227,653		4,020		231,673
Equity securities
Fixed maturities, trading									—		45,295		—		45,295
Equity investments
Financial	75,274		—		—		75,274		60,565		—		—		60,565
Utilities/Energy	53,553		—		—		53,553		42,074		—		—		42,074
Consumer oriented	53,569		—		—		53,569		41,307		—		—		41,307
Industrial	51,002		—		—		51,002		40,880		—		—		40,880
Bond funds	119,155		—		—		119,155		164,399		—		—		164,399
All other	59,243		—		—		59,243		38,021		—		—		38,021
Short-term investments	288,796		5,583		—		294,379		229,787		41,049		—		270,836
Other investments	747		30,614		428		31,789		18		32,598		1,517		34,133
Other assets									—		675		—		675
Total assets categorized within the fair value hierarchy	$	703,745	$	2,483,638	$	18,931	3,206,314		$	617,051	$	2,411,899	$	10,770	3,039,720
LP/LLC and investment fund interests carried at NAV which approximates fair value. These interests, reported as a part of Investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries and Other investments, respectively, are not categorized within the fair value hierarchy.							222,541
Assets carried at NAV, which approximates fair value and which are not categorized within the fair value hierarchy, reported as a part of:
Equity investments															21,854
Investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries															274,517
Total assets at fair value							$	3,428,855							$	3,336,091

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Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019



	December 31, 2018
	Fair Value Measurements Using						Total
(In thousands)	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Fair Value
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations	$	—	$	120,201	$	—	$	120,201
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	—		35,354		—		35,354
State and municipal bonds	—		293,772		—		293,772
Corporate debt, multiple observable inputs	2,319		1,216,834		—		1,219,153
Corporate debt, limited observable inputs	—		—		4,322		4,322
Residential mortgage-backed securities	—		181,238		—		181,238
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities	—		13,108		—		13,108
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities	—		30,993		—		30,993
Other asset-backed securities	—		191,807		3,850		195,657
Fixed maturities, trading	—		38,188		—		38,188
Equity investments
Financial	62,344		—		—		62,344
Utilities/Energy	46,533		—		—		46,533
Consumer oriented	47,462		—		—		47,462
Industrial	41,487		—		—		41,487
Bond funds	174,753		—		—		174,753
All other	50,066		—		—		50,066
Short-term investments	265,910		42,409		—		308,319
Other investments	—		31,341		3		31,344
Other assets	—		1,884		—		1,884
Total assets categorized within the fair value hierarchy	$	690,874	$	2,197,129	$	8,175	2,896,178
Assets carried at NAV, which approximates fair value and which are not categorized within the fair value hierarchy, reported as a part of:
Equity investments							20,292
Investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries							268,436
Total assets at fair value							$	3,184,906

December 31, 2016
Fair Value Measurements Using Total
(In thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations $ —
$ 146,539
$ —
$ 146,539
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations —
30,235
—
30,235
State and municipal bonds —
800,463
—
800,463
Corporate debt, multiple observable inputs 2,339
1,261,842
—
1,264,181
Corporate debt, limited observable inputs —
—
14,810
14,810
Residential mortgage-backed securities —
217,906
—
217,906
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities —
12,783
—
12,783
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities —
19,611
—
19,611
Other asset-backed securities —
103,871
3,007
106,878
Equity securities
Financial 81,749
—
—
81,749
Utilities/Energy 52,869
—
—
52,869
Consumer oriented 61,284
—
—
61,284
Industrial 54,265
—
—
54,265
Bond funds 79,843
10,159
—
90,002
All other 27,181
19,924
—
47,105
Short-term investments 437,580
4,504
—
442,084
Other investments 1,956
29,542
3
31,501
Total assets categorized within the fair value hierarchy $ 799,066

$ 2,657,379

$ 17,820

3,474,265
LP/LLC and investment fund interests carried at NAV which approximates fair value. These interests, reported as a part of Investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries and Other investments, respectively, are not categorized within the fair value hierarchy. 204,719
Total assets at fair value $ 3,678,984

The fair values for securities included in the Level 2 category, with the few exceptions described below, were developed by one of several third party, nationally recognized pricing services, including services that price only certain types of securities. Each service uses complex methodologies to determine values for securities and subject the values they develop to quality control reviews. Management selected a primary source for each type of security in the portfolio and reviewed the values provided for reasonableness by comparing data to alternate pricing services and to available market and trade data. Values that appeared inconsistent were further reviewed for appropriateness. Any value that did not appear reasonable was discussed with the service that provided the value and adjusted, if necessary. There were no material changes to the values supplied by the pricing services during the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019.

Table of Contents

ProAssurance Corporation and ~~2016.~~Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

Level 2 Valuations

Below is a summary description of the valuation methodologies primarily used by the pricing services for securities in the Level 2 category, by security type:

U.S. Treasury obligations were valued based on quoted prices for identical assets, or, in markets that are not active, quotes for similar assets, taking into consideration adjustments for variations in contractual cash flows and yields to maturity.

U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations were valued using pricing models that consider current and historical market data, normal trading conventions, credit ratings, and the particular structure and characteristics of the security being valued, such as yield to maturity, redemption options, and contractual cash flows. Adjustments to model inputs or model results were included in the valuation process when necessary to reflect recent regulatory, government or corporate actions or significant economic, industry or geographic events affecting the security’s fair value.

~~Table of Contents~~

~~ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries~~

~~Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)~~

~~September 30, 2017~~

State and municipal bonds were valued using a series of matrices that considered credit ratings, the structure of the security, the sector in which the security falls, yields, and contractual cash flows. Valuations were further adjusted, when necessary, to reflect the expected effect on fair value of recent significant economic or geographic events or ratings changes.

Corporate debt, multiple observable inputs consisted primarily of corporate bonds, but also included a small number of bank loans. The methodology used to value Level 2 corporate bonds was the same as the methodology previously described for U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations. Bank loans were valued based on an average of broker quotes for the loans in question, if available. If quotes were not available, the loans were valued based on quoted prices for comparable loans or, if the loan was newly issued, by comparison to similar seasoned issues. Broker quotes were compared to actual trade prices to permit assessment of the reliability of the quotes; unreliable quotes were not considered in quoted averages.

Residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities were valued using a pricing matrix which considers the issuer type, coupon rate and longest cash flows outstanding. The matrix used was based on the most recently available market information. Agency and non-agency collateralized mortgage obligations were both valued using models that consider the structure of the security, current and historical information regarding prepayment speeds, ratings and ratings updates, and current and historical interest rate and interest rate spread data.

Other asset-backed securities were valued using models that consider the structure of the security, monthly payment information, current and historical information regarding prepayment speeds, ratings and ratings updates, and current and historical interest rate and interest rate spread data. Spreads and prepayment speeds consider collateral type.

~~Equity securities~~ ~~were securities not traded on an exchange on~~Fixed maturities, trading, are held by the ~~valuation date. The~~Lloyd's Syndicates segment and include U.S. Treasury obligations, U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations, corporate debt with multiple observable inputs and other asset-backed securities. These securities were valued using the ~~most recently available quotes~~respective valuation methodologies discussed above for ~~the securities.~~each security type.

Short-term investments ~~are~~ were securities maturing within one year, carried at ~~cost~~fair value which approximated the ~~fair value~~cost of the ~~security~~securities due to ~~the short term to maturity.~~their short-term nature.

Other investments consisted primarily of convertible bonds valued using a pricing model that incorporated selected dealer quotes as well as current market data regarding equity prices and risk free rates. If dealer quotes were unavailable for the security being valued, quotes for securities with similar terms and credit status were used in the pricing model. Dealer quotes selected for use were those considered most accurate based on parameters such as underwriter status and historical reliability.

~~Level 3 Valuations~~Other assets consisted of an interest rate cap derivative instrument, which is discussed in Note 10, valued using a model which considers the volatilities from other instruments with similar maturities, strike prices, durations and forward yield curves.

~~Below is a summary description of the valuation processes and methodologies used as well as quantitative information regarding securities in the Level 3 category.~~

~~Level 3 Valuation Processes~~

~~Level 3 securities are priced by the Chief Investment Officer.~~

~~Level 3 valuations are computed quarterly. Prices are evaluated quarterly against prior period prices and the expected change in prices.~~

ProAssurance's Level 3 securities are primarily NRSRO rated debt instruments for which comparable market inputs are commonly available for evaluating the securities in question. Valuation of these debt instruments is not overly sensitive to changes in the unobservable inputs used.

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

Level 3 Valuations

Below is a summary description of the valuation methodologies used as well as quantitative information regarding securities in the Level 3 category, by security type:

Level 3 Valuation Methodologies

Corporate debt, limited observable inputs consisted of corporate bonds valued using dealer quotes for similar securities or discounted cash flow models using yields currently available for similar securities. Similar securities are defined as securities of comparable credit quality that have like terms and payment features. Assessments of credit quality were based on NRSRO ratings, if available, or were determined by management if not available. At September 30, 2019, 57% of the securities were rated and the average rating was BBB+. At December 31, 2018, 54% of the securities were rated and the average rating was BBB+.

Other commercial mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities consisted of securitizations of receivables valued using dealer quotes for similar securities or discounted cash flow models using yields currently available for similar securities. Similar securities are defined as securities of comparable credit quality that have like terms and payment features. Assessments of credit quality were based on NRSRO ratings, if available, or were subjectively determined by management if not available. At September 30, ~~2017, 73%~~2019, 42% of the securities were rated and the average rating was ~~BBB+~~.AA-. At December 31, ~~2016, 84%~~2018, 25% of the securities were rated and the average rating was ~~BBB+.~~AAA.

~~Other asset-backed securities~~ ~~consisted of securitizations of receivables valued using dealer quotes for similar securities or discounted cash flow models using yields currently available for similar securities.~~

Other investments consisted of convertible securities for which limited observable inputs were available at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and at December 31, ~~2016.~~2018. The securities were valued internally based on expected cash flows, including the expected final recovery, discounted at a yield that considered the lack of liquidity and the financial status of the issuer.

Quantitative Information Regarding Level 3 Valuations



	Fair Value at
($ in thousands)	September 30, 2019	December 31, 2018	Valuation Technique	Unobservable Input	Range (Weighted Average)
Assets:
Corporate debt, limited observable inputs	$4,107	$4,322	Market Comparable Securities	Comparability Adjustment	0% - 5% (2.5%)
			Discounted Cash Flows	Comparability Adjustment	0% - 5% (2.5%)
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities	$1,126	—	Market Comparable Securities	Comparability Adjustment	0% - 5% (2.5%)
			Discounted Cash Flows	Comparability Adjustment	0% - 5% (2.5%)
Other asset-backed securities	$4,020	$3,850	Market Comparable Securities	Comparability Adjustment	0% - 5% (2.5%)
			Discounted Cash Flows	Comparability Adjustment	0% - 5% (2.5%)
Other investments	$1,517	$3	Discounted Cash Flows	Comparability Adjustment	0% - 10% (5%)

Fair Value at
(In thousands) September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Valuation Technique Unobservable Input Range
(Weighted Average)
Assets:
Corporate debt, limited observable inputs $14,963 $14,810 Market Comparable
Securities Comparability Adjustment 0% - 5% (2.5%)
Discounted Cash Flows Comparability Adjustment 0% - 5% (2.5%)
Other asset-backed securities $3,540 $3,007 Market Comparable
Securities Comparability Adjustment 0% - 5% (2.5%)
Discounted Cash Flows Comparability Adjustment 0% - 5% (2.5%)
Other investments $428 $3 Discounted Cash Flows Comparability Adjustment 0% - 10% (5%)

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the above listed securities were the valuations of comparable securities with similar issuers, credit quality and maturity. Changes in the availability of comparable securities could result in changes in the fair value measurements.

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

Fair Value Measurements - Level 3 Assets

The following tables (the Level 3 Tables) present summary information regarding changes in the fair value of assets measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs.


	September 30, 2017											September 30, 2019
	Level 3 Fair Value Measurements – Assets											Level 3 Fair Value Measurements – Assets
(In thousands)	Corporate Debt			Asset-backed Securities			All other investments		Total			Corporate Debt			Asset-backed Securities			Other investments			Total
Balance June 30, 2017	$	17,849		$	3,005		$	5	$	20,859
Balance June 30, 2019												$	2,304		$	4,163		$	624		$	7,091
Total gains (losses) realized and unrealized:
Included in earnings, as a part of:
Net investment income	(52		)	—			—		(52		)	—			(23		)	—			(23		)
Net realized investment gains (losses)												—			—			2			2
Included in other comprehensive income	(18		)	(45		)	—		(63		)	74			14			—			88
Purchases	1			580			—		581			1,545			—			1,296			2,841
Sales	(858		)	—			—		(858		)	(1,566		)	(24		)	—			(1,590		)
Transfers in	989			—			423		1,412			1,750			1,016			—			2,766
Transfers out	(2,948		)	—			—		(2,948		)	—			—			(405		)	(405		)
Balance September 30, 2017	$	14,963		$	3,540		$	428	$	18,931
Balance September 30, 2019												$	4,107		$	5,146		$	1,517		$	10,770
Change in unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings for the above period for Level 3 assets held at period-end	$	—		$	—		$	—	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	2		$	2


	September 30, 2017												September 30, 2019
	Level 3 Fair Value Measurements – Assets												Level 3 Fair Value Measurements – Assets
(In thousands)	Corporate Debt			Asset-backed Securities			All other investments			Total			Corporate Debt			Asset-backed Securities			Other investments			Total
Balance December 31, 2016	$	14,810		$	3,007		$	3		$	17,820
Balance December 31, 2018													$	4,322		$	3,850		$	3		$	8,175
Total gains (losses) realized and unrealized:
Included in earnings, as a part of:
Net investment income	(125		)	—			—			(125		)	2			(163		)	—			(161		)
Net realized investment gains (losses)	13			—			(124		)	(111		)	—			—			35			35
Included in other comprehensive income	(296		)	(47		)	140			(203		)	85			224			—			309
Purchases	11,890			580			—			12,470			2,850			—			1,466			4,316
Sales	(4,418		)	—			(912		)	(5,330		)	(3,702		)	(30		)	—			(3,732		)
Transfers in	999			—			1,321			2,320			1,750			2,216			418			4,384
Transfers out	(7,910		)	—			—			(7,910		)	(1,200		)	(951		)	(405		)	(2,556		)
Balance September 30, 2017	$	14,963		$	3,540		$	428		$	18,931
Balance September 30, 2019													$	4,107		$	5,146		$	1,517		$	10,770
Change in unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings for the above period for Level 3 assets held at period-end	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	35		$	35

2022

Table of Contents

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019


	September 30, 2016														September 30, 2018
	Level 3 Fair Value Measurements – Assets														Level 3 Fair Value Measurements – Assets
(In thousands)	State and Municipal Bonds		Corporate Debt			Asset-backed Securities			All other investments			Total			Corporate Debt			Asset-backed Securities			Other investments		Total
Balance June 30, 2016	$	—	$	17,810		$	755		$	1,556		$	20,121
Balance June 30, 2018															$	8,380		$	9,420		$	5	$	17,805
Total gains (losses) realized and unrealized:
Included in earnings, as a part of:
Net investment income	—		(28		)	—			(3		)	(31		)	(37		)	1			—		(36		)
Net realized investment gains (losses)															—			—			1		1
Included in other comprehensive income	—		324			(2		)	8			330			(12		)	15			—		3
Purchases	—		—			—			193			193			2,000			—			—		2,000
Sales	—		(709		)	—			—			(709		)	(926		)	—			—		(926		)
Transfers in	900		—			1,000			919			2,819			—			—			—		—
Transfers out	—		(5,110		)	—			—			(5,110		)	—			(2,277		)	—		(2,277		)
Balance September 30, 2016	$	900	$	12,287		$	1,753		$	2,673		$	17,613
Balance September 30, 2018															$	9,405		$	7,159		$	6	$	16,570
Change in unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings for the above period for Level 3 assets held at period-end	$	—	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	1	$	1



	September 30, 2018
	Level 3 Fair Value Measurements – Assets
(In thousands)	Corporate Debt			Asset-backed Securities			Other investments			Total
Balance December 31, 2017	$	13,703		$	4,986		$	409		$	19,098
Total gains (losses) realized and unrealized:
Included in earnings, as a part of:
Net investment income	(111		)	2			—			(109		)
Net realized investment gains (losses)	(8		)	—			(37		)	(45		)
Included in other comprehensive income	(140		)	(126		)	—			(266		)
Purchases	8,005			16,678			—			24,683
Sales	(5,475		)	(185		)	(366		)	(6,026		)
Transfers in	2,627			—			—			2,627
Transfers out	(9,196		)	(14,196		)	—			(23,392		)
Balance September 30, 2018	$	9,405		$	7,159		$	6		$	16,570
Change in unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings for the above period for Level 3 assets held at period-end	$	—		$	—		$	(37	)	$	(37	)

September 30, 2016
Level 3 Fair Value Measurements – Assets
(In thousands) State and Municipal Bonds Corporate Debt Asset-backed Securities All other investments Total
Balance December 31, 2015 $ —
$ 14,500
$ 757
$ —
$ 15,257
Total gains (losses) realized and unrealized:
Included in earnings, as a part of:
Net investment income —
(64 ) —
(7 ) (71 )
Net realized investment gains (losses) —
(75 ) —
—
(75 )
Included in other comprehensive income —
453
3
8
464
Purchases —
5,995
3,500
1,753
11,248
Sales —
(3,406 ) (702 ) —
(4,108 )
Transfers in 900
—
1,000
919
2,819
Transfers out —
(5,116 ) (2,805 ) —
(7,921 )
Balance September 30, 2016 $ 900
$ 12,287
$ 1,753

$ 2,673
$ 17,613
Change in unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings for the above period for Level 3 assets held at period-end $ —
$ —
$ —
$ —
$ —

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

Transfers

There were no transfers between the Level 1 and Level 2 categories during the three months ended September 30, 2017. During the nine months ended September 30, 2017, equity securities of approximately $35.4 million were transferred from Level 2 to Level 1. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, equity securities of approximately $10.2 million were transferred from Level 2 to Level 1.

Transfers shown in the preceding Level 3 tables were as of the end of the quarter in which the transfer occurred. All transfers were to or from Level 2.

All transfers during the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016~~2018 related to securities held for which the level of market activity for identical or nearly identical securities varies from period to period. The securities were valued using multiple observable inputs when those inputs were available; otherwise the securities were valued using limited observable inputs.

Fair Values Not Categorized

~~Investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries at both~~At September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and December 31, ~~2016 included interests in investment fund~~2018, certain LPs/LLCs and ~~Other investments at September 30, 2017 included interests in certain~~ investment funds ~~that~~ measure fund assets at fair value on a recurring basis and ~~that~~ provide a NAV for ~~the~~ProAssurance's interest. The carrying value of these interests is based on the NAV provided and was considered to approximate the fair value of the interests. For investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries, ProAssurance recognizes any changes in the NAV of its interests in equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries during the period of change. In accordance with GAAP, the fair value of these investments was not classified within the fair value hierarchy. ~~Additional information regarding~~The amount of ProAssurance's unfunded commitments related to these investments isas of September 30, 2019 and fair values of these investments as of September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018 were as follows:

Unfunded
Commitments Fair Value
(In thousands) September 30,
2017 September 30,
2017 December 31,
2016
Investments in LPs/LLCs:
Private debt funds ⁽¹⁾
$12,006 $ 42,650
$ 55,637
Long equity fund ⁽²⁾
None 7,396
6,268
Long/short equity funds ⁽³⁾
None 30,904
28,926
Non-public equity funds ⁽⁴⁾
$86,985 92,887
89,691
Multi-strategy fund of funds ⁽⁵⁾
None 8,966
8,448
Structured credit fund ⁽⁶⁾
None 6,394
4,273
Long/short commodities fund ⁽⁷⁾
None 12,648
11,476
Strategy focused fund ⁽⁸⁾
$4,304 696
—
Other investments:
Mortgage fund ⁽⁹⁾
None 20,000
—
$ 222,541
$ 204,719



	Unfunded Commitments	Fair Value
(In thousands)	September 30, 2019	September 30, 2019		December 31, 2018
Equity investments:
Mortgage fund ⁽¹⁾	NaN	$	21,854	$	20,292
Investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries:
Private debt funds ⁽²⁾	$16,869	14,651		18,196
Long equity fund ⁽³⁾	NaN	4,787		6,561
Long/short equity funds ⁽⁴⁾	NaN	29,808		28,805
Non-public equity funds ⁽⁵⁾	$77,188	124,759		114,811
Multi-strategy fund of funds ⁽⁶⁾	NaN	9,739		9,322
Credit funds ⁽⁷⁾	$2,216	41,889		29,164
Long/short commodities fund ⁽⁸⁾	NaN	14,329		12,958
Strategy focused funds ⁽⁹⁾	$46,945	34,555		48,619
		274,517		268,436
Total investments carried at NAV		$	296,371	$	288,728

Below is additional information regarding each of the investments listed in the table above as of September 30, 2019.


⁽¹⁾	This investment fund is focused on the structured mortgage market. The fund will primarily invest in U.S. Agency mortgage-backed securities. Redemptions are allowed at the end of any calendar quarter with a prior notice requirement of 65 days and are paid within 45 days at the end of the redemption dealing day.

⁽²⁾

This investment is comprised of interests in ~~two~~three unrelated LP funds that are structured to provide interest distributions primarily through diversified portfolios of private debt instruments. One LP allows redemption by special consent; the other ~~does~~two do not permit redemption. Income and capital are to be periodically distributed at the discretion of the LPs over an anticipated time frame that spans from three to eight years.


⁽²⁾⁽³⁾	~~The~~This fund is a LP that holds long equities of public international companies. Redemptions are allowed at the end of any calendar month with a prior notice requirement of 15 days and are paid within 10 days of the end of the calendar month of the redemption request.

⁽³⁾⁽⁴⁾

~~The~~This investment is comprised of interests in multiple unrelated LP funds. The funds hold primarily long and short North American equities and target absolute returns using strategies designed to take advantage of market opportunities. The funds generally permit quarterly or semi-annual capital redemptions subject to notice requirements of 30 to 90 days. For some funds, redemptions above specified thresholds (lowest threshold is 90%) may be only partially payable until after a fund audit is completed and are then payable within 30 days.

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

⁽⁴⁾⁽⁵⁾

~~The~~This investment is comprised of interests in multiple unrelated LP funds, each structured to provide capital appreciation through diversified investments in private equity, which can include investments in buyout, venture capital, debt including senior, second lien and mezzanine, distressed debt, collateralized loan obligations and other private equity-oriented LPs. Two of the LPs allow redemption by terms set forth in the LP agreements; the others do not permit redemption. Income and capital are to be periodically distributed at the discretion of the LP over time frames that are anticipated to span up to ~~nine~~ten years.


⁽⁵⁾⁽⁶⁾	This fund is a LLC structured to build and manage low volatility, multi-manager portfolios that have little or no correlation to the broader fixed income and equity security markets. Redemptions are not permitted but offers to repurchase units of the LLC may be extended periodically.

⁽⁶⁾⁽⁷⁾

This ~~fund~~investment is acomprised of four unrelated LP ~~seeking~~funds. Two funds seek to obtain superior risk-adjusted absolute returns ~~by acquiring and actively managing~~through a diversified portfolio of debt securities, including bonds, loans and other asset-backed instruments. ~~Redemptions~~A third fund focuses on private middle market company mezzanine loans, while the remaining fund seeks event driven opportunities across the corporate credit spectrum. Two funds are allowed redemptions at any quarter-end with a prior notice requirement of 90 ~~days.~~days, one fund permits redemption at any quarter-end with a prior notice requirement of 180 days and one fund does not allow redemptions.


⁽⁷⁾⁽⁸⁾	This fund is a LLC invested across a broad range of commodities and focuses primarily on market neutral, relative value strategies, seeking to generate absolute returns with low correlation to broad commodity, equity and fixed income markets. Following an initial one-year lock-up period, redemptions are allowed with a prior notice requirement of 30 days and are payable within 30 days.

⁽⁸⁾

⁽⁹⁾ This investment is comprised of multiple unrelated LPs/LLCs funds. One fund is a LLC focused on investing in North American consumer products companies, comprised of equity and equity-related securities, as well as debt instruments. A second fund is focused on aircraft investments, along with components and assets related to aircrafts. For both funds, redemptions are not permitted. Another fund is a LP focused on North American energy infrastructure assets that allows redemption with consent of the General Partner. The remaining funds are real estate focused LPs, one of which allows for redemption with prior notice.

This fund is a LLC focused exclusively on investing in consumer product companies. The fund will invest exclusively in North American companies, comprised of equity and equity-related securities, as well as debt instruments. Redemptions are not permitted.


⁽⁹⁾	This investment fund is focused on the structured mortgage market. The fund will primarily invest in U.S. Agency mortgage-backed securities. Redemptions are allowed at the end of any calendar quarter with a prior notice requirement of 65 days and are paid within 45 days at the end of the redemption dealing day.

ProAssurance may not sell, transfer or assign its interest in any of the above LPs/LLCs without special consent from the LPs/LLCs.

Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurement

At September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, ProAssurance did 0t have any assets or liabilities that were measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis.

Financial Instruments - Methodologies Other Than Fair Value

The following table provides the estimated fair value of ~~our~~the Company's financial instruments that, in accordance with GAAP for the type of investment, are measured using a methodology other than fair value. ~~All fair~~Fair values provided primarily fall within the Level 3 fair value category.



	September 30, 2019				December 31, 2018
(In thousands)	Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value
Financial assets:
BOLI	$	65,653	$	65,653	$	64,096	$	64,096
Other investments	$	2,916	$	2,916	$	2,943	$	2,943
Other assets	$	27,880	$	27,885	$	35,921	$	35,468
Financial liabilities:
Senior notes due 2023*	$	250,000	$	272,735	$	250,000	$	264,810
Mortgage Loans*	$	37,978	$	37,978	$	39,064	$	39,064
Other liabilities	$	25,014	$	25,014	$	21,300	$	21,300
* Carrying value excludes unamortized debt issuance costs.

September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016
(In thousands) Carrying
Value Fair
Value Carrying
Value Fair
Value
Financial assets:
BOLI $ 61,652
$ 61,652
$ 60,134
$ 60,134
Other investments $ 51,975
$ 60,713
$ 50,391
$ 58,757
Other assets $ 34,412
$ 34,311
$ 29,111
$ 28,960
Financial liabilities:
Senior notes due 2023* $ 250,000
$ 273,923
$ 250,000
$ 270,898
Revolving Credit Agreement* $ 152,000
$ 152,000
$ 200,000
$ 200,000
Other liabilities $ 19,858
$ 19,858
$ 17,033
$ 17,011
* Carrying value excludes debt issuance costs.

The fair value of the BOLI was equal to the cash surrender value associated with the policies on the valuation date.

Table of Contents

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

Other investments listed in the table above include ~~interests in certain investment fund LPs/LLCs accounted for using the cost method, investments in~~ FHLB common stock carried at cost and an annuity investment carried at amortized cost. ~~The estimated fair value~~Two of ~~the LP/LLC interests was based on the equity value~~ProAssurance's insurance subsidiaries are members of ~~the interest provided by the LP/LLC managers for the most recent quarter, which approximates the fair value of the interest.~~an FHLB. The estimated fair value of the FHLB common stock was based on the amount ~~ProAssurance~~the subsidiaries would receive if ~~its membership~~their memberships were canceled, as the ~~membership~~memberships cannot be sold. The fair value of the annuity represents the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted using a rate available in active markets for similarly structured instruments.

~~Table of Contents~~

~~ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries~~

~~Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)~~

~~September 30, 2017~~

Other assets and ~~Other~~other liabilities primarily consisted of related investment assets and liabilities associated with funded deferred compensation agreements. ~~Fair values~~The fair value of the funded deferred compensation assets was based upon quoted market prices, which is categorized as a Level 1 valuation, and had a fair value of $25.2 million and $24.1 million at September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively. The deferred compensation liabilities ~~were based on~~are adjusted to match the ~~NAVs provided by~~fair value of the ~~underlying funds.~~deferred compensation assets. Other assets also included a secured note receivable and unsecured note receivable under ~~two~~2 separate line of credit agreements. Fair value of these notes receivable was based on the present value of expected cash flows from the notes receivable, discounted at market rates on the valuation date for receivables with similar credit standings and similar payment structures.

The fair value of the debt was estimated based on the present value of expected future cash outflows, discounted at rates available on the valuation date for similar debt issued by entities with a similar credit standing to ProAssurance.

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

3. Investments

Available-for-sale ~~securities~~fixed maturities at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and December 31, ~~2016~~2018 included the following:



	September 30, 2019
(In thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Estimated Fair Value
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations	$	118,938	$	2,095	$	113	$	120,920
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	22,195		147		8		22,334
State and municipal bonds	282,398		11,093		94		293,397
Corporate debt	1,318,250		33,313		2,914		1,348,649
Residential mortgage-backed securities	199,386		2,980		523		201,843
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities	9,926		274		18		10,182
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities	70,579		2,061		103		72,537
Other asset-backed securities	229,368		2,351		46		231,673
	$	2,251,040	$	54,314	$	3,819	$	2,301,535

	December 31, 2018
(In thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Estimated Fair Value
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations	$	121,274	$	331	$	1,404	$	120,201
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	35,758		25		429		35,354
State and municipal bonds	289,544		4,877		649		293,772
Corporate debt	1,244,577		3,328		24,430		1,223,475
Residential mortgage-backed securities	184,463		814		4,039		181,238
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities	13,296		12		200		13,108
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities	31,330		38		375		30,993
Other asset-backed securities	196,583		254		1,180		195,657
	$	2,116,825	$	9,679	$	32,706	$	2,093,798

September 30, 2017
(In thousands) Amortized
Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Estimated Fair Value
Fixed maturities
U.S. Treasury obligations $ 148,194
$ 954
$ 776
$ 148,372
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations 18,756
119
103
18,772
State and municipal bonds 675,012
20,086
1,700
693,398
Corporate debt 1,254,878
22,427
4,523
1,272,782
Residential mortgage-backed securities 199,110
3,401
820
201,691
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities 11,841
63
69
11,835
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities 16,135
126
71
16,190
Other asset-backed securities 105,166
303
159
105,310
$ 2,429,092
$ 47,479
$ 8,221
$ 2,468,350

December 31, 2016
(In thousands) Amortized
Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Estimated Fair Value
Fixed maturities
U.S. Treasury obligations $ 146,186
$ 1,264
$ 911
$ 146,539
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations 30,038
388
191
30,235
State and municipal bonds 790,154
17,261
6,952
800,463
Corporate debt 1,264,812
22,659
8,480
1,278,991
Residential mortgage-backed securities 216,285
3,667
2,046
217,906
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities 12,837
89
143
12,783
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities 19,571
177
137
19,611
Other asset-backed securities 106,938
207
267
106,878
$ 2,586,821
$ 45,712
$ 19,127
$ 2,613,406

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

The recorded cost basis and estimated fair value of available-for-sale fixed maturities at September 30, ~~2017~~2019, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.



(In thousands)	Amortized Cost		Due in one year or less		Due after one year through five years		Due after five years through ten years		Due after ten years		Total Fair Value
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations	$	118,938	$	20,157	$	79,402	$	20,928	$	433	$	120,920
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	22,195		2,498		6,005		13,683		148		22,334
State and municipal bonds	282,398		12,027		119,996		128,137		33,237		293,397
Corporate debt	1,318,250		152,152		783,362		379,830		33,305		1,348,649
Residential mortgage-backed securities	199,386										201,843
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities	9,926										10,182
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities	70,579										72,537
Other asset-backed securities	229,368										231,673
	$	2,251,040									$	2,301,535

(In thousands) Amortized
Cost Due in one
year or less Due after
one year
through
five years Due after
five years
through
ten years Due after
ten years Total Fair
Value
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations $ 148,194
$ 30,655
$ 93,222
$ 21,495
$ 3,000
$ 148,372
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations 18,756
249
8,362
10,020
141
18,772
State and municipal bonds 675,012
57,500
233,506
295,098
107,294
693,398
Corporate debt 1,254,878
124,057
737,639
390,103
20,983
1,272,782
Residential mortgage-backed securities 199,110

201,691
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities 11,841

11,835
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities 16,135

16,190
Other asset-backed securities 105,166

105,310
$ 2,429,092
$ 2,468,350

Excluding obligations of the U.S. Government, U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises and a U.S. Government obligations money market fund, no investment in any entity or its affiliates exceeded 10% of ~~Shareholders’~~shareholders’ equity at September 30, ~~2017~~2019.

Cash and securities with a carrying value of $~~46.6~~45.4 million at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 were on deposit with various state insurance departments to meet regulatory requirements. ProAssurance also held securities with a carrying value of $189.5 million at September 30, 2017 that are pledged as collateral security for advances under the Revolving Credit Agreement (see Note 7 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional detail on the Revolving Credit Agreement).

As a member of Lloyd's and a capital provider to Syndicate 1729 and Syndicate 6131, ProAssurance is required to maintain capital at Lloyd's, referred to as FAL. ~~ProAssurance investments at~~ At September 30, ~~2017~~ ~~included~~2019, ProAssurance's FAL was comprised of available-for-sale fixed maturities with a fair value of $~~98.7~~124.6 million and ~~short-term investments with a fair value~~cash and cash equivalents of ~~approximately $0.5~~$10.1 million on deposit with Lloyd's in order to satisfy these FAL requirements.

Table of Contents

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

Investments Held in a Loss Position

The following tables provide summarized information with respect to investments held in an unrealized loss position at September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, including the length of time the investment had been held in a continuous unrealized loss position.



	September 30, 2019
	Total				Less than 12 months				12 months or longer
	Fair		Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized
(In thousands)	Value		Loss		Value		Loss		Value		Loss
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations	$	36,227	$	113	$	14,341	$	54	$	21,886	$	59
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	5,492		8		—		—		5,492		8
State and municipal bonds	15,047		94		11,582		90		3,465		4
Corporate debt	171,938		2,914		87,163		1,530		84,775		1,384
Residential mortgage-backed securities	74,952		523		30,959		81		43,993		442
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities	531		18		212		—		319		18
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities	8,950		103		5,081		87		3,869		16
Other asset-backed securities	37,152		46		16,362		13		20,790		33
	$	350,289	$	3,819	$	165,700	$	1,855	$	184,589	$	1,964



	December 31, 2018
	Total				Less than 12 months				12 months or longer
	Fair		Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized
(In thousands)	Value		Loss		Value		Loss		Value		Loss
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations	$	97,969	$	1,405	$	20,221	$	119	$	77,748	$	1,286
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	33,677		429		20,479		126		13,198		303
State and municipal bonds	63,094		648		30,924		143		32,170		505
Corporate debt	938,651		24,429		447,891		8,804		490,760		15,625
Residential mortgage-backed securities	157,120		4,039		27,311		209		129,809		3,830
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities	9,822		200		4,566		22		5,256		178
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities	22,924		375		13,348		164		9,576		211
Other asset-backed securities	142,470		1,181		70,218		236		72,252		945
	$	1,465,727	$	32,706	$	634,958	$	9,823	$	830,769	$	22,883

As of September 30, 2019, excluding U.S. Government or U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations, there were 291 debt securities (13.4% of all available-for-sale fixed maturity securities held) in an unrealized loss position representing 220 issuers. The greatest and second greatest unrealized loss positions among those securities were each approximately $0.2 million. The securities were evaluated for OTTI as of September 30, 2019.

As of December 31, 2018, excluding U.S. Government or U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations, there were 1,044 debt securities (50.6% of all available-for-sale fixed maturity securities held) in an unrealized loss position representing 550 issuers. The greatest and second greatest unrealized loss positions among those securities were approximately $0.6 million and $0.5 million, respectively. The securities were evaluated for OTTI as of December 31, 2018.

Table of Contents

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

Each quarter, ProAssurance performs a detailed analysis for the purpose of assessing whether any of the securities it holds in an unrealized loss position has suffered an OTTI. A detailed discussion of the factors considered in the assessment is included in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in ProAssurance's December 31, 2018 Form 10-K.

Fixed maturity securities held in an unrealized loss position at September 30, 2019, excluding asset-backed securities, have paid all scheduled contractual payments and are expected to continue doing so. Expected future cash flows of asset-backed securities, excluding those issued by GNMA, FNMA and FHLMC, held in an unrealized loss position were estimated as part of the September 30, 2019 OTTI evaluation using the most recently available six-month historical performance data for the collateral (loans) underlying the security or, if historical data was not available, sector based assumptions, and equaled or exceeded the current amortized cost basis of the security.

Other information regarding sales and purchases of fixed maturity available-for-sale securities is as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30
(In millions)	2019		2018		2019		2018
Proceeds from sales (exclusive of maturities and paydowns)	$	21.9	$	61.3	$	115.2	$	556.3
Purchases	$	202.3	$	164.6	$	553.2	$	717.1

Equity Investments

ProAssurance's equity investments are carried at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in income as a component of net realized investment gains (losses) during the period of change. Equity investments on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018 primarily included stocks, bond funds and investment funds.

Short-term Investments

ProAssurance's short-term investments, which have a maturity at purchase of one year or less, are primarily comprised of investments in U.S. treasury obligations, commercial paper and money market funds. Short-term investments are carried at fair value which approximates the cost of the securities due to their short-term nature.

BOLI

ProAssurance holds BOLI policies that are carried at the current cash surrender value of the policies (original cost ~~$33 million~~)$33 million). All insured individuals were members of ProAssurance management at the time the policies were acquired. The primary purpose of the program is to offset future employee benefit expenses through earnings on the cash value of the policies. ProAssurance is the owner and beneficiary of these policies.

Net Investment Income

Net investment income by investment category was as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2019			2018			2019			2018
Fixed maturities	$	18,362		$	17,228		$	54,154		$	51,814
Equities	3,942			5,687			13,755			15,553
Short-term investments, including Other	2,012			1,330			5,466			3,968
BOLI	645			621			1,557			1,525
Investment fees and expenses	(1,280		)	(1,600		)	(4,894		)	(5,183		)
Net investment income	$	23,681		$	23,266		$	70,038		$	67,677

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

Investment in Unconsolidated Subsidiaries

~~ProAssurance holds investments~~ProAssurance's investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries ~~accounted for under the equity method. The investments include the following:~~were as follows:



	September 30, 2019	Carrying Value
(In thousands)	Percentage Ownership	September 30, 2019		December 31, 2018
Qualified affordable housing project tax credit partnerships	See below	$	50,989	$	65,677
Other tax credit partnerships	See below	2,570		3,757
All other investments, primarily investment fund LPs/LLCs	See below	313,047		298,323
		$	366,606	$	367,757

Carrying Value
(In thousands) September 30,
2017 December 31,
2016
Investment in LPs/LLCs:
Qualified affordable housing tax credit partnerships $ 91,598
$ 102,313
Other tax credit partnerships 8,355
11,459
All other LPs/LLCs 231,944
227,134
$ 331,897
$ 340,906

Qualified affordable housing project tax credit partnership interests held by ProAssurance generate investment returns by providing tax benefits to fund investors in the form of tax credits and project operating losses. The carrying value of these investments reflects ProAssurance's total commitments (both funded and unfunded) to the partnerships, less any amortization. ProAssurance's ownership percentage relative to ~~two~~2 of the tax credit partnership interests is almost 100%; these interests had a carrying value of ~~$34.5~~$19.1 million at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and ~~$40.2~~$25.0 million at December 31, ~~2016.~~2018. ProAssurance's ownership percentage relative to the remaining tax credit partnership interests is less than 20%; these interests had a carrying value of ~~$57.1~~$31.9 million at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and ~~$62.1~~$40.7 million at December 31, ~~2016.~~2018. Since ProAssurance ~~does not have~~has the ability to exert ~~control~~influence over the ~~partnerships;~~partnerships but does not control them, all are accounted for using the equity method. See further discussion of the entities in which ProAssurance holds passive interests in Note 12.

Other tax credit partnerships are comprised entirely of investments in historic tax ~~credits.~~credit partnerships. The historic tax ~~credits~~credit partnerships generate investment returns by providing benefits to fund investors in the form of tax credits, ~~tax-deductible~~tax deductible project operating losses and positive cash flows. The carrying value of these investments reflects ProAssurance's total funded commitments less any amortization. ProAssurance's ownership percentage relative to the historic tax credit partnerships is almost 100%. Since ProAssurance ~~does not have~~has the ability to exert ~~control~~influence over the ~~partnerships;~~partnerships but does not control them, all are accounted for using the equity method.

~~As discussed~~ See further discussion of the entities in ~~additional detail~~which ProAssurance holds passive interests in Note ~~2 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements,~~ 12.

ProAssurance holds interests in ~~certain~~investment fund LPs/LLCs ~~that are investment funds which measure fund assets at fair value on a recurring basis~~ and ~~the fund managers provide a NAV for the interest. The carrying value of these interests is based on the NAV provided,~~other equity method investments and is considered to approximate the fair value of the interests; such interests totaled $202.5 million at September 30, 2017 and $204.7 million at December 31, 2016. ProAssurance also holds interests in other LPs/LLCs which are not considered to be investment ~~funds; such interests totaled $29.4 million at September 30, 2017 and $22.4 million at December 31, 2016.~~funds. ProAssurance's ownership percentage relative to ~~three~~2 of the LPs/LLCs is greater than 25%, which is expected to be reduced as the funds mature and other investors participate in the funds; these investments had a carrying value of ~~$25.4~~$37.9 million at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and ~~$18.5~~$25.9 million at December 31, ~~2016.~~2018. ProAssurance's ownership percentage relative to the remaining investments and LPs/LLCs is less than 25%; these interests had a carrying value of ~~$206.5~~$275.1 million at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and ~~$208.6~~$272.4 million at December 31, ~~2016.~~2018. ProAssurance does not have the ability to exert control over any of these funds.

~~Other Investments~~

~~Other investments at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 were comprised as follows:~~

(In thousands) September 30,
2017 December 31,
2016
Investments in LPs/LLCs, at cost $ 48,505
$ 46,852
Convertible securities, at fair value 31,789
31,501
Investment funds, at fair value 20,000
—
Other, principally FHLB capital stock, at cost 3,470
3,539
$ 103,764
$ 81,892

Investments in convertible securities are carried at fair value as permitted by the accounting guidance for hybrid financial instruments, with changes in fair value recognized in income as a component of Net realized investment gains (losses) during the period of change.

Investment funds measure fund assets at fair value on a recurring basis and the fund managers provide a NAV for the interest. The carrying value of these interests is based on the NAV provided, and is considered to approximate the fair value of

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~~ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries~~

~~Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)~~

~~September 30, 2017~~

~~the interests, with changes in fair value recognized in income as a component of Net realized investment gains (losses) during the period of change.~~

~~FHLB capital stock is not marketable, but may be liquidated by terminating membership in the FHLB. The liquidation process can take up to five years.~~

~~Investments Held in a Loss Position~~

~~The following tables provide summarized information with respect to investments held in an unrealized loss position at~~ ~~September 30, 2017~~ ~~and~~ ~~December 31, 2016, including the length of time the investment had been held in a continuous unrealized loss position.~~

September 30, 2017
Total Less than 12 months 12 months or longer
Fair Unrealized Fair Unrealized Fair Unrealized
(In thousands) Value Loss Value Loss Value Loss
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations $ 93,684
$ 776
$ 77,679
$ 410
$ 16,005
$ 366
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations 9,958
103
4,048
20
5,910
83
State and municipal bonds 104,279
1,700
69,891
406
34,388
1,294
Corporate debt 354,309
4,523
238,877
1,286
115,432
3,237
Residential mortgage-backed securities 65,541
820
52,366
499
13,175
321
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities 4,515
69
4,138
41
377
28
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities 8,753
71
5,217
38
3,536
33
Other asset-backed securities 47,229
159
39,552
110
7,677
49
$ 688,268
$ 8,221
$ 491,768
$ 2,810
$ 196,500
$ 5,411

December 31, 2016
Total Less than 12 months 12 months or longer
Fair Unrealized Fair Unrealized Fair Unrealized
(In thousands) Value Loss Value Loss Value Loss
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations $ 79,833
$ 911
$ 79,833
$ 911
$ —
$ —
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations 11,746
191
11,746
191
—
—
State and municipal bonds 224,884
6,952
219,276
6,444
5,608
508
Corporate debt 469,632
8,480
424,721
5,662
44,911
2,818
Residential mortgage-backed securities 103,680
2,046
100,542
1,982
3,138
64
Agency commercial mortgage-backed securities 4,579
143
4,192
114
387
29
Other commercial mortgage-backed securities 9,822
137
9,179
134
643
3
Other asset-backed securities 44,343
267
39,079
256
5,264
11
$ 948,519
$ 19,127
$ 888,568
$ 15,694
$ 59,951
$ 3,433

~~As of~~ ~~September 30, 2017, excluding U.S. Government or U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations, there were~~ ~~501~~ ~~debt securities (20.4%~~ ~~of all available-for-sale fixed maturity securities held) in an unrealized loss position representing~~ ~~335~~ ~~issuers. The greatest and second greatest unrealized loss positions among those securities were approximately~~ ~~$0.6 million~~ ~~and $0.4 million, respectively. The securities were evaluated for OTTI as of~~ ~~September 30, 2017~~.

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~~ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries~~

~~Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)~~

~~September 30, 2017~~

~~As of~~ ~~December 31, 2016, excluding U.S. Government or U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations, there were~~ ~~703~~ ~~debt securities (27.2%~~ ~~of all available-for-sale fixed maturity securities held) in an unrealized loss position representing~~ ~~456~~ ~~issuers. The greatest and second greatest unrealized loss positions among those securities were each approximately $0.5 million. The securities were evaluated for OTTI as of~~ ~~December 31, 2016~~.

Each quarter, ProAssurance performs a detailed analysis for the purpose of assessing whether any of the securities it holds in an unrealized loss position have suffered an OTTI. A detailed discussion of the factors considered in the assessment is included in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in ProAssurance's December 31, 2016 Form 10-K.

~~Fixed maturity securities held in an unrealized loss position at~~ ~~September 30, 2017~~, excluding asset-backed securities, have paid all scheduled contractual payments and are expected to continue doing so. Expected future cash flows of asset-backed securities, excluding those issued by GNMA, FNMA and FHLMC, held in an unrealized loss position were estimated as part of the ~~September 30, 2017~~ OTTI evaluation using the most recently available six-month historical performance data for the collateral (loans) underlying the security or, if historical data was not available, sector based assumptions, and equaled or exceeded the current amortized cost basis of the security.

~~Net Investment Income~~

~~Net investment income by investment category was as follows:~~

Three Months Ended
September 30 Nine Months Ended
September 30
(In thousands) 2017 2016 2017 2016
Fixed maturities $ 18,924
$ 21,024
$ 57,885
$ 64,808
Equities 4,495
3,779
12,437
10,983
Short-term and Other investments 1,147
1,466
2,926
2,550
BOLI 620
639
1,517
1,537
Investment fees and expenses (1,457 ) (1,647 ) (5,173 ) (4,594 )
Net investment income $ 23,729
$ 25,261
$ 69,592
$ 75,284

Equity in Earnings (Loss) of Unconsolidated Subsidiaries

Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries included losses from qualified affordable housing project tax credit ~~investments~~partnerships and historic tax credit ~~investments. The losses~~partnerships. Losses recorded reflect ProAssurance's allocable portion of partnership operating losses. Losses from qualified affordable housing project tax credit investments were $3.4 million and $10.7 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, and $6.7 million and $14.9 million for the same respective periods of 2016. Tax credits recognized related to these investments totaled $4.6 million and $13.8 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, and $4.6 million and $13.9 million for the same respective periods of 2016. Losses from historic tax credit investments were $0.6 million and $3.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, and $1.6 million and $2.0 million for the same respective periods of 2016. Tax credits recognized related to these investments totaled $1.4 million and $4.0 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, and $2.7 million and $6.9 million for the same respective periods of 2016. Tax credits recognized reducedreduce income tax expense in the ~~respective periods.~~

period they are recognized. Losses recorded and tax credits recognized related to ProAssurance's tax credit partnership investments were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2019		2018		2019		2018
Qualified affordable housing project tax credit partnerships
Losses recorded	$	5,077	$	4,661	$	14,674	$	14,373
Tax credits recognized	$	4,531	$	4,618	$	13,594	$	13,855

Historic tax credit partnerships
Losses recorded	$	695	$	1,394	$	1,187	$	4,776
Tax credits recognized	$	103	$	570	$	309	$	1,925

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)

Realized investment gains and losses are recognized on the first-in, first-out basis. The following table provides detailed information regarding ~~Net~~net realized investment gains (losses):



	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2019			2018			2019			2018
Total OTTI losses:
Corporate debt	$	(66	)	$	(86	)	$	(202	)	$	(490	)
Portion of OTTI losses recognized in other comprehensive income before taxes:
Corporate debt	36			—			124			—
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings	(30		)	(86		)	(78		)	(490		)
Gross realized gains, available-for-sale fixed maturities	654			690			2,028			5,592
Gross realized (losses), available-for-sale fixed maturities	(124		)	(1,400		)	(493		)	(5,172		)
Net realized gains (losses), trading fixed maturities	8			(28		)	(18		)	(100		)
Net realized gains (losses), equity investments	2,451			4,689			13,459			17,395
Net realized gains (losses), other investments	397			561			974			1,652
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses), trading fixed maturities	278			(42		)	753			(261		)
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses), equity investments	(2,157		)	7,996			27,775			(15,104		)
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses), convertible securities, carried at fair value	(408		)	(260		)	2,597			(1,126		)
Other	65			253			67			265
Net realized investment gains (losses)	$	1,134		$	12,373		$	47,064		$	2,651

Three Months Ended
September 30 Nine Months Ended
September 30
(In thousands) 2017 2016 2017 2016
Total OTTI losses:
State and municipal bonds $ —
$ (100 ) $ —
$ (100 )
Corporate debt —
—
(419 ) (7,604 )
Other investments —
—
—
(3,130 )
Portion of OTTI losses recognized in other comprehensive income before taxes:
Corporate debt —
—
248
1,068
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings —

(100 )
(171 ) (9,766 )
Gross realized gains, available-for-sale securities 1,724
3,898
4,323
8,969
Gross realized (losses), available-for-sale securities (262 ) (370 ) (1,730 ) (5,628 )
Net realized gains (losses), Short-term investments (1 ) —
(1 ) 18
Net realized gains (losses), trading securities 3,603
1,276
10,958
5,244
Net realized gains (losses), Other investments 478
335
2,197
833
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses), trading securities 2,182
9,816
2,606
17,663
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses), Other investments, carried at fair value 23
880
621
976
Other 2
2
7
5
Net realized investment gains (losses) $ 7,749

$ 15,737

$ 18,810
$ 18,314

~~ProAssurance did not recognize OTTI during~~For the ~~third quarter of 2017. During the 2017 nine-month period,~~three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, ProAssurance recognized a nominal amount of both credit related OTTI in earnings ~~of $0.2 million~~ and ~~$0.2 million in~~ non-credit OTTI in OCI, both of which related to a corporate ~~bonds.~~

bond. ProAssurance recognized OTTI in earnings of $0.1 million and ~~$9.8~~$0.5 million during the ~~2016 three-~~three and ~~nine-month periods, respectively. ProAssurance recognized OTTI in earnings during the 2016 nine-month period of $6.5 million related to corporate bonds, including credit-related OTTI of $5.5 million~~nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively, related to debt instruments from ~~ten~~two issuers in the energy sector. The fair value of the bonds and the credit quality of the issuers had declined and ProAssurance recognized credit-related OTTI to reduce the amortized cost basis of the bonds to the present value of future cash flows expected to be received from the bonds. ProAssurance also recognized non-credit OTTI in OCI during the 2016 nine-month period of $0.9 million related to certain of these same bonds, as the fair value of the bonds was less than the present value of the expected future cash flows from the securities.

ProAssurance also recognized a $3.1 million OTTI in earnings during the 2016 nine-month period related to an investment fund that is accounted for using the cost method (classified as Other investments). The fund is focused on the energy sector and securities held by the fund declined in value during the first quarter of 2016. An OTTI was recognized to reduce ProAssurance's carrying value of the investment to the NAV reported by the fund.

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~~ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries~~

~~Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)~~

~~September 30, 2017~~

The following table presents a roll forward of cumulative credit losses recorded in earnings related to impaired debt securities for which a portion of the OTTI was recorded in OCI.



	Three Months Ended September 30					Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2019		2018			2019		2018
Balance beginning of period	$	142	$	1,313		$	93	$	1,313
Additional credit losses recognized during the period, related to securities for which:
No OTTI has been previously recognized	—		—			49		—
OTTI has been previously recognized	30		—			30		—
Reductions due to:
Securities sold during the period (realized)	—		(1,220		)	—		(1,220		)
Balance September 30	$	172	$	93		$	172	$	93

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands) 2017 2016 2017 2016
Balance beginning of period $ 1,313
$ 3,319
$ 1,158
$ 5,751
Additional credit losses recognized during the period, related to securities for which:
No OTTI has been previously recognized —
—
171
2,398
OTTI has been previously recognized —
—
—
2,154
Reductions due to:
Securities sold during the period (realized) —
(1,799 ) (16 ) (8,783 )
Balance September 30 $ 1,313
$ 1,520
$ 1,313
$ 1,520

~~Other~~4. Retroactive Insurance Contracts

ProAssurance offers custom alternative risk solutions including loss portfolio transfers for healthcare entities who, most commonly, are exiting a line of business, changing an insurance approach or simply preferring to transfer risk. A loss portfolio transfer is a form of retroactive insurance coverage as the Company is assuming and accepting an entity’s existing open and future claim liabilities through the transfer of the entity’s loss reserves. If the contract includes both prospective (tail) coverage and retroactive coverage, ProAssurance bifurcates the provisions of the contract and accounts for each component separately. Retroactive and prospective (tail) coverages are fully written and earned as of the contract effective date. For additional information regarding ~~sales~~ProAssurance's accounting policy for retroactive insurance contracts, see Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in ProAssurance's December 31, 2018 report on Form 10-K.

During the third quarter of 2019, ProAssurance entered into a loss portfolio transfer with a regional hospital group to cover a specific inventory of existing claims as well as provide tail coverage. During the second quarter of 2018, ProAssurance entered into a loss portfolio transfer with a large healthcare organization to also cover a specific inventory of existing claims as well as provide tail coverage. The impact of each of these loss portfolio transfers on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and ~~purchases of available-for-sale securities~~Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30
(In millions)	2019		2018		2019		2018
Retroactive coverage	$	0.9	$	—	$	0.9	$	18.7
Prospective (tail) coverage	1.8		—		1.8		7.9
Net premiums earned	$	2.7	$	—	$	2.7	$	26.6

Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	$	2.1	$	—	$	2.1	$	25.4

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
(In millions) 2017 2016 2017 2016
Proceeds from sales (exclusive of maturities and paydowns) $ 74.1
$ 114.9
$ 309.6
$ 306.8
Purchases $ 90.6
$ 167.2
$ 449.7
$ 540.4
For the loss portfolio transfer entered into during the second quarter of 2018, ProAssurance recorded a deferred gain of $0.6 million in the reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet at June 30, 2018 representing the excess of premiums received over losses assumed related to the retroactive coverage which are amortized into earnings over the estimated claim payment period. Amortization of this deferred gain was insignificant during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018.

4.5. Income Taxes

ProAssurance estimates its annual effective tax rate at the end of each quarterly reporting period and uses this estimated rate as well as the tax effect of discrete items to record the provision for income taxes in the interim financial statements. The provision for income taxes is different from that which would be obtained by applying the statutory ~~Federal~~federal income tax rate to income before income taxes primarily ~~because a portion of ProAssurance’s investment income is tax-exempt, and~~ because ProAssurance utilizes tax credit benefits transferred from tax credit partnership ~~investments.~~investments and because a portion of ProAssurance’s investment income is tax-exempt.

ProAssurance had a ~~liability~~receivable for ~~Federal~~federal and U.K. income taxes ~~of $3.3 million at September 30, 2017 and $5.1 million at December 31, 2016, both~~ carried as a part of ~~Other liabilities.~~other assets of $1.8 million at September 30, 2019 and $3.5 million at December 31, 2018. The liability for unrecognized tax benefits, which is included in the total receivable for federal and U.K. income taxes, was ~~$8.5~~$4.5 million and $4.2 million at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and ~~$8.4 million at~~ December 31, ~~2016~~.2018, respectively, which included an accrued liability for interest of approximately $0.8 million and $0.6 million, respectively.

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

ProAssurance recognized a nominal amount of tax expense related to the GILTI provision of the TCJA during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019. ProAssurance has not recognized any incremental tax expense related to the BEAT provision of the TCJA during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019. For additional information regarding ProAssurance's accounting for certain provisions of the TCJA, see Note 6 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in ProAssurance's December 31, 2018 report on Form 10-K.

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

6. Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

The reserve for losses is established based on estimates of individual claims and actuarially determined estimates of future losses based on ProAssurance’s past loss experience, available industry data and projections as to future claims frequency, severity, inflationary trends and settlement patterns. Estimating the reserve, particularly the reserve appropriate for liability exposures, is a complex process. ~~Claims~~For a high proportion of the risks insured or reinsured by ProAssurance, claims may be resolved over an extended period of time, often five years or more, and may be subject to litigation. Estimating losses requires ProAssurance to make and revise judgments and assessments regarding multiple uncertainties over an extended period of time. As a result, the reserve estimate may vary considerably from the eventual outcome. The assumptions used in establishing ProAssurance’s reserve are regularly reviewed and updated by management as new data becomes available. Changes to estimates of previously established reserves are included in earnings in the period in which the estimate is changed.

ProAssurance believes that the methods it uses to establish reserves are reasonable and appropriate. Each year, ProAssurance uses internal actuaries to review the reserve for losses of each insurance subsidiary. ProAssurance also engages consulting actuaries to review ProAssurance claims data and provide observations regarding cost trends, rate adequacy and ultimate loss costs. ProAssurance considers the views of the actuaries as well as other factors, such as known, anticipated or estimated changes in frequency and severity of claims, loss retention levels and premium rates, in establishing the amount of its reserve for losses. The statutory filings of each insurance company with the insurance regulators must be accompanied by a consulting actuary's certification as to their respective reserves.

ProAssurance partitions its reserve by accident year, which is the year in which the claim becomes its liability. As claims are incurred (reported) and claim payments are made, they are aggregated by accident year for analysis purposes. ProAssurance

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~~ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries~~

~~Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)~~

~~September 30, 2017~~

also partitions its reserve by reserve type: case reserves and IBNR reserves. Case reserves are established by the claims department based upon the particular circumstances of each reported claim and represent ProAssurance’s estimate of the future loss costs (often referred to as expected losses) that will be paid on reported claims. Case reserves are decremented as claim payments are made and are periodically adjusted upward or downward as estimates regarding the amount of future losses are revised; a reported loss for an individual claim equates to the case reserve at any point in time plus the claim payments that have been made to date. IBNR reserves represent an estimate, in the aggregate, of future development on losses that have been reported to ProAssurance plus an estimate of losses that have been incurred but not reported.

Development of Prior Accident Years

In addition to setting the initial reserve for the current accident year, each period ProAssurance reassesses the amount of reserve required for prior accident years. The foundation of ProAssurance’s reserve re-estimation process is an actuarial analysis that is performed by both the internal and consulting actuaries. This detailed analysis projects ultimate losses based on apartitions which include line of business, ~~geographic,~~geography, coverage layer and accident ~~year basis.~~year. The procedure uses the most representative data for each partition, capturing its unique patterns of development and trends. In all, there are ~~219~~over 200 different partitions of ProAssurance's business for purposes of this analysis. ProAssurance believes that the use of consulting actuaries provides an independent view of the loss data as well as a broader perspective on industry loss trends.

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

Activity in the ~~Reserve~~reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses is summarized as follows:



(In thousands)	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019			Nine Months Ended September 30, 2018			Year Ended December 31, 2018
Balance, beginning of year	$	2,119,847		$	2,048,381		$	2,048,381
Less reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses	343,820			335,585			335,585
Net balance, beginning of year	1,776,027			1,712,796			1,712,796
Net losses:
Current year*	532,020			506,269			685,326
Favorable development of reserves established in prior years, net	(42,212		)	(67,149		)	(92,116		)
Total	489,808			439,120			593,210
Paid related to:
Current year	(69,419		)	(69,881		)	(117,268		)
Prior years	(338,452		)	(314,763		)	(412,711		)
Total paid	(407,871		)	(384,644		)	(529,979		)
Net balance, end of period	1,857,964			1,767,272			1,776,027
Plus reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses	357,811			332,555			343,820
Balance, end of period	$	2,215,775		$	2,099,827		$	2,119,847
* Current year net losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 included incurred losses of $2.1 million related to a loss portfolio transfer entered into during 2019. Current year net losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 and year ended December 31, 2018 included incurred losses of $25.4 million related to a loss portfolio transfer entered into during 2018. For additional information regarding these loss portfolio transfers see Note 4.

(In thousands) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2016
Balance, beginning of year $ 1,993,428
$ 2,005,326
$ 2,005,326
Less reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses 273,475
249,350
249,350
Net balance, beginning of year 1,719,953
1,755,976
1,755,976
Net losses:
Current year 454,121
430,422
587,007
Favorable development of reserves established in prior years, net (90,063 ) (94,486 ) (143,778 )
Total 364,058
335,936
443,229
Paid related to:
Current year (63,667 ) (55,349 ) (96,190 )
Prior years (293,522 ) (293,321 ) (383,062 )
Total paid (357,189 ) (348,670 ) (479,252 )
Net balance, end of period 1,726,822
1,743,242
1,719,953
Plus reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses 313,876
254,777
273,475
Balance, end of period $ 2,040,698
$ 1,998,019
$ 1,993,428

The favorable loss development ~~of $90.1 million~~ recognized in the nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 primarily reflected a lower than anticipated claims severity trend (i.e., the average size of a claim) for accident years ~~2010~~2012 through ~~2014~~2015. The favorable loss development ~~of $94.5 million~~ recognized in the nine months ended September 30, ~~2016~~2018 primarily reflected a lower than anticipated claims severity trend for accident years ~~2009~~2011 through ~~2013.~~2015. The favorable loss development ~~of $143.8 million~~ recognized in the twelve months ended December 31, ~~2016~~2018 primarily reflected a lower than anticipated claims severity trend for accident years ~~2008~~2011 through 2014.

For additional information regarding ProAssurance's reserve for losses, see Note 1 and Note 8 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in ProAssurance's December 31, ~~2016~~2018 report on Form 10-K.

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Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

6.7. Commitments and Contingencies

ProAssurance is involved in various legal actions related to insurance policies and claims handling including, but not limited to, claims asserted by policyholders. These types of legal actions arise in the Company's ordinary course of business and, in accordance with GAAP for insurance entities, are considered as a part of the Company's loss reserving process, which is described in detail under the heading "Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses" in the Accounting Policies section in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in ProAssurance's ~~2016~~December 31, 2018 Form 10-K.

As a member of Lloyd's, ProAssurance is required to provide capital to support ~~Syndicate 1729~~its Lloyd's Syndicates through ~~2022~~2019 of up to $200 million, referred to as FAL. The Board, through a non-binding resolution, extended this commitment through 2022. At September 30, ~~2017, ProAssurance is satisfying the~~2019, ProAssurance's FAL ~~requirement with~~was comprised of investment securities and cash and cash equivalents on deposit with Lloyd's with a carrying value of ~~$99.2~~$134.7 million (see Note ~~3 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements)~~3).

ProAssurance has issued an unconditional revolving credit agreement to the Premium Trust Fund of Syndicate 1729 for the purpose of providing working ~~capital. Permitted~~capital with permitted borrowings ~~are £20.0 million under an amended~~of £30.0 million. In January 2019, the Syndicate Credit Agreement ~~executed in April 2016.~~was amended to extend the current maturity to December 31, 2020 and to implement an annual auto-renewal feature which allows for ProAssurance to elect to non-renew if notice is given at least 30 days prior to the next auto-renewal date, which is one year prior to the maturity date. Under the ~~amended~~ Syndicate Credit Agreement, advances bear interest at 3.8% annually and may be repaid at any time but are repayable upon demand after December 31, ~~2019.~~2020, subject to extension through the auto-renewal feature. During the second quarter of 2019, Syndicate 1729 repaid £24.2 million (approximately $30.7 million based on June 30, 2019 exchange rates) of the balance outstanding. As of September 30, ~~2017,~~2019, the unused commitment under ~~the Syndicate Credit Agreement~~this agreement approximated ~~£11.0~~£28.4 million (approximately ~~$14.7~~$34.9 million).

ProAssurance has entered into financial instrument transactions that may present off-balance sheet credit risk or market risk. These transactions include a short-term loan commitment and commitments to provide funding to non-public investment entities. Under the short-term loan commitment, ProAssurance has agreed to advance funds on a 30 day basis to a counterparty provided there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. As of September 30, 2019, ProAssurance had total funding commitments of approximately $252.5 million which primarily represented funding commitments related to non-public investment entities as well as the short-term loan commitment which included the amount at risk if the full short-term loan is extended and the counterparties default. However, the credit risk associated with the short-term loan commitment is minimal as the counterparties to the contract are highly rated commercial institutions and to-date have been performing in accordance with their contractual obligations.

In October 2018, ProAssurance entered into an agreement with a company to provide data analytics services for certain product lines within the Company's HCPL book of business. The agreement contains a minimum two year commitment with optional extension features for an annual fee of approximately $4.8 million per year with additional variable quarterly incentive fees based on service utilization metrics prescribed in the contract. ProAssurance incurred operating expense associated with this agreement of $1.4 million and $3.7 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively, and as of September 30, ~~2017).~~2019, the remaining commitment under this agreement was approximately $4.9 million.

~~In conjunction with~~

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

8. Leases

ProAssurance is involved in a ~~strategic business partnership ProAssurance entered into during~~number of operating leases primarily for office facilities. Office facility leases have remaining lease terms ranging from one year to thirteen years; some of which include options to extend the ~~third quarter of 2016, ProAssurance issued a line of credit of~~leases for up to ~~$9.0 million~~ten years, and some of which include an option to terminate the lease within one year. ProAssurance subleases certain office facilities to third parties and classifies these leases as operating leases.

The following table provides a summary of the components of lease expense as well as the reporting location in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for the ~~purpose of funding~~three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018.



(In thousands)	Location in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)		2019			2018			2019			2018
Operating lease expense ⁽¹⁾	Operating expense	$	1,184		$	1,246		$	3,112		$	3,774
Sublease income ⁽²⁾	Other income	(38		)	(42		)	(114		)	(121		)
Net lease expense		$	1,146		$	1,204		$	2,998		$	3,653
⁽¹⁾ Includes short-term lease costs and variable lease costs, if applicable. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, no short-term lease costs were recognized and variable lease costs were nominal in amount. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, short-term lease costs and variable lease costs were each nominal in amount.
⁽²⁾ Sublease income excludes rental income from owned properties of $0.7 million and $1.9 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively, and $0.6 million and $1.7 million during the same respective periods of 2018, which is included in other income. See “Item 2. Properties” in ProAssurance's December 31, 2018 report on Form 10-K for a listing of currently owned properties.

The following table provides supplemental lease information for operating leases on the ~~entity's operations. The line of credit is non-interest bearing and may be settled upon the entity's achievement of certain milestones which is expected to occur within the next six months. As~~Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, ~~2017,~~2019.



($ in thousands)	September 30, 2019
Operating lease ROU assets	$	20,563
Operating lease liabilities	$	21,298
Weighted-average remaining lease term	8.66 years
Weighted-average discount rate	3.16		%

The following table provides supplemental lease information for the ~~unused commitment under~~Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the ~~line~~nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018.

Table of ~~credit approximated $1.6 million.~~Contents

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

The following table is a schedule of remaining future minimum lease payments for operating leases that had an initial or remaining non-cancellable lease term in excess of one year as of September 30, 2019. Operating lease payments exclude $3.4 million of total future minimum lease payments for 2 leases signed but not yet commenced as of September 30, 2019. One lease will commence in the fourth quarter of 2019 and the other will commence in the first quarter of 2020. The lease term for both leases is approximately eleven years.



(In thousands)
2019	$	1,121
2020	4,030
2021	3,764
2022	2,873
2023	2,165
Thereafter	10,448
Total future minimum lease payments	24,401
Less: Imputed interest	3,103
Total operating lease liabilities	$	21,298

7.9. Debt

ProAssurance’s outstanding debt consisted of the following:



(In thousands)	September 30, 2019		December 31, 2018
Senior Notes due 2023, unsecured, interest at 5.3% annually	$	250,000	$	250,000
Revolving Credit Agreement, outstanding borrowings are not permitted to exceed $250 million aggregately; Revolving Credit Agreement expires in 2020. The interest rate on borrowings is set at the time the borrowing is initiated or renewed.	—		—
Mortgage Loans, outstanding borrowings are secured by first priority liens on two office buildings, and bear an interest rate of three-month LIBOR plus 1.325% (3.45% and 4.10%, respectively) determined on a quarterly basis.	37,978		39,064
Total principal	287,978		289,064
Less unamortized debt issuance costs	1,031		1,307
Debt less unamortized debt issuance costs	$	286,947	$	287,757

(In thousands) September 30,
2017 December 31,
2016
Senior notes due 2023, unsecured, interest at 5.3% annually $ 250,000
$ 250,000
Revolving Credit Agreement, outstanding borrowings are fully secured, see Note 3, and carried at a weighted average interest rate of 1.73% and 1.35%, respectively. Outstanding borrowings are not permitted to exceed $250 million aggregately; Revolving Credit Agreement expires in 2020. The interest rate on the borrowings is set at the time the respective borrowing is initiated or renewed. The current borrowings can be repaid or renewed in the fourth quarter 2017. If renewed, the interest rate will be reset. 152,000
200,000
Total principal 402,000
450,000
Less debt issuance costs 1,540
1,798
Debt less debt issuance costs $ 400,460
$ 448,202

Covenant Compliance

There are no financial covenants associated with the Senior Notes due 2023.

The Revolving Credit Agreement contains customary representations, covenants and events constituting default, and remedies for default. The Revolving Credit Agreement also defines financial covenants regarding permitted leverage ratios. ProAssurance is currently in compliance with all covenants of the Revolving Credit Agreement.

The Mortgage Loans contain customary representations, covenants and events constituting default, and remedies for default. The Mortgage Loans also define a financial covenant regarding a permitted leverage ratio for each of the two ProAssurance subsidiaries that entered into the Mortgage Loans. ProAssurance's subsidiaries are currently in compliance with the financial covenant of the Mortgage Loans.

Additional Information

For additional information regarding ProAssurance's debt, see Note 10 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in ProAssurance's December 31, ~~2016~~2018 report on Form 10-K.

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Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

8.10. Derivatives

ProAssurance is exposed to certain risks relating to its ongoing business and investment activities. ProAssurance utilizes derivative instruments as part of its risk management strategy to reduce the market risk related to fluctuations in future interest rates associated with a portion of its variable-rate debt. As of September 30, 2019, ProAssurance has not designated any derivative instruments as hedging instruments and does not use derivative instruments for trading purposes.

ProAssurance utilizes an interest rate cap agreement with the objective of reducing the Company's exposure to interest rate risk related to its variable-rate Mortgage Loans. Additional information regarding the Company's Mortgage Loans is provided in Note 9. Under the terms of the interest rate cap agreement, ProAssurance paid a premium of $2 million for the right to receive cash payments based upon a notional amount of $35 million if and when the three-month LIBOR rises above 2.35%. The Company's variable-rate Mortgage Loans bear an interest rate of three-month LIBOR plus 1.325%. Therefore, this derivative instrument is effectively ensuring the interest rate related to the Mortgage Loans is capped at a maximum of 3.675% until expiration of the interest rate cap agreement in October 2027. During each of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, ProAssurance received a nominal cash payment associated with this agreement, which was recorded as a reduction to interest expense. ProAssurance has designated the interest rate cap as an economic hedge (non-hedging instrument) of interest rate exposure and any change in fair value of the derivative is immediately recognized in earnings during the period of change.

The following table provides a summary of the volume and fair value position of the interest rate cap as well as the reporting location in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018.



($ in thousands)		September 30, 2019					December 31, 2018
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments	Location in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets	Number of Instruments	Notional Amount ⁽¹⁾		Estimated Fair Value⁽²⁾		Number of Instruments	Notional Amount ⁽¹⁾		Estimated Fair Value ⁽²⁾
Interest Rate Cap	Other assets	1	$	35,000	$	675	1	$	35,000	$	1,884
⁽¹⁾Volume is represented by the derivative instrument's notional amount.
⁽²⁾ Additional information regarding the fair value of the Company's interest rate cap is provided in Note 2.

The following table presents the pre-tax impact of the change in the fair value of the interest rate cap and the reporting location in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018.



		Gains (Losses) Recognized in Income on Derivatives
(In thousands)		Three Months Ended September 30					Nine Months Ended September 30
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments	Location in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income	2019			2018		2019			2018
Interest Rate Cap	Interest expense	$	(410	)	$	264	$	(1,209	)	$	1,121

As a result of this derivative instrument, ProAssurance is exposed to risk that the counterparty will fail to meet its contractual obligations. To mitigate this counterparty credit risk, ProAssurance only enters into derivative contracts with carefully selected major financial institutions based upon their credit ratings and monitors their creditworthiness. As of September 30, 2019, the counterparty had an investment grade rating of BBB- and has performed in accordance with their contractual obligations.

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

11. Shareholders’ Equity

At September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and December 31, ~~2016~~2018, ProAssurance had 100 million shares of authorized common stock and 50 million shares of authorized preferred stock. The Board has the authority to determine provisions for the issuance of preferred shares, including the number of shares to be issued, the designations, powers, preferences and rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such shares. To date, the Board has not approved the issuance of preferred stock.

ProAssurance declared cash dividends of $0.31 per share during each of the first three quarters of ~~2017,~~both 2019 and 2018, totaling ~~$49.6 million. ProAssurance declared cash dividends of $0.31 per share during~~$50.0 million and $50.9 million, for each ~~of the first three quarters of 2016, totaling $49.4 million.~~respective nine-month period.

At September 30, ~~2017~~2019, Board authorizations for the repurchase of common shares or the retirement of outstanding debt of $~~109.6~~110 million remained available for use. ProAssurance did ~~not~~0t repurchase any common shares during the nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and ~~repurchased approximately 44,500 shares at a cost of $2.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2016.~~2018.

Share-based compensation expense and related tax benefits were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2019		2018		2019		2018
Share-based compensation expense	$	3	$	1,628	$	2,323	$	4,145
Related tax benefits	$	1	$	342	$	488	$	870

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands) 2017 2016 2017 2016
Share-based compensation expense $ 1,018
$ 1,645
$ 7,110
$ 7,458
Related tax benefits $ 356
$ 576
$ 2,489
$ 2,610

ProAssurance awarded approximately ~~84,600~~109,000 restricted share units and ~~48,000~~25,000 base performance share units to employees in February ~~2017.~~2019. The fair value of each unit awarded was estimated at ~~$58.35,~~$40.18, equal to the market value of a ProAssurance common share on the date of grant less the estimated present value of dividends during the vesting period. ~~All~~The majority of awards are charged to expense as an increase to additional paid-in capital over the service period (generally the vesting period) associated with the award. However, a nominal amount of awards are recorded as a liability as they are structured to be settled in cash. Restricted share units and performance share units vest in their entirety at the end of a three-year period following the grant date based on a continuous service requirement and, for performance share units, achievement of a performance objective. Partial vesting is permitted for retirees. AFor equity classified awards, a ProAssurance common share is issued for each unit once vesting requirements are met, except that units sufficient to satisfy required tax withholdings are paid in cash. The number of common shares issued for performance share units varies from 50% to 200% of base awards depending upon the degree to which stated performance objectives are achieved. ProAssurance issued approximately ~~29,300~~64,500 and ~~99,500~~34,300 common shares to employees in February ~~2017~~2019 related to restricted share units and performance share units, respectively, granted in ~~2014.~~2016. Performance share units for the ~~2014~~2016 award were issued at ~~levels ranging from 117% to 125%~~a level of 95%. Liability classified awards, which are nominal in amount, are settled in cash at the end of the vesting period.

ProAssurance issued approximately ~~9,000~~2,000 common shares to employees in February ~~2017~~2019 as bonus compensation, as approved by the Compensation Committee of the Board. The shares issued were valued at fair value (the market price of a ProAssurance common share on the date of award).

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

For the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016,~~2018, OCI was ~~primarily~~almost entirely comprised of unrealized gains and losses, including non-credit impairment losses, arising during the period related to fixed maturity available-for-sale securities, less reclassification adjustments, as shown in the table that follows, net of tax. For the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2016,~~2019 and 2018, OCI also included ~~a gain of $0.6 million, net of tax,~~changes related to ~~changes from~~ the reestimation of ~~two~~the defined benefit ~~plans~~plan liability assumed in the Eastern acquisition ~~one of~~ which ~~was terminated late~~were nominal in ~~2016.~~amount. The ~~remaining~~defined benefit plan is frozen as to the earnings of additional benefits ~~but~~and the ~~unrecognized~~benefit plan ~~benefit~~ liability is reestimated annually.

At September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and December 31, ~~2016~~2018, AOCI was ~~primarily~~almost entirely comprised of accumulated unrealized gains and losses from fixed maturity available-for-sale securities, including accumulated non-credit impairments recognized inthrough OCI of $~~0.5~~0.2 million and ~~$0.3~~$0.1 million, respectively, net of tax. ~~During 2016, as discussed above, one of the defined benefit plans assumed in the Eastern acquisition was terminated and the related unrecognized losses were reclassified from AOCI to earnings.~~ At September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and December 31, ~~2016, unrecognized~~2018, accumulated changes in the ~~remaining~~ defined benefit plan liability not yet recognized in earnings were nominal in amount. ~~All~~Due to the adoption of accounting guidance in the first quarter of 2018 related to certain impacts of the TCJA, ProAssurance increased AOCI by approximately $3.4 million with a corresponding decrease to retained earnings of the same amount as of the beginning of 2018. At September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, tax effects were computed using ~~a 35%~~the enacted federal corporate tax rate of 21% with the exception of unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities held at ~~our~~the Company's U.K. and Cayman ~~Island~~Islands entities which in both periods were immaterial in amount.

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Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

Amounts reclassified from AOCI to ~~Net~~net income and the amounts of deferred tax expense (benefit) included in OCI were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2019			2018			2019			2018
Reclassifications from AOCI to net income:
Realized investment gains (losses)	$	500		$	(175	)	$	1,457		$	551
Non-credit impairment losses reclassified to earnings, due to sale of securities or reclassification as a credit loss	—			(621		)	—			(621		)
Total gains (losses) reclassified, before tax effect	500			(796		)	1,457			(70		)
Tax effect, calculated using the 21% federal statutory tax rate	(105		)	167			(306		)	15
Net reclassification adjustments	$	395		$	(629	)	$	1,151		$	(55	)

Deferred tax expense (benefit) included in OCI	$	1,975		$	(1,197	)	$	14,957		$	(10,442	)

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands) 2017 2016 2017 2016
Reclassifications from AOCI to Net income:
Realized investment gains (losses) $ 1,462
$ 3,852
$ 2,425
$ 145
Non-credit impairment losses reclassified to earnings, due to sale of securities or reclassification as a credit loss —
(423 ) (3 ) (3,441 )
Total amounts reclassified, before tax effect 1,462
3,429
2,422
(3,296 )
Tax effect (at 35%) (512 ) (1,200 ) (848 ) 1,154
Net reclassification adjustments $ 950
$ 2,229
$ 1,574
$ (2,142 )

Deferred tax expense (benefit) included in OCI $ (373 ) $ (2,687 ) $ 4,091
$ 17,114

9.12. Variable Interest Entities

ProAssurance holds passive interests in a number of entities that are considered to be VIEs under GAAP guidance. ProAssurance's VIE interests principally consist of interests in LPs/LLCs formed for the purpose of achieving diversified equity and debt returns. ProAssurance's VIE interests, carried as a part of ~~Other investments totaled~~ ~~$27.4 million~~ at ~~September 30, 2017~~ ~~and $26.9 million at~~ ~~December 31, 2016. ProAssurance's VIE interests carried as a part of Investment~~investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries, totaled ~~$269.6~~$304.0 million at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and ~~$282.3~~$285.8 million at December 31, ~~2016~~.2018.

ProAssurance does not have power over the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of these VIEs and thus is not the primary beneficiary. Therefore, ProAssurance has not consolidated these VIEs. ProAssurance’s involvement with each ~~entity~~VIE is limited to its direct ownership interest in the ~~entity.~~VIE. Except asfor the funding commitments disclosed in Note ~~6 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements,~~7, ProAssurance has no arrangements with any of the ~~entities~~VIEs to provide other financial support to or on behalf of the ~~entity.~~VIE. At September 30, ~~2017~~2019, ProAssurance’s maximum loss exposure relative to these investments was limited to the carrying value of ProAssurance’s investment in the VIE.

~~10.~~13. Earnings Per Share

Diluted weighted average shares is calculated as basic weighted average shares plus the effect, calculated using the treasury stock method, of assuming that restricted share units, performance share units and purchase match units have vested. The following table provides the weighted average number of common shares outstanding used in the calculation of the Company's basic and diluted earnings per share:



(In thousands, except per share data)	Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands, except per share data)	2019		2018		2019		2018
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic	53,762		53,620		53,732		53,585
Dilutive effect of securities:
Restricted Share Units	73		83		69		78
Performance Share Units	—		48		13		52
Purchase Match Units	21		22		17		20
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, diluted	53,856		53,773		53,831		53,735
Effect of dilutive shares on earnings per share	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—

(In thousands, except per share data) Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
2017 2016 2017 2016
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic 53,413
53,222
53,377
53,199
Dilutive effect of securities:
Restricted Share Units 87
75
81
71
Performance Share Units 88
132
105
124
Purchase Match Units 26
27
23
25
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, diluted
53,614
53,456
53,586
53,419
Effect of dilutive shares on earnings per share $ —
$ (0.01 ) $ —
$ (0.01 )

All dilutive common share equivalents are reflected in the earnings per share calculation while antidilutive common share equivalents are not reflected in the earnings per share calculation. There were 0 antidilutive common share equivalents for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019. There were 0 antidilutive common share equivalents for the three months ended September 30, 2018. The diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the ~~three and~~ nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2018 excludes approximately ~~28,000 and 9,000~~3,000 common share equivalents ~~respectively,~~ issuable under the Company's stock compensation plans, as their effect would be antidilutive. ~~There were no common share equivalents that were antidilutive for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016.~~

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September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

~~11.~~14. Segment Information

~~ProAssurance~~ProAssurance's segments are based on the Company's internal management reporting structure for which financial results are regularly evaluated by the Company's CODM to determine resource allocation and assess operating performance. The Company continually assesses its internal management reporting structure and information evaluated by its CODM to determine whether any changes have occurred that would impact its segment reporting structure. The Company operates in ~~four~~5 segments that are organized around the nature of the products and services provided: Specialty P&C, Workers' Compensation Insurance, Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance, Lloyd's ~~Syndicate,~~Syndicates and Corporate. A description of each segment follows.

Specialty P&C ~~is primarily focused on~~ includes professional liability insurance and medical technology liability insurance. Professional liability insurance is primarily offered to healthcare providers and institutions and, to a lesser extent, to attorneys and their firms. Medical technology liability insurance is offered to medical technology and life sciences companies that manufacture or distribute products including entities conducting human clinical trials. ~~The~~Prior to 2018, the Specialty P&C segment ~~cedes~~ceded certain premium to the Lloyd's ~~Syndicate~~Syndicates segment under a quota share agreement with Syndicate ~~1729.~~1729; however, this agreement was not renewed on January 1, 2018. As discussed below, ~~Syndicate 1729 operating~~the Lloyd's Syndicates segment results are typically reported on a quarter ~~delay.~~lag. For consistency purposes, results from this ceding arrangement, other than cash receipts or disbursements, ~~have been~~are reported within the Specialty P&C segment on the same one-quarter ~~delay.~~lag. In addition, the Specialty P&C segment's healthcare professional liability products also include custom alternative risk solutions including loss portfolio transfers and captive cell programs. For the alternative market captive cell programs, the Specialty P&C segment cedes either all or a portion of the premium to certain SPCs in the Company's Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment.

Workers' Compensation ~~provides~~Insurance includes workers' compensation products ~~primarily~~provided to employers with 1,000 or fewer employees. The ~~segment also offers~~segment's products include guaranteed cost, policyholder dividend policies, retrospectively-rated policies, deductible polices and alternative market ~~solutions whereby policies written~~solutions. Alternative market products include program design, fronting, claims administration, risk management, SPC rental, asset management and SPC management services. Alternative market premiums are 100% ceded to either SPCs in the Company's Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment or, to a limited extent, to a captive ~~insurers~~insurer unaffiliated with ~~ProAssurance~~ProAssurance.

Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance reflects the operating results (underwriting profit or toloss, plus investment results) of SPCs ~~operated by a wholly owned subsidiary of ProAssurance.~~at Inova Re and Eastern Re, the Company's Cayman Islands SPC operations. Each SPC is owned, fully or in part, by an agency, group or ~~association. Operating~~association, and the operating results ~~(underwriting profit or loss, plus investment results reported in the Corporate segment)~~ of the SPCs are due to the ~~owners~~participants of that cell. ProAssurance participates to a varying degree in the results of selected SPCs. SPC operating results due to external cell participants are reflected as an SPC dividend expense (income) in the Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment and in ProAssurance's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. In addition, the Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment includes the SPC investment results as the investments are solely for the benefit of the cell participants, and investment results due to external cell participants are reflected in the SPC dividend expense (income). The majority of SPCs assume workers' compensation insurance, healthcare professional liability insurance or a combination of the two from the Company's Workers' Compensation Insurance and Specialty P&C segments. In addition, one SPC at Eastern Re assumed an errors and omissions liability policy from a captive insurer unaffiliated with ProAssurance; the Company does not participate in the SPC that assumed this policy; therefore, the operating results of this policy are reflected in the SPC dividend expense (income).

Lloyd's~~Syndicate~~Syndicates includes operating results from ProAssurance's ~~58%~~ participation in Lloyd's of London Syndicate 1729 and Syndicate 6131, which is an SPA that underwrites on a quota share basis with Syndicate 1729. The results of this segment are normally reported on a quarter lag, except when information is available that is material to the current period. Furthermore, investment results associated with the majority of investment assets solely allocated to Lloyd's Syndicate operations and certain U.S. paid administrative expenses are reported concurrently as that information is available on an earlier time frame. For the 2019 underwriting year, ProAssurance slightly decreased its participation in the operating results of Syndicate 1729 from 62% to 61%; however, due to the quarter lag these changes were not reflected in the Lloyd's Syndicates segment results until the second quarter of 2019. Furthermore, ProAssurance's 100% participation in Syndicate 6131 was not reflected in the Lloyd's Syndicates segment results until the second quarter of 2018 as Syndicate 6131 began writing business effective January 1, 2018. Syndicate 1729 underwrites risks over a wide range of property and casualty insurance and reinsurance lines in both the U.S. and international markets. ~~The results of this segment are reported~~Syndicate 6131 focuses on ~~a quarter delay, except when information is available that is material to~~contingency and specialty property business, also within the ~~current period. Furthermore, investment results associated with investment assets solely allocated to Syndicate 1729 operations~~U.S. and ~~certain U.S. paid administrative expenses are reported concurrently as that information is available on an earlier time frame.~~international markets.

Corporate includes ProAssurance's investment operations, other than those reported in the Company's Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance and Lloyd's Syndicates segments, interest expense and U.S. income ~~taxes, all of which are managed at the corporate level with the exception of investment assets solely allocated to Syndicate 1729 as discussed above.~~taxes. The segment also includes non-premium revenues generated outside of ~~our~~the Company's insurance entities and corporate expenses.

Table of Contents

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, 2019

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in ProAssurance’s December 31, ~~2016~~2018 report on Form 10-K and Note 1 ~~of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.~~herein. ProAssurance evaluates the performance of its Specialty P&C and Workers' Compensation Insurance segments based on before tax underwriting profit or loss, which excludes investment performance. ProAssurance evaluates the performance of its Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment based on before tax operating profit or loss, which includes the investment performance of assets solely allocated to SPC operations. Performance of the Lloyd's ~~Syndicate~~Syndicates segment is evaluated based on underwriting profit or loss, plus investment results of investment assets solely allocated to Lloyd's Syndicate ~~1729~~ operations, net of U.K. income tax expense. Performance of the Corporate segment is evaluated based on the contribution made to consolidated ~~after tax~~after-tax results. ProAssurance accounts for inter-segment transactions as if the transactions were to third parties at current market prices. Assets are not allocated to segments because investments, other than the investments discussed above that are solely allocated to the Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance and Lloyd's Syndicates segments, and other assets are not managed at the segment level.

Financial results by segment were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30, 2019
(In thousands)	Specialty P&C			Workers' Compensation Insurance			Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance			Lloyd's Syndicates			Corporate			Inter-segment Eliminations			Consolidated
Net premiums earned	$	125,237		$	49,477		$	19,779		$	21,295		$	—		$	—		$	215,788
Net investment income	—			—			445			1,077			22,159			—			23,681
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries	—			—			—			—			(1,277		)	—			(1,277		)
Net realized gains (losses)	—			—			(98		)	285			947			—			1,134
Other income (expense)*	1,858			494			176			(165		)	963			(778		)	2,548
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	(107,573		)	(32,356		)	(9,778		)	(11,907		)	—			—			(161,614		)
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses*	(29,700		)	(14,895		)	(5,951		)	(9,411		)	(2,682		)	778			(61,861		)
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income	—			—			(3,621		)	—			—			—			(3,621		)
Interest expense	—			—			—			—			(4,274		)	—			(4,274		)
Income tax benefit (expense)	—			—			—			161			6,528			—			6,689
Segment operating results	$	(10,178	)	$	2,720		$	952		$	1,335		$	22,364		$	—		$	17,193
Significant non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion	$	1,568		$	957		$	(59	)	$	(1	)	$	1,955		$	—		$	4,420

Table of Contents

ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

~~Financial results by segment were as follows:~~



	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019
(In thousands)	Specialty P&C			Workers' Compensation Insurance			Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance			Lloyd's Syndicates			Corporate			Inter-segment Eliminations			Consolidated
Net premiums earned	$	375,315		$	141,990		$	58,566		$	57,215		$	—		$	—		$	633,086
Net investment income	—			—			1,261			3,282			65,495			—			70,038
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries	—			—			—			—			(7,240		)	—			(7,240		)
Net realized gains (losses)	—			—			1,949			725			44,390			—			47,064
Other income (expense)*	4,536			1,948			397			(278		)	2,701			(1,885		)	7,419
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	(321,248		)	(93,424		)	(40,496		)	(34,640		)	—			—			(489,808		)
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses*	(89,177		)	(43,456		)	(17,091		)	(25,445		)	(12,676		)	1,885			(185,960		)
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income	—			—			(1,375		)	—			—			—			(1,375		)
Interest expense	—			—			—			—			(12,850		)	—			(12,850		)
Income tax benefit (expense)	—			—			—			161			(157		)	—			4
Segment operating results	$	(30,574	)	$	7,058		$	3,211		$	1,020		$	79,663		$	—		$	60,378
Significant non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion	$	4,927		$	2,893		$	(45	)	$	(8	)	$	6,306		$	—		$	14,073

Three Months Ended September 30, 2017
(In thousands) Specialty P&C
Workers' Compensation
Lloyd's Syndicate
Corporate
Inter-segment Eliminations
Consolidated
Net premiums earned $ 118,331
$ 57,654
$ 16,318
$ —
$ —
$ 192,303
Net investment income —
—
412
23,317
—
23,729
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries —
—
—
4,164
—
4,164
Net realized gains (losses) —
—
31
7,718
—
7,749
Other income (expense) 1,276
164
(1,881 ) 1,023
(72 ) 510
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses (73,831 ) (35,081 ) (20,444 ) —
—
(129,356 )
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses (27,037 ) (18,434 ) (6,723 ) (4,989 ) 72
(57,111 )
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income ⁽¹⁾
65
(1,722 ) —
(1,234 ) —
(2,891 )
Interest expense —
—
—
(4,124 ) —
(4,124 )
Income tax benefit (expense) —
—
(61 ) (5,963 ) —
(6,024 )
Segment operating results $ 18,804
$ 2,581
$ (12,348 ) $ 19,912
$ —
$ 28,949
Significant non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion $ 1,933
$ 848
$ (6 ) $ 4,300
$ —
$ 7,075



	Three Months Ended September 30, 2018
(In thousands)	Specialty P&C			Workers' Compensation Insurance			Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance			Lloyd's Syndicates			Corporate			Inter-segment Eliminations			Consolidated
Net premiums earned	$	120,789		$	47,296		$	18,963		$	19,022		$	—		$	—		$	206,070
Net investment income	—			—			371			783			22,112			—			23,266
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries	—			—			—			—			5,228			—			5,228
Net realized gains (losses)	—			—			1,397			(98		)	11,074			—			12,373
Other income (expense)*	1,426			376			86			352			699			(551		)	2,388
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	(98,363		)	(30,650		)	(8,560		)	(10,032		)	—			—			(147,605		)
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses*	(27,931		)	(15,410		)	(5,516		)	(8,439		)	(5,053		)	505			(61,844		)
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income	—			—			(5,255		)	—			—			—			(5,255		)
Interest expense	—			—			—			—			(3,645		)	46			(3,599		)
Income tax benefit (expense)	—			—			—			361			(155		)	—			206
Segment operating results	$	(4,079	)	$	1,612		$	1,486		$	1,949		$	30,260		$	—		$	31,228
Significant non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion	$	1,715		$	959		$	83		$	(2	)	$	2,751		$	—		$	5,506

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
(In thousands) Specialty P&C
Workers' Compensation
Lloyd's Syndicate
Corporate
Inter-segment Eliminations
Consolidated
Net premiums earned $ 340,394
$ 169,791

$ 45,374

$ —

$ —
$ 555,559
Net investment income —
—

1,194

68,398

—
69,592
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries —
—

—

8,489

—
8,489
Net realized gains (losses) —
—

105

18,705

—
18,810
Other income (expense) 3,943
519

(1,641 )
1,974

(214 ) 4,581
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses (220,123 ) (103,217 )
(40,718 )
—

—
(364,058 )
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses (79,252 ) (52,220 )
(19,786 )
(21,062 )
214
(172,106 )
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income ⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾
(5,026 ) (5,593 ) —
(3,457 ) —
(14,076 )
Interest expense —
—
—
(12,402 ) —
(12,402 )
Income tax benefit (expense)⁽²⁾
—
—
495
(4,962 ) —
(4,467 )
Segment operating results $ 39,936
$ 9,280
$ (14,977 ) $ 55,683
$ —
$ 89,922
Significant non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion $ 5,350
$ 2,516
$ (14 ) $ 13,172
$ —
$ 21,024

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019



	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2018
(In thousands)	Specialty P&C			Workers' Compensation Insurance			Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance			Lloyd's Syndicates			Corporate			Inter-segment Eliminations			Consolidated
Net premiums earned	$	378,355		$	135,230		$	54,247		$	48,987		$	—		$	—		$	616,819
Net investment income	—			—			1,100			2,370			64,207			—			67,677
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries	—			—			—			—			12,247			—			12,247
Net realized gains (losses)	—			—			467			(404		)	2,588			—			2,651
Other income (expense)*	3,945			1,828			176			247			2,737			(1,778		)	7,155
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	(292,742		)	(87,794		)	(27,561		)	(31,023		)	—			—			(439,120		)
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses*	(83,833		)	(41,545		)	(16,070		)	(23,745		)	(15,351		)	1,732			(178,812		)
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income	—			—			(9,787		)	—			—			—			(9,787		)
Interest expense	—			—			—			—			(11,308		)	46			(11,262		)
Income tax benefit (expense)	—			—			—			355			3,584			—			3,939
Segment operating results	$	5,725		$	7,719		$	2,572		$	(3,213	)	$	58,704		$	—		$	71,507
Significant non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion	$	5,343		$	2,873		$	393		$	(5	)	$	7,940		$	—		$	16,544
* Certain fees for services provided to the SPCs at Inova Re and Eastern Re are recorded as expenses within the Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment and as other income within the Workers' Compensation Insurance segment. These fees are primarily SPC rental fees and are eliminated between segments in consolidation.

Three Months Ended September 30, 2016
(In thousands) Specialty P&C
Workers' Compensation
Lloyd's Syndicate
Corporate
Inter-segment Eliminations
Consolidated
Net premiums earned $ 116,199
$ 54,498
$ 14,578
$ —
$ —
$ 185,275
Net investment income —
—
351
24,910
—
25,261
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries —
—
—
(3,349 ) —
(3,349 )
Net realized gains (losses) —
—
50
15,687
—
15,737
Other income (expense) 1,012
86
734
15
(419 ) 1,428
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses (72,311 ) (34,472 ) (11,299 ) —
—
(118,082 )
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses (26,563 ) (18,331 ) (6,251 ) (5,086 ) 419
(55,812 )
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income ⁽¹⁾
(94 ) (1,449 ) —
(1,653 ) —
(3,196 )
Interest expense —
—
—
(3,748 ) —
(3,748 )
Income tax benefit (expense) —
—
(1,352 ) (8,328 ) —
(9,680 )
Segment operating results $ 18,243
$ 332
$ (3,189 ) $ 18,448
$ —
$ 33,834
Significant non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion $ 1,979
$ 1,396
$ 23
$ 5,140
$ —
$ 8,538

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
(In thousands) Specialty P&C
Workers' Compensation
Lloyd's Syndicate
Corporate
Inter-segment Eliminations
Consolidated
Net premiums earned $ 335,080
$ 163,974
$ 40,533
$ —
$ —
$ 539,587
Net investment income —
—
1,004
74,280
—
75,284
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries —
—
—
(6,607 ) —
(6,607 )
Net realized gains (losses) —
—
59
18,255
—
18,314
Other income (expense) 4,021
696
1,174
758
(686 ) 5,963
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses (205,787 ) (104,160 ) (25,989 ) —
—
(335,936 )
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses (77,519 ) (52,494 ) (16,660 ) (20,748 ) 686
(166,735 )
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income ⁽¹⁾
(94 ) (3,440 ) —
(2,361 ) —
(5,895 )
Interest expense —
—
—
(11,285 ) —
(11,285 )
Income tax benefit (expense) —
—
(2,248 ) (14,209 ) —
(16,457 )
Segment operating results $ 55,701
$ 4,576
$ (2,127 ) $ 38,083
$ —
$ 96,233
Significant non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion $ 5,475
$ 4,193
$ 132
$ 15,709
$ —
$ 25,509
⁽¹⁾ During the first quarter of 2017, ProAssurance began reporting in the Corporate segment the portion of the SPC dividend (expense) income that is attributable to the investment results of the SPCs, all of which are reported in the Corporate segment, to better align the expense with the related investment results of the SPCs. For comparative purposes, ProAssurance has reflected the SPC dividend expense for 2016 in the same manner.
⁽²⁾ During the second quarter of 2017, ProAssurance recognized a $5.2 million pre-tax expense related to previously unrecognized SPC dividend expense for the cumulative earnings of unrelated parties that have owned segregated portfolio cells at various periods since 2003 in a Bermuda captive insurance operation managed by the Company's HCPL line of business within the Specialty P&C segment. The expense recorded in the second quarter of 2017 related to periods prior to the current period and is unrelated to the captive operations of the Company's Eastern Re subsidiary. The $1.8 million tax impact of the expense recognized in the second quarter of 2017 is included in the Corporate segment's income tax benefit (expense) for the 2017 nine-month period.

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ProAssurance Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

September 30, ~~2017~~

2019

The following table provides detailed information regarding ProAssurance's gross premiums earned by product as well as a reconciliation to net premiums earned. All gross premiums earned are from external customers except as noted. ProAssurance's insured risks are primarily within the U.S.


	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30						Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2017			2016			2017			2016			2019			2018			2019			2018
Specialty P&C Segment
Gross premiums earned:
Healthcare professional liability	$	125,377		$	119,833		$	358,209		$	345,520		$	130,633		$	126,012		$	387,547		$	390,904
Legal professional liability	6,483			6,492			19,217			19,599			6,771			6,606			20,039			19,486
Medical technology liability	8,459			8,756			25,160			25,549			8,519			9,080			25,177			26,372
Other	108			140			311			562			591			113			1,936			346
Ceded premiums earned	(22,096		)	(19,022		)	(62,503		)	(56,150		)	(21,277		)	(21,022		)	(59,384		)	(58,753		)
Segment net premiums earned	118,331			116,199			340,394			335,080			125,237			120,789			375,315			378,355

Workers' Compensation Segment
Workers' Compensation Insurance Segment
Gross premiums earned:
Traditional business	43,492			42,582			127,761			127,426			53,156			50,271			152,477			145,334
Alternative market business	20,200			18,502			59,855			55,601			21,247			21,564			63,084			61,593
Ceded premiums earned	(6,038		)	(6,586		)	(17,825		)	(19,053		)	(24,926		)	(24,539		)	(73,571		)	(71,697		)
Segment net premiums earned	57,654			54,498			169,791			163,974			49,477			47,296			141,990			135,230

Lloyd's Syndicate Segment
Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance Segment
Gross premiums earned:
Property and casualty*	18,790			16,387			52,935			43,619
Workers' compensation⁽¹⁾													20,579			20,251			61,305			57,287
Healthcare professional liability⁽²⁾													1,399			1,225			4,071			3,782
Other													240			—			480			—
Ceded premiums earned	(2,472		)	(1,809		)	(7,561		)	(3,086		)	(2,439		)	(2,513		)	(7,290		)	(6,822		)
Segment net premiums earned	16,318			14,578			45,374			40,533			19,779			18,963			58,566			54,247

Consolidated Net premiums earned	$	192,303		$	185,275		$	555,559		$	539,587
Lloyd's Syndicates Segment
Gross premiums earned:
Property and casualty⁽³⁾													26,399			23,050			72,225			60,289
Ceded premiums earned													(5,104		)	(4,028		)	(15,010		)	(11,302		)
Segment net premiums earned													21,295			19,022			57,215			48,987

Consolidated net premiums earned													$	215,788		$	206,070		$	633,086		$	616,819

*⁽¹⁾Premium for all periods is assumed from the Workers' Compensation Insurance segment.

⁽²⁾Premium for all periods is assumed from the Specialty P&C segment.

⁽³⁾Includes premium assumed from the Specialty P&C segment of ~~$2.9~~$0.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and $1.2 million and ~~$9.5~~$4.5 millionfor ~~the~~ three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017, respectively, and $3.4 million and $10.4 million for the same respective periods of 2016.~~

~~12. Subsequent Events~~

In October 2017, ProAssurance repaid $18 million of the balance outstanding on the Revolving Credit Agreement (see Note 7 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the terms of the Revolving Credit Agreement).2018, respectively.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to those statements which accompany this report. Throughout the discussion we use certain terms and abbreviations, which can be found in the Glossary of Terms and Acronyms at the beginning of this report. In addition, a glossary of insurance terms and phrases is available on the investor section of our website. Throughout the discussion, references to "ProAssurance," "PRA," "Company," "we," "us" and "our" refer to ProAssurance Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries. The discussion contains certain forward-looking information that involves significant risks, assumptions and uncertainties. As discussed under the heading "Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements," our actual financial condition and operating results could differ significantly from these forward-looking statements.

ProAssurance Overview

We report our results in four segments based on the operational focus of the segment. Our Specialty P&C segment includes our professional liability business and our medical technology liability business. Our Workers' Compensation segment includes workers' compensation insuranceProAssurance Corporation is a holding company for ~~employers, groups and associations. Our Lloyd's Syndicate segment reflects operating results from our 58% participation in Syndicate 1729, which underwrites risks over a wide range of~~ property and casualty insurance companies. Our wholly owned insurance subsidiaries provide professional liability insurance for healthcare professionals and ~~reinsurance lines~~facilities, professional liability insurance for attorneys and their firms, liability insurance for medical technology and life sciences risks and workers' compensation insurance. We are also the majority capital provider for Syndicate 1729 and the sole capital provider for Syndicate 6131 at Lloyd's of London.

We operate in ~~both the U.S. and international markets. Information regarding Lloyd's operations derived from U.K.~~five segments which are based ~~entities is normally reported~~ on ~~a quarter delay, except when information is available that is material to the current period. Investment results associated with~~ our ~~FAL investments are reported concurrently as those~~internal management reporting structure for which financial results are ~~available on an earlier time frame. Our Corporate segment includes~~regularly evaluated by our ~~investment operations, which~~CODM to determine resource allocation and assess operating performance. Descriptions of ProAssurance's five operating and reportable segments are managed at the corporate level (except results associated with investment assets solely allocated to Syndicate 1729 operations), non-premium revenues generated outside of our insurance entities, corporate expenses,as follows:

•

Specialty P&C - This segment includes our professional liability business and medical technology liability business. Professional liability insurance is primarily offered to healthcare providers and institutions and, to a lesser extent, to attorneys and their firms. Medical technology liability insurance is offered to medical technology and life sciences companies that manufacture or distribute products including entities conducting human clinical trials. Our healthcare professional liability insurance products also include custom alternative risk solutions including loss portfolio transfers and captive cell programs. For our alternative market captive cell programs, we cede either all or a portion of the premium to certain SPCs in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment.

•

Workers' Compensation Insurance - This segment includes our workers' compensation insurance business which is provided primarily to employers with 1,000 or fewer employees. Our workers' compensation products include guaranteed cost, policyholder dividend policies, retrospectively-rated policies, deductible policies and alternative market solutions. Alternative market premiums are 100% ceded to either SPCs in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment or, to a limited extent, an unaffiliated captive insurer.

•

Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance - This segment reflects the operating results (underwriting profit or loss, plus investment results) of SPCs at Inova Re and Eastern Re, our Cayman Islands SPC operations. Each SPC is owned, fully or in part, by an agency, group or association and the operating results of the SPCs are due to the participants of that cell. We participate to a varying degree in the results of selected SPCs and, for the SPCs in which we participate, our participation interest ranges from a low of 20% to high of 85%. SPC operating results due to external cell participants are reflected as an SPC dividend expense (income) in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment. The majority of SPCs only assume workers' compensation insurance, healthcare professional liability insurance or a combination of the two from our Workers' Compensation Insurance and Specialty P&C segments. In addition, an SPC at Eastern Re assumed an errors and omissions liability policy from a captive insurer unaffiliated with ProAssurance. We do not participate in the SPC that assumed this policy; therefore, the operating results of this policy are reflected in the SPC dividend expense (income).

•

Lloyd'sSyndicates - This segment includes the operating results from our participation in Lloyd's of London Syndicate 1729 and our 100% participation in Syndicate 6131, which is an SPA that underwrites on a quota share basis with Syndicate 1729. The results of this segment are normally reported on a quarter lag, except when information is available that is material to the current period. For the 2019 underwriting year, we slightly decreased our participation in the operating results of Syndicate 1729 from 62% to 61%; however, due to the quarter lag these changes were not reflected in our Lloyd's Syndicates segment results until the second quarter of 2019. Furthermore, our participation in Syndicate 6131 was not reflected in our Lloyd's Syndicates segment results until the second quarter of 2018 as Syndicate 6131 began writing business effective January 1, 2018. Syndicate 1729 underwrites risks over a wide range of property and casualty insurance and reinsurance lines in both the U.S. and international markets while Syndicate 6131 focuses on contingency and specialty property business, also within the U.S. and international markets.


•	Corporate - This segment includes our investment operations, other than those reported in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance and Lloyd's Syndicates segments, interest expense and U.S. income taxes. This segment also includes non-premium revenues generated outside of our insurance entities and corporate expenses.

Additional information regarding our segments is included in Note 1114 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and in ~~Part I of our 2016 Form 10-K.~~the Segment Operating Results sections that follow.

Critical Accounting Estimates

Our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in conformity with GAAP. Preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts we report on those statements. We evaluate these estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis based on current and historical developments, market conditions, industry trends and other information that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. There can be no assurance that actual results will conform to our estimates and assumptions; reported results of operations may be materially affected by changes in these estimates and assumptions.

Management considers the following accounting estimates to be critical because they involve significant judgment by management and those judgments could result in a material effect on our financial statements.

Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

The largest component of our liabilities is our reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses ("reserve for losses" or "reserve"), and the largest component of expense for our operations is incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses (also referred to as “losses and loss adjustment expenses,” “incurred losses,” “losses ~~incurred,”~~incurred” and “losses”). Incurred losses reported in any period reflect our estimate of losses incurred related to the premiums earned in that period as well as any changes to our previous estimate of the reserve required for prior periods.

As of September 30, ~~2017,~~2019, our reserve is comprised almost entirely of long-tail exposures. The estimation of long-tailed losses is inherently difficult and is subject to significant judgment on the part of management. Due to the nature of our claims, our loss costs, even for claims with similar characteristics, can vary significantly depending upon many factors, including but not limited to the specific characteristics of the claim and the manner in which the claim is resolved. Long-tailed insurance is characterized by the extended period of time typically required both to assess the viability of a claim and potential damages, if any, and to ~~then~~ reach a resolution of the claim. The claims resolution process may extend to more than five years. The combination of continually changing conditions and the extended time required for claim resolution results in a loss cost estimation process that requires actuarial skill and the application of significant judgment, and such estimates require periodic modification.

Our reserve is established by management after taking into consideration a variety of factors including premium rates, claims frequency and severity, historical paid and incurred loss development trends, the expected effect of inflation, general economic trends, the legal and political environment and the conclusions reached by our internal and consulting actuaries. We update and review the data underlying the estimation of our reserve for losses each reporting period and make adjustments to loss estimation assumptions that we believe best reflect emerging data. Both our internal and consulting actuaries perform an ~~in-~~

~~depth~~in-depth review of our reserve for losses on at least a semi-annual basis using the loss and exposure data of our insurance subsidiaries.

Our reserving process can be broadly grouped into three areas: the establishment of the reserve for the current accident year (the initial reserve), the re-estimation of the reserve for prior accident years (development of prior accident years) and the establishment of the initial reserve for risks assumed in business combinations, applicable only in periods in which acquisitions occur (the acquired reserve).

Current Accident Year - Initial Reserve

Considerable judgment is required in establishing our initial reserve for any current accident year period, as there is limited data available upon which to base our estimate. Our process for setting an initial reserve considers the unique characteristics of each product, but in general we rely heavily on the loss assumptions that were used to price business, as our pricing reflects our analysis of loss costs that we expect to incur relative to the insurance product being priced.

Specialty P&C Segment. Loss costs within this segment are impacted by many factors including but not limited to the nature of the claim, including whether or not the claim is an individual or a mass tort claim, the personal situation of the claimant or the claimant's family, the outcome of jury trials, the legislative and judicial climate where any potential litigation may occur, general economic conditions and, for claims involving bodily injury, the trend of healthcare costs. Within our Specialty P&C segment, for our HCPL business ~~(77%~~(75% of our consolidated gross reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses as of December 31, ~~2016)~~2018), we set an initial reserve ~~using~~upon our evaluation of the ~~average~~current loss ~~ratio used in our pricing,~~environment, plus an additional provision in consideration of the historical loss volatility we and others in the industry have experienced. For our HCPL business, our ~~target~~expected loss ratio during recent accident years has ranged from ~~77%~~79% to ~~78% and~~87%. Changes in the overall claims environment

as well as pricing adequacy can result in variations from these levels. The additional provision for loss volatility has ranged from 8 to 1012 percentage points, producing an overall average initial loss ratio for our HCPL business of approximately 87%. The reasons for the higher loss provisions vary from period to period and have included additional loss activity within our surplus lines business, provisions for losses in excess of policy limits, adjustments to unallocated loss adjustment expenses, adjustment to the reserve for the death, disability and retirement provisions in our policies and additional losses recorded for particular exposures, such as mass torts. These specific adjustments are made if wepoints. We believe the ~~results for a given accident year are likely to exceed those anticipated by our pricing. We believe~~ use of aan additional provision for volatility appropriately considers the inherent risks and limitations of our rate development process and the historic volatility of professional liability losses (the industry has experienced accident year loss ratios as high as ~~163%~~138% and as low as ~~53%~~54% over the past 30 years) and produces a reasonable best estimate of the reserve required to cover actual ultimate unpaid ~~losses.~~losses for the current accident year. This practice has produced an overall average initial loss ratio for our HCPL business ranging from 87% to 99%. We have recently trended towards the higher end of this range given our concern around increases in loss severity in the broader HCPL industry. A similar practice is followed for our legal professional liability business (3% of our consolidated gross reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses as of December 31, 2018).

The risks insured in our medical technology liability business (4% of our consolidated gross reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses as of December 31, ~~2016).~~

~~The risks insured in our medical technology liability business (6% of our consolidated gross reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses as of December 31, 2016)~~2018) are more varied, and policies are individually priced based on the risk characteristics of the policy and the account. ~~These policies often have significant deductibles or self-insured retentions and the~~The insured risks range from startup operations to large multinational ~~entities.~~entities, and the larger entities often have significant deductibles or self-insured retentions. Reserves are established using our most recently developed actuarial estimates of losses expected to be incurred based on factors which include results from prior analysis of similar business, industry indications, observed trends and judgment. Claims in this line of business primarily involve bodily injury to individuals and are affected by factors similar to those of our HCPL line of business. For the medical technology liability business, we also establish an initial reserve using a loss ratio approach, including a provision in consideration of historical loss volatility that this line of business has exhibited.

Workers' Compensation Insurance Segment. Many factors affect the ultimate losses incurred for our workers' compensation coverages ~~(12%~~(11% of our consolidated gross reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses as of December 31, ~~2016)~~2018) including but not limited to the type and severity of the injury, the age and occupation of the injured worker, the estimated length of disability, medical treatment and related costs, and the jurisdiction and workers' compensation laws of the state of the injury occurrence. We use various actuarial methodologies in developing our workers’ compensation reserve, combined with a review of the exposure base generally based upon payroll of the insured. For the current accident year, given the lack of seasoned information, the different actuarial methodologies produce results with significant ~~variability. Therefore,~~variability; therefore, more emphasis is placed on supplementing results from the actuarial methodologies with trends in exposure base, medical expense inflation, general inflation, severity, and claim counts, among other things, to select an expected loss ratio.

Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance Segment. The factors that affect the ultimate losses incurred for the workers' compensation and healthcare professional liability coverages assumed by the SPCs at Inova Re and Eastern Re (3% of our consolidated gross reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses as of December 31, 2018) are consistent with that of our Workers’ Compensation Insurance and Specialty P&C segments, respectively.

Lloyd's ~~Syndicate~~Syndicates Segment. Due to the relatively short history of Syndicate 1729 ~~(inception date January~~(January 1, 2014) we are influenced by historical claims experience of the Lloyd's market for similar risks in estimating the appropriate initial reserves for our Lloyd's ~~Syndicate segment. Loss assumptions by risk category were incorporated into the business plan submitted to Lloyd's~~Syndicates segment (4% of our consolidated gross reserve for ~~Syndicate 1729 with consideration given to~~losses and loss ~~experience incurred to date.~~adjustment expenses as of December 31, 2018). We expect loss ratios to fluctuate from quarter to quarter as Syndicate 1729 writes more business and the book begins to mature. Loss ratios can also fluctuate due to the timing of earned premium adjustments. Such adjustments may be the result of premiums for certain policies and assumed reinsurance contracts being reported subsequent to the coverage period and may be subject to adjustment based on loss experience. Premium and exposure for some of Syndicate 1729's insurance policies and reinsurance contracts are initially

estimated and subsequently recorded over an extended period of time as reports are received under ~~binding~~delegated underwriting authority programs. When reports are received, the premium, exposure and corresponding loss estimates are revised accordingly. Changes in loss estimates due to premium or exposure fluctuations are incurred in the accident year in which the premium is earned.

For significant property catastrophe exposures, Syndicate 1729 ~~accumulates~~uses third-party catastrophe models to accumulate a listing of potentially affected ~~policies through employing the use of third-party catastrophe models.~~policies. Each identified policy is given an estimate of loss severity based upon a combination of factors including the probable maximum loss of each policy, market share analytics, underwriting judgment, client/broker estimates and historical loss trends for similar events. These models are inherently uncertain, reliant upon key assumptions and management judgment and are not always a representation of actual events and ensuing potential loss exposure. Determination of actual losses may take an extended period of time until claims are reported and resolved, including coverage litigation.

Syndicate 6131 follows a process similar to Syndicate 1729 for the establishment of initial reserves. Loss assumptions by risk category incorporated into the 2019 business plan submitted to Lloyd's were influenced by historical claims experience of the Lloyd's market for similar risks. We expect the loss ratios of Syndicate 6131 to fluctuate from quarter to quarter as Syndicate 6131 assumes more business from Syndicate 1729 and the book begins to mature.

Development of Prior Accident Years

In addition to setting the initial reserve for the current accident year, each period we reassess the amount of reserve required for prior accident years.

~~The foundation of our~~Our reserve re-estimation process is anbased upon the most recently completed actuarial analysis ~~based on our most recently available claims data and~~supplemented by any new analysis, information or trends that have emerged since the date of that study. We also take into account currently available industry trend information. Changes to previously established reserve estimates are recognized in the current period if management’s best estimate of ultimate losses differs from the estimate previously established. While management considers a variety of variables in determining its best estimate, in general, as claims age, our methodologies give more weight to actual loss costs which, for the majority of our reserves, continue to indicate that ultimate loss costs will be lower than our previous estimates. The discussion in our Critical Accounting Estimates section in Item 7 of our ~~2016~~December 31, 2018 report on Form 10-K includes additional information regarding the methodologies used to evaluate our reserve.

Any change in our estimate of net ultimate losses for prior accident years is reflected in net income in the period in which such changes are made. In recent years such changes have reduced our estimate of net ultimate losses, resulting in a reduction of reported losses for the period and a corresponding increase in pre-tax income.

Due to the size of our consolidated reserve for losses and the large number of claims outstanding at any point in time, even a small percentage adjustment to our total reserve estimate could have a material effect on our results of operations for the period in which the adjustment is made.

Use of Judgment

Even though the actuarial process is highly technical, it is also highly judgmental, both as to the selection of the data used in the various actuarial methodologies (e.g., initial expected loss ratios and loss development factors) and in the interpretation of the output of the various methods used. Each actuarial method generally returns a different value and for the more recent accident years the variations among the various methodologies can be significant. In order to project ultimate losses, we partition our reserves for analysis such as by line of business, geography, coverage layer or accident year; in all, there are over 200 different partitions of our business used for actuarial evaluation. For each partition of our reserves, we evaluate the results of the various methods, along with the supplementary statistical data regarding such factors as closed with and without indemnity ratios, claim severity trends, the expected duration of such trends, ~~and~~ changes in the legal and legislative environment and the current economic environment to develop a point estimate based upon management's judgment and past experience. The series of selected point estimates is then combined to produce an overall point estimate for ultimate losses.

Given the potential for unanticipated volatility for long-tailed lines of business, we are cautious in giving full credibility to emerging trends that, when more fully mature, may lead to the recognition of either favorable or adverse development of our losses. There may be trends, both positive and negative, reflected in the numerical data both within our own information and in the broader marketplace that mitigate or reverse as time progresses and additional data becomes available. This is particularly true for our HCPL business which has historically exhibited significant volatility as previously discussed.

HCPL. Over the past several years the most influential factor affecting the analysis of our HCPL reserves and the related development recognized has been an observed increase in claim severity for the ~~change, or lack thereof, in the severity of~~broader HCPL industry as well as higher initial loss expectations on incurred claims. The severity trend is an explicit component of our pricing models, whereas in our reserving process the severity trend's impact is implicit. Our estimate of this trend and our expectations about changes in this trend impact a variety of factors, from the selection of expected loss ratios to the ultimate point estimates established by management.

Because of the implicit and wide-ranging nature of severity trend assumptions on the loss reserving process, it is not practical to specifically isolate the impact of changing severity trends. However, because severity is an explicit component of our HCPL pricing process we can better isolate the impact that changing severity can have on our loss costs and loss ratios in regards to our pricing models for this business component. Our current HCPL pricing models assume a severity trend of ~~2% to~~approximately 3% ~~for~~in most states and products. We have observed higher severity trends in our case reserve estimates; however, we are not yet certain of the impact that this will have on our future claim payments. If the severity trend were to be higher by 1 percentage point, the impact would be an increase in our expected loss ratio for this business of 3.2 percentage points, based on current claim disposition patterns. An increase in the severity trend of 3 percentage points would result in a 10.1 percentage point increase in our expected loss ratio. Due to the

long-tailed nature of our claims and the previously discussed historical volatility of loss costs, selection of a severity trend assumption is a subjective process that is inherently likely to prove inaccurate over time. Given the long tail and volatility, we are generally cautious in making changes to the severity assumptions within our pricing models. All open claims and accident years are generally impacted by a change in the severity trend, which compounds the effect of such a change.

~~For~~

Although the ~~2004 to 2009 accident years, both our internal~~future degree and ~~consulting actuaries observed an unprecedented reduction in the frequency~~impact of HCPL claims (or number of claims per exposure unit) that cannot be attributed to any single factor. Since 2009, claim frequency has been relatively constant, at a lower level than had historically existed. For a number of years, we believed that much of the reduction in claim frequency was the result of a decline in the filing of non-meritorious lawsuits that had historically been dismissed or otherwise resulted in no payment of indemnity on behalf of our insureds. With fewer non-meritorious claims being filed we expected that the claims that were filed had the potential for greater average losses, or greater severity. To date, however, this effect has not materialized to the extent we anticipated. The uncertainty as to the impact this decline in frequency might ultimately have on the average cost of claims complicated the selection of an appropriate severity trend for our pricing model for these lines, and factoring severity into the various actuarial methodologies we use to evaluate our reserve has been increasingly challenging. Based on the weighted average of payments, typically 92% of our HCPL claims are resolved after eight years for a given accident year.

~~Although we remain uncertain regarding~~ the ultimate severity trend ~~to project into the future~~remains uncertain due to the long-tailed nature of our business, we have given consideration to observed loss costs in setting our rates. For our HCPL business this practice ~~has~~had generally resulted in rate reductions ~~in recent years.~~as claim frequency declined and remained at historically low levels. For example, on average, excluding our podiatry business acquired in 2009, we ~~have~~had gradually reduced the premium rates we ~~charge~~charged on our standard physician renewal business (our largest HCPL line) by approximately ~~16%~~17% from the beginning of 2006 to December 31, 2016. However, from early 2017 to September 30, ~~2017. Loss~~2019, the average charged premium rates on our standard physician renewal business have increased by approximately 4% per annum, and we anticipate further rate increases due to indications of increasing loss severity. Initial loss ratios for ~~the current~~recent accident years have thus remained fairly constant because expected loss ~~reductions~~changes have generally been ~~reflected in our rates.~~offset by higher rates; however, we have recognized a higher current accident year net loss ratio during 2019 due to continued concern regarding recent severity indications.

Workers' ~~Compensation.~~Compensation. The projection of changes in claim severity trend has not historically been an influential factor affecting our analysis of workers' compensation ~~analysis of~~ reserves, as claims are typically resolved more quickly than the industry norm. As previously mentioned, the determination and calculation of loss development factors, in particular, the selection of tail factors which are used to extend the projection of losses beyond historical data, requires considerable judgment. ~~These factors are determined in the absence of direct loss development history and thus require reliance upon industry data which may not be representative of the Company’s data and experience.~~

Loss Development

We recognized net favorable reserve development of ~~$32.3~~$15.9 million during the three months ended September 30, ~~2017,~~2019, of which favorable development of ~~$30.1~~$10.8 million related to our Specialty P&C segment, ~~and $2.3~~$1.4 million related to our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment, ~~slightly offset by unfavorable development of $0.1~~$3.3 million related to our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment and $0.5 million related to our Lloyd's ~~Syndicate~~Syndicates segment. We recognized net favorable reserve development of ~~$90.1~~$42.2 million during the nine months ended September 30, ~~2017,~~2019, of which ~~$81.9~~favorable development of $31.0 million related to our Specialty P&C segment, ~~$7.6~~$3.4 million related to our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment, ~~and $0.6~~$7.8 million related to our ~~Lloyd's Syndicate segment.~~

~~Net favorable~~Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment, slightly offset by a nominal amount of unfavorable development recognized within the Specialty P&C segment was primarily attributable to the favorable resolution of HCPL claims during the period and an evaluation of established case reserves and paid claims data that indicated that the actual severity trend associated with the remaining HCPL claims is less than we had previously estimated.

Net favorable development recognized within the Workers' Compensation segment included amortization of the purchase accounting fair value adjustment within the traditional business of $0.4 million and $1.2 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively; the remaining net favorable development of $1.9 million and $6.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, was attributablerelated to our SPCs which are evaluated at the cell level. Because a relatively small number of claims are open per cell, the closing of claims can affect the actuarial projections for the remaining open claims in the cell to an extent that indicates development should be recognized for the cell.Lloyd's Syndicates segment.

Net favorable development recognized within our Specialty P&C segment primarily reflected a lower than anticipated claims severity trend (i.e., the average size of a claim) for accident years 2012 through 2015. While we are observing an increase in claim severity in the broader HCPL industry, this severity is modestly more favorable than the cautious expectations we have established for our reserves for prior periods.

Net favorable development recognized within our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment reflected overall favorable trends in claim closing patterns primarily in the 2016 accident year.

Net favorable development recognized within our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment primarily reflected better than expected claim trends in the 2015, 2016 and 2017 accident years. The improved claim trends reflected lower frequency and severity than anticipated at the time the reserves were established.

Net unfavorable development recognized within our Lloyd's ~~Syndicate~~Syndicates segment for the nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 was ~~attributable to actual loss experience proving to have been better~~driven by higher than ~~the Lloyd's market historical averages for similar risks~~expected losses and development on certain large claims which ~~were used to establish initial reserves and more than offset the net~~resulted in unfavorable development ~~recognized during the third quarter~~with respect to a previous year of ~~2017.~~account. See further discussion in our Segment Operating Results - Lloyd's ~~Syndicate~~Syndicates section that follows.

Investment Valuations

We record the majority of our investments at fair value as shown in the table below. At September 30, ~~2017~~2019, the distribution of our investments based on GAAP fair value hierarchies (levels) was as follows:


	Distribution by GAAP Fair Value Hierarchy					Distribution by GAAP Fair Value Hierarchy
	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3	Not Categorized	Total Investments	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3	Not Categorized	Total Investments
Investments recorded at:
Fair value	19%	68%	1%	5%	93%	18%	68%	1%	8%	95%
Other valuations					7%					5%
Total Investments					100%					100%

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. All of our fixed maturity and equity ~~security~~ investments are carried at fair value. ~~Our~~The fair value of our short-term securities ~~are carried at amortized~~approximates the cost ~~which approximates fair value.~~of the securities due to their short-term nature.

Because of the number of securities we own and the complexity of developing accurate fair values, we utilize multiple independent pricing services to assist us in establishing the fair value of individual securities. The pricing services provide fair

values based on exchange-traded prices, if available. If an exchange-traded price is not available, the pricing services, if possible, provide a fair value that is based on multiple broker/dealer quotes or that has been developed using pricing models. Pricing models vary by asset class and utilize currently available market data for securities comparable to ours to estimate a fair value for our securities. The pricing services scrutinize market data for consistency with other relevant market information before including the data in the pricing models. The pricing services disclose the types of pricing models used and the inputs used for each asset class. Determining fair values using these pricing models requires the use of judgment to identify appropriate comparable securities and to choose a valuation methodology that is appropriate for the asset class and available data.

The pricing services provide a single value per instrument quoted. We review the values provided for reasonableness each quarter by comparing market yields generated by the supplied value versus market yields observed in the marketplace. We also compare yields indicated by the provided values to appropriate benchmark yields and review for values that are unchanged or that reflect an unanticipated variation as compared to prior period values. We utilize a primary pricing service for each security type and compare provided information for consistency with alternate pricing services, known market data and information from our own trades, considering both values and valuation trends. We also review weekly trades versus the prices supplied by the services. If a supplied value appears unreasonable, we discuss the valuation in question with the pricing service and make adjustments if deemed necessary. Historically our review has not resulted in any material changes to the values supplied by the pricing services. The pricing services do not provide a fair value unless an exchange-traded price or multiple observable inputs are available. As a result, the pricing services may provide a fair value for a security in some periods but not others, depending upon the level of recent market activity for the security or comparable securities.

Level 1 Investments

Fair values for a majority of our equity securities and portions of our corporate debt, short-term and convertible securities are determined using exchange-traded prices. There is little judgment involved when fair value is determined using an exchange-traded price. In accordance with GAAP, ~~for disclosure purposes~~ we classify securities valued using an exchange-traded price as Level 1 securities.

Level 2 Investments

Most fixed income securities do not trade ~~daily, and~~daily; thus, exchange-traded prices are generally not available for these securities. However, market information (often referred to as observable inputs or market data, including but not limited to, last reported trade, non-binding broker quotes, bids, benchmark yield curves, issuer spreads, ~~two sided~~two-sided markets, benchmark securities, offers and recent data regarding assumed prepayment speeds, cash flow and loan performance data) is available for most of our fixed income securities. We determine fair value for a large portion of our fixed income securities using available market information. In accordance with GAAP, ~~for disclosure purposes~~ we classify securities valued based on multiple market observable inputs as Level 2 securities.

Level 3 Investments

When a pricing service does not provide a value for one of our fixed maturity securities, management estimates fair value using either a single non-binding broker quote or pricing models that utilize market based assumptions which have limited observable inputs. The process involves significant judgment in selecting the appropriate data and modeling techniques to use in the valuation process. ~~For disclosure purposes,~~In accordance with GAAP, we classify securities valued using limited observable inputs as Level 3 securities.

Fair Values Not Categorized

We hold interests in certain investment funds, primarily LPs/LLCs, which measure fund assets at fair value on a recurring basis and provide us with a NAV for our interest. As a practical expedient, we consider the NAV provided to approximate the fair value of the interest. In accordance with GAAP, we do not categorize these investments within the fair value hierarchy.

Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements

We measure the fair value of certain assets on a nonrecurring basis when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. These assets include investments carried principally at cost, investments in tax credit partnerships, fixed assets, goodwill and other intangible assets. These assets would also include any equity method investments that do not provide a NAV.

Investments - Other Valuation Methodologies

Certain of our investments, in accordance with GAAP for the type of investment, are measured using methodologies other than fair value. At September 30, ~~2017~~2019, these investments represented approximately 7%5% of total investments, and are detailed in the following table. Additional information about these investments is provided in Notes 2 and 3 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


(In millions)	Carrying Value		GAAP Measurement Method	Carrying Value		GAAP Measurement Method
Other investments:
Investments in LPs	$	48.5	Cost
Other, principally FHLB capital stock	3.5		Principally Cost	$	2.9	Principally Cost
	52.0
Investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries:
Investments in tax credit partnerships	100.0		Equity	53.6		Equity
Equity method LPs/LLCs	29.4		Equity
Equity method investments, primarily LPs/LLCs				38.5		Equity
	129.4			92.1
BOLI	61.7		Cash surrender value	65.7		Cash surrender value
Total investments - Other valuation methodologies	$	243.1		$	160.7

Other-than-temporary Impairments

We evaluate our available-for-sale investment securities on at least a quarterly basis for the purpose of determining whether declines in fair value below recorded cost basis represent OTTI. We consider an OTTI to have occurred:

if there is intent to sell the security;

if it is more likely than not that the security will be required to be sold before full recovery of its amortized cost basis; ~~and~~or

if the entire amortized basis of the security is not expected to be recovered.

The assessment of whether the amortized cost basis of a security, particularly an asset-backed debt security, is expected to be recovered requires management to make assumptions regarding various matters affecting future cash flows. The choice of assumptions is subjective and requires the use of judgment. Actual credit losses experienced in future periods may differ from management’s estimates of those credit losses. Methodologies used to estimate the present value of expected cash flows are:

For non-structured fixed maturities (obligations of states, municipalities and political subdivisions and corporate debt) the estimate of expected cash flows is determined by projecting a recovery value and a recovery time frame and assessing whether further principal and interest will be received. We consider various factors in projecting recovery values and recovery time frames, including the following:

third-party research and credit rating reports;

the current credit standing of the issuer, including credit rating downgrades, whether before or after the balance sheet date;

the extent to which the decline in fair value is attributable to credit risk specifically associated with the security or its issuer;

internal assessments and the assessments of external portfolio managers regarding specific circumstances surrounding an investment, which indicate the investment is more or less likely to recover its amortized cost than other investments with a similar structure;

for asset-backed securities, the origination date of the underlying loans, the remaining average life, the probability that credit performance of the underlying loans will deteriorate in the future and our assessment of the quality of the collateral underlying the loan;

failure of the issuer of the security to make scheduled interest or principal payments;

any changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency; and

recoveries or additional declines in fair value subsequent to the balance sheet date.

For structured securities (primarily asset-backed securities), management estimates the present value of the security’s cash flows using the effective yield of the security at the date of acquisition (or the most recent implied rate used to accrete the security if the implied rate has changed as a result of a previous impairment or changes in expected cash flows). We consider the most recently available six month averages of the levels of delinquencies, defaults, severities, and prepayments for the collateral (loans) underlying the securitization or, if historical data is not available, sector based assumptions to estimate expected future cash flows of these securities.

Exclusive of securities where there is an intent to sell or where it is not more likely than not that the security will be required to be sold before recovery of its amortized cost basis, OTTI for debt securities is separated into a credit component and a non-credit component. The credit component of an OTTI is the difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and the present value of its expected future cash flows, while the non-credit component is the remaining difference between the security’s fair value and the present value of expected future cash flows. The credit component of the OTTI is recognized in earnings while the non-credit component is recognized in OCI.

Investments in tax credit partnerships are evaluated for OTTI by considering both qualitative and quantitative factors. These factors ~~which include:~~include, but are not limited to:

our ability and intent to hold the investment until the recovery of its carrying value; and

in situations where there was not a previous OTTI for the investment, whether the current expected cash flows from the investment, primarily tax benefits, are less than those expected at the time the investment was acquired ~~and our ability and intent~~due to ~~hold~~various factors, such as a change in the statutory tax rate; or

in situations where there was a previous OTTI for the investment, ~~until~~whether the ~~recovery~~expected cash flows from the investment at the time of the OTTI, primarily tax benefits, are less than its current carrying value.

Investments ~~in LPs/LLCs,~~ which are ~~not~~ accounted for under the equity method are evaluated for impairment ~~by comparing our~~whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value ~~to the NAV of our interest as reported by the LP/LLC. Additionally, management considers the performance~~ of the ~~LP/LLC relative~~investment might not be recoverable. These circumstances include, but are not limited to, ~~the market and its stated objectives, cash flows expected from the interest and the audited financial statements~~evidence of the ~~LP/LLC, if available.~~inability to recover the carrying value of the investment, the inability of the investee to sustain an earnings capacity that would justify the carrying value of the investment or the current fair value of the investment is less than the carrying value.

We recognize OTTI, exclusive of non-credit OTTI, in earnings as a part of net realized investment gains (losses). In subsequent periods, any measurement of gain, loss or impairment is based on the revised amortized basis of the security. Non-credit OTTI on debt securities and declines in fair value of available-for-sale securities not considered to be other-than-temporary are recognized in OCI.

Asset-backed debt securities that have been impaired due to credit reasons or are below investment grade quality are accounted for under the effective yield method. Under the effective yield method, estimates of cash flows expected over the life of asset-backed securities are ~~then~~ used to recognize income on the investment balance for subsequent accounting periods.

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

Policy acquisition costs (primarily commissions, premium taxes and underwriting salaries) which are directly related to the successful acquisition of new and renewal premiums are capitalized as DPAC and charged to expense, net of ceding commissions earned, as the related premium revenue is recognized. We evaluate the recoverability of our DPAC at the segment level each reporting period, and any amounts estimated to be unrecoverable are charged to expense in the current period. As of September 30, ~~2017~~2019 we have not determined ~~that~~ any amounts ~~are~~to be unrecoverable.

Estimation of Taxes / Tax Credits

For interim periods, we determine our provision (benefit) for income taxes based on ~~our~~the current estimate of our annual effective tax rate. Items which are unusual, infrequent, or that cannot be reliably estimated are considered in the effective tax rate in the period in which the item is included in income, and are referred to as discrete items. In calculating our estimated annual effective tax rate, we include the estimated benefit of tax credits for the annual period based on the most recently available information provided by the tax credit ~~partnership;~~partnerships; the actual amounts of credits provided by the tax credit partnerships may prove to be different than our estimates. The effect of such ~~differences~~a difference is recognized in the period identified.

Deferred Taxes

Deferred federal income taxes arise from the recognition of temporary differences between the basis of assets and liabilities determined for financial reporting purposes and the basis determined for income tax purposes. Our temporary differences principally relate to our loss reserve, unearned premiums, DPAC, unrealized investment gains (losses) and basis differences on fixed assets and investment assets. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the enacted tax rates

expected to be in effect when such benefits are realized. We review our deferred tax assets quarterly for impairment. If we determine that it is more likely than not that some or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized, a valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying value of the asset. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, management is required to make certain judgments and assumptions about our future operations based on historical experience and information as of the measurement period regarding reversal of existing temporary differences, carryback capacity, future taxable income (including its capital and operating characteristics) and tax planning strategies.

~~Due to losses recognized in our Lloyd's Syndicate segment during the third quarter of 2017 primarily due to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, management evaluated the realizability of~~

A valuation allowance has been established against the deferred tax ~~assets~~asset related to the NOL carryforwards for the U.K. ~~jurisdiction recorded at the segment and~~operations as management concluded that it was more likely than not that the deferred tax ~~assets would~~asset will not be realized. ~~Therefore,~~In 2018, management also established a valuation allowance against the ~~full value~~deferred tax assets of certain SPCs at our recently formed wholly owned Cayman Islands reinsurance subsidiary, Inova Re. Due to the limited operations of these recently formed SPCs as of December 31, 2018, management concluded that a valuation allowance was required. As of September 30, 2019, management concluded a valuation allowance was still required against the deferred tax assets related to the NOL carryforwards for the U.K. operations and against the deferred tax assets at Inova Re. See further discussion in Note 6 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in our ~~U.K. operations.~~December 31, 2018 Form 10-K.

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

The TCJA introduced a minimum tax on payments made to related foreign entities referred to as the BEAT. The BEAT is imposed by adding back into the U.S. tax base any base erosion payment made by the U.S. taxpayer to a related foreign entity and applying a minimum tax rate to this newly calculated modified taxable income. Base erosion payments represent any amount paid or accrued by the U.S. taxpayer to a related foreign entity for which a deduction is allowed. Premiums we cede to the SPCs at Inova Re, one of our wholly owned Cayman Islands reinsurance subsidiaries, do not fall within the scope of base erosion payments as the SPCs at Inova Re intend to elect to be taxed as U.S. taxpayers. However, premiums that we cede to any active SPC at our other wholly owned Cayman Islands reinsurance subsidiary, Eastern Re, fall within the scope of base erosion payments and therefore could be significantly impacted by the BEAT. We have evaluated our exposure to the BEAT and have concluded that our expected outbound deductible payments to related foreign entities are below the threshold for application of the BEAT; therefore, we have not recognized any incremental tax expense for the BEAT provision of the TCJA for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019. See further discussion on our Cayman Islands SPC operations in the Segment Operating Results - Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance section that follows. See further discussion in Note 5 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

The TCJA also requires a U.S. shareholder of a controlled foreign corporation to include its GILTI in U.S. taxable income. The GILTI amount is based on the U.S. shareholder’s aggregate share of the gross income of the controlled foreign corporation reduced by certain exceptions and a net deemed tangible income return. The net deemed tangible income return is based on the controlled foreign corporation’s basis in the tangible depreciable business property. Cell rental fee income earned by Inova Re and Eastern Re fall within the scope of the GILTI provisions of the TCJA. We have evaluated the new GILTI provisions of the TCJA and we have made an accounting policy election to treat the taxes due on inclusions of GILTI in U.S. taxable income as a current period expense when incurred. We recognized a nominal amount of tax expense for the GILTI provision of the TCJA during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019. See further discussion in Note 5 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Unrecognized Tax Benefits

We evaluate tax positions taken on tax returns and recognize positions in our financial statements when it is more likely than not that we will sustain the position upon resolution with a taxing authority. If recognized, the benefit is measured as the largest amount of benefit that has a greater than 50% probability of being realized. We review uncertain tax positions each period, considering changes in facts and circumstances, such as changes in tax law, interactions with taxing authorities and developments in case law, and make adjustments as we consider necessary. Adjustments to our unrecognized tax benefits may affect our income tax expense, and settlement of uncertain tax positions may require the use of cash. Other than differences related to timing, no significant adjustments were considered necessary during the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 or ~~2016.~~2018. At September 30, ~~2017,~~2019, our liability for unrecognized tax benefits approximated ~~$8.5~~$3.7 million.

Goodwill

~~We review goodwill for impairment annually on October 1 and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount~~Impairment of goodwill ~~may not be recoverable. Goodwill~~ is tested ~~for impairment~~ at the reporting unit ~~level. Our reporting units are~~level, which is consistent with ~~the~~our reportable segments identified in Note 1114 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Of the ~~four~~five reporting units, ~~two~~three have goodwill - Specialty P&C, Workers' Compensation Insurance and ~~Workers' Compensation.~~Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance. We evaluate goodwill for impairment annually on October 1, upon the occurrence of certain triggering events or substantive changes in circumstances that indicate the fair value of goodwill may be impaired, and immediately before and after a reorganization that affects the composition of one or more of our reporting units. As of the most recent evaluation date on October 1, ~~2016,~~2018, we ~~performed~~elected to perform a ~~qualitative~~quantitative goodwill impairment assessment for our Specialty P&C, ~~segment and a quantitative goodwill impairment assessment for our~~ Workers' Compensation ~~segment. At the valuation~~Insurance and Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance reporting units. As of that evaluation date, management concluded that the fair ~~values~~value of ~~both the Specialty P&C and Workers' Compensation~~each of our three reporting units ~~exceeded~~that have goodwill were greater than their ~~respective~~ carrying ~~values,~~value; therefore, goodwill was not impaired and no ~~goodwill~~further impairment testing was ~~recorded.~~required. There have been no events or changes in circumstances since that evaluation date that would indicate the carrying amount of goodwill is not recoverable. Additional information regarding our goodwill assessment at the reporting unit level is included in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in ProAssurance's December 31, ~~2016~~2018 report on Form 10-K.

~~Intangible Assets~~Intangibles

Intangible assets with definite lives are amortized over the estimated useful life of the asset. Amortizable intangible assets primarily consist of agency and policyholder relationships, renewal rights and trade names. Intangible assets with an indefinite life, primarily state licenses, are not amortized. Intangible assets are evaluated for impairment on an annual ~~basis.~~basis or upon the occurrence of certain triggering events or substantive changes in circumstances that indicate the fair value of the asset may be impaired. Additional information regarding our intangible assets is included in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in ProAssurance's December 31, ~~2016~~2018 report on Form 10-K.

Leases

During the first quarter of 2019, we adopted ASU 2016-02, which requires us to make certain estimates and assumptions in applying the requirements of this new guidance. We are involved in a number of leases, primarily for office facilities. We determine if an arrangement is a lease at the inception date of the contract and classify all leases as either financing or operating. As of September 30, 2019, all of our leases were classified as operating. Operating ROU assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized as of the lease commencement date based on the present value of the remaining lease payments, discounted over the term of the lease using a discount rate determined based on information available as of the commencement date. The ROU asset represents the right to use the underlying asset (office space) for the lease term. As the majority of our lessors do not provide an implicit discount rate, we use our collateralized incremental borrowing rate in determining the present value of remaining lease payments. For leases entered into or reassessed after the adoption of ASU 2016-02, we account for lease and non-lease components of a contract as a single lease component.

We evaluate our operating lease ROU assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The carrying amount of a ROU asset is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use of the underlying leased asset over the remaining lease term. That assessment is based on the carrying amount of the ROU asset at the date it is tested for recoverability and an impairment loss is measured and recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the ROU asset exceeds its fair value. Additional information regarding our leases is included in Note 1 and Note 8 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Audit Premium

Workers’ compensation premiums are determined based upon the payroll of the insured, ~~applicable~~respective premium rates and, where applicable, an ~~experience based~~experience-based modification ~~factor, where applicable.~~factor. An audit of the policyholders’ records is conducted after policy expiration to make a final determination of applicable premiums. Audit premium due from or due to a policyholder as a result of an audit is reflected in net premiums written and earned when billed. We track, by policy, the amount of additional premium billed in final audit invoices as a percentage of payroll exposure and use this information to estimate the probable additional amount of EBUB premium as of the balance sheet date. We include changes to the EBUB premium estimate in net premiums written and earned in the period recognized.

Lloyd’s Premium Estimates

For certain insurance policies and reinsurance contracts written in our Lloyd’s Syndicates segment, premiums are initially recognized based upon estimates of ultimate premium. Estimated ultimate premium consists primarily of premium written under delegated underwriting authority arrangements, which consist primarily of binding authorities, and certain assumed reinsurance agreements. These estimates of ultimate premium are judgmental and are dependent upon certain assumptions, including historical premium trends for similar agreements. As reports are received from programs, ultimate premium estimates are revised, if necessary, with changes reflected in current operations.

Accounting Changes

We did not have any change in accounting estimate or policy that had a material effect on our results of operations or financial position during the nine months ended September 30, 2019. We are not aware of any accounting changes not yet adopted as of September 30, ~~2017~~2019 that would have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position. Note 1 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements provides additional detail regarding accounting ~~changes.~~changes not yet adopted.

Liquidity and Capital Resources and Financial Condition

Overview

ProAssurance Corporation is a holding company and is a legal entity separate and distinct from its subsidiaries. As a holding company our principal ~~sources~~source of external revenue ~~are~~is our investment ~~revenues, and~~revenues. In addition, dividends from our operating subsidiaries represent a significant source of funds for our obligations, including debt service and shareholder dividends. We also charge our operating subsidiaries within our Specialty P&C and Workers' Compensation Insurance segments a management fee based on the extent to which services are provided to the subsidiary and the amount of gross premium written by the subsidiary. At September 30, ~~2017~~2019, we held cash and liquid investments of approximately ~~$264~~$227 million outside our insurance subsidiaries that were available for use without regulatory approval or other restriction. ~~As of October 31, 2017, our holding company~~We also ~~has an additional $66~~have $200 million in permitted borrowings under ~~its~~our Revolving Credit Agreement ~~which includes $18 million of the outstanding balance that was repaid in October 2017. Additionally, we have available~~and an accordion feature available which, if subscribed successfully, would allow another $50 million in available ~~funds as discussed in this section~~funds. As of October 31, 2019, no borrowings were outstanding under ~~the heading "Debt."~~our Revolving Credit Agreement.

To date, during ~~2017,~~2019, our ~~insurance~~operating subsidiaries have paid dividends to us of approximately ~~$359~~$103 million, ~~including $184~~which included $52 million that was paid in October ~~2017.~~2019. Dividends paid in October 2019 have not been included in our cash and liquid investments held outside of our insurance subsidiaries at September 30, ~~2017. Of~~2019. After considering the ~~total~~ dividends paid ~~$200 million were extraordinary dividends. In~~in October 2019, our insurance subsidiaries, in the aggregate, ~~our domestic insurance subsidiaries do not intend~~are permitted to pay additional dividends of approximately $28 million over the remainder of ~~2017. The~~2019 without prior approval of state insurance regulators. However, the payment of any dividend requires prior notice to the insurance regulator in the state of domicile, and the regulator may reduce or prevent the dividend if, in its judgment, payment of the dividend would have an adverse effect on the surplus of the insurance subsidiary. We make the decision to pay dividends from an insurance subsidiary based on the capital needs of that subsidiary, and may pay less than the permitted dividend or may also request permission to pay an additional amount (an extraordinary dividend).

Cash Flows

Cash flows between periods compare as follows:


	Nine Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2017 vs 2016			2016 vs 2015			2019			2018			Change
Increase (decrease) in net cash provided (used) by:
Net cash provided (used) by:
Operating activities	$	(30,961	)	$	23,469		$	128,803		$	146,394		$	(17,591	)
Investing activities	396,030			(314,046		)	(25,717		)	234,783			(260,500		)
Financing activities	(251,214		)	174,078			(81,346		)	(428,113		)	346,767
Increase (decrease) in Cash and cash equivalents	$	113,855		$	(116,499	)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents							$	21,740		$	(46,936	)	$	68,676



	Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2018			2017			Change
Net cash provided (used) by:
Operating activities	$	146,394		$	118,181		$	28,213
Investing activities	234,783			232,152			2,631
Financing activities	(428,113		)	(348,675		)	(79,438		)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	$	(46,936	)	$	1,658		$	(48,594	)

The principal components of our operating cash flows are the excess of premiums collected and net investment income over losses paid and operating costs, including income taxes. Timing delays exist between the collection of premiums and the payment of losses associated with the premiums. Premiums are generally collected within the twelve-month period after the policy is written, while our claim payments are generally paid over a more extended period of time. Likewise, timing delays exist between the payment of claims and the collection of any associated reinsurance recoveries.

The decrease in operating cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 as compared to the nine months ended September 30, ~~2016~~2018 of $17.6 million was primarily ~~driven by~~due to an increase in ~~tax payments~~paid losses of ~~$27.1~~$19.0 million and a decrease in cash received from investment income of ~~$7.7~~$16.0 million. The increase in ~~tax payments~~paid losses was driven by our Workers' Compensation Insurance and Specialty P&C segments primarily due to the ~~effect~~timing of loss payments between periods. The decrease in cash received from investment income was primarily due to a ~~$15.0 million tax refund received~~decline in ~~2016 for~~distributed earnings from our unconsolidated subsidiaries. In addition, the ~~2015 tax year and a $12.1 million increase in 2017 estimated tax payments. These decreases~~decrease in operating cash flows ~~were~~ reflected a decrease in net cash received of $7.1 million associated with the cash settlement of the 2017 and 2016 calendar year quota share reinsurance arrangements between our Specialty P&C segment and Syndicate 1729 due to the reduction in premiums ceded to Syndicate 1729. The decrease in operating cash flows was

partially offset by an increase in net premium receipts of ~~$5.1~~$20.5 million ~~driven by~~and a decrease in cash paid for operating expenses of $3.7 million. The increase in net premium receipts was primarily due to the growth in written premium in our ~~Workers' Compensation segment.~~Lloyd's Syndicates and Specialty P&C segments. The decrease in cash paid for operating expenses was largely attributable to a decrease in other compensation related costs in our Corporate segment, primarily as a result of lower bonuses, and, to a lesser extent, our Lloyd's Syndicates segment primarily due to the effect of higher operational expenses incurred during 2018 associated with the establishment of Syndicate 6131. The remaining variance in operating cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2018 was comprised of individually insignificant components.

The increase in operating cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, ~~2016~~2018 as compared to the nine months ended September 30, ~~2015~~2017 of $28.2 million was primarily due to an increase in premium receipts of $52.9 million and a decrease in ~~net tax payments driven by a $25.5 million reduction in~~2018 estimated tax payments ~~and the receipt~~as compared to 2017 of ~~the aforementioned $15.0~~$9.9 million, ~~tax refund received in 2016. These increases in operating cash flows were~~ partially offset by an increase in paid losses of $28.6 million, an increase in cash paid for operating expenses of $5.4 million and a ~~$12.0 million~~ decrease in cash received from investment ~~income.~~income of $2.6 million. The increase in premium receipts was driven by our Specialty P&C segment, primarily due to premium received from a loss portfolio transfer entered into during the second quarter of 2018 and, to a lesser extent, our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment, primarily due to premiums received related to the third quarter 2017 acquisition of the Great Falls book of business. The increase in paid losses was driven by all of our operating segments, particularly in our Lloyd's Syndicates segment, primarily due to storm-related losses related to 2017 Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, and our Specialty P&C segment. The increase in cash paid for operating expenses was primarily due to an increase in compensation related costs and commission expenses and the decrease in cash received from investment income was primarily due to a reduction in dividends received on our fixed maturities portfolio resulting from lower average balances. The remaining variance in operating cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2017 was comprised of individually insignificant components.

We manage our investing cash flows to ensure that we will have sufficient liquidity to meet our obligations, taking into consideration the timing of cash flows from our investments, including interest payments, dividends and principal payments, as well as the expected cash flows to be generated by our operations as discussed in this section under the heading "Investing Activities and Related Cash Flows."

Our financing cash flows are primarily composed of dividend payments ~~repurchases of common stock,~~ and borrowings and repayments under our Revolving Credit Agreement. See further discussion of our financing activities in this section under "Financing Activities and Related Cash Flows."

Operating Activities and Related Cash Flows

Reinsurance

Within our Specialty P&C segment, we use insurance and reinsurance (collectively, “reinsurance”) to provide capacity to write larger limits of liability, to provide reimbursement for losses incurred under the higher limit coverages we offer and to provide protection against losses in excess of policy limits. ~~We also have a quota share arrangement with Syndicate 1729 established to provide an initial premium base for Syndicate 1729.~~ Within our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment, we use reinsurance to reduce our net liability on individual risks, to mitigate the effect of significant loss occurrences (including catastrophic events), to stabilize underwriting results, and to increase underwriting capacity by decreasing leverage. In both ~~the~~our Specialty P&C and Workers' Compensation Insurance segments, we use reinsurance in risk sharing arrangements to align our objectives with those of our strategic business partners and to provide custom insurance solutions for large customer groups. The purchase of reinsurance does not relieve us from the ultimate risk on our ~~policies, but~~policies; however, it does provide reimbursement for certain losses we pay. We pay our reinsurers a premium in exchange for reinsurance of the risk. In ~~the majority~~certain of our excess of loss arrangements, the premium due to the reinsurer is determined by the loss experience of the business reinsured, subject to certain minimum and maximum amounts. Until all loss amounts are known, we estimate the premium due to the reinsurer. Changes to the estimate of premium owed under reinsurance agreements related to prior periods are recorded in the period in which the change in estimate occurs and can have a significant effect on ~~Net~~net premiums earned.

We ~~generally reinsure risks under treaties (our excess of loss~~offer alternative market solutions whereby we cede certain premiums from our Workers' Compensation Insurance and Specialty P&C segments to either the SPCs at Inova Re or Eastern Re, our Cayman Islands reinsurance ~~arrangements) pursuant to~~subsidiaries which ~~the reinsurers agree to assume all~~are reported in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment, or, a portion of all risks that we insure above our individual risk retention levels, up to the maximum individual limits offered. These arrangements are negotiated and renewed annually. Renewal dates for our healthcare professional liability, medical technology liability and workers' compensation treaties are October 1, January 1 and May 1, respectively. There were no significant changes in the cost or structure of our professional liability treaty which renewed October 1, 2017. Our participation was reduced upon the latest renewal of our medical technology liability treaty on January 1, 2017 to better reflect our current risk appetite. Our workers' compensation treaty renewed May 1, 2017 at a slightly higher rate than the previous agreement. The significant coverages provided by our current excess of loss reinsurance arrangements are detailed in the following table.

~~Excess of Loss Reinsurance Agreements~~



~~Professional Liability~~	~~Medical Technology & Life Sciences Products~~	~~Workers'~~ ~~Compensation - Traditional~~

⁽¹⁾~~Historically, retention has ranged from 5% to 32.5%.~~

⁽²⁾~~Historically, retention has been as high as $2M.~~

~~Large professional liability risks that are above the limits of our basic reinsurance treaties are reinsured on a facultative basis, whereby the reinsurer agrees to insure a particular risk up~~ to a designated limit. We also have in place a number of risk sharing arrangements that apply to the first $1.0 million of losses for certain large healthcare systems and other insurance entities and with certain insurance agencies that produce business for us.

limited extent, an unaffiliated captive insurer. During the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017,~~2019, we wrote ~~workers' compensation and healthcare professional liability policies in our~~total alternative market ~~business generating~~ premium of approximately ~~$16.4~~$17.4 million and ~~$62.0~~$73.0 million, ~~respectively. These~~respectively, and approximately $17.5 million and $73.1 million during the same respective periods of 2018. The majority of these policies ($17.3 million and $70.1 million of premium for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively, and $16.8 million and $68.3 million for the same respective periods of 2018) are reinsured to the SPCs ~~of our wholly owned subsidiary,~~at Inova Re or Eastern Re, ~~domiciled in the Cayman Islands,~~ net of a ceding commission. Each SPC at Inova Re and Eastern Re is owned, fully or in part, by an agency, group or association and the operating results of the SPCs are due to the participants of that cell. We participate to a varying degree in the results of selected SPCs and, for the SPCs in which we participate, our participation interest ranges from a low of 20% to high of 85%. SPC operating results due to external cell participants are reflected as an SPC dividend expense (income) in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment. See further discussion on our SPC operations in the Segment Operating Results - Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance section that follows. The alternative market workers' compensation policies are ceded from our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment to the SPCs under 100% quota share reinsurance ~~agreements and then further reinsured under an excess of loss reinsurance arrangement.~~agreements. The alternative market professional liability policies are ceded from our Specialty P&C segment to the SPCs under either excess of loss or quota share reinsurance agreements, depending on the structure of the individual program, and the nominal portion of the risk that is not ceded to an SPC is retained in our Specialty P&C segment and may also be reinsured under our standard healthcare professional liability reinsurance program depending on the policy limits provided. The remaining premium written in our alternative market business of ~~$1.1 million and $6.0~~$2.4 million for the ~~three~~2019 nine-month period and ~~nine months ended September 30, 2017,~~$0.5 million and $4.3 million for the 2018 three- and nine- month periods, respectively, is 100% ceded to an unaffiliated captive ~~insurers.~~

Each SPC has preferred shareholders and the underwriting profit or loss of each cell accrues fully to these preferred shareholders. We participate as a preferred shareholder in certain SPCs. Our ownership interest in the SPCs for which we participate is as low as 25% and as high as 100%.

~~As discussed above, for the workers' compensation business ceded to Eastern Re each SPC has in place its own reinsurance arrangements, which are illustrated in the following table.~~

~~Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance~~



~~Per Occurrence Coverage~~		~~Aggregate Coverage~~

⁽¹⁾~~ProAssurance assumes 100% of aggregate losses in excess of an aggregate attachment point with a maximum loss limit of $100K.~~

⁽²⁾~~The attachment point is based on a percentage of premium (average is 89%) and varies by cell.~~

Each SPC maintains a loss fund initially equal to the difference between premium assumed by the cell and the ceding commission. The external owners of each cell provide a letter of credit to us that is initially equal to the difference between the loss fund of the SPC (amount of funds available to pay losses after deduction of ceding commission) and the aggregate attachment point of the reinsurance. Over time, an SPC's retained profits are considered in the determination of the collateral amount required to be provided by the cell's external owners.

Within our Lloyd's Syndicate segment, Syndicate 1729 utilizes reinsurance to provide capacity to write larger limits of liability on individual risks, to provide protection against catastrophic loss and to provide protection against losses in excess of policy limits. The level of reinsurance that the Syndicate purchases is dependent on a number of factors, including its underwriting risk appetite for catastrophic exposure, the specific risks inherent in each line or class of business written and the pricing, coverage and terms and conditions available from the reinsurance market. Reinsurance protection by line of business is as follows:

~~Reinsurance is utilized on a per risk basis for the property insurance and casualty coverages in order to mitigate risk volatility.~~

~~Catastrophic protection is utilized on both our property insurance and casualty coverages to protect against losses in excess of policy limits as well as natural catastrophes.~~

~~Both quota share reinsurance and excess of loss reinsurance are utilized to manage the net loss exposure on our property reinsurance coverages.~~

~~Property umbrella excess of loss reinsurance is utilized for peak catastrophe and frequency of catastrophe exposures.~~

The Syndicate may still be exposed to losses that exceed the level of reinsurance purchased as well as to reinstatement premiums triggered by losses exceeding specific levels. Cash demands on the Syndicate can vary significantly depending on the nature and intensity of a loss event. For significant reinsured catastrophe losses, the inability or unwillingness of the reinsurer to make timely payments under the terms of the reinsurance agreement could have an adverse effect on the Syndicate's liquidity as the Syndicate remains liable to the insured.insurer.

For all of our segments, we make a determination of the amount of insurance risk we choose to retain based upon numerous factors, including our risk tolerance and the capital we have to support it, the price and availability of reinsurance, the volume of business, our level of experience with a particular set of claims and our analysis of the potential underwriting results. We purchase excess of loss reinsurance to limit the amount of risk we retain and we do so from a number of companies to mitigate concentrations of credit risk. We utilize reinsurance brokers to assist us in the placement of these reinsurance programs and in the analysis of the credit quality of our reinsurers. The determination of which reinsurers we choose to do business with is based upon an evaluation of their ~~then-current~~then current financial strength, rating and stability. However, the financial strength of our reinsurers and their corresponding ability to pay us may change in the future due to forces or events we cannot control or anticipate.

Excess of Loss Reinsurance Agreements

We generally reinsure risks under treaties (our excess of loss reinsurance agreements) pursuant to which the reinsurers agree to assume all or a portion of all risks that we insure above our individual risk retention levels, up to the maximum individual limits offered. These agreements are negotiated and renewed annually. Renewal dates for our healthcare professional liability, medical technology liability and workers' compensation treaties are October 1, January 1 and May 1, respectively. There were no significant changes in the cost or structure of our professional liability and medical technology liability treaties which renewed October 1, 2019 and January 1, 2019, respectively. Our workers' compensation treaty renewed May 1, 2019 at a lower rate; however, the renewed treaty includes the addition of an AAD and the elimination of the return premium component of the contract. The significant coverages provided by our current excess of loss reinsurance agreements are detailed in the following table.

Excess of Loss Reinsurance Agreements



Healthcare Professional Liability	Medical Technology & Life Sciences Products	Workers' Compensation - Traditional

⁽¹⁾Historically, retention has ranged from 5% to 32.5%.

⁽²⁾Historically, retention has been as high as $2M.

⁽³⁾ Includes an AAD where retention is the greater of $3.9M or 2.1% of subject premium in annual losses otherwise recoverable in excess of the $500k retention per loss occurrence.

Large professional liability risks that are above the limits of our basic reinsurance treaties are reinsured on a facultative basis, whereby the reinsurer agrees to insure a particular risk up to a designated limit. We also have in place a number of risk sharing arrangements that apply to the first $1 million of losses for certain large healthcare systems and other insurance entities, as well as with certain insurance agencies that produce business for us.

Other Reinsurance Arrangements

For the workers' compensation business ceded to Inova Re and Eastern Re, each SPC has in place its own reinsurance arrangements; which are illustrated in the following table.

Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance



Per Occurrence Coverage		Aggregate Coverage ⁽¹⁾

⁽¹⁾Prior to May 1, 2018, ProAssurance assumed 100% of aggregate losses in excess of an aggregate attachment point with a maximum loss limit of $100K. Effective May 1, 2018, ProAssurance no longer participates in the aggregate reinsurance coverage.

⁽²⁾The attachment point is based on a percentage of written premium within individual cells (average is 89%) and varies by cell.

Each SPC has participants and the profit or loss of each cell accrues fully to these cell participants. As previously discussed, we participate in certain SPCs to a varying degree. Each SPC maintains a loss fund initially equal to the difference between premium assumed by the cell and the ceding commission. The external participants of each cell provide a letter of credit to us that is initially equal to the difference between the loss fund of the SPC (amount of funds available to pay losses after deduction of ceding commission) and the aggregate attachment point of the reinsurance. Over time, an SPC's retained profits are considered in the determination of the collateral amount required to be provided by the cell's external participants.

Within our Lloyd's Syndicates segment, Syndicate 1729 utilizes reinsurance to provide capacity to write larger limits of liability on individual risks, to provide protection against catastrophic loss and to provide protection against losses in excess of policy limits. The level of reinsurance that Syndicate 1729 purchases is dependent on a number of factors, including its underwriting risk appetite for catastrophic exposure, the specific risks inherent in each line or class of business written and the pricing, coverage and terms and conditions available from the reinsurance market. Reinsurance protection by line of business is as follows:

Reinsurance is utilized on a per risk basis for the property insurance and casualty coverages in order to mitigate risk volatility.

Catastrophic protection is utilized on both our property insurance and casualty coverages to protect against losses in excess of policy limits as well as natural catastrophes.

Both quota share reinsurance and excess of loss reinsurance are utilized to manage the net loss exposure on our property reinsurance coverages.

Property umbrella excess of loss reinsurance is utilized for peak catastrophe and frequency of catastrophe exposures.

External excess of loss reinsurance is utilized by Syndicate 1729 to manage the net loss exposure on the specialty property and contingency coverages ceded to Syndicate 6131 (see further discussion in Segment Operating Results - Lloyd's Syndicates section that follows).

Syndicate 1729 may still be exposed to losses that exceed the level of reinsurance purchased as well as to reinstatement premiums triggered by losses exceeding specified levels. Cash demands on Syndicate 1729 can vary significantly depending on the nature and intensity of a loss event. For significant reinsured catastrophe losses, the inability or unwillingness of the reinsurer to make timely payments under the terms of the reinsurance agreement could have an adverse effect on Syndicate 1729's liquidity.

Litigation

We are involved in various legal actions related to insurance policies and claims handling including, but not limited to, claims asserted against us by policyholders. These types of legal actions arise in the ordinary course of business and, in accordance with GAAP for insurance entities, are generally considered as a part of our loss reserving process, which is described in detail in our Critical Accounting Estimates section under the heading "Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses." We also have other direct actions against the Company unrelated to our claims activity which we evaluate and account for as a part of our other liabilities. For these corporate legal actions, we evaluate each case separately and establish what we believe is an appropriate reserve based on GAAP guidance related to contingent liabilities. As of September 30, ~~2017~~2019 there were no material reserves established for corporate legal actions.

Investing Activities and Related Cash Flows

Our investments at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and December 31, ~~2016~~2018 are comprised as follows:


	September 30, 2017				December 31, 2016				September 30, 2019				December 31, 2018
($ in thousands)	Carrying Value		% of Total Investment		Carrying Value		% of Total Investment		Carrying Value		% of Total Investment		Carrying Value		% of Total Investment
Fixed Maturities, Available for Sale
Fixed maturities, available for sale
U.S. Treasury obligations	$	148,372	4	%	$	146,539	4	%	$	120,920	3	%	$	120,201	4	%
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	18,772		1	%	30,235		1	%	22,334		1	%	35,354		1	%
State and municipal bonds	693,398		19	%	800,463		20	%	293,397		8	%	293,772		9	%
Corporate debt	1,272,782		34	%	1,278,991		33	%	1,348,649		39	%	1,223,475		37	%
Residential mortgage-backed securities	201,691		5	%	217,906		5	%	201,843		6	%	181,238		5	%
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	28,025		1	%	32,394		1	%	82,719		2	%	44,101		1	%
Other asset-backed securities	105,310		3	%	106,878		3	%	231,673		7	%	195,657		6	%
Total fixed maturities securities, available for sale	2,468,350		67	%	2,613,406		67	%
Total fixed maturities, available for sale									2,301,535		66	%	2,093,798		63	%
Fixed maturities, trading									45,295		1	%	38,188		1	%
Total fixed maturities									2,346,830		67	%	2,131,986		64	%

Equity securities, trading	411,796		11	%	387,274		10	%
Equity investments									409,100		12	%	442,937		13	%
Short-term investments	294,379		8	%	442,084		11	%	270,836		8	%	308,319		9	%
BOLI	61,652		2	%	60,134		1	%	65,653		2	%	64,096		1	%
Investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries	331,897		9	%	340,906		9	%	366,606		10	%	367,757		11	%
Other investments	103,764		3	%	81,892		2	%	37,049		1	%	34,287		2	%
Total Investments	$	3,671,838	100	%	$	3,925,696	100	%
Total investments									$	3,496,074	100	%	$	3,349,382	100	%

At September 30, 2019, 99% of our investments in available-for-sale fixed maturity securities were rated and the average rating was A+. The distribution of our investments in ~~fixed-maturity~~available-for-sale fixed maturity securities by rating were as follows:


									September 30, 2019				December 31, 2018
($ in thousands)	September 30, 2017				December 31, 2016				Carrying Value		% of Total Investment		Carrying Value		% of Total Investment
Rating*	Carrying Value		% of Fixed Maturities		Carrying Value		% of Fixed Maturities
AAA	$	630,286	26	%	$	676,815	26	%	$	706,875	31	%	$	645,300	31	%
AA+	199,761		8	%	213,892		8	%	83,868		3	%	101,328		5	%
AA	188,781		8	%	227,076		9	%	138,901		6	%	120,801		6	%
AA-	225,674		9	%	243,562		9	%	155,946		7	%	155,352		7	%
A+	283,201		11	%	271,534		10	%	177,490		8	%	190,595		9	%
A	303,659		12	%	282,530		11	%	341,298		15	%	311,036		15	%
A-	196,333		8	%	221,139		9	%	157,089		7	%	146,721		7	%
BBB+	123,972		5	%	132,705		5	%	187,486		8	%	133,199		6	%
BBB	112,461		5	%	115,867		4	%	159,508		7	%	118,864		6	%
BBB-	47,709		2	%	54,366		2	%	53,222		2	%	50,466		2	%
Below investment grade	124,605		5	%	146,071		6	%	130,710		5	%	100,447		5	%
Not rated	31,908		1	%	27,849		1	%	9,142		1	%	19,689		1	%
Total	$	2,468,350	100	%	$	2,613,406	100	%	$	2,301,535	100	%	$	2,093,798	100	%
*Average of three NRSRO sources, presented as an S&P equivalent. Source: S&P, Copyright ©2017, S&P Global Market Intelligence
*Average of three NRSRO sources, presented as an S&P equivalent. Source: S&P, Copyright ©2019, S&P Global Market Intelligence									*Average of three NRSRO sources, presented as an S&P equivalent. Source: S&P, Copyright ©2019, S&P Global Market Intelligence

A detailed listing of our investment holdings as of September 30, ~~2017~~2019 is located under the Financial Information heading on the Investor Relations page of our website which can be reached directly at www.proassurance.com/investmentholdings or through links from the Investor Relations section of our website, ~~Investor.Proassurance.com.~~investor.proassurance.com.

We manage our investments to ensure that we will have sufficient liquidity to meet our obligations, taking into consideration the timing of cash flows from our investments, including interest payments, dividends and principal payments, as well as the expected cash flows to be generated by our operations. In addition to the interest and dividends we will receive, we

anticipate that between ~~$50~~$40 million and $90 million of our investments will mature (or be paid down) each quarter over the next twelve months and become available, if needed, to meet our cash flow requirements. The primary outflow of cash at our insurance subsidiaries is related to paid losses and operating costs, including income taxes. The payment of individual claims cannot be predicted with certainty; therefore, we rely upon the history of paid claims in estimating the timing of future claims payments. To the extent that we may have an unanticipated shortfall in cash, we may either liquidate securities or borrow funds under existing borrowing arrangements through our ~~credit facility~~Revolving Credit Agreement and the FHLB system. As of October 31, ~~2017, $116~~2019, $250 million could be made available for use through our ~~credit facility,~~Revolving Credit Agreement, as discussed in this section under the heading "Debt." Given the duration of our investments, we do not foresee a shortfall that would require us to meet operating cash needs through additional borrowings. Additional information regarding ~~the credit facility~~our Revolving Credit Agreement is detailed in Note 79 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

~~As discussed~~At September 30, 2019, our FAL was comprised of fixed maturity securities with a fair value of $124.6 million and cash and cash equivalents of $10.1 million deposited with Lloyd's. See further discussion in Note 3 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, our fixed maturity and short-term investments include securities deposited with Lloyd's in order to meet our FAL requirement. At September 30, 2017 securities on deposit with Lloyd's included fixed maturities having a fair value of $98.7 million and short-term investments with a fair value of $0.5 million.Statements.

Our investment portfolio continues to be primarily composed of high quality fixed income securities with approximately 94% of our fixed maturities being investment grade securities as determined by national rating agencies. The weighted average effective duration of our fixed maturity securities at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 was ~~3.41~~2.95 years; the weighted average effective duration of our fixed maturity securities combined with our short-term securities was ~~3.04~~2.64 years.

The carrying value and unfunded commitments for certain of our investments ~~are the following:~~were as follows:


	Carrying Value				September 30, 2017			Carrying Value				September 30, 2019
($ in thousands, except expected funding period)	September 30, 2017		December 31, 2016		Unfunded Commitment		Expected funding period in years	September 30, 2019		December 31, 2018		Unfunded Commitment		Expected funding period in years
Qualified affordable housing project tax credit partnerships ⁽¹⁾	$	91,598	$	102,313	$	1,325	6	$	50,989	$	65,677	$	885	6
Historic tax credit partnerships ⁽²⁾	8,355		11,459		3,642		2	2,570		3,757		276		1
Investment fund LPs/LLCs ⁽²⁾	280,449		273,986		165,947		6
All other investments, primarily investment fund LPs/LLCs								313,047		298,323		176,343		5
Total	$	380,402	$	387,758	$	170,914		$	366,606	$	367,757	$	177,504
⁽¹⁾ The carrying value reflects our total commitments (both funded and unfunded) to the partnerships, less any amortization, since our initial investment. We fund these investments based on funding schedules maintained by the partnerships.	⁽¹⁾ The carrying value reflects our total commitments (both funded and unfunded) to the partnerships, less any amortization, since our initial investment. We fund these investments based on funding schedules maintained by the partnerships.							⁽¹⁾ The carrying value reflects our total commitments (both funded and unfunded) to the partnerships, less any amortization, since our initial investment. We fund these investments based on funding schedules maintained by the partnerships.
⁽²⁾ The carrying value reflects our funded commitments less any amortization.	⁽²⁾ The carrying value reflects our funded commitments less any amortization.							⁽²⁾ The carrying value reflects our funded commitments less any amortization.

Investment fund LPs/LLCs are by nature less liquid and may involve more risk than other investments. We manage our risk through diversification of asset class and geographic location. At September 30, ~~2017,~~2019, we had investments in 2938 separate investment funds with a total carrying value ~~as shown in the table above,~~of $313.0 million which represented 8%approximately 9% of our ~~Total Investments.~~total investments. We review and monitor the performance of these investments on a quarterly basis.

Financing Activities and Related Cash Flows

Treasury Shares

During ~~2017~~the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, we ~~have~~did not ~~repurchased~~repurchase any common shares and, as of October 31, ~~2017,~~2019, our remaining Board authorization was approximately ~~$109.6~~$110 million. ~~During the nine months ended~~ ~~September 30, 2016~~ ~~we repurchased approximately 44,500 common shares, having a total cost of approximately $2.1 million (we did not repurchase any shares during the three months ended September 30, 2016).~~

ProAssurance Shareholder Dividends

Our Board declared quarterly cash dividends of $0.31 per share during each of the first three quarters of both ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016~~2018, each of which was paid in the following quarter. Dividends paid in the first nine months of ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016~~2018 included special dividends of ~~$4.69~~$0.50 and ~~$1.00~~$4.69 per share, respectively, declared in the fourth quarters of ~~2016~~2018 and ~~2015,~~2017, respectively. Any decision to pay future cash dividends is subject to the Board’s final determination after a comprehensive review of financial performance, future expectations and other factors deemed relevant by the Board.

Debt

At September 30, ~~2017~~2019 our debt included $250 million of outstanding unsecured senior notes. The notes bear interest at 5.3% annually and are due in 2023 although they may be redeemed in whole or part prior to maturity. There are no financial covenants associated with these notes.

We have a Revolving Credit Agreement, which expires in June 2020, that may be used for general corporate purposes, including, but not limited to, short-term working capital, share repurchases as authorized by the Board and support for other activities. Our Revolving Credit Agreement permits borrowings of up to $200 million, and has available a $50 million accordion feature, which, if successfully subscribed, would expand permitted borrowings up to $250 million. ~~During the third quarter of 2017, we repaid $26 million of the balance~~At September 30, 2019, there were no outstanding borrowings on ~~the~~our Revolving Credit ~~Agreement, and at September 30, 2017,~~Agreement; we had outstanding borrowings of $152 million, on a fully secured basis. In October 2017, we repaid $18 million of the balance outstanding on the Revolving Credit Agreement, and all remaining outstanding borrowings are repayable or renewable in the fourth quarter of 2017. Repayment can be deferred until expiration of the Revolving Credit Agreement in June 2020. We are in compliance with the financial covenants of the Revolving Credit Agreement.

We have Mortgage Loans with one lender in connection with the recapitalization of two office buildings, which mature in December 2027. The Mortgage Loans accrue interest at three-month LIBOR plus 1.325% with principal and interest payable on a quarterly basis. At September 30, 2019, the outstanding balance of the Mortgage Loans was approximately $38 million; we are in compliance with the financial covenant of the Mortgage Loans.

Additional information regarding our debt is provided in Note 79 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

We utilize an interest rate cap agreement with a notional amount of $35 million to manage our exposure to increases in LIBOR on our Mortgage Loans. Per the interest rate cap agreement, we are ~~a member~~entitled to receive cash payments if and when the three-month LIBOR exceeds 2.35%. Additional information on our interest rate cap agreement is provided in Note 10 of ~~two FHLBs.~~the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Two of our insurance subsidiaries are members of an FHLB. Through membership, wethose subsidiaries have access to secured cash advances which can be used for liquidity purposes or other operational needs. In order for us to use FHLB proceeds, regulatory approvals may be required depending on the nature of the transaction. To date, wethose subsidiaries have not materially utilized ~~our~~their membership for borrowing purposes.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We have no significant off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a material current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources. See more information on our off-balance sheet arrangements in Note 7 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Results of Operations – Three and Nine Months EndedSeptember 30, ~~2017~~2019 Compared to Three and Nine Months EndedSeptember 30, ~~2016~~2018

Selected consolidated financial data for each period is summarized in the table below.


	Three Months Ended September 30										Nine Months Ended September 30										Three Months Ended September 30										Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands, except per share data)	2017			2016			Change				2017			2016			Change				2019			2018			Change				2019			2018			Change
Revenues:
Net premiums written	$	216,706		$	205,775		$	10,931			$	596,584		$	573,071		$	23,513			$	228,058		$	229,329		$	(1,271	)		$	663,784		$	652,230		$	11,554
Net premiums earned	$	192,303		$	185,275		$	7,028			$	555,559		$	539,587		$	15,972			$	215,788		$	206,070		$	9,718			$	633,086		$	616,819		$	16,267
Net investment result	27,893			21,912			5,981				78,081			68,677			9,404				22,404			28,494			(6,090		)		62,798			79,924			(17,126		)
Net realized investment gains (losses)	7,749			15,737			(7,988		)		18,810			18,314			496				1,134			12,373			(11,239		)		47,064			2,651			44,413
Other income	510			1,428			(918		)		4,581			5,963			(1,382		)		2,548			2,388			160				7,419			7,155			264
Total revenues	228,455			224,352			4,103				657,031			632,541			24,490				241,874			249,325			(7,451		)		750,367			706,549			43,818

Expenses:
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	129,356			118,082			11,274				364,058			335,936			28,122				161,614			147,605			14,009				489,808			439,120			50,688
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses	57,111			55,812			1,299				172,106			166,735			5,371				61,861			61,844			17				185,960			178,812			7,148
Segregated portfolio cells dividend expense (income)	2,891			3,196			(305		)		14,076			5,895			8,181				3,621			5,255			(1,634		)		1,375			9,787			(8,412		)
Interest expense	4,124			3,748			376				12,402			11,285			1,117				4,274			3,599			675				12,850			11,262			1,588
Total expenses	193,482			180,838			12,644				562,642			519,851			42,791				231,370			218,303			13,067				689,993			638,981			51,012
Income before income taxes	34,973			43,514			(8,541		)		94,389			112,690			(18,301		)		10,504			31,022			(20,518		)		60,374			67,568			(7,194		)
Income tax expense (benefit)	6,024			9,680			(3,656		)		4,467			16,457			(11,990		)		(6,689		)	(206		)	(6,483		)		(4		)	(3,939		)	3,935
Net income	$	28,949		$	33,834		$	(4,885	)		$	89,922		$	96,233		$	(6,311	)		$	17,193		$	31,228		$	(14,035	)		$	60,378		$	71,507		$	(11,129	)
Operating income	$	24,263		$	24,437		$	(174	)		$	79,020		$	85,398		$	(6,378	)
Non-GAAP operating income																					$	16,269		$	22,417		$	(6,148	)		$	24,567		$	69,858		$	(45,291	)
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.54		$	0.64		$	(0.10	)		$	1.68		$	1.81		$	(0.13	)		$	0.32		$	0.58		$	(0.26	)		$	1.12		$	1.33		$	(0.21	)
Diluted	$	0.54		$	0.63		$	(0.09	)		$	1.68		$	1.80		$	(0.12	)		$	0.32		$	0.58		$	(0.26	)		$	1.12		$	1.33		$	(0.21	)
Operating earnings per share:
Non-GAAP operating earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.45		$	0.46		$	(0.01	)		$	1.48		$	1.61		$	(0.13	)		$	0.30		$	0.42		$	(0.12	)		$	0.46		$	1.30		$	(0.84	)
Diluted	$	0.45		$	0.46		$	(0.01	)		$	1.47		$	1.60		$	(0.13	)		$	0.30		$	0.42		$	(0.12	)		$	0.46		$	1.30		$	(0.84	)
Net loss ratio	67.3		%	63.7		%	3.6			pts	65.5		%	62.3		%	3.2			pts	74.9		%	71.6		%	3.3			pts	77.4		%	71.2		%	6.2			pts
Underwriting expense ratio	29.7		%	30.1		%	(0.4		)	pts	31.0		%	30.9		%	0.1			pts	28.7		%	30.0		%	(1.3		)	pts	29.4		%	29.0		%	0.4			pts
Combined ratio	97.0		%	93.8		%	3.2			pts	96.5		%	93.2		%	3.3			pts	103.6		%	101.6		%	2.0			pts	106.8		%	100.2		%	6.6			pts
Operating ratio	84.7		%	80.2		%	4.5			pts	84.0		%	79.2		%	4.8			pts	92.6		%	90.3		%	2.3			pts	95.7		%	89.2		%	6.5			pts
Effective tax rate	17.2		%	22.2		%	(5.0		)	pts	4.7		%	14.6		%	(9.9		)	pts	(63.7		%)	(0.7		%)	(63.0		)	pts	—		%	(5.8		%)	5.8			pts
Return on equity*	6.3		%	6.6		%	(0.3		)	pts	6.6		%	6.4		%	0.2			pts	4.3		%	7.9		%	(3.6		)	pts	5.2		%	6.0		%	(0.8		)	pts

*Annualized
* Annualized																					* Annualized
In all tables that follow, the abbreviation "nm" indicates that the information or the percentage change is not meaningful.	In all tables that follow, the abbreviation "nm" indicates that the information or the percentage change is not meaningful.																				In all tables that follow, the abbreviation "nm" indicates that the information or the percentage change is not meaningful.

Executive Summary of Operations

The following sections provide an overview of our consolidated and segment results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 as compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2016.~~2018. See the Segment Operating Results sections that follow for additional information regarding each segment's operating results.

Revenues

The following table shows our consolidated and segment ~~Net~~net premiums earned:


	Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30								Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017		2016		Change				2017		2016		Change				2019		2018		Change				2019		2018		Change
Net premiums earned
Specialty P&C	$	118,331	$	116,199	$	2,132	1.8	%	$	340,394	$	335,080	$	5,314	1.6	%	$	125,237	$	120,789	$	4,448	3.7	%	$	375,315	$	378,355	$	(3,040	)	(0.8	%)
Workers' Compensation	57,654		54,498		3,156		5.8	%	169,791		163,974		5,817		3.5	%
Lloyd's Syndicate	16,318		14,578		1,740		11.9	%	45,374		40,533		4,841		11.9	%
Workers' Compensation Insurance																	49,477		47,296		2,181		4.6	%	141,990		135,230		6,760			5.0	%
Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance																	19,779		18,963		816		4.3	%	58,566		54,247		4,319			8.0	%
Lloyd's Syndicates																	21,295		19,022		2,273		11.9	%	57,215		48,987		8,228			16.8	%
Consolidated total	$	192,303	$	185,275	$	7,028	3.8	%	$	555,559	$	539,587	$	15,972	3.0	%	$	215,788	$	206,070	$	9,718	4.7	%	$	633,086	$	616,819	$	16,267		2.6	%

~~All of our operating segments contributed to the increase in Net~~Consolidated net premiums earned for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 included $2.7 million of premium written and fully earned from a loss portfolio transfer entered into during the third quarter of 2019 in our Specialty P&C segment. For the nine months ended September 30, 2018, our consolidated net premiums earned included $26.6 million of premium written and fully earned from a loss portfolio transfer entered into during the second quarter of 2018 in our Specialty P&C segment. See further discussion of these loss portfolio transfers in our Segment Operating Results - Specialty Property & Casualty section that follows. After removing the impacts of the 2019 and 2018 loss portfolio transfers, consolidated net premiums earned increased $7.0 million and $40.2 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017,~~2019, respectively, as compared to the same periods of 2018. All of our operating segments contributed to the remaining increase in consolidated net premiums earned during three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 as compared to the same respective periods of ~~2016.~~2018. For the 2019 nine-month period, the remaining increase was driven by our Specialty P&C segment due to the pro rata effect of an increase in the volume of written premium during the preceding twelve months, predominantly in our healthcare facilities and physicians lines of business, driven by an increase in renewal pricing.

The following table shows our consolidated ~~Net~~net investment result:


	Three Months Ended September 30										Nine Months Ended September 30										Three Months Ended September 30										Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017		2016			Change					2017		2016			Change					2019			2018		Change					2019			2018		Change
Net investment income	$	23,729	$	25,261		$	(1,532	)	(6.1	%)	$	69,592	$	75,284		$	(5,692	)	(7.6	%)	$	23,681		$	23,266	$	415		1.8	%	$	70,038		$	67,677	$	2,361		3.5	%
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries	4,164		(3,349		)	7,513			224.3	%	8,489		(6,607		)	15,096			228.5	%	(1,277		)	5,228		(6,505		)	(124.4	%)	(7,240		)	12,247		(19,487		)	(159.1	%)
Net investment result	$	27,893	$	21,912		$	5,981		27.3	%	$	78,081	$	68,677		$	9,404		13.7	%	$	22,404		$	28,494	$	(6,090	)	(21.4	%)	$	62,798		$	79,924	$	(17,126	)	(21.4	%)

The ~~increase~~decrease in our ~~Net~~consolidated net investment result for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 was attributable to an increase in earnings from our unconsolidated subsidiaries of $7.5 million and $15.1 million, respectively, due to higher reported earnings from our investments in LPs/LLCs and the effect of a smaller increase in the estimate of partnership operating losses related to our tax credit partnerships in the 2017 three- and nine-month periods2019 as compared to the same periods of ~~2016. These increases were partially offset by~~2018 was primarily attributable to a ~~reduction~~decrease in earnings from our ~~fixed income portfolio of $2.1 million and $6.9 million, respectively, which reflected both lower yields and lower average~~unconsolidated subsidiaries, somewhat offset by an increase in net investment ~~balances.~~

~~During the 2017 three- and nine-month periods, we had Net realized investment gains of $7.7 million and $18.8 million, respectively, as compared to $15.7 million and $18.3 million~~income. The decrease in earnings from our unconsolidated subsidiaries for the ~~same respective periods of 2016. We did not recognize any OTTI in earnings during the~~ three ~~months ended September 30, 2017 as compared to $0.1 million during the same respective period of 2016. OTTI recognized in earnings for the~~and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 was ~~$0.2 million~~driven by lower reported earnings from two LP investments. The increase in net investment income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 was primarily due to higher earnings from our fixed maturity securities and short-term investments due to higher yields in certain asset classes within those portfolios as compared to ~~$9.8 million for~~ the same ~~respective period~~periods of ~~2016.~~2018.

The following table shows our total consolidated net realized investment gains (losses):



	Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019			2018			Change					2019			2018			Change
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings	$	(30	)	$	(86	)	$	56		(65.1	%)	$	(78	)	$	(490	)	$	412	(84.1	%)
Other net realized investment gains (losses)	1,164			12,459			(11,295		)	(90.7	%)	47,142			3,141			44,001		1,400.9	%
Net realized investment gains (losses)	$	1,134		$	12,373		$	(11,239	)	(90.8	%)	$	47,064		$	2,651		$	44,413	1,675.3	%

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, we recognized a nominal amount of both credit related OTTI in earnings and non-credit OTTI in OCI, both of which related to a corporate bond. We recognized OTTI in earnings of $0.1 million and $0.5 million during the 2018 three- and nine- month periods, respectively, related to debt instruments from two issuers in the energy sector.

Other net realized investment gains primarily reflected changes in the value of our equity trading portfolio and realized gains and losses from the sale of equity securities during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods. See further discussion in our Segment Operating Results - Corporate section that follows.

Expenses

The following table shows our consolidated and segment net loss ratios and net prior accident year loss development:


	Three Months Ended September 30										Nine Months Ended September 30										Three Months Ended September 30										Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in millions)	2017			2016			Change				2017			2016			Change
($ in thousands)																					2019			2018			Change				2019			2018			Change
Current accident year net loss ratio
Consolidated ratio	84.1		%	79.4		%	4.7			pts	81.7		%	79.8		%	1.9			pts	82.3		%	82.1		%	0.2			pts	84.0		%	82.1		%	1.9			pts
Specialty P&C	87.8		%	88.1		%	(0.3		)	pts	88.7		%	88.3		%	0.4			pts	94.5		%	93.4		%	1.1			pts	93.9		%	91.9		%	2.0			pts
Workers' Compensation	64.8		%	66.6		%	(1.8		)	pts	65.3		%	65.9		%	(0.6		)	pts
Lloyd's Syndicate	124.6		%	58.1		%	66.5			pts	91.0		%	65.0		%	26.0			pts
Workers' Compensation Insurance																					68.2		%	70.7		%	(2.5		)	pts	68.2		%	68.0		%	0.2			pts
Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance																					66.1		%	64.8		%	1.3			pts	82.5		%	66.0		%	16.5			pts
Lloyd's Syndicates																					58.3		%	56.1		%	2.2			pts	60.5		%	62.7		%	(2.2		)	pts

Calendar year net loss ratio
Consolidated ratio	67.3		%	63.7		%	3.6			pts	65.5		%	62.3		%	3.2			pts	74.9		%	71.6		%	3.3			pts	77.4		%	71.2		%	6.2			pts
Specialty P&C	62.4		%	62.2		%	0.2			pts	64.7		%	61.4		%	3.3			pts	85.9		%	81.4		%	4.5			pts	85.6		%	77.4		%	8.2			pts
Workers' Compensation	60.8		%	63.3		%	(2.5		)	pts	60.8		%	63.5		%	(2.7		)	pts
Lloyd's Syndicate	125.3		%	77.5		%	47.8			pts	89.7		%	64.1		%	25.6			pts
Workers' Compensation Insurance																					65.4		%	64.8		%	0.6			pts	65.8		%	64.9		%	0.9			pts
Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance																					49.4		%	45.1		%	4.3			pts	69.1		%	50.8		%	18.3			pts
Lloyd's Syndicates																					55.9		%	52.7		%	3.2			pts	60.5		%	63.3		%	(2.8		)	pts

Favorable (unfavorable) net loss development, prior accident years
Consolidated	$	32.3		$	29.0		$	3.3			$	90.1		$	94.5		$	(4.4	)		$	15,941		$	21,549		$	(5,608	)		$	42,212		$	67,149		$	(24,937	)
Specialty P&C	$	30.1		$	30.0		$	0.1			$	81.9		$	90.2		$	(8.3	)		$	10,750		$	14,400		$	(3,650	)		$	31,030		$	55,045		$	(24,015	)
Workers' Compensation	$	2.3		$	1.8		$	0.5			$	7.6		$	3.9		$	3.7
Lloyd's Syndicate	$	(0.1	)	$	(2.8	)	$	2.7			$	0.6		$	0.4		$	0.2
Workers' Compensation Insurance																					$	1,388		$	2,788		$	(1,400	)		$	3,413		$	4,163		$	(750	)
Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance																					$	3,301		$	3,724		$	(423	)		$	7,815		$	8,248		$	(433	)
Lloyd's Syndicates																					$	502		$	637		$	(135	)		$	(46	)	$	(307	)	$	261

~~Our~~The slight increase in our consolidated current accident year net loss ratio ~~increased 4.7 and 1.9 percentage points for~~during the ~~2017 three- and nine-month periods, respectively,~~2019 three-month period as compared to the same ~~periods~~respective period of ~~2016.~~2018 was primarily due to a higher current accident year net loss ratio in our Specialty P&C segment, largely offset by a lower current accident year net loss ratio in our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment. The current accident year net loss ratio in our Specialty P&C segment was higher due to our continued concern

around loss trends in the broader HCPL industry. Additionally, as compared to the 2018 three-month period, the current accident year net loss ratio in our Specialty P&C segment was higher due to the effect of a reduction in the 2018 three-month period to ceded premiums owed under reinsurance agreements with variable premium components for prior accident years which increased net premiums earned during the 2018 three-month period; however, no such adjustment was made during the 2019 three-month period (see further discussion in our Segment Operating Results - Specialty P&C section that follows under the heading "Ceded Premiums Written"). Furthermore, the increase in ~~both periods~~the current accident year net loss ratio in our Specialty P&C segment during the three-month period was due to ~~losses, somewhat offset by reinstatement premiums, related~~changes in the mix of business including a higher volume of earned premium in our excess and surplus lines of business, which carries a higher loss ratio as compared to ~~Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria~~the segment's overall book of business. In our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment, the current accident year net loss ratio for the 2018 three-month period was higher as compared to the 2019 three-month period due to an increase to the ratio during the third quarter of ~~2017~~2018 driven by the impact of severity-related claim activity related to economic growth trends and the increase in new and less experienced workers to the workforce.

As shown in the table below, two one-time events impacted our net loss ratios and affected the comparability between the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and the nine months ended September 30, 2018. For the nine months ended September 30, 2019, our consolidated and Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment net loss ratios were affected by a $10 million reserve that an SPC at Eastern Re established during the second quarter of 2019 associated with an errors and omissions ("E&O") liability policy. We do not participate in the SPC that assumed this policy; therefore, these losses are the obligation of the external cell participants and are reflected in the SPC dividend expense (income), which is an offset to expenses, and thus has no effect on our net income or Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment operating results for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 (see further discussion in our ~~Lloyd's Syndicate~~Segment Operating Results - Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance section that follows). Furthermore, for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, our consolidated and Specialty P&C segment ~~which resulted~~net loss ratios were affected by a loss portfolio transfer ($26.6 million of net premiums earned at a 95% loss ratio) entered into during the second quarter of 2018 (see further discussion in ~~a 4.0~~our Segment Operating Results - Specialty Property & Casualty section that follows).

Given the significance of these two one-time events, we have removed the impact of each from the consolidated loss ratios below (as shown in the columns labeled "Adjusted") in order to assist in the comparability between periods. Consolidated net loss ratios for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and ~~1.4 percentage point increase to~~2018 were as follows:



	Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019						2018						Change
	As reported		E&O reserve impact		Adjusted		As reported		LPT impact		Adjusted		As reported		Adjusted
Calendar year net loss ratio	77.4	%	1.6	pts	75.8	%	71.2	%	1.2	pts	70.0	%	6.2	pts	5.8	pts
Less impact of prior accident years on the net loss ratio	(6.6	%)	0.1	pts	(6.7	%)	(10.9	%)	0.5	pts	(11.4	%)	4.3	pts	4.7	pts
Current accident year net loss ratio	84.0	%	1.5	pts	82.5	%	82.1	%	0.7	pts	81.4	%	1.9	pts	1.1	pts

Excluding the impact of the previously discussed one-time events as shown in the table above, our consolidated current accident year net loss ratio for ~~2017~~the 2019 nine-month period increased approximately 1.1 percentage points as compared to the same period of 2018. The increase during the 2019 nine-month period was primarily due to a higher current accident year net loss ratio in our Specialty P&C segment due to the same factors as previously discussed that drove the segment's higher loss ratio for the 2019 three-month period, partially offset by a lower current accident year net loss ratio in our Lloyd's Syndicates segment driven by an increase in estimated reinsurance recoveries related to property and catastrophe related losses as compared to the prior year period.

In both the 2019 and 2018 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods, ~~respectively. See further discussion in the Segment Operating Results - Lloyd's Syndicate section that follows.~~

~~Our~~our consolidated calendar year net loss ~~ratios for both 2017 and 2016 periods were~~ratio was lower than our consolidated current accident year net loss ~~ratios~~ratio due to the recognition of net favorable ~~loss~~prior year reserve development, as shown in the previous ~~table.~~tables. Net favorable prior year reserve development recognized in the 2019 three- and nine- month periods was lower as compared to same respective periods of 2018 primarily due to the observed increase in claim severity in the broader HCPL industry as well as prior year loss volatility in large account business in our Specialty P&C segment.

Our consolidated and segment underwriting expense ratios were as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30							Nine Months Ended September 30							Three Months Ended September 30							Nine Months Ended September 30
	2017		2016		Change			2017		2016		Change			2019		2018		Change			2019		2018		Change
Underwriting Expense Ratio
Consolidated	29.7	%	30.1	%	(0.4	)	pts	31.0	%	30.9	%	0.1		pts	28.7	%	30.0	%	(1.3	)	pts	29.4	%	29.0	%	0.4		pts
Specialty P&C	22.8	%	22.9	%	(0.1	)	pts	23.3	%	23.1	%	0.2		pts	23.7	%	23.1	%	0.6		pts	23.8	%	22.2	%	1.6		pts
Workers' Compensation	32.0	%	33.6	%	(1.6	)	pts	30.8	%	32.0	%	(1.2	)	pts
Lloyd's Syndicate	41.2	%	42.9	%	(1.7	)	pts	43.6	%	41.1	%	2.5		pts
Workers' Compensation Insurance															30.1	%	32.6	%	(2.5	)	pts	30.6	%	30.7	%	(0.1	)	pts
Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance															30.1	%	29.1	%	1.0		pts	29.2	%	29.6	%	(0.4	)	pts
Lloyd's Syndicates															44.2	%	44.4	%	(0.2	)	pts	44.5	%	48.5	%	(4.0	)	pts
Corporate*	2.6	%	2.7	%	(0.1	)	pts	3.8	%	3.8	%	—		pts	1.2	%	2.5	%	(1.3	)	pts	2.0	%	2.5	%	(0.5	)	pts
* There are no Net premiums earned associated with the Corporate segment. Ratio shown is the contribution of the Corporate segment to the consolidated ratio (Corporate operating expenses divided by consolidated Net premium earned).
*There are no net premiums earned associated with the Corporate segment. Ratios shown are the contribution of the Corporate segment to the consolidated ratio (Corporate operating expenses divided by consolidated net premium earned).															*There are no net premiums earned associated with the Corporate segment. Ratios shown are the contribution of the Corporate segment to the consolidated ratio (Corporate operating expenses divided by consolidated net premium earned).

Our consolidated underwriting expense ratio decreased ~~0.4 percentage points~~ for the ~~2017~~2019 three-month period as compared to the same respective period of ~~2016~~2018 driven by a decrease in consolidated share-based compensation expenses and other compensation related costs and, to a lesser extent, a decrease in operating expenses in our Lloyd's Syndicates segment primarily due to the effect of higher ~~Net~~operational expenses incurred during the 2018 three- and nine- month periods associated with the establishment of Syndicate 6131. The decrease in our consolidated underwriting expense ratio for the 2019 three-month period was partially offset by an increase in operating expenses in our Specialty P&C segment driven by fees associated with a data analytics services agreement entered into in the fourth quarter of 2018 and, to a lesser extent, an increase in consolidated DPAC amortization which somewhat outpaced the increase in consolidated net premiums earned.

Our consolidated underwriting expense ratio slightly increased for the 2019 nine-month period as compared to the same respective period of 2018 due to the effect of a loss portfolio transfer (net premiums earned ~~from all~~with minimal associated operating expenses) entered into during the second quarter of 2018 in our ~~operating segments~~Specialty P&C segment (see further discussion in our Segment Operating Results - Specialty Property & Casualty section that follows). Excluding the impact of the 2018 loss portfolio transfer, our consolidated underwriting expense ratio for the 2019 nine-month period decreased approximately 1.0 percentage point driven by an increase in consolidated net premiums earned, excluding the impact of the 2018 loss portfolio transfer, which outpaced the increase in consolidated DPAC amortization and a decrease in ~~operating~~consolidated share-based compensation expenses driven by our Specialty P&C segment, offset almost entirely by an increase in DPAC amortization. For the 2017 nine-month period, the effect of higher Net premiums earned on the consolidated underwriting expense ratio was offset entirely by the effect of an increase in DPAC amortization, driven by our Specialty P&C segment.and other compensation related costs.

Taxes

Our ~~projected~~ effective tax rates for the ~~2017~~nine months ended September 30, 2019 and ~~2016 nine-month periods~~2018 were ~~9.8%~~as follows:



	Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019		2018
Projected annual effective tax rate	(54.4	%)	(3.0	%)
Tax effect of discrete items	54.4	%	(2.8	%)
Total effective tax rate	—	%	(5.8	%)

Our projected annual effective tax rates were benefits of 54.4% and ~~11.7%,~~3.0% as of September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, before discrete items were considered. These discrete items increased our effective tax rate by 54.4% and reduced our effective tax rate by 2.8% for the 2019 and 2018 nine-month periods, respectively, as shown in the table above. For the 2019 and 2018 nine-month periods, the most significant discrete item that affected our effective tax rate was the treatment of net realized investment gains. This treatment of net realized investment gains of $44.4 million and $2.6 million in our Corporate segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, accounted for an increase of 55.4% and 0.9% in the effective tax rate in the same respective periods.

Our projected annual effective tax rates ~~for both the 2017~~as of September 30, 2019 and ~~2016 nine-month periods~~2018 were different from the statutory federal income tax rate of 21% primarily due to a portion of our investment income being tax-exempt and the utilization of tax credits transferred to us from our tax credit partnership investments. Discrete items reduced our projected effective tax rate for the 2017 nine-month period by 5.1% and increased our projected effective tax rate by 2.9% for the 2016 nine-month period. Notable discrete items during 2017 included the application of new guidance related to the improvement in accounting for share-based payments and the application of an exception under accounting guidance related to interim period taxes for entities subject to multiple tax jurisdictions (see further discussion under the heading "Taxes" within our Segment Operating Results - Corporate section that follows).

~~Operating Ratio and ROE~~

Our operating ratio (calculated as our combined ratio, less our investment income ratio) increased by 4.5 and 4.8 percentage points in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively. The increase in the 2017 three-month period primarily reflected a higher net loss ratio in our Lloyd's Syndicate segment driven by estimated losses recognized during the third quarter of 2017 related to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria (seeSee further discussion in the Segment Operating Results - ~~Lloyd's Syndicate~~Corporate section that ~~follows). The increase in~~follows under the ~~2017 nine-month~~heading "Taxes."

Operating Ratio

Our operating ratio is our combined ratio, less our investment income ratio. This ratio provides the combined effect of underwriting profitability and investment income. Our operating ratio for the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018 was as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30
	2019		2018		Change
Combined ratio	103.6	%	101.6	%	2.0		pts
Less: investment income ratio	11.0	%	11.3	%	(0.3	)	pts
Operating ratio	92.6	%	90.3	%	2.3		pts

Our operating ratio for the 2019 three-month period ~~primarily reflected~~as compared to the same period of 2018 increased by approximately 2.3 percentage points driven by a higher ~~net loss~~combined ratio in our Specialty P&C segment, partially offset by a lower expense ratio in our Corporate segment. The higher combined ratio in our Specialty P&C segment was due to our continued concern around loss trends in the broader HCPL industry and prior year loss volatility on large account business, both of which led to a lower amount of prior accident year favorable development, and, ~~Lloyd's Syndicate~~to a lesser extent, changes in the mix of premiums earned which contributed to a higher current accident year net loss ratio. The lower expense ratio in our Corporate segment ~~due to~~was driven by a decrease in share-based compensation expenses and other compensation related costs.

As shown in the ~~recognition~~table below, two one-time events impacted our operating ratios and affected the comparability between the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and the nine months ended September 30, 2018. During the nine months ended September 30, 2019, an SPC at Eastern Re established a $10 million reserve, as previously discussed, which increased our consolidated net loss ratio (see further discussion in our Segment Operating Results - Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance section that follows). We do not participate in the SPC that assumed this policy; therefore, these losses are the obligation of the ~~aforementioned estimated storm-related losses.~~external cell participants and are reflected in the SPC dividend expense (income). As the SPC dividend expense (income) is not included in the calculation of our expense ratio, our combined ratio for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 was affected by this reserve. Furthermore, for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, our investment income ratio was affected by the 2018 loss portfolio transfer ($26.6 million of net premiums earned with no immediate effect on net investment income).

Given the significance of these two one-time events, we have removed the impact of each from the ratios below for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018 (as shown in the columns labeled "Adjusted") in order to assist in the comparability between periods. Our operating ratio for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018 was as follows:



	Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019						2018							Change
	As reported		E&O reserve impact		Adjusted		As reported		LPT impact			Adjusted		As reported		Adjusted
Combined ratio	106.8	%	1.6	pts	105.2	%	100.2	%	(0.2	)	pts	100.4	%	6.6	pts	4.8		pts
Less: investment income ratio	11.1	%	—	pts	11.1	%	11.0	%	(0.5	)	pts	11.5	%	0.1	pts	(0.4	)	pts
Operating ratio	95.7	%	1.6	pts	94.1	%	89.2	%	0.3		pts	88.9	%	6.5	pts	5.2		pts

Excluding the impact of the previously discussed one-time events as shown in the table above, our operating ratio for the 2019 nine-month period increased by approximately 5.2 percentage points driven by the same factors as previously discussed that drove the higher operating ratio for the 2019 three-month period.

ROE

ROE ~~was 6.3%~~is calculated as annualized net income for the period divided by the average of beginning and ~~6.6%~~ending shareholders’ equity. This ratio measures our overall after-tax profitability and shows how efficiently capital is being used. ROE for the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017, respectively, compared to 6.6%~~2019 and ~~6.4%~~2018 was as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30							Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019		2018		Change			2019		2018		Change
ROE	4.3	%	7.9	%	(3.6	)	pts	5.2	%	6.0	%	(0.8	)	pts

The decrease in our ROE for the ~~same respective~~2019 three- and nine- month periods of ~~2016. The decrease for the 2017 three-month period was primarily due to a decrease in Net income, partially offset by a lower average equity base (the denominator of the ROE ratio)~~ as compared to the ~~prior year period. The increase for the 2017 nine-month period~~same periods of 2018 was ~~primarily~~ due to the decrease in net income, driven by a ~~lower average equity base, partially offset by~~higher combined ratio in our Specialty P&C segment, as previously discussed, and, to a lesser extent, a decrease in ~~Net income. The lower average equity base~~earnings from our unconsolidated subsidiaries. For the 2019 three-month period, the decrease in ~~2017~~our ROE also reflected a decrease in net realized investment gains as compared to ~~2016 was primarily due~~the same period of 2018. For the 2019 nine-month period, the increase in net realized investment gains as compared to ~~larger dividend declarations.~~the same period of 2018 largely offset the decreasing effect of a higher combined ratio in our Specialty P&C segment on our ROE.

Book Value per Share

~~We believe the payment of dividends is currently our most effective tool for the deployment of excess capital even though, in the short-term, dividend declarations dampen growth in book~~Book value per ~~share.~~share is calculated as total shareholders’ equity at the balance sheet date divided by the total number of common shares outstanding. This ratio measures the net worth of the Company to shareholders on a per-share basis. Our book value per share at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 as compared to December 31, ~~2016~~2018 is shown in the following table.

Book Value Per Share
Book Value Per Share at December 31, 2016 $ 33.78
Increase (decrease) to book value per share during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 attributable to:
Dividends declared (0.93 )
Net income 1.68
Increase in AOCI 0.15
Other (0.03 )
Book Value Per Share at September 30, 2017 $ 34.65



	Book Value Per Share
Book Value Per Share at December 31, 2018	$	28.39
Increase (decrease) to book value per share during the nine months ended September 30, 2019 attributable to:
Dividends declared	(0.93		)
Net income	1.12
OCI	1.04
Other *	(0.06		)
Book Value Per Share at September 30, 2019	$	29.56
* Includes the impact of cumulative effect adjustments related to ASUs adopted during 2019.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

~~Operating~~Non-GAAP operating income is a ~~non-GAAP~~ financial measure that is widely used to evaluate performance within the insurance sector. In calculating Non-GAAP operating income, we have excluded the after-tax effects of the items listed in the following table that do not reflect normal operating results. We believe Non-GAAP operating income presents a useful view of the performance of our insurance operations, ~~but~~however it should be considered in conjunction with ~~Net~~net income computed in accordance with GAAP.

The following table is a reconciliation of ~~Net~~net income to ~~Operating~~Non-GAAP operating income:


	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30						Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands, except per share data)	2017			2016			2017			2016			2019			2018			2019			2018
Net income	$	28,949		$	33,834		$	89,922		$	96,233		$	17,193		$	31,228		$	60,378		$	71,507
Items excluded in the calculation of operating income:
Items excluded in the calculation of Non-GAAP operating income:
Net realized investment (gains) losses	(7,749		)	(15,737		)	(18,810		)	(18,314		)	(1,134		)	(12,373		)	(47,064		)	(2,651		)
Net realized gains (losses) attributable to SPCs which no profit/loss is retained ⁽¹⁾	764			1,189			2,191			1,502			(132		)	1,130			1,531			387
Guaranty fund assessments (recoupments)	(225		)	91			(154		)	143			96			90			202			177
Pre-tax effect of exclusions	(7,210		)	(14,457		)	(16,773		)	(16,669		)	(1,170		)	(11,153		)	(45,331		)	(2,087		)
Tax effect, at 35% ⁽²⁾	2,524			5,060			5,871			5,834
Operating income	$	24,263		$	24,437		$	79,020		$	85,398
Tax effect, at 21% ⁽²⁾													246			2,342			9,520			438
After-tax effect of exclusions													(924		)	(8,811		)	(35,811		)	(1,649		)
Non-GAAP operating income													$	16,269		$	22,417		$	24,567		$	69,858
Per diluted common share:
Net income	$	0.54		$	0.63		$	1.68		$	1.80		$	0.32		$	0.58		$	1.12		$	1.33
Effect of exclusions	(0.09		)	(0.17		)	(0.21		)	(0.20		)	(0.02		)	(0.16		)	(0.66		)	(0.03		)
Operating income per diluted common share	$	0.45		$	0.46		$	1.47		$	1.60
⁽¹⁾Net realized investment gains (losses) on investments related to our SPCs are recognized in the earnings of our Corporate segment and the portion of earnings related to the gain or loss, net of our participation, is distributed back to the cells through our SPC dividend expense (income). To be consistent with our exclusion of Net realized investment gains (losses) recognized in earnings, we are excluding the portion of Net realized investment gains (losses) that is included in SPC dividend expense (income).
⁽²⁾The 35% rate above is the annual expected incremental tax rate associated with the taxable or tax deductible items listed. We record the provision for income taxes in our interim financial statements based upon our estimated annual effective tax rate. The effective tax rate for the period was applied to these items in calculating Net income. See previous discussion in this section under the heading "Taxes."
Non-GAAP operating income per diluted common share													$	0.30		$	0.42		$	0.46		$	1.30
⁽¹⁾ Net realized investment gains (losses) on investments related to SPCs are recognized in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment and the portion of operating earnings, including the gain or loss, net of our participation, is due to the external cell participants through the SPC dividend expense (income). To be consistent with our exclusion of net realized investment gains (losses) recognized in earnings, we are excluding the portion of net realized investment gains (losses) that is included in the SPC dividend expense (income) which is due to the external cell participants.													⁽¹⁾ Net realized investment gains (losses) on investments related to SPCs are recognized in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment and the portion of operating earnings, including the gain or loss, net of our participation, is due to the external cell participants through the SPC dividend expense (income). To be consistent with our exclusion of net realized investment gains (losses) recognized in earnings, we are excluding the portion of net realized investment gains (losses) that is included in the SPC dividend expense (income) which is due to the external cell participants.
⁽²⁾The 21% rate is the annual expected statutory tax rate associated with the taxable or tax deductible items listed above. Excluding net realized investment (gains) losses, which are discrete items and are tax effected at the annual expected statutory tax rate in the period they are included in net income, our effective tax rate for the respective periods was applied to these items in calculating net income. See previous discussion in this section under the heading "Taxes."													⁽²⁾The 21% rate is the annual expected statutory tax rate associated with the taxable or tax deductible items listed above. Excluding net realized investment (gains) losses, which are discrete items and are tax effected at the annual expected statutory tax rate in the period they are included in net income, our effective tax rate for the respective periods was applied to these items in calculating net income. See previous discussion in this section under the heading "Taxes."

Segment Operating Results - Specialty Property & Casualty

Our Specialty P&C segment focuses on professional liability insurance and medical technology liability insurance as discussed in Note 1114 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. ~~Our Specialty P&C segment~~Segment operating results ~~reflect~~reflected pre-tax underwriting profit or loss from these insurance lines, exclusive of investment results, which are included in our Corporate segment. Segment operating results included the following:


	Three Months Ended September 30												Nine Months Ended September 30												Three Months Ended September 30												Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017			2016			Change						2017			2016			Change						2019			2018			Change						2019			2018			Change
Net premiums written	$	143,286		$	134,989		$	8,297			6.1	%	$	367,112		$	354,510		$	12,602			3.6	%	$	141,299		$	143,921		$	(2,622	)		(1.8	%)	$	393,210		$	394,601		$	(1,391	)		(0.4	%)

Net premiums earned	$	118,331		$	116,199		$	2,132			1.8	%	$	340,394		$	335,080		$	5,314			1.6	%	$	125,237		$	120,789		$	4,448			3.7	%	$	375,315		$	378,355		$	(3,040	)		(0.8	%)
Other income	1,276			1,012			264				26.1	%	3,943			4,021			(78		)		(1.9	%)	1,858			1,426			432				30.3	%	4,536			3,945			591				15.0	%
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	(73,831		)	(72,311		)	(1,520		)		2.1	%	(220,123		)	(205,787		)	(14,336		)		7.0	%	(107,573		)	(98,363		)	(9,210		)		9.4	%	(321,248		)	(292,742		)	(28,506		)		9.7	%
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses	(27,037		)	(26,563		)	(474		)		1.8	%	(79,252		)	(77,519		)	(1,733		)		2.2	%	(29,700		)	(27,931		)	(1,769		)		6.3	%	(89,177		)	(83,833		)	(5,344		)		6.4	%
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income	65			(94		)	159				(169.1	%)	(5,026		)	(94		)	(4,932		)		5,246.8	%
Segment operating results	$	18,804		$	18,243		$	561			3.1	%	$	39,936		$	55,701		$	(15,765	)		(28.3	%)	$	(10,178	)	$	(4,079	)	$	(6,099	)		149.5	%	$	(30,574	)	$	5,725		$	(36,299	)		(634.0	%)

Net loss ratio	62.4%			62.2%			0.2			pts			64.7%			61.4%			3.3			pts			85.9%			81.4%			4.5			pts			85.6%			77.4%			8.2			pts
Underwriting expense ratio	22.8%			22.9%			(0.1		)	pts			23.3%			23.1%			0.2			pts			23.7%			23.1%			0.6			pts			23.8%			22.2%			1.6			pts

Segment operating results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and nine months ended September 30, 2018 included the effect of two separate loss portfolio transfers; one entered into during the third quarter of 2019 and one entered into during the second quarter of 2018. A loss portfolio transfer is a form of retroactive insurance coverage as we are assuming and accepting an entity’s existing open and future claim liabilities through the transfer of the entity’s loss reserves. The loss portfolio transfer entered into during the third quarter of 2019 resulted in total net premiums written and earned of $2.7 million (consisting of $0.9 million of retroactive premium and $1.8 million of prospective (tail) premium) and total net losses and loss adjustment expenses of $2.1 million. The loss portfolio transfer entered into during the second quarter of 2018 resulted in total net premiums written and earned of $26.6 million (consisting of $18.7 million of retroactive premium and $7.9 million of prospective (tail) premium) and total net losses and loss adjustment expenses of $25.4 million. See further discussion of these loss portfolio transfers in Note 4 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Premiums Written

Changes in our premium volume within our Specialty P&C segment are driven by four primary factors: (1) the amount of new business, (2) our retention of existing business, (3) the premium charged for business that is renewed, which is affected by rates charged and by the amount and type of coverage an insured chooses to purchase and (4) the timing of premium written through multi-period policies. In addition, premium volume may periodically be affected by shifts in the timing of renewals between periods. The healthcare professional liability market, which accounts for a majority of the revenues in this segment, remains challenging as physicians continue joining hospitals or larger group practices and are thus no longer purchasing individual or group policies in the standard market. In addition, some competitors have chosen to compete primarily on price; both factors may impact our ability to write new business and retain existing business.

Gross, ceded and net premiums written were as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30								Three Months Ended September 30									Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017		2016		Change				2017		2016		Change				2019		2018		Change					2019		2018		Change
Gross premiums written	$	166,284	$	155,838	$	10,446	6.7	%	$	428,032	$	410,201	$	17,831	4.3	%	$	164,991	$	167,639	$	(2,648	)	(1.6	%)	$	459,324	$	456,137	$	3,187		0.7	%
Less: Ceded premiums written	22,998		20,849		2,149		10.3	%	60,920		55,691		5,229		9.4	%	23,692		23,718		(26		)	(0.1	%)	66,114		61,536		4,578			7.4	%
Net premiums written	$	143,286	$	134,989	$	8,297	6.1	%	$	367,112	$	354,510	$	12,602	3.6	%	$	141,299	$	143,921	$	(2,622	)	(1.8	%)	$	393,210	$	394,601	$	(1,391	)	(0.4	%)

Gross Premiums Written

Gross premiums written by component were as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30									Nine Months Ended September 30									Three Months Ended September 30									Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017		2016		Change					2017		2016		Change					2019		2018		Change					2019		2018		Change
Professional liability
Physicians ⁽⁷⁾⁽⁸⁾
Twelve month term	$	112,980	$	105,524	$	7,456		7.1	%	$	277,975	$	268,401	$	9,574		3.6	%	$	106,993	$	110,730	$	(3,737	)	(3.4	%)	$	288,090	$	274,494	$	13,596		5.0	%
Twenty-four month term	8,229		5,561		2,668			48.0	%	23,726		18,665		5,061			27.1	%	6,368		4,898		1,470			30.0	%	23,054		17,719		5,335			30.1	%
Total Physicians	121,209		111,085		10,124			9.1	%	301,701		287,066		14,635			5.1	%	113,361		115,628		(2,267		)	(2.0	%)	311,144		292,213		18,931			6.5	%
Healthcare facilities ⁽⁷⁾⁽⁸⁾	11,213		13,056		(1,843		)	(14.1	%)	36,821		36,827		(6		)	—	%	17,329		20,178		(2,849		)	(14.1	%)	53,617		49,312		4,305			8.7	%
Other healthcare providers⁽³⁾	9,844		9,686		158			1.6	%	25,416		25,033		383			1.5	%	10,189		9,972		217			2.2	%	27,471		25,755		1,716			6.7	%
Legal professionals ⁽⁴⁾	6,381		6,402		(21		)	(0.3	%)	20,787		20,824		(37		)	(0.2	%)	6,595		6,771		(176		)	(2.6	%)	21,410		21,233		177			0.8	%
Tail coverages ⁽⁵⁾⁽⁶⁾	9,434		6,845		2,589			37.8	%	17,600		14,722		2,878			19.5	%	7,237		5,905		1,332			22.6	%	16,418		21,676		(5,258		)	(24.3	%)
Retroactive coverages ⁽⁶⁾																			900		—		900			nm		900		18,708		(17,808		)	(95.2	%)
Total professional liability	158,081		147,074		11,007			7.5	%	402,325		384,472		17,853			4.6	%	155,611		158,454		(2,843		)	(1.8	%)	430,960		428,897		2,063			0.5	%
Medical technology liability ⁽⁶⁾	8,082		8,625		(543		)	(6.3	%)	25,401		25,358		43			0.2	%
Other	121		139		(18		)	(12.9	%)	306		371		(65		)	(17.5	%)
Medical technology liability ⁽⁷⁾																			9,223		9,061		162			1.8	%	26,363		26,882		(519		)	(1.9	%)
Other ⁽⁹⁾																			157		124		33			26.6	%	2,001		358		1,643			458.9	%
Total	$	166,284	$	155,838	$	10,446		6.7	%	$	428,032	$	410,201	$	17,831		4.3	%	$	164,991	$	167,639	$	(2,648	)	(1.6	%)	$	459,324	$	456,137	$	3,187		0.7	%

⁽¹⁾

Physician policies were our greatest source of premium revenues in both ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016.~~2018. The decrease in twelve month term premiums during the 2019 three-month period as compared to the same period of 2018 was driven by the pending renewal of a $3.6 million policy. Excluding the effect of this timing difference, twelve month term premiums remained relatively unchanged during the 2019 three-month period as compared to the same period of 2018 primarily due to an increase in renewal pricing and new business written, almost entirely offset by retention losses and a decrease in premiums assumed in which we participate on a quota share basis due to the timing of the prior year policy renewal. The increase in twelve month term ~~policies~~premiums during the ~~2017 three- and~~2019 nine-month ~~periods was driven by~~period included net timing differences of $4.0 million primarily related to the prior year renewal of ~~a few large policies during~~certain policies. Excluding the ~~current quarter. After removing the impact~~effect of ~~those renewal~~these timing differences, ~~gross~~twelve month term premiums ~~written were slightly down for the 2017 three-month period and higher for the 2017 nine-month period~~increased approximately $9.6 million as compared to the same ~~respective periods~~period of ~~2016.~~2018. The remaining increase induring the ~~2017~~2019 nine-month period was ~~primarily~~ due to new business written, including the addition of three large policies totaling $10.3 million and, ~~the growth in exposure of one large insured during the first quarter of 2017, largely offset by retention losses. In addition, written premium in both periods reflected~~to a lesser extent, an increase in renewal pricing, ~~driven~~partially offset by ~~an increase~~retention losses. Renewal pricing increases in ~~exposures for a few large policies.~~both the 2019 three- and nine- month periods are reflective of our concern about increases in loss severity. We also offer twenty-four month term ~~policies~~premiums to our physician insureds in one selected jurisdiction. The increase in twenty-four month ~~premium,~~term premiums during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods, as compared to ~~2016,~~the same respective periods in 2018, primarily reflected the normal cycle of renewals (policies subject to renewal in ~~2017~~2019 were previously written in ~~2015~~2017 rather than in ~~2016)~~2018).

⁽²⁾

Our healthcare facilities premium (which includes hospitals, surgery centers and other similar facilities) decreased for the ~~2017~~2019 three-month period driven by retention losses, partially offset by timing differences of $1.0 million primarily related to the renewal of a few large policies, new business written and an increase in renewal pricing. The increase in the 2019 nine-month period was ~~increased~~driven by new business written, ~~somewhat~~including three large policies totaling $4.1 million, and an increase in renewal pricing, partially offset by retention ~~losses. However, gross premiums written declined slightly for the 2017 three-month period due~~losses and, to ~~the impact of~~a lesser extent, timing differences of $1.7 million primarily related to ~~when new business was recorded in 2016 related to more complex policies. The slight decline during the 2017 nine-month period was primarily due to the timing difference for~~ the renewal of one large policy. After removing the impact of this renewal timing difference, gross premiums written was higher for the 2017 nine-month period as compared to the same respective period of 2016. The remaining increase was primarily due to new business written, including one large policy during the second quarter of 2017, largely offset by retention losses. Renewal pricing increased during the 2017 three- and nine-month periods due to changes in loss experience related to a few large policies. Given the loss environment and initial loss indications we are seeing in the healthcare facilities space, we are seeking rate increases where we believe appropriate. As a result of our underwriting evaluation, we decided not to renew certain products written on an excess and surplus lines basis which drove the lower retention in both periods. As we continue to reevaluate certain books of business, we anticipate our retention to remain at a lower than historic level. In addition, retention in both periods was impacted by the loss of two large policies totaling $1.7 million due to price competition.


⁽³⁾	Our other healthcare providers are primarily dentists, chiropractors and allied health professionals.

⁽⁴⁾

Our legal professionals policies are primarily individual and small group policies in select areas of practice. ~~The slight decline during~~Our legal professionals premium remained relatively unchanged for both the ~~2017~~2019 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods ~~was primarily due~~as compared to ~~retention losses, offset by~~the same periods of 2018 as new business written and ~~to a lesser extent,~~renewal pricing increases were offset by retention losses. The increase in renewal pricing in both periods was primarily the result of an increase in the rate charged for certain renewed ~~policies. Retention losses~~policies in ~~both periods are primarily driven by competitive market conditions.~~select states due to rate filings.

⁽⁵⁾

We offer extended reporting endorsement or "tail" coverage to insureds who discontinue ~~or otherwise modify aspects of~~ their claims-made coverage with ~~us.~~us, and we also periodically offer tail coverage through custom policies. Tail coverage premiums are generally 100% earned in the period written because the policies insure only incidents that occurred in prior periods and are not cancellable. The amount of tail coverage premium written can vary ~~widely~~significantly from period to period. The increase in tail premiums during the ~~2017 three- and nine-month periods~~2019 three-month period as compared to the same period of 2018 was driven by ~~the purchase~~$1.8 million of tail coverage ~~for~~provided in connection with a ~~few large claims-made policies in one jurisdiction that were rewritten to occurrence coverage~~loss portfolio transfer entered into during the ~~current quarter. These policies are a part~~third quarter of ~~one of our shared risk arrangements and therefore, a large portion of the premium written was ceded~~2019, as previously discussed. The decrease in tail premiums during the ~~current~~2019 nine-month period was driven by $7.9 million of tail coverage provided in connection with a loss portfolio transfer entered into during the second quarter ~~(see further discussion in~~of 2018, partially offset by the ~~Ceded Premiums Written section that follows).~~aforementioned third quarter 2019 loss portfolio transfer.

⁽⁶⁾

We offer custom alternative risk solutions including loss portfolio transfers for healthcare entities who, most commonly, are exiting a line of business, changing an insurance approach or simply preferring to transfer risk. In the third quarter of 2019, we entered into a loss portfolio transfer with a regional hospital group which resulted in $0.9 million of retroactive premium written and fully earned in the 2019 three- and nine- month periods. In the second quarter of 2018, we entered into a loss portfolio transfer with a large healthcare organization which resulted in $18.7 million of retroactive premium written and fully earned in the 2018 nine-month period. See Note 4 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on these transactions.

⁽⁷⁾

Our medical technology liability business is marketed throughout the U.S.; coverage is typically offered on a primary basis, within specified limits, to manufacturers and distributors of medical technology and life sciences products including entities conducting human clinical trials. In addition to the previously listed factors that affect our premium volume, our medical technology liability premium is impacted by the sales volume of insureds. Our medical technology liability premium remained relatively unchanged during the 2019 three-month period. The decrease during the 2019 nine-month period was primarily due to retention losses, partially offset by new business written and, to a lesser extent, an increase in renewal pricing. Changes in renewal pricing during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods were primarily due to changes in the sales volume of certain insureds. Retention losses in the 2019 three- and nine- month periods are largely attributable to an increase in competition on terms and pricing.

technology liability premium volume is impacted by the sales volume of insureds. The decline during the 2017 three-month period was primarily due to retention losses, partially offset by new business written. The slight increase during the 2017 nine-month period primarily reflected new business written, offset by retention losses, including the loss of one large policy in the first quarter of 2017. Retention losses in both periods are largely attributable to price competition and merger activity within the industry.

⁽⁷⁾⁽⁸⁾

~~During 2016, we expanded~~Certain components of our gross premiums written include alternative market ~~solutions by writing new healthcare premium in certain SPCs at Eastern Re.~~premiums. We wrote approximately $1.2 million of healthcare professional liability premium in our physicians line of business in each of the 2017 and 2016 nine-month periods. We wrote healthcare professional liability premium in our healthcare facilities line of business of approximately $0.4 million and $3.0 million in the 2017 three- and nine-month periods, respectively, and approximately $0.4 million and $2.3 million in the 2016 three- and nine-month periods, respectively. Allcede either all or a portion of the alternative market premium, ~~written was ceded~~net of reinsurance, to ~~the~~certain SPCs atof our wholly owned Cayman Islands reinsurance ~~subsidiary,~~subsidiaries, Inova Re and Eastern ~~Re. Under the SPC structure, the operating results of each cell, net of any participation we have taken~~Re, which are reported in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment (see further discussion in the ~~SPCs, accrue~~Ceded Premiums Written section that follows). The portion not ceded to the benefit of the external owners of that cell. Our Specialty P&C segment does not currently participate in the cells that write HCPL premium, and therefore retains no underwriting profit or loss. Additional information regarding the SPCs is ~~included in~~retained within our Specialty P&C segment. Alternative market gross premiums written by component for the ~~Underwriting, Policy Acquisition~~2019 and ~~Operating Expense section that follows.~~2018 three- and nine- month periods were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in millions)	2019		2018		Change				2019		2018		Change
Physicians	$	—	$	—	$	—	—	%	$	1.4	$	1.4	$	—	—	%
Healthcare facilities	0.7		0.7		—		—	%	4.6		4.2		0.4		9.5	%
Total	$	0.7	$	0.7	$	—	—	%	$	6.0	$	5.6	$	0.4	7.1	%

Alternative market gross premiums written remained relatively unchanged during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods as compared to the same periods of 2018.


⁽⁹⁾	This component of gross premiums written includes all other product lines within our Specialty P&C segment. The increase during the 2019 nine-month period was due to a $1.5 million specialty contractual liability policy.

We are committed to a rate structure that will allow us to fulfill our obligations to our insureds, while generating competitive returns for our shareholders. Our pricing continues to be based on expected losses as indicated by our historical loss data and available industry loss data. In recent years, this practice has resulted in gradual rate increases and we anticipate further rate increases due to indications of increasing loss severity. Additionally, the pricing of our business includes the effects of filed rates, surcharges and discounts. Renewal pricing also reflects changes in our exposure base, deductibles, self-insurance retention limits and other policy items.

The change in renewal pricing for our Specialty P&C segment, including by major component, was as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30		Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019		2019
Specialty P&C segment ⁽¹⁾	7	%	6	%
Physicians ⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾	8	%	6	%
Healthcare facilities ⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾	12	%	15	%
Other healthcare providers ⁽¹⁾	5	%	5	%
Legal professionals ⁽²⁾	3	%	2	%
Medical technology liability ⁽²⁾	(1	%)	1	%
⁽¹⁾ Excludes certain policies written on an excess and surplus lines basis as the terms and conditions of these policies are not consistent between periods.
⁽²⁾ See Gross Premiums Written section for further explanation of changes in renewal pricing.

New business written by major component on a direct basis was as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30				Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30
(In millions)	2017		2016		2017		2016		2019		2018		2019		2018
Physicians	$	7.0	$	6.9	$	17.9	$	23.6	$	5.8	$	6.2	$	23.3	$	14.9
Healthcare facilities	1.9		0.9		5.0		9.1		0.9		8.9		7.8		13.2
Other healthcare providers	0.7		0.6		1.8		1.9		0.6		0.4		1.3		2.1
Legal professionals	1.0		0.9		2.8		3.3		0.4		0.7		2.1		2.4
Medical technology liability	0.8		0.8		3.5		3.8		1.3		0.6		3.5		2.4
Total	$	11.4	$	10.1	$	31.0	$	41.7	$	9.0	$	16.8	$	38.0	$	35.0

For our Specialty P&C segment, we calculate our retention rate as annualized renewed premium divided by all annualized premium subject to renewal. Retention rates are affected by a number of factors. We may lose insureds to competitors or to alternative insurance mechanisms such as risk retention groups or self-insurance entities (often when physicians join hospitals or large group practices) or due to pricing or other issues. We may choose not to renew an insured as a result of our underwriting evaluation. Insureds may also terminate coverage because they have left the practice of medicine for various reasons, principally for retirement, death or disability, but also for personal reasons.

Retention for our Specialty P&C segment, including by major component, was as follows:

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
2017 2016 2017 2016
Physicians 90 % 89 % 90 % 89 %
Healthcare facilities 82 % 77 % 87 % 80 %
Other healthcare providers 83 % 85 % 85 % 86 %
Legal professionals* 82 % 87 % 83 % 78 %
Medical technology liability* 86 % 90 % 85 % 87 %
* See Gross Premiums Written section for further explanation of retention decline in 2017.

The pricing of our business includes the effects of filed rates, surcharges and discounts. Renewal pricing also reflects changes in our exposure base, deductibles, self-insurance retention limits and other policy terms. We continue to base our pricing on expected losses, as indicated by our historical loss data and available industry loss data. We are committed to a rate structure that will allow us to fulfill our obligations to our insureds, while generating competitive returns for our shareholders.



	Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019		2018		2019		2018
Specialty P&C segment ⁽¹⁾	86	%	89	%	87	%	89	%
Physicians ⁽¹⁾	89	%	89	%	89	%	90	%
Healthcare facilities ⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾	57	%	82	%	69	%	86	%
Other healthcare providers ⁽¹⁾	87	%	87	%	88	%	87	%
Legal professionals	88	%	89	%	88	%	85	%
Medical technology liability ⁽²⁾	85	%	93	%	85	%	90	%
⁽¹⁾ Excludes certain policies written on an excess and surplus lines basis as the terms and conditions of these policies are not consistent between periods.
⁽²⁾ See Gross Premiums Written section for further explanation of retention decline in 2019.

~~Changes in renewal pricing by component was as follows:~~

Three Months Ended
September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
2017 2017
Physicians* 2 % 2 %
Healthcare facilities* 16 % 9 %
Other healthcare providers 3 % 2 %
Legal professionals 2 % 3 %
Medical technology liability 1 % 1 %
* See Gross Premiums Written section for further explanation of renewal pricing increase in 2017.

Ceded Premiums Written

Ceded premiums represent the amounts owed to our reinsurers for their assumption of a portion of our losses. Through our current excess of loss reinsurance arrangements we generally retain the first $1 million in risk insured by us and cede coverages in excess of this amount. For our healthcare professional liability coverages, we also retain from 4% - 9% of the next $25 million of risk for coverages in excess of $1 million. For our medical technology liability coverages, we also retain 10% of the next $9 million of risk for coverages in excess of $1 million. We pay our reinsurers a ceding premium in exchange for their accepting the risk, and in certain of our excess of loss arrangements, the ultimate amount of which is determined by the loss experience of the business ceded, subject to certain minimum and maximum amounts.

Ceded premiums written were as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30											Three Months Ended September 30										Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017			2016			Change					2017			2016			Change					2019		2018			Change					2019		2018			Change
Excess of loss reinsurance arrangements ⁽¹⁾	$	8,805		$	8,557		$	248		2.9	%	$	25,845		$	23,881		$	1,964		8.2	%	$	9,580	$	9,722		$	(142	)	(1.5	%)	$	27,562	$	27,460		$	102		0.4	%
Premium ceded to Syndicate 1729 ⁽²⁾	2,416			4,656			(2,240		)	(48.1	%)	8,906			13,767			(4,861		)	(35.3	%)	—		—			—			—	%	—		2,105			(2,105		)	nm
Other shared risk arrangements ⁽³⁾	13,258			9,393			3,865			41.1	%	27,923			23,956			3,967			16.6	%	12,703		13,456			(753		)	(5.6	%)	30,556		28,321			2,235			7.9	%
Premium ceded to SPCs ⁽⁴⁾																							575		524			51			9.7	%	5,465		5,041			424			8.4	%
Other ceded premiums written	1,039			938			101			10.8	%	2,726			1,612			1,114			69.1	%	834		856			(22		)	(2.6	%)	2,531		2,508			23			0.9	%
Adjustment to premiums owed under reinsurance agreements, prior accident years, net ⁽⁴⁾	(2,520		)	(2,695		)	175			(6.5	%)	(4,480		)	(7,525		)	3,045			40.5	%
Adjustment to premiums owed under reinsurance agreements, prior accident years, net ⁽⁵⁾																							—		(840		)	840			nm		—		(3,899		)	3,899			nm
Total ceded premiums written	$	22,998		$	20,849		$	2,149		10.3	%	$	60,920		$	55,691		$	5,229		9.4	%	$	23,692	$	23,718		$	(26	)	(0.1	%)	$	66,114	$	61,536		$	4,578		7.4	%

⁽¹⁾

We generally reinsure risks under our excess of loss reinsurance arrangements pursuant to which the reinsurers agree to assume all or a portion of all risks that we insure above our individual risk retention levels, up to the maximum individual limits offered. In ~~the majority~~certain of our excess of loss reinsurance arrangements, the premium due to the reinsurer is determined by the loss experience of ~~the~~that business reinsured, subject to certain minimum and maximum amounts. ~~The increase~~Premium due to reinsurers also fluctuates with the volume of written premium subject to cession under the arrangement. For the 2019 three- and nine- month periods, the change in ceded premiums written under our excess of loss reinsurance arrangements ~~for the 2017 three- and nine-month periods~~ primarily reflected adjustments to the premiums we expect to owe our reinsurers based upon adjustments to our estimates of losses that are attributable to our reinsurance partners. For the 2017 three- and nine-month periods, we increased our estimate of premiums we expect to owe our reinsurers whereaschanges in the ~~2016 three- and nine-month periods we decreased this estimate.~~overall volume of gross premiums written subject to cession.

⁽²⁾

~~As previously discussed, we are~~Prior to January 1, 2018, our Specialty P&C segment ceded premiums to Syndicate 1729 under a ~~58% participant~~quota share reinsurance agreement. We record our participation in Syndicate 1729 ~~and record our pro rata share of its operating results~~ in our Lloyd's ~~Syndicate~~Syndicates segment on a quarter ~~delay.~~lag, except when information is material to the current period. We also ~~record~~recorded the cession to ~~the Lloyd's~~ Syndicate ~~segment~~1729 from our Specialty P&C segment on athe same quarter ~~delay~~lag as the amounts ~~are~~were not material and ~~this permits~~that permitted the cession to be reported by both ~~the~~our Lloyd's ~~Syndicate~~Syndicates segment and ~~the~~our Specialty P&C segment in the same reporting period. The decrease in premiums ceded ~~premiums~~ to Syndicate 1729 ~~for~~during the ~~2017 three- and~~2019 nine-month ~~periods reflected~~periodis due to the ~~revised contract terms effective~~non-renewal of the quota share reinsurance agreement with Syndicate 1729 on January 1, ~~2017~~2018; the impact of which ~~reduced~~was not reflected in ceded premiums written until the ~~premiums ceded by essentially half.~~second quarter of 2018 due to the previously mentioned quarter lag. See the Segment Operating Results - Lloyd's ~~Syndicate segment results~~ Syndicates section for further discussion on ~~revisions to~~ the quota share agreement as of the most recent renewal date. As our premiums are earned, we recognize the related ceding commission income which reduces underwriting expense by offsetting DPAC amortization. For the 2017 and 2016 three- and nine-month periods the related ceding commission income was approximately 27% of ceded premiums written. For our consolidated results, eliminations of the inter-segment portion (58% of the Specialty P&C cession) of the transactions are also recorded on a quarter delay.agreement.

⁽³⁾

We have entered into various shared risk arrangements, including quota share, fronting, and captive arrangements, with certain large healthcare systems and other insurance entities. These arrangements include our Ascension Health and CAPAssurance programs. While we cede a large portion of the premium written under these arrangements, they provide us an opportunity to grow net premium through strategic partnerships. ~~The~~For the 2019 three-month period, the decrease in ceded premiums written under our shared risk arrangements was primarily due to changes in exposure related to one of our Ascension Health programs, partially offset by growth in certain of our other shared risk arrangements. For the 2019 nine-month period, the increase in ~~the 2017 three- and nine-month periods~~ceded premiums written under our shared risk arrangements was primarily driven by a few large tail endorsements that were written, and substantially ceded, during the current quarter related to one of these shared risk arrangements, as previously discussed. The remaining increase in both periods was due to growth in our ~~Ascension Health and~~ CAPAssurance ~~programs.~~program.

⁽⁴⁾

As previously discussed, as a part of our alternative market solutions, all or a portion of certain healthcare premium written is ceded to SPCs in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment under either excess of loss or quota share reinsurance agreements, depending on the structure of the individual program. See the Segment Operating Results - Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance section for further discussion on the cession to the SPCs from our Specialty P&C segment. Premiums ceded to SPCs during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods remained relatively unchanged as compared to the same periods of 2018.

⁽⁵⁾

Given the length of time that it takes to resolve our claims, many years may elapse before all losses recoverable under a reinsurance arrangement are known. As a part of the process of estimating our loss reserve we also make estimates regarding the amounts recoverable under our reinsurance arrangements. As previously discussed, the premiums ultimately ceded under certain of our excess of loss reinsurance arrangements are subject to the losses ceded under the arrangements. As part of the review of our reserves during both the 2019 three- and nine- month periods, we concluded that our current estimate of expected losses and associated recoveries for prior year ceded losses was reasonable; therefore, we did not adjust our estimate of ceded premiums owed to reinsurers during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods. For the ~~2017 and 2016~~2018 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods, we reduced our estimate of expected losses and associated recoveries for prior year ceded losses, as well as our estimate of ceded premiums owed to reinsurers. The change in the adjustment to ceded premiums owed to reinsurers for the 2017 nine-month period as compared to the same period of 2016 was due to the overall change in expected loss recoveries attributable to one large claim during the second quarter of 2017. We do not believe this isolated claim indicates a change in overall loss trends for us or the industry. Changes to estimates of premiums ceded related to prior accident years are fully earned in the period the changes in estimates occur.

Ceded Premiums Ratio

As shown in the table below, our ceded premiums ratio was affected in ~~both 2017 and 2016~~2018 by revisions to our estimate of premiums owed to reinsurers related to coverages provided in prior accident years.


	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30							Three Months Ended September 30							Nine Months Ended September 30
	2017		2016		Change		2017		2016		Change			2019		2018		Change			2019		2018		Change
Ceded premiums ratio, as reported	13.8	%	13.4	%	0.4	pts	14.2	%	13.6	%	0.6		pts	14.4	%	14.1	%	0.3		pts	14.4	%	13.5	%	0.9	pts
Less the effect of adjustments in premiums owed under reinsurance agreements, prior accident years (as previously discussed)	(1.5	%)	(1.7	%)	0.2	pts	(1.0	%)	(1.8	%)	0.8		pts	—	%	(0.5	%)	0.5		pts	—	%	(0.9	%)	0.9	pts
Ratio, current accident year	15.3	%	15.1	%	0.2	pts	15.2	%	15.4	%	(0.2	)	pts	14.4	%	14.6	%	(0.2	)	pts	14.4	%	14.4	%	—	pts

The ~~increase~~slight decrease in the current accident year ceded premiums ratio ~~for~~during the ~~2017~~2019 three-month period was primarily ~~attributable~~due to ~~an increase~~a decrease in ~~premium~~premiums ceded under our other shared risk arrangements, ~~somewhat offset by a decrease~~primarily due to changes in ~~premium ceded~~exposure related to ~~Syndicate 1729. The decline in~~one of our Ascension Health programs. For the 2019 nine-month period, the current accident year ceded ~~premium~~premiums ratio ~~for~~was unchanged as compared to the ~~2017 nine-month~~same period ~~was~~of 2018 due to ~~a decrease in premium ceded to~~offsetting factors. While the effect of the non-renewal of the quota share reinsurance agreement with Syndicate 1729 ~~partially~~decreased the current accident year ceded premiums ratio, the impact was offset by ~~an increase~~the effect of the loss portfolio transfer entered into during the second quarter of 2018 (increase in gross premiums written with no premium ~~ceded under our shared risk arrangements (see~~ceded). See discussion above under the heading "Ceded Premiums ~~Written").~~Written."

Net Premiums Earned

~~Net premiums earned were as follows:~~

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands) 2017 2016 Change 2017 2016 Change
Gross premiums earned $ 140,427
$ 135,221
$ 5,206
3.8 % $ 402,897
$ 391,230
$ 11,667
3.0 %
Less: Ceded premiums earned 22,096
19,022
3,074
16.2 % 62,503
56,150
6,353
11.3 %
Net premiums earned $ 118,331
$ 116,199
$ 2,132
1.8 % $ 340,394
$ 335,080
$ 5,314
1.6 %

Net premiums earned consist of gross premiums earned less the portion of earned premiums that we cede to our reinsurers for their assumption of a portion of our losses. Because premiums are generally earned pro rata over the entire policy period, fluctuations in premiums earned tend to lag those of premiums written. Generally, our policies carry a term of one ~~year, but~~year; however, as discussed above, we write certain policies with a twenty-four month term, and a few of our medical technology liability policies ~~carry~~have a multi-year term. Tail coverage premiums are generally 100% earned in the period written because the policies insure only incidents that occurred in prior periods and are not cancellable. Retroactive coverage premiums are 100% earned at the inception of the contract, as all of the underlying loss events occurred in the past. Additionally, ceded premium changes due to changes to estimates of premiums owed under reinsurance agreements for prior accident years are fully earned in the period of change.

Net premiums earned were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018		Change				2019		2018		Change
Gross premiums earned	$	146,514	$	141,811	$	4,703	3.3	%	$	434,699	$	437,108	$	(2,409	)	(0.6	%)
Less: Ceded premiums earned	21,277		21,022		255		1.2	%	59,384		58,753		631			1.1	%
Net premiums earned	$	125,237	$	120,789	$	4,448	3.7	%	$	375,315	$	378,355	$	(3,040	)	(0.8	%)

The increase in gross premiums earned during the ~~2017 three-~~2019 three-month period was primarily due to a loss portfolio transfer entered into during the third quarter of 2019 which resulted in $2.7 million of one-time premium written and ~~nine-month periods primarily~~fully earned in the current period (see discussion under the heading "Gross Premiums Written"). Additionally, the increase in gross premiums earned during the 2019 three-month period reflected the pro rata effect of ~~higher~~an increase in the volume of written premium during the preceding twelve months, predominantly in our physicians line of business driven by increases in renewal pricing. The decrease in gross premiums earned during the 2019 nine-month period was due to the loss portfolio transfer entered into during the second quarter of 2018 which resulted in $26.6 million of one-time premium written and fully earned in the prior period (see discussion under the heading "Gross Premiums Written"). After removing the impact of the loss portfolio transfer, gross

premiums earned increased during the 2019 nine-month period driven by the pro rata effect of an increase in the volume of written premium during the preceding twelve months, predominantly in our healthcare facilities ~~line~~and physicians lines of business ~~and a few large tail policies written and~~driven by an increase in renewal pricing.

The increase in ceded premiums earned during the ~~third quarter of 2017. For the 2017~~2019 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods as compared to the same periods of 2018 reflected the effect of adjustments made during the 2018 three- and nine- month periods to ceded premiums owed under reinsurance agreements related to prior accident year ~~ceded premiums reductions~~losses; no such adjustments were ~~$0.2 million and $3.0 million lower than for~~made during the ~~2016 three- and nine-month~~same respective periods ~~respectively~~of 2019 (see previous discussion in ~~this section~~footnote 5 under the heading "Ceded Premiums Written"). After removing the effect of the prior accident year ceded premium adjustments in 2018, ceded premiums earned decreased during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods approximately $0.6 million and $3.3 million, respectively, as compared to the same periods of 2018. The decrease in ceded premiums earned during both the 2019 three- and nine- month periods was driven by the non-renewal of the quota share reinsurance agreement with Syndicate 1729, partially offset by the pro rata effect of an increase in premiums ceded under our shared risk arrangements during the preceding twelve months, predominately in our CAPAssurance program.

Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

The determination of calendar year losses involves the actuarial evaluation of incurred losses for the current accident year and the actuarial re-evaluation of incurred losses for prior accident years, including an evaluation of the reserve amounts required for losses in excess of policy limits.

Accident year refers to the accounting period in which the insured event becomes a liability of the insurer. For claims-made policies, which represent ~~over~~ ~~90%~~the majority of the premiums written in our Specialty P&C segment, the insured event generally becomes a liability when the event is first reported to ~~the insurer.~~us. For occurrence policies, the insured event becomes a liability when the event takes place. For retroactive coverages, the insured event becomes a liability at inception of the underlying contract. We believe that measuring losses on an accident year basis is the best measure of the underlying profitability of the premiums earned in that period, since it associates policy premiums earned with the estimate of the losses incurred related to those policy premiums.

The following table summarizes calendar year net loss ratios by separating losses between the current accident year and all prior accident years. Additionally, the table shows our current accident year net loss ~~ratio was~~ratios for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 were affected by revisions to our estimate of premiums owed to reinsurers related to coverages provided in prior accident years. ~~Net~~The net loss ratios for ~~the period~~our Specialty P&C segment were as follows:


	Net Loss Ratios ⁽¹⁾														Net Loss Ratios ⁽¹⁾
	Three Months Ended September 30							Nine Months Ended September 30							Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
	2017		2016		Change			2017		2016		Change			2019		2018		Change		2019		2018		Change
Calendar year net loss ratio	62.4	%	62.2	%	0.2		pts	64.7	%	61.4	%	3.3		pts	85.9	%	81.4	%	4.5	pts	85.6	%	77.4	%	8.2	pts
Less impact of prior accident years on the net loss ratio	(25.4	%)	(25.9	%)	0.5		pts	(24.0	%)	(26.9	%)	2.9		pts	(8.6	%)	(12.0	%)	3.4	pts	(8.3	%)	(14.5	%)	6.2	pts
Current accident year net loss ratio	87.8	%	88.1	%	(0.3	)	pts	88.7	%	88.3	%	0.4		pts	94.5	%	93.4	%	1.1	pts	93.9	%	91.9	%	2.0	pts
Less estimated ratio increase (decrease) attributable to:
Ceded premium adjustments, prior accident years ⁽²⁾	(1.9	%)	(2.1	%)	0.2		pts	(1.2	%)	(2.0	%)	0.8		pts	—	%	(0.7	%)	0.7	pts	—	%	(1.0	%)	1.0	pts
Current accident year net loss ratio, excluding the effect of prior year ceded premium ⁽³⁾	89.7	%	90.2	%	(0.5	)	pts	89.9	%	90.3	%	(0.4	)	pts	94.5	%	94.1	%	0.4	pts	93.9	%	92.9	%	1.0	pts


⁽¹⁾	Net losses, as specified, divided by net premiums earned.

⁽²⁾

Reductions to premiums owed under reinsurance agreements for prior accident years increased ~~Net~~net premiums earned (the denominator of the current accident year ratio) for the ~~2017 and 2016~~2018 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods. No such adjustments were made during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods. See the discussion in the Premiums section for our Specialty P&C segment under the heading "Ceded Premiums Written" for additional information.

⁽³⁾

The ~~decline~~current accident year net loss ratio for the 2019 three- and nine- month periods as compared to the same periods of 2018, excluding the effect of prior year ceded premium adjustments (as shown in the table above), was higher due to our continued concern around loss trends in the broader HCPL industry. Furthermore, the increase in the current accident year net loss ratio ~~for~~during the ~~2017 three-month period primarily reflected~~2019 three- and nine- month periods was due to changes in the mix of business including a higher volume of earned premium in our excess and surplus lines of business, which carries a higher loss ratio as compared to the segment's overall book of business. ~~For the 2017 nine-month period, the decline reflected an~~The increase in our estimate of losses ultimately recoverable from our reinsurance partners and changes in expected loss costs related to mass tort litigation. While we increased our reserves related to mass tort litigation in both the 2017 and 2016 nine-month periods, the increase was substantially less in the 2017 nine-month period and resulted in an 0.3 percentage point decrease to the current accident year net loss ratio induring the ~~2017~~2019 nine-month ~~period.~~period was partially offset by the effect of the loss portfolio transfer (net premiums earned at a 95% loss ratio) entered into during the second quarter of 2018, as previously discussed under the heading "Gross Premiums Written."

We recognized net favorable loss development related to our previously established reserves of ~~$30.1~~$10.8 million and ~~$81.9~~$31.0 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017,~~2019, respectively, and ~~$30.0~~$14.4 million and ~~$90.2~~$55.0 million during

the same respective periods of ~~2016.~~2018. We re-evaluate our previously established reserve each quarter based ~~on our~~upon the most recently ~~available claims data and~~completed actuarial analysis supplemented by any new analysis, information or trends that have emerged since the date of that study. We also take into account currently available industry trend information. Development recognized during the three and nine months endedSeptember 30, ~~2017~~2019 principally related to accident years ~~2010~~2012 through ~~2014.~~2015. Development recognized during the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2016~~2018 principally related to accident years ~~2009~~2011 through ~~2013.~~2015. While our reserves continue to develop favorably, net favorable prior year reserve development recognized in the 2019 three- and nine- month periods was lower as compared to the same respective periods of 2018 primarily due to the observed increase in claim severity in the broader HCPL industry as well as prior year loss volatility in large account business.

A detailed discussion of factors influencing our recognition of loss development is included in our Critical Accounting Estimates section under the heading "Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses" and in our ~~2016~~2018 Form 10-K under the

same heading. Assumptions used in establishing our reserve are regularly reviewed and updated by management as new data becomes available. Any adjustments necessary are reflected in the then current operations. Due to the size of our reserve, even a small percentage adjustment to the assumptions can have a material effect on our results of operations for the period in which the change is made, as was the case in both ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016~~2018.

Underwriting, Policy Acquisition and Operating Expenses

Our Specialty P&C segment underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses ~~for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016~~ were comprised as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30									Nine Months Ended September 30									Three Months Ended September 30									Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017		2016		Change					2017		2016		Change					2019		2018		Change					2019		2018		Change
Specialty P&C segment:
DPAC amortization	$	12,405	$	10,901	$	1,504		13.8	%	$	35,350	$	32,854	$	2,496		7.6	%	$	13,733	$	12,901	$	832		6.4	%	$	42,268	$	38,886	$	3,382		8.7	%
Management fees	2,004		1,832		172			9.4	%	5,156		4,928		228			4.6	%	1,925		2,018		(93		)	(4.6	%)	5,365		5,504		(139		)	(2.5	%)
Other underwriting and operating expenses	12,628		13,830		(1,202		)	(8.7	%)	38,746		39,737		(991		)	(2.5	%)	14,042		13,012		1,030			7.9	%	41,544		39,443		2,101			5.3	%
Total	$	27,037	$	26,563	$	474		1.8	%	$	79,252	$	77,519	$	1,733		2.2	%	$	29,700	$	27,931	$	1,769		6.3	%	$	89,177	$	83,833	$	5,344		6.4	%

DPAC amortization increased for the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 as compared to the same respective periods of ~~2016 primarily~~2018 driven by an increase in earned premium, excluding the ~~effect~~effects of ~~higher gross premiums~~the premium earned from the loss portfolio transfers from the third quarter of 2019 and the second quarter of 2018 as there were no deferred acquisition costs associated with those transactions (see discussion under the heading "Gross Premiums Written"). For the 2019 three-month period, the increase in ~~2017 and, to a lesser extent, a slight decrease~~DPAC amortization was partially offset by an increase in ceding commission income, which is an offset to ~~expense.~~expense, primarily due to growth in certain of our shared risk arrangements. For the 2019 nine-month period, the increase in DPAC amortization also reflected a decrease in ceding commission income due to the reduction in premiums ceded to Syndicate 1729, partially offset by an increase in ceding commission income from certain of our shared risk arrangements.

Management fees are charged pursuant to a management agreement by the Corporate segment to the operating subsidiaries within our Specialty P&C segment for services provided, based on the extent to which services are provided to the subsidiary and the amount of premium written by the subsidiary. While the terms of the management agreement were consistent between ~~2016~~2018 and ~~2017,~~2019, fluctuations in the amount of premium written by each subsidiary can result in corresponding variations in the management fee charged to each subsidiary during a particular period.

Other underwriting and operating expenses ~~decreased~~increased during the ~~2017~~2019 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods as compared to the same respective periods of ~~2016 primarily driven by non-recurring costs in 2016, including state assessments~~2018 due to fees incurred associated with a data analytics services agreement entered into during the fourth quarter of 2018 of $1.4 million and ~~a donation to a scholarship program for which we received a wholly offsetting tax credit during 2016. The decrease in both periods was~~$3.7 million, respectively, partially offset by ~~an increase~~a decrease in compensation related ~~expenses and~~ costs ~~associated with~~as a result of lower bonuses. See Note 7 of the ~~amortization of new software that was put into service during~~Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on the ~~first quarter of 2017.~~data analytics services agreement.

Underwriting Expense Ratio (the Expense Ratio)

~~The underwriting~~Our expense ratio for ~~our~~the Specialty P&C segment ~~remained relatively flat~~ for the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and 2018, respectively, was as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019		2018		Change		2019		2018		Change
Underwriting expense ratio	23.7	%	23.1	%	0.6	pts	23.8	%	22.2	%	1.6	pts

The underwriting expense ratio increased in the 2019 three- and nine- month periods as compared to the same periods of ~~2016, as shown below:~~

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
2017 2016 Change 2017 2016 Change
Underwriting expense ratio 22.8 % 22.9 % (0.1 ) pts 23.3 % 23.1 % 0.2 pts

~~Segregated Portfolio Cell Dividend Expense (Income)~~

~~During 2016, we expanded our alternative market solutions by writing HCPL premium in three SPCs at Eastern Re. Consistent with~~2018. Excluding the ~~SPC structure discussed in~~impacts of the ~~Workers' Compensation segment section that follows,~~loss portfolio transfers entered into during the ~~net operating results~~third quarter of each cell, net of any participation we have taken in the SPCs, are due to the external owners of that cell. Our Specialty P&C segment does not currently participate in the cells that write HCPL premium,2019 and ~~therefore retains no profit or loss. SPC dividend (expense) income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 was as follows:~~

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands) 2017 2016 Change 2017 2016 Change
SPC dividend (expense) income $ 65
$ (94 ) $ 159
$ (5,026 ) $ (94 ) $ (4,932 )

~~The SPC dividend expense for the 2017 nine-month period reflected a $5.2 million pre-tax expense recognized during~~ the second quarter of ~~2017 related to previously unrecognized SPC dividend~~2018 (net premiums earned with minimal associated operating expenses), the underwriting expense ratio for the cumulative earnings of unrelated parties that have owned SPCs at various times since 2003 within a Bermuda captive insurance operation. Historically, within our HCPL business, we have written a limited number of segregated cell captive programs through this Bermuda captive arrangement2019 three- and ~~the use of this facility has declined~~nine- month periods increased 1.1 percentage points and 0.2 percentage points, respectively, as ~~the HCPL insurance market has softened. The SPC dividend expense attributable to those cells was unrelated~~compared to the ~~captive operations~~same periods of ~~our Eastern Re subsidiary. See~~2018. The increase in the ~~Underwriting, Policy Acquisition~~underwriting expense ratio in the 2019 three- and ~~Operating Expense section~~nine- month periods as compared to the same periods of 2018 was driven by the fees associated with a data analytics services agreement, as discussed above, partially offset by a decrease in ~~our Workers' Compensation segment results for more information on our SPCs.~~compensation related costs as a result of lower bonuses.

Segment Operating Results - Workers' Compensation Insurance

Our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment ~~provides traditional~~includes workers' compensation ~~insurance~~ products ~~and alternative market solutions for workers' compensation risks~~provided to employers generally with 1,000 or fewer employees, as discussed in Note 1114 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. ~~Segment~~Workers' compensation products offered include guaranteed cost policies, policyholder dividend policies, retrospectively-rated policies, deductible policies and alternative market solutions. Alternative market products include program design, fronting, claims administration, risk management, SPC rental, asset management and SPC management services. Alternative market premiums are 100% ceded to either the SPCs within our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment or, to a limited extent, an unaffiliated captive insurer. Our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment operating results ~~reflect~~reflected pre-tax underwriting profit or loss ~~which includes SPC dividend expense (income). Investment~~from these workers' compensation products, exclusive of investment results, which ~~includes the SPC investment results,~~ are included in our Corporate segment. Segment operating results included the following:


	Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30											Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017			2016			Change					2017			2016			Change					2019			2018			Change					2019			2018			Change
Net premiums written	$	54,647		$	54,444		$	203		0.4	%	$	184,917		$	175,986		$	8,931		5.1	%	$	49,663		$	45,945		$	3,718		8.1	%	$	146,101		$	150,581		$	(4,480	)	(3.0	%)

Net premiums earned	$	57,654		$	54,498		$	3,156		5.8	%	$	169,791		$	163,974		$	5,817		3.5	%	$	49,477		$	47,296		$	2,181		4.6	%	$	141,990		$	135,230		$	6,760		5.0	%
Other income	164			86			78			90.7	%	519			696			(177		)	(25.4	%)	494			376			118			31.4	%	1,948			1,828			120			6.6	%
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	(35,081		)	(34,472		)	(609		)	1.8	%	(103,217		)	(104,160		)	943			(0.9	%)	(32,356		)	(30,650		)	(1,706		)	5.6	%	(93,424		)	(87,794		)	(5,630		)	6.4	%
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses	(18,434		)	(18,331		)	(103		)	0.6	%	(52,220		)	(52,494		)	274			(0.5	%)	(14,895		)	(15,410		)	515			(3.3	%)	(43,456		)	(41,545		)	(1,911		)	4.6	%
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income ⁽¹⁾	(1,722		)	(1,449		)	(273		)	18.8	%	(5,593		)	(3,440		)	(2,153		)	62.6	%
Segment operating results	$	2,581		$	332		$	2,249		677.4	%	$	9,280		$	4,576		$	4,704		102.8	%	$	2,720		$	1,612		$	1,108		68.7	%	$	7,058		$	7,719		$	(661	)	(8.6	%)

Net loss ratio																							65.4%			64.8%			0.6			pts		65.8		%	64.9		%	0.9			pts
Traditional business	65.2%			66.5%			(1.3		)	pts		65.0%			66.5%			(1.5		)	pts
Alternative market business	49.7%			54.3%			(4.6		)	pts		49.8%			55.0%			(5.2		)	pts
Segment results	60.8%			63.3%			(2.5		)	pts		60.8%			63.5%			(2.7		)	pts

Underwriting expense ratio																							30.1%			32.6%			(2.5		)	pts		30.6		%	30.7		%	(0.1		)	pts
Traditional business	32.5%			34.6%			(2.1		)	pts		30.8%			32.4%			(1.6		)	pts
Alternative market business	30.6%			31.0%			(0.4		)	pts		30.7%			31.0%			(0.3		)	pts
Segment results	32.0%			33.6%			(1.6		)	pts		30.8%			32.0%			(1.2		)	pts
⁽¹⁾Represents the underwriting profit (loss) attributable to the alternative market business ceded to the SPCs at Eastern Re, net of our participation.

On September 18, 2017, Eastern Alliance Insurance Group completed its acquisition of Great Falls Insurance Company’s (“Great Falls”) book of workers’ compensation insurance business for consideration of $4.2 million. Eastern paid $2.85 million at closing, and the remaining $1.35 million is contingent upon Eastern renewing at least 75% of the acquired renewal book of business. In the event Eastern renews less than 75% but greater than 50% of the acquired renewal book of business, the contingent consideration will be reduced on a pro-rated basis. Great Falls is a monoline workers’ compensation insurance company domiciled in Maine and is licensed to write business in Maine and New Hampshire. Great Falls' direct premiums written was approximately $13.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. In addition to the renewal book of business, Eastern assumed Great Falls' contracts with agency partners and all Great Falls' employees became our employees. The acquisition of the renewal rights will expand Eastern’s operations into Maine and New Hampshire and ultimately other New England states, providing geographic diversification and the ability to expand our specialty workers’ compensation products and services in the New England marketplace. The transaction was accounted for as an asset acquisition and resulted in the recognition of intangible assets totaling $4.3 million, including transaction-related costs.

Premiums Written

Our workers’ compensation premium volume is driven by ~~four~~five primary factors: (1) the amount of new business written, (2) audit premium, (3) retention of our existing book of business, ~~and~~ (4) premium rates charged on our renewal book of ~~business.~~business and (5) changes in payroll exposure.

Gross, ceded and net premiums written were as follows:

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands) 2017 2016 Change 2017 2016 Change
Gross premiums written
Traditional business* $ 42,592
$ 43,225
$ (633 ) (1.5 %) $ 139,614
$ 136,407
$ 3,207
2.4 %
Alternative market business 17,091
16,685
406
2.4 % 63,623
58,013
5,610
9.7 %
Segment results 59,683
59,910
(227 ) (0.4 %) 203,237
194,420
8,817
4.5 %
Less: Ceded premiums written
Traditional business 2,193
2,851
(658 ) (23.1 %) 5,956
7,174
(1,218 ) (17.0 %)
Alternative market business* 2,843
2,615
228
8.7 % 12,364
11,260
1,104
9.8 %
Segment results 5,036
5,466
(430 ) (7.9 %) 18,320
18,434
(114 ) (0.6 %)
Net premiums written

Traditional business 40,399
40,374
25
0.1 % 133,658
129,233
4,425
3.4 %
Alternative market business 14,248
14,070
178
1.3 % 51,259
46,753
4,506
9.6 %
Segment results $ 54,647
$ 54,444
$ 203
0.4 % $ 184,917
$ 175,986
$ 8,931
5.1 %
* Traditional gross premiums written and alternative market ceded premiums written are reported net of alternative market premiums assumed by our traditional business totaling $0.2 million and $0.5 million for the 2017 three- and nine-month periods, respectively, and $0.2 million and $0.7 million for the same respective periods of 2016.

Our traditional workers’ compensation insurance products include guaranteed cost, dividend, deductible and retrospectively-rated policies. Our alternative market business is 100% ceded to either the SPCs at our wholly owned Cayman Islands reinsurance subsidiary, Eastern Re, or to unaffiliated captive insurers. As of September 30, 2017, there were 24 (21 active) SPCs at Eastern Re and 3 active alternative market programs with unaffiliated captive insurers.

~~Additional information regarding the structure of the SPCs is included in the Underwriting, Policy Acquisition and Operating Expense section that follows.~~



	Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018		Change				2019		2018		Change
Gross premiums written	$	70,066	$	65,719	$	4,347	6.6	%	$	223,638	$	228,271	$	(4,633	)	(2.0	%)
Less: Ceded premiums written	20,403		19,774		629		3.2	%	77,537		77,690		(153		)	(0.2	%)
Net premiums written	$	49,663	$	45,945	$	3,718	8.1	%	$	146,101	$	150,581	$	(4,480	)	(3.0	%)

Gross Premiums Written

Gross premiums written by product were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30									Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018		Change					2019		2018		Change
Traditional business:
Guaranteed cost	$	44,164	$	39,601	$	4,563		11.5	%	$	124,460	$	122,474	$	1,986		1.6	%
Policyholder dividend	4,718		4,551		167			3.7	%	16,972		17,737		(765		)	(4.3	%)
Deductible	2,199		2,277		(78		)	(3.4	%)	5,276		7,236		(1,960		)	(27.1	%)
Retrospective	36		369		(333		)	(90.2	%)	3,073		6,013		(2,940		)	(48.9	%)
Other	2,220		2,123		97			4.6	%	6,822		7,305		(483		)	(6.6	%)
Alternative market business	16,729		16,798		(69		)	(0.4	%)	67,035		67,506		(471		)	(0.7	%)
Total	$	70,066	$	65,719	$	4,347		6.6	%	$	223,638	$	228,271	$	(4,633	)	(2.0	%)

Gross premiums written in our traditional business increased during the three months ended September 30, 2019 as compared to the same period of 2018, which primarily reflected new business written, including the addition of four large policies totaling $3.9 million, and ~~alternative market~~an increase in audit premium, partially offset by a decrease in renewal pricing and the renewal retention rate. Gross premiums written in our traditional business decreased during the nine months ended September 30, 2019 as compared to the same period of 2018, which reflected our reaction to underpricing that is occurring in a very competitive market. New business written, renewal pricing and the renewal retention rate all declined during the 2019 nine-month period as compared to the same period of 2018. Retrospective policy premiums written include an estimate for retrospective premium adjustments, which are based on the loss experience of the underlying policies. Retrospective premium adjustments decreased premiums written by $0.4 million and $1.8 million in the 2019 three- and nine- month periods, respectively, compared to adjustments that decreased premiums written by $0.2 million and increased premiums written by $0.4 million for the same respective periods of 2018.

New business opportunities, renewal pricing and retention continue to be a challenge as a result of intense competition, especially from package carriers that are willing to underprice their workers’ compensation products to offset other coverages. This has resulted in fewer new business opportunities, which is reflected in a 13% decline in submissions during the 2019 nine-month period. However, new business written was higher for the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2018 as it included approximately $3.1 million and ~~2016 are reflected~~$11.1 million, respectively, of premiums written related to the acquisition of the Great Falls renewal book of business. Renewal pricing decreases reflect the competitive market, as well as the impact of state loss cost decreases in the ~~table above. The increase~~majority of the states in ~~gross premiums written~~which we write business. In addition, the decrease in the retention rate during the 2019 nine-month period reflected the loss of two large policies totaling approximately $3.3 million during the second quarter of 2019. If these two policies would have renewed, the retention rate for the ~~nine months ended September 30, 2017~~segment during the 2019 nine-month period would have been 1.4 percentage points higher as compared to the same period of ~~2016, primarily reflected new business written and an improved retention rate, partially offset by a reduction in audit premium and declines in renewal pricing.~~ 2018.

Gross premiums written in our ~~traditional~~alternative market business ~~declined for~~decreased during the three months ended September 30, 2017, primarily due to the changes in estimated premiums under retrospectively rated policies. The underlying loss experience on the retrospectively rated policies resulted in a reduction of written premium in 2017,2019 three- and nine- month periods as compared to ~~an increase~~the same periods in ~~written premium~~2018. New business and renewal pricing trends in ~~2016.~~our alternative market business for the 2019 nine-month period were relatively consistent with the trends in our traditional business. We retained all 16 of the available workers' compensation alternative market programs up for renewal ~~for~~during the nine months ended September 30, ~~2017, including one program in the third quarter of 2017.~~2019. During the third quarter of ~~2017,~~2019, we added one new alternative market program at Eastern Re that will write business previously ceded to two unaffiliated captive programs. One of the unaffiliated programs was non-renewed during the third quarter of 2017 and the other program will be non-renewed in the fourth quarter of 2017.

Inova Re.

New business, audit premium, retention and renewal price changes for both the traditional business and the alternative market business ~~for 2017 and 2016~~ are shown in the table below:

Three Months Ended September 30
2017 2016
($ in millions) Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results
New business $ 7.1
$ 2.1
$ 9.2
$ 5.3
$ 1.5
$ 6.8
Audit premium (including EBUB) $ 0.4
$ 0.3
$ 0.7
$ 1.5
$ —
$ 1.5
Retention rate ⁽¹⁾
85 % 92 % 87 % 81 % 88 % 83 %
Change in renewal pricing ⁽²⁾
(5 %) (4 %) (5 %) (4 %) (2 %) (3 %)


	Nine Months Ended September 30																		Three Months Ended September 30
	2017									2016									2019									2018
($ in millions)	Traditional Business			Alternative Market Business			Segment Results			Traditional Business			Alternative Market Business			Segment Results			Traditional Business			Alternative Market Business			Segment Results			Traditional Business			Alternative Market Business			Segment Results
New business	$	24.2		$	8.5		$	32.7		$	15.1		$	7.7		$	22.8		$	10.5		$	0.8		$	11.3		$	10.2		$	1.6		$	11.8
Audit premium (including EBUB)	$	2.1		$	0.7		$	2.8		$	4.2		$	0.4		$	4.6		$	1.4		$	0.4		$	1.8		$	0.6		$	0.6		$	1.2
Retention rate ⁽¹⁾	86		%	94		%	88		%	83		%	88		%	84		%	81		%	96		%	84		%	85		%	87		%	85		%
Change in renewal pricing ⁽²⁾	(4		%)	(4		%)	(4		%)	(2		%)	(1		%)	(1		%)	(4		%)	(5		%)	(4		%)	1		%	1		%	1		%

																			Nine Months Ended September 30
																			2019									2018
($ in millions)																			Traditional Business			Alternative Market Business			Segment Results			Traditional Business			Alternative Market Business			Segment Results
New business																			$	22.3		$	3.0		$	25.3		$	34.2		$	7.0		$	41.2
Audit premium (including EBUB)																			$	2.3		$	1.3		$	3.6		$	2.6		$	1.0		$	3.6
Retention rate ⁽¹⁾																			81		%	93		%	84		%	85		%	91		%	87		%
Change in renewal pricing ⁽²⁾																			(3		%)	(4		%)	(3		%)	(1		%)	—		%	—		%

⁽¹⁾ We calculate our workers' compensation retention rate as annualized expiring renewed premium divided by all annualized expiring premium subject to renewal. Our retention rate can be impacted by various factors, including price or other competitive issues, insureds being acquired, or a decision not to renew based on our underwriting evaluation.	⁽¹⁾ We calculate our workers' compensation retention rate as annualized expiring renewed premium divided by all annualized expiring premium subject to renewal. Our retention rate can be impacted by various factors, including price or other competitive issues, insureds being acquired, or a decision not to renew based on our underwriting evaluation.																		⁽¹⁾ We calculate our workers' compensation retention rate as annualized expiring renewed premium divided by all annualized expiring premium subject to renewal. Our retention rate can be impacted by various factors, including price or other competitive issues, insureds being acquired, or a decision not to renew based on our underwriting evaluation.
⁽²⁾ The pricing of our business includes an assessment of the underlying policy exposure and the effects of current market conditions. We continue to base our pricing on expected losses, as indicated by our historical loss data. The renewal rate decreases reflected the competitive workers’ compensation environment and the impact of loss cost reductions due to declining frequency trends in certain states in which we do business.
⁽²⁾ The pricing of our business includes an assessment of the underlying policy exposure and the effects of current market conditions. We continue to base our pricing on expected losses, as indicated by our historical loss data.																			⁽²⁾ The pricing of our business includes an assessment of the underlying policy exposure and the effects of current market conditions. We continue to base our pricing on expected losses, as indicated by our historical loss data.

Ceded Premiums Written

~~Ceded premiums written reflected our external reinsurance programs and alternative market business ceded to unaffiliated captive insurance companies.~~

Ceded premiums written were as follows:

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands) 2017 2016 Change 2017 2016 Change
Premiums ceded to external reinsurers
Traditional business $ 2,573
$ 2,896
$ (323 ) (11.2 %) $ 6,928
$ 7,498
$ (570 ) (7.6 %)
Alternative market business 1,783
1,725
58
3.4 % 6,401
5,606
795
14.2 %
Segment results 4,356
4,621
(265 ) (5.7 %) 13,329
13,104
225
1.7 %
Change in return premium estimate under external reinsurance

Traditional business (380 ) (45 ) (335 ) 744.4 % (972 ) (324 ) (648 ) (200.0 %)
Alternative market business —
—
—
nm
—
—
—
nm
Segment results (380 ) (45 ) (335 ) 744.4 % (972 ) (324 ) (648 ) (200.0 %)
Premiums ceded to unaffiliated captive insurers

Traditional business —
—
—
nm
—
—
—
nm
Alternative market business 1,060
890
170
19.1 % 5,963
5,654
309
5.5 %
Segment results 1,060
890
170
19.1 % 5,963
5,654
309
5.5 %
Total ceded premiums written

Traditional business 2,193
2,851
(658 ) (23.1 %) 5,956
7,174
(1,218 ) (17.0 %)
Alternative market business 2,843
2,615
228
8.7 % 12,364
11,260
1,104
9.8 %
Segment results $ 5,036
$ 5,466
$ (430 ) (7.9 %) $ 18,320
$ 18,434
$ (114 ) (0.6 %)



	Three Months Ended September 30										Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018			Change					2019		2018		Change
Premiums ceded to SPCs	$	16,706	$	16,275		$	431		2.6	%	$	64,610	$	63,214	$	1,396		2.2	%
Premiums ceded to external reinsurers	3,471		3,429			42			1.2	%	10,287		9,502		785			8.3	%
Premiums ceded to unaffiliated captive insurers	23		523			(500		)	(95.6	%)	2,425		4,292		(1,867		)	(43.5	%)
Change in return premium estimate under external reinsurance	203		(453		)	656			144.8	%	215		682		(467		)	(68.5	%)
Total ceded premiums written	$	20,403	$	19,774		$	629		3.2	%	$	77,537	$	77,690	$	(153	)	(0.2	%)

WeOur Workers' Compensation Insurance segment cedes alternative market business under a 100% quota share reinsurance agreement, net of a ceding commission, to SPCs in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment.

Under our external reinsurance agreement, we retain the first $0.5 million in risk insured by us ~~on our traditional business~~ and cede losses in excess of this amount on each loss occurrence under our primary external reinsurance treaty. Effective May 1, 2019, our primary reinsurance layer was renewed with an AAD equal to the greater of $3.9 million or 2.1% of subject premium, in excess of the $0.5 million retention per loss occurrence, and the elimination of the return premium component of the contract. The addition of the AAD was partially offset by a reduction in the reinsurance rates under our renewed program. Per our reinsurance agreements, we cede premiums related to our traditional ~~external reinsurance contract contains a return~~business on an earned premium provision under which we estimate return premium based on the underlying loss experience of policies covered under the contract. In our alternative market business, the risk retention for each loss occurrence ranges from $0.3 million to $0.35 million based on the alternative market program. We cede 100% ofbasis. The increase in premiums ~~written under four alternative market programs to unaffiliated captive insurers.~~

~~Premiums~~ ceded to external reinsurers ~~in our traditional business decreased~~ during the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017. The decline in traditional ceded premiums~~2019 primarily reflected an increase in ~~revenue sharing with our reinsurance broker,~~earned premium, partially offset by the impact of lower reinsurance rates for the treaty year effective May 1, 2019.

The decrease in premiums ceded to unaffiliated captive insurers during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 reflected the impact of a novation of an ~~increase~~unaffiliated captive program into an SPC at Inova Re during the fourth quarter of 2018. The premium now written through this SPC is reflected in ~~reinsurance rates.~~premiums ceded to SPCs in the table above. As of September 30, 2019, there is only one remaining unaffiliated captive program.

Changes in the return premium estimate reflected the loss experience under the reinsurance contract for the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016.~~2018. The ~~increase~~change in ~~the~~estimated return premium ~~estimate~~ for the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017 primarily~~2019 reflected ~~improved~~prior year unfavorable loss ~~experience in the 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 contract years.~~

development on reinsured claims.

Ceded Premiums Ratio

Ceded premiums ratio was as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30
	2017			2016			Change			Three Months Ended September 30							Nine Months Ended September 30
	Traditional Business	Alternative Market Business	Segment Results	Traditional Business	Alternative Market Business	Segment Results	Traditional Business	Alternative Market Business	Segment Results	2019		2018		Change			2019		2018		Change
Ceded premiums ratio, as reported	5.1%	16.6%	8.4%	6.6%	15.7%	9.1%	(1.5)	0.9	(0.7)	33.5	%	34.2	%	(0.7	)	pts	34.1	%	34.6	%	(0.5	)	pts
Less the effect of:
Premiums ceded to SPCs (100%)										25.4	%	25.8	%	(0.4	)	pts	26.2	%	25.0	%	1.2		pts
Retrospective premium adjustments										—	%	—	%	—		pts	0.1	%	—	%	0.1		pts
Premiums ceded to unaffiliated captive insurers (100%)										1.2	%	2.4	%	(1.2	)	pts	1.1	%	2.7	%	(1.6	)	pts
Return premium estimated under external reinsurance	(0.9%)	—%	(0.6%)	(0.1%)	—%	(0.1%)	(0.8)	—	(0.5)	0.4	%	(0.9	%)	1.3		pts	0.1	%	0.5	%	(0.4	)	pts
Premiums ceded to unaffiliated captive insurers (100%)	—%	5.5%	1.7%	—%	4.8%	1.4%	—	0.7	0.3
Ceded premiums ratio, less the effects of above	6.0%	11.1%	7.3%	6.7%	10.9%	7.8%	(0.7)	0.2	(0.5)
Assumed premiums earned (not ceded to external reinsurers)										(0.3	%)	(0.3	%)	—		pts	(0.3	%)	(0.3	%)	—		pts
Ceded premiums ratio (related to external reinsurance), less the effects of above										6.8	%	7.2	%	(0.4	)	pts	6.9	%	6.7	%	0.2		pts

~~Per our reinsurance agreements,~~The above table reflects ceded premiums earned as a percent of gross premiums earned. As discussed above, we cede premiums related to our traditional business to external reinsurers on an earned premium ~~basis, whereas alternative market~~basis. For the three months ended September 30, 2019, the ceded premiums ~~are ceded on a written premium basis. The decrease~~ratio, excluding the effects in the ~~traditional ceded premium ratio reflects~~table above, decreased as compared to the same period in 2018 which primarily reflected the impact of lower reinsurance rates for the revenue sharing noted above, partially offset by the increase in reinsurance rates. The alternative markets ceded premium ratio, less the effect of premiums ceded to the unaffiliated captive insurers, reflected premiums ceded to our external reinsurers related to the SPCs at Eastern Re. The reinsurance rate for our alternative market business varies by program.treaty year effective May 1, 2019.

Net Premiums Earned

Net premiums earned were as follows:

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands) 2017 2016 Change 2017 2016 Change
Gross premiums earned

Traditional business* $ 43,492
$ 42,582
$ 910
2.1 % $ 127,761
$ 127,426
$ 335
0.3 %
Alternative market business 20,200
18,502
1,698
9.2 % 59,855
55,601
4,254
7.7 %
Segment results 63,692
61,084
2,608
4.3 % 187,616
183,027
4,589
2.5 %
Less: Ceded premiums earned

Traditional business 2,193
2,850
(657 ) (23.1 %) 5,956
7,174
(1,218 ) (17.0 %)
Alternative market business* 3,845
3,736
109
2.9 % 11,869
11,879
(10 ) (0.1 %)
Segment results 6,038
6,586
(548 ) (8.3 %) 17,825
19,053
(1,228 ) (6.4 %)
Net premiums earned

Traditional business 41,299
39,732
1,567
3.9 % 121,805
120,252
1,553
1.3 %
Alternative market business 16,355
14,766
1,589
10.8 % 47,986
43,722
4,264
9.8 %
Segment results $ 57,654
$ 54,498
$ 3,156
5.8 % $ 169,791
$ 163,974
$ 5,817
3.5 %
* Traditional gross premiums earned and alternative market ceded premiums earned are reported net of alternative market premiums assumed by our traditional business totaling $0.2 million and $0.4 million for the 2017 three- and nine-month periods, respectively, and $0.2 million and $0.7 million for the same respective periods of 2016.



	Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018		Change				2019		2018		Change
Gross premiums earned	$	74,403	$	71,835	$	2,568	3.6	%	$	215,561	$	206,927	$	8,634	4.2	%
Less: Ceded premiums earned	24,926		24,539		387		1.6	%	73,571		71,697		1,874		2.6	%
Net premiums earned	$	49,477	$	47,296	$	2,181	4.6	%	$	141,990	$	135,230	$	6,760	5.0	%

Net premiums earned consist of gross premiums earned less the portion of earned premiums that we cede to SPCs in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment, external reinsurers ~~for their assumption~~or to any unaffiliated captive insurers. Because premiums are generally earned pro rata over the entire policy period, fluctuations in premiums earned tend to lag those of ~~a portion of our losses.~~premiums written. Our workers’ compensation policies are ~~twelve-month~~twelve month term policies, and premiums are earned on a pro rata basis over the policy period. Net premiums earned also include premium adjustments related to the audit of our insureds' payrolls. Payroll audits are conducted subsequent to the end of the policy period and any related adjustments are recorded as fully earned in the current period. In addition, we record an estimate for EBUB and evaluate the estimate on a quarterly basis. We did not adjust the EBUB estimate during the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017 and 2016.~~2019 or 2018. The increase in net premiums earned primarily reflected the pro rata effect of higher net premiums written during the preceding twelve months, partially offset by retrospective premium adjustments, as previously discussed.

Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

The following table summarizes calendar year net loss ratios by separating losses between the current accident year and all prior accident years. Calendar year and current accident year net loss ratios by component were as follows:

Three Months Ended September 30
2017 2016 Change
Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results
Calendar year net loss ratio* 65.2 % 49.7 % 60.8 % 66.5 % 54.3 % 63.3 % (1.3 ) (4.6 ) (2.5 )
Less impact of prior accident years on the net loss ratio (0.9 %) (11.7 %) (4.0 %) (1.0 %) (9.7 %) (3.3 %) 0.1
(2.0 ) (0.7 )
Current accident year net loss ratio 66.1 % 61.4 % 64.8 %
67.5 % 64.0 % 66.6 % (1.4 ) (2.6 ) (1.8 )
Less impact of audit premium on loss ratio — % (0.9 %) (0.3 %) — % 0.2 % — % —
(1.1 ) (0.3 )
Current accident year net loss ratio, excluding the effect of audit premium 66.1 % 62.3 % 65.1 %
67.5 % 63.8 % 66.6 %
(1.4 ) (1.5 ) (1.5 )

Nine Months Ended September 30

2017
2016 Change

Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results
Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results
Calendar year net loss ratio* 65.0 % 49.8 % 60.8 %
66.5 % 55.0 % 63.5 %
(1.5 ) (5.2 ) (2.7 )
Less impact of prior accident years on the net loss ratio (1.0 %) (13.5 %) (4.5 %)
(1.0 %) (6.4 %) (2.4 %)
—
(7.1 ) (2.1 )
Current accident year net loss ratio 66.0 % 63.3 % 65.3 %
67.5 % 61.4 % 65.9 %
(1.5 ) 1.9
(0.6 )
Less impact of audit premium on loss ratio — % (1.0 %) (0.3 %)
— % (0.6 %) (0.2 %)
—
(0.4 ) (0.1 )
Current accident year net loss ratio, excluding the effect of audit premium 66.0 % 64.3 % 65.6 %
67.5 % 62.0 % 66.1 %
(1.5 ) 2.3
(0.5 )
* The net loss ratios for the 2017 three- and nine-month periods in the above tables are calculated before the impact of $0.2 million and $0.4 million, respectively, and $0.2 million and $0.7 million for the same respective periods of 2016 of premiums earned that is assumed by and ceded from the traditional and alternative markets business.

The current accident year net loss ratio in our traditional business decreased during the 2017 three- and nine-month periods which primarily reflected more favorable trends in claim closing results in 2017 as compared to 2016, which reduced loss indications for the 2017 accident year. The accident year loss ratio for the alternative market business reflected the aggregate loss ratio for all programs. Loss reserves are estimated for each program on a quarterly basis. Due to the size of some of the programs, quarterly claim activity can cause the accident year loss ratio to fluctuate significantly period to period.

Calendar year incurred losses ceded to our external reinsurers in both our traditional and alternative market business totaled $8.0 million and $20.6 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, compared to ceded incurred losses of $1.5 million and $20.1 million for the same respective periods of 2016. The increase in ceded incurred losses for the three months ended September 30, 2017 primarily reflected one large claim with ceded losses of $5.5 million.

We recognized net favorable prior year development related to our previously established reserve of $2.3 million and $7.6 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, and $1.8 million and $3.9 million for the same respective periods of 2016. The net favorable prior year development included $0.4 million and $1.2 million related to amortization of the purchase accounting fair value adjustment for our traditional business for both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. It also included net favorable prior year development for our alternative market business of $1.9 million and $6.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, and $1.4 million and $2.7 million for the same respective periods of 2016. The prior year favorable development reflected better than expected claims trends in the 2015 and 2016 accident years.

Within our alternative market business, audit premium from insureds results in a decrease in the net loss ratio, whereas audit premium returned to insureds results in an increase in the net loss ratio. We recognized audit premium of $0.3 million and $0.7 million in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, and $0.4 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 including a nominal amount during the 2016 three-month period, the effect of which is reflected in the tables above.

~~In our traditional business, we~~ estimate our current accident year loss and loss adjustment expenses based on an expected loss ratio. Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses are determined by applying the expected loss ratio to net premiums earned, which includes audit premium, for the respective period. ~~In our alternative market business, we estimate our current accident~~The following table summarizes calendar year net loss ratios by separating losses and loss adjustment expenses based on the underlying actuarial methodologies without consideration of audit premium. As a result, we removed the effects of audit premium in the above table for purposes of evaluatingbetween the current accident year and all prior accident years. Calendar year and current accident year net loss ~~ratio.~~ratios by component were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30							Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019		2018		Change			2019		2018		Change
Calendar year net loss ratio	65.4	%	64.8	%	0.6		pts	65.8	%	64.9	%	0.9	pts
Less impact of prior accident years on the net loss ratio	(2.8	%)	(5.9	%)	3.1		pts	(2.4	%)	(3.1	%)	0.7	pts
Current accident year net loss ratio	68.2	%	70.7	%	(2.5	)	pts	68.2	%	68.0	%	0.2	pts

The addition of the AAD under the reinsurance treaty effective May 1, 2019 slightly increased the current accident year net loss ratios for both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 as compared to the same periods of 2018 (see previous discussion under the heading "Ceded Premiums Written"). For the 2019 three-month period, the impact of the AAD on the change in the current accident year net loss ratio as compared to the 2018 three-month period was more than offset by the effect of a higher current accident year net loss ratio in the 2018 three-month period due to an increase to the ratio during the third quarter of 2018 driven by the impact of severity-related claim activity related to economic growth trends and the increase in new and less experienced workers to the workforce. The impact of renewal rate decreases on the current accident year net loss ratio for the 2019 three- and nine- month periods was offset by favorable claim trends during 2019.

Calendar year incurred losses (excluding IBNR) ceded to our external reinsurers decreased $5.2 million and $11.2 million for the 2019 three- and nine- month periods, respectively, as compared to the same periods of 2018. Current accident year ceded incurred losses decreased $9.9 million and $7.0 million during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods, respectively, as compared to the same periods of 2018.

We recognized net favorable prior year development related to our previously established reserve of $1.4 million and $3.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively, as compared to $2.8 million and $4.2 million for the same respective periods of 2018. The net favorable prior year development for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 reflected overall favorable trends in claim closing patterns, primarily in the 2016 accident year. Net favorable development for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 primarily related to the 2015 and 2016 accident years. For both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, the net favorable prior year development included $0.4 million and $1.2 million, respectively, related to the amortization of the purchase accounting fair value adjustment.

Underwriting, Policy Acquisition and Operating Expenses

Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses includes the amortization of commissions, premium taxes and underwriting salaries, which are capitalized and deferred over the related workers’ compensation policy period, net of ~~external~~ ceding commissions earned. The capitalization of underwriting salaries can vary as they are subject to the success rate of our contract acquisition efforts. These expenses also include a management fee charged by ~~the~~our Corporate segment, which represents intercompany charges pursuant to a management agreement, and the amortization of intangible assets, primarily related to the acquisition of Eastern by ProAssurance. The management fee is based on the extent to which services are provided to the subsidiary and the amount of premium written by the subsidiary.

~~The table below provides a comparison of underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses:~~

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands) 2017 2016 Change 2017 2016 Change
Traditional business $ 13,508
$ 13,821
$ (313 ) (2.3 %) $ 37,632
$ 39,136
$ (1,504 ) (3.8 %)
Alternative market business 4,926
4,510
416
9.2 % 14,588
13,358
1,230
9.2 %
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses $ 18,434
$ 18,331
$ 103
0.6 % $ 52,220
$ 52,494
$ (274 ) (0.5 %)

~~The decrease in~~Our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses were comprised as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019			2018			Change					2019			2018			Change
DPAC amortization	$	9,021		$	9,793		$	(772	)	(7.9	%)	$	26,072		$	24,798		$	1,274		5.1	%
Management fees	525			492			33			6.7	%	1,677			1,707			(30		)	(1.8	%)
Other underwriting and operating expenses	9,939			9,957			(18		)	(0.2	%)	29,122			28,340			782			2.8	%
SPC ceding commission offset	(4,590		)	(4,832		)	242			(5.0	%)	(13,415		)	(13,300		)	(115		)	0.9	%
Total	$	14,895		$	15,410		$	(515	)	(3.3	%)	$	43,456		$	41,545		$	1,911		4.6	%

The decrease in ~~our traditional line of business~~DPAC amortization for the ~~2017 three- and nine-month periods~~three months ended September 30, 2019 as compared to the same respective ~~periods of 2016~~period in 2018 was driven by the ~~decrease~~impact of higher capitalized underwriting salaries during the first half of 2018 and the resulting increase in ~~intangible asset~~ amortization recognized during the third quarter of ~~$0.6 million~~2018. The increase in DPAC amortization for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 primarily reflected the increase in net premiums earned. The increase in other underwriting and ~~$1.7 million, respectively. In addition,~~operating expenses for the ~~decrease~~nine months ended September 30, 2019 reflected an increase in compensation and benefit related costs, professional fees and, to a lesser extent, an increase in the ~~2017 nine-month period included~~allocation of technology costs charged by our Corporate segment. As previously discussed, alternative market premiums written through our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment's alternative market business unit are 100% ceded, less a ceding commission, to either the ~~effect~~SPCs in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment or, to a limited extent, an unaffiliated captive insurer. The ceding commission consists of an amount for fronting fees, cell rental fees, commissions, premium taxes, claims administration fees and risk management fees. The fronting fees, commissions, premium taxes and risk management fees are recorded as an offset to underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses. Cell rental fees are recorded as a ~~$0.6 million pension settlement charge related~~component of other income and claims administration fees are recorded as ceded ULAE. The increase in SPC ceding commissions earned for nine months ended September 30, 2019 as compared to the ~~termination~~same respective period of ~~a legacy Eastern pension plan recorded~~2018 primarily reflected the increase in ~~the first quarter of 2016.~~alternative market earned premium.

Underwriting Expense Ratio (the Expense Ratio)

The underwriting expense ratio ~~for the Workers' Compensation segment~~ included the impact of the following:

Three Months Ended September 30
2017 2016 Change
Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results
Underwriting expense ratio, as reported* 32.5 % 30.6 % 32.0 % 34.6 % 31.0 % 33.6 % (2.1 ) (0.4 ) (1.6 )
Less estimated ratio increase (decrease) attributable to:
Amortization of intangible assets 1.8 % — % 1.3 % 3.3 % — % 2.4 % (1.5 ) —
(1.1 )
Management fee 1.1 % — % 0.8 % 1.1 % — % 0.8 % —
—
—
Impact of audit premium (0.3 %) (0.5 %) (0.3 %) (1.2 %) 0.1 % (0.9 %) 0.9
(0.6 ) 0.6
Impact of return premium estimate (0.3 %) — % (0.2 %) — % — % — % (0.3 ) —
(0.2 )
Underwriting expense ratio, less listed effects 30.2 % 31.1 % 30.4 % 31.4 % 30.9 % 31.3 % (1.2 ) 0.2
(0.9 )

Nine Months Ended September 30

2017 2016 Change

Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results Traditional Business Alternative Market Business Segment
Results
Underwriting expense ratio, as reported* 30.8 % 30.7 % 30.8 %
32.4 % 31.0 % 32.0 %
(1.6 ) (0.3 ) (1.2 )
Less estimated ratio increase (decrease) attributable to:

Non-recurring/unusual expenses — % — % — %
0.5 % — % 0.4 %
(0.5 ) —
(0.4 )
Amortization of intangible assets 1.8 % — % 1.3 %
3.2 % — % 2.4 %
(1.4 ) —
(1.1 )
Management fee 1.2 % — % 0.9 %
1.2 % — % 0.9 %
—
—
—
Impact of audit premium (0.5 %) (0.5 %) (0.5 %)
(1.0 %) (0.3 %) (0.8 %)
0.5
(0.2 ) 0.3
Impact of return premium estimate (0.2 %) — % (0.2 %)
(0.1 %) — % (0.1 %)
(0.1 ) —
(0.1 )
Underwriting expense ratio, less listed effects 28.5 % 31.2 % 29.3 %
28.6 % 31.3 % 29.2 %
(0.1 ) (0.1 ) 0.1
* The underwriting expense ratios for the 2017 three- and nine-month periods in the above tables are calculated before the impact of $0.2 million and $0.4 million, respectively, and $0.2 million and $0.7 million for the same respective periods of 2016 of premiums earned that is assumed by and ceded from the traditional and alternative markets business, respectively.



	Three Months Ended September 30							Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019		2018		Change			2019		2018		Change
Underwriting expense ratio, as reported	30.1	%	32.6	%	(2.5	)	pts	30.6	%	30.7	%	(0.1	)	pts
Less estimated ratio increase (decrease) attributable to:
Impact of ceding commissions received from SPCs	2.6	%	3.2	%	(0.6	)	pts	2.9	%	2.9	%	—		pts
Retrospective premium adjustment	0.1	%	0.1	%	—		pts	0.2	%	(0.1	%)	0.3		pts
Impact of audit premium	(0.6	%)	(0.2	%)	(0.4	)	pts	(0.3	%)	(0.4	%)	0.1		pts
Impact of return premium estimate	0.1	%	(0.2	%)	0.3		pts	—	%	0.1	%	(0.1	)	pts
Underwriting expense ratio, less listed effects	27.9	%	29.7	%	(1.8	)	pts	27.8	%	28.2	%	(0.4	)	pts

The decrease in the traditional expense ratio for the three months ended September 30, 2017, exclusive of the items noted in the tables, primarily reflected the increase in net premiums earned. There were no other individually significant variances by expense category that contributed to the increase in the expense ratio. The change in the alternative market expense ratio for the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019, excluding the items noted in the table, primarily reflected ~~ceding commissions, which vary by program.~~

~~Non-recurring expenses~~the increase in net premiums earned. Additionally, the decrease for the ~~nine months ended September 30, 2016 in the above table~~2019 three-month period also reflected a ~~pension settlement charge,~~decrease in DPAC amortization, as ~~discussed above.~~previously discussed.

Segment Operating Results - Segregated Portfolio Cell ~~Dividend Expense (Income)~~Reinsurance

~~Our Workers' Compensation~~The Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment provides turn-key workers' compensation alternative market solutions that include program design, fronting, claims administration, risk management, SPC rental, asset management and SPC management services. The asset management and SPC management services are outsourced to a third party. Alternative market customers include individual companies, groups and associations. SPC dividend expense (income) for each period representsreflects the operating results (underwriting profit or loss, ~~attributable to the alternative market business ceded to the~~plus investment results) of SPCs ofat Inova Re and Eastern Re, ~~net~~our Cayman Islands SPC operations, as discussed in Note 14 of ~~any participation we have taken in~~ the ~~SPCs.~~

~~The~~Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. SPCs are segregated pools of assets and liabilities that provide an insurance facility for a defined set of risks. Assets of each SPC are solely for the benefit of that individual cell and each SPC is solely responsible for the liabilities of that individual cell. Assets of one SPC are statutorily protected from the creditors of the others. Each SPC is owned, fully or in part, by an agency, group or association and the operating results of the SPCs are due to the participants of that cell. We participate to a varying degree in the results of selected ~~SPCs. Our ownership interest in~~SPCs and, for the SPCs in which we participate, ~~is as~~our participation interest ranges from a low ~~as 25% and as~~of 20% to a high ~~as 100%~~of 85%. ~~Under the~~ SPC ~~structure, the net~~ operating results ~~of each cell, net of our participation, are~~ due to ~~the~~ external ~~owners of that cell.~~

~~The SPC financial results~~cell participants are ~~included in the table below. The~~reflected as an SPC dividend expense (income) ~~represents~~in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment. In addition, our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment includes the ~~operating~~SPC investment results as the investments are solely for the benefit of ~~each~~the cell participants and investment results due to external cell participants are reflected in the ~~aggregate.~~

SPC dividend expense (income) ~~was~~. As of September 30, 2019, there were 27 (23 active) SPCs. The majority of the SPCs only assume workers' compensation insurance, healthcare professional liability insurance or a combination of the two from our Workers' Compensation Insurance and Specialty P&C segments. In addition, an SPC at Eastern Re assumed an errors and omissions liability policy from a captive insurer unaffiliated with ProAssurance.

Segment operating results reflects our share of the underwriting and investment results of the SPCs in which we participate, and included the following:



	Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019			2018			Change					2019			2018			Change
Net premiums written	$	15,268		$	14,832		$	436		2.9	%	$	62,886		$	60,709		$	2,177		3.6	%

Net premiums earned	$	19,779		$	18,963		$	816		4.3	%	$	58,566		$	54,247		$	4,319		8.0	%
Net investment income	445			371			74			19.9	%	1,261			1,100			161			14.6	%
Net realized gains (losses)	(98		)	1,397			(1,495		)	(107.0	%)	1,949			467			1,482			317.3	%
Other income	176			86			90			104.7	%	397			176			221			125.6	%
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	(9,778		)	(8,560		)	(1,218		)	14.2	%	(40,496		)	(27,561		)	(12,935		)	46.9	%
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses	(5,951		)	(5,516		)	(435		)	7.9	%	(17,091		)	(16,070		)	(1,021		)	6.4	%
SPC net operating results	4,573			6,741			(2,168		)	(32.2	%)	4,586			12,359			(7,773		)	(62.9	%)
SPC dividend (expense) income ⁽¹⁾	(3,621		)	(5,255		)	1,634			(31.1	%)	(1,375		)	(9,787		)	8,412			(86.0	%)
Segment operating results ⁽²⁾	$	952		$	1,486		$	(534	)	(35.9	%)	$	3,211		$	2,572		$	639		24.8	%

Net loss ratio	49.4		%	45.1%			4.3			pts		69.1		%	50.8		%	18.3			pts
Underwriting expense ratio	30.1		%	29.1%			1.0			pts		29.2		%	29.6		%	(0.4		)	pts
⁽¹⁾Represents the operating (profit) loss due to external cell participants.
⁽²⁾Represents our share of the operating profit (loss) of the SPCs in which we participate.

Premiums Written

The majority of premiums in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment are assumed from either our Workers' Compensation Insurance or Specialty P&C segments. Premium volume is driven by five primary factors: (1) the amount of new business written, (2) retention of the existing book of business, (3) premium rates charged on the renewal book of business and, for workers' compensation business, (4) audit premium and (5) changes in payroll exposure.

Gross, ceded and net premiums written were as follows:

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands) 2017 2016 Change 2017 2016 Change
Net premiums earned $ 16,113
$ 14,539
$ 1,574
10.8 % $ 47,544
$ 43,026
$ 4,518
10.5 %
Other income 34
3
31
1,033.3 % 83
10
73
730.0 %
Less: Net losses and loss adjustment expenses 8,016
7,888
128
1.6 % 23,698
23,683
15
0.1 %
Less: Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses 4,926
4,510
416
9.2 % 14,587
13,358
1,229
9.2 %
SPC net operating results - profit/(loss) 3,205
2,144
1,061
49.5 % 9,342

5,995

3,347
55.8 %
Less: Eastern participation - profit/(loss) 1,483
695
788
113.4 % 3,749
2,555
1,194
46.7 %
SPC dividend expense (income) $ 1,722
$ 1,449
$ 273
18.8 % $ 5,593
$ 3,440
$ 2,153
62.6 %



	Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018		Change				2019		2018		Change
Gross premiums written	$	17,281	$	16,799	$	482	2.9	%	$	70,556	$	68,255	$	2,301	3.4	%
Less: Ceded premiums written	2,013		1,967		46		2.3	%	7,670		7,546		124		1.6	%
Net premiums written	$	15,268	$	14,832	$	436	2.9	%	$	62,886	$	60,709	$	2,177	3.6	%

Gross Premiums Written

Gross premiums written reflected reinsurance premiums assumed by component as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018		Change				2019		2018		Change
Workers' compensation	$	16,706	$	16,275	$	431	2.6	%	$	64,610	$	63,214	$	1,396	2.2	%
Healthcare professional liability	575		524		51		9.7	%	5,465		5,041		424		8.4	%
Other	—		—		—		nm		481		—		481		nm
Gross Premiums Written	$	17,281	$	16,799	$	482	2.9	%	$	70,556	$	68,255	$	2,301	3.4	%

Gross premiums written for the 2019 and 2018 three- and nine- month periods were primarily comprised of workers' compensation coverages assumed from our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment. The increase in ~~SPC dividend expense for~~gross premiums written during the ~~2017~~2019 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods as compared to the same periods of ~~2016,~~2018 was ~~due to~~driven by new business written and an increase in the renewal retention rate, partially offset by a decrease in renewal pricing related to the competitive workers' compensation marketplace. We retained all 18 of the available alternative market programs, including 16 workers' compensation programs and 2 healthcare professional liability programs up for renewal during the nine months ended September 30, 2019. During the third quarter of 2019, we added one new alternative market program at Inova Re.

New business, audit premium, retention and renewal price changes for the assumed workers' compensation premium is shown in the table below:



	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in millions)	2019			2018			2019			2018
New business	$	0.8		$	1.6		$	3.0		$	7.0
Audit premium (including EBUB)	$	0.4		$	0.6		$	1.3		$	1.0
Retention rate ⁽¹⁾	96		%	87		%	93		%	91		%
Change in renewal pricing ⁽²⁾	(5		%)	1		%	(4		%)	—		%
⁽¹⁾ We calculate our workers' compensation retention rate as annualized expiring renewed premium divided by all annualized expiring premium subject to renewal. Our retention rate can be impacted by various factors, including price or other competitive issues, insureds being acquired, or a decision not to renew based on our underwriting evaluation.
⁽²⁾ The pricing of our business includes an assessment of the underlying policy exposure and the effects of current market conditions. We continue to base our pricing on expected losses, as indicated by our historical loss data.

Ceded Premiums Written

Ceded premiums written were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018		Change				2019		2018		Change
Ceded premiums written	$	2,013	$	1,967	$	46	2.3	%	$	7,670	$	7,546	$	124	1.6	%

For the workers' compensation business, each SPC has in place its own external reinsurance arrangements. The healthcare professional liability business is assumed net of reinsurance from our Specialty P&C segment; therefore, there are no ceded premiums related to the healthcare professional liability business reflected in the table above. The risk retention for each loss occurrence for the workers' compensation business ranges from $0.3 million to $0.35 million based on the program, with limits up to $119.7 million. In addition, each program has aggregate reinsurance coverage between $1.1 million and $2.1 million on a program year basis. Per the SPC external reinsurance agreements, premiums are ceded on a written premium basis and changes in ceded premiums written during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods primarily reflected changes in gross written premium, as compared to the same respective periods in 2018. External reinsurance rates vary based on the alternative market program.

Ceded Premiums Ratio

Ceded premiums ratio was as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30					Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019	2018	Change			2019	2018	Change
Ceded premiums ratio	12.0%	12.1%	(0.1	)	pts	11.9%	11.9%	—	pts

The above table reflects ceded premiums as a percent of gross premiums written for the workers' compensation business only; healthcare professional liability business is assumed net of reinsurance, as discussed above. The ceded premiums ratio remained relatively unchanged for the 2019 three- and nine- month periods as compared to the same respective periods of 2018.

Net Premiums Earned

Gross, ceded and net premiums earned were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30									Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018		Change					2019		2018		Change
Gross premiums earned	$	22,218	$	21,476	$	742		3.5	%	$	65,856	$	61,069	$	4,787	7.8	%
Less: Ceded premiums earned	2,439		2,513		(74		)	(2.9	%)	7,290		6,822		468		6.9	%
Net premiums earned	$	19,779	$	18,963	$	816		4.3	%	$	58,566	$	54,247	$	4,319	8.0	%

Net premiums earned ~~which drove~~consist of gross premiums earned less the ~~improvement~~portion of earned premiums that the SPCs cede to external reinsurers. Because premiums are generally earned pro rata over the entire policy period, fluctuations in premiums earned tend to lag those of premiums written. Policies ceded to the SPCs are twelve month term policies and premiums are earned on a pro rata basis over the policy period. Net premiums earned also include premium adjustments related to the audit of workers' compensation insureds' payrolls. Payroll audits are conducted subsequent to the end of the policy period and any related adjustments are recorded as fully earned in the current period. The increase in net premiums earned primarily reflected the pro rata effect of higher net premiums written during the preceding twelve months.

Net Investment Income and Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)

Net investment income for the 2019 and 2018 three- and nine- month periods was primarily attributable to interest earned on available-for-sale fixed maturity investments, which primarily includes investment-grade corporate debt securities. Net realized investment gains and losses during the 2019 and 2018 three- and nine- month periods primarily reflected changes in the value of the SPCs' equity securities portfolio.

Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

The following table summarizes the calendar year net loss ratios by separating losses between the current accident year and all prior accident years. The current accident year net loss ratio for our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment reflects the aggregate loss ratio for all programs. Loss reserves are estimated for each program on a quarterly basis. Due to the size of some of the programs, quarterly claims activity can cause the current accident year net loss ratio to fluctuate significantly from period to period.

Calendar year and current accident year net loss ratios for the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018 was as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30
	2019		2018		Change
Calendar year net loss ratio	49.4	%	45.1	%	4.3	pts
Less impact of prior accident years on the net loss ratio	(16.7	%)	(19.7	%)	3.0	pts
Current accident year net loss ratio	66.1	%	64.8	%	1.3	pts

The increase in the current accident year net loss ratio for the 2019 three-month period primarily reflected the effect of the continuation of intense price competition and the resulting renewal rate decreases.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2019, our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment net loss ratios were affected by a $10 million reserve that an SPC at Eastern Re established during the second quarter of 2019. This SPC previously assumed an errors and omissions liability policy that provides coverage for losses up to a lifetime maximum of $10 million from a captive insurer unaffiliated with ProAssurance. During the second quarter of 2019, a claim was filed under this policy that met the lifetime maximum limit and, accordingly, a $10 million reserve was recorded. We do not participate in the SPC that assumed this policy; therefore, these losses are the obligation of the external cell participants and are reflected in the SPC dividend expense (income) and have no effect on our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment operating results for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. Given the significance of this one-time event, we have removed the impact of the policy from each of the ratios below (as shown in ~~both~~the columns labeled "Adjusted") in order to assist in the comparability between periods. Calendar year and current accident year net loss ratios for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018 was as follows:



	Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019						2018		Change
	As reported		E&O reserve impact		Adjusted		As reported		As reported		Adjusted
Calendar year net loss ratio	69.1	%	16.6	pts	52.5	%	50.8	%	18.3	pts	1.7	pts
Less impact of prior accident years on the net loss ratio	(13.4	%)	0.1	pts	(13.5	%)	(15.2	%)	1.8	pts	1.7	pts
Current accident year net loss ratio	82.5	%	16.5	pts	66.0	%	66.0	%	16.5	pts	—	pts

Excluding the impact of the errors and omissions liability policy, as shown in the table above, the current accident year net loss ratio for the 2019 nine-month period was unchanged as compared to the same period of 2018.

Calendar year incurred losses ceded to our external reinsurers increased $0.5 million and $1.9 million for the 2019 three- and nine- month periods, respectively, as compared to the same periods of 2018. Current accident year ceded incurred losses totaled $1.8 million and $2.0 million for the 2019 three- and nine- month periods, respectively, compared to $1.3 million for the 2018 nine-month period. There were no current accident year ceded incurred losses reported in the 2018 three-month period.

We recognized net favorable prior year reserve development of $3.3 million and $7.8 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively, and $3.7 million and $8.2 million for the same respective periods of 2018. The net favorable prior year reserve development for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 primarily reflected better than expected claim trends in the 2015 through 2018 accident years due to lower frequency and severity than anticipated at the time the reserves were established. The net favorable prior year reserve development for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 reflected overall favorable trends in claim closing patterns, primarily in the 2015 and 2016 accident years.

Underwriting, Policy Acquisition and Operating Expenses

Our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses were comprised as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018		Change				2019		2018		Change
DPAC amortization	$	5,493	$	5,291	$	202	3.8	%	$	16,159	$	15,448	$	711	4.6	%
Other underwriting and operating expenses	458		225		233		103.6	%	932		622		310		49.8	%
Total	$	5,951	$	5,516	$	435	7.9	%	$	17,091	$	16,070	$	1,021	6.4	%

DPAC amortization primarily represented ceding commissions, which vary by program and are paid to our Workers' Compensation Insurance and Specialty P&C segments for premiums assumed. Ceding commissions include an amount for fronting fees, commissions, premium taxes and risk management fees, which are reported as an offset to underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses within our Workers' Compensation Insurance and Specialty P&C segments. In addition, ceding commissions paid to our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment include cell rental fees which are recorded as other income within our Workers' Compensation Insurance segment. The increase in other underwriting and operating expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 as compared to the same periods of 2018 primarily reflected an increase in fees related to letters of credit posted as program collateral.

Underwriting Expense Ratio (the Expense Ratio)

The underwriting expense ratio included the impact of the following:



	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019		2018		Change		2019		2018		Change
Underwriting expense ratio, as reported	30.1	%	29.1	%	1.0	pts	29.2	%	29.6	%	(0.4	)	pts
Less impact of audit premium on expense ratio	(0.5	%)	(1.0	%)	0.5	pts	(0.5	%)	(0.5	%)	—		pts
Underwriting expense ratio, excluding the effect of audit premium	30.6	%	30.1	%	0.5	pts	29.7	%	30.1	%	(0.4	)	pts

The underwriting expense ratio primarily reflects the weighted average ceding commission percentage of all SPC programs.

Segment Operating Results - Lloyd's ~~Syndicate~~Syndicates

~~Through a wholly owned and consolidated subsidiary, we are a corporate member of~~Our Lloyd's Syndicates segment includes operating results from our participation in certain Syndicates at Lloyd's of London and have provided the majority (58%) of the capital to Syndicate 1729 which writes and reinsures property and casualty business. The remaining capital for Syndicate 1729 is provided by unrelated third parties, including private names and other corporate members.

Syndicate 1729 covers a range of property and casualty insurance and reinsurance lines, and has a maximum underwriting capacity of £100.0 million for the 2017 underwriting year, of which £57.6 million ($77.2 million based on September 30, 2017 exchange rates) is our allocated underwriting capacity.London. We have ~~committed~~a total capital commitment to ~~provide capital (also~~support our Lloyd's Syndicate operations through 2019 of up to $200 million, referred to as ~~FAL) of up to $200.0 million~~FAL. The Board, through ~~2022 to support our~~a non-binding resolution, extended this commitment through 2022. For the 2019 underwriting ~~capacity and are meeting~~year, our FAL ~~requirement with~~was comprised of investment securities ~~held~~and cash and cash equivalents deposited with Lloyd's which at ~~Lloyd's. Our FAL securities~~September 30, 2019 had a fair value of ~~$99.2~~approximately $134.7 million, ~~at September 30, 2017,~~ as discussed in Note 3 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Our Lloyd's Syndicate segment results include both our 58% participation in the operating results of Syndicate 1729 and 100% of the operating results of our wholly owned subsidiaries that support Syndicate 1729 and were composed as follows:

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands) 2017 2016 Change 2017 2016 Change
Gross premiums written $ 20,972
$ 18,956
$ 2,016
10.6 % $ 56,995
$ 50,870
$ 6,125
12.0 %
Net premiums written $ 18,773
$ 16,342
$ 2,431
14.9 % $ 44,555
$ 42,575
$ 1,980
4.7 %

Net premiums earned $ 16,318
$ 14,578
$ 1,740
11.9 % $ 45,374
$ 40,533
$ 4,841
11.9 %
Net investment income 412
351
61
17.4 % 1,194
1,004
190
18.9 %
Net realized gains (losses) 31
50
(19 ) (38.0 %) 105
59
46
78.0 %
Other income (1,881 ) 734
(2,615 ) (356.3 %) (1,641 ) 1,174
(2,815 ) (239.8 %)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses (20,444 ) (11,299 ) (9,145 ) 80.9 % (40,718 ) (25,989 ) (14,729 ) 56.7 %
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses (6,723 ) (6,251 ) (472 ) 7.6 % (19,786 ) (16,660 ) (3,126 ) 18.8 %
Income tax benefit (expense) (61 ) (1,352 ) 1,291
(95.5 %) 495
(2,248 ) 2,743
(122.0 %)
Segment operating results $ (12,348 ) $ (3,189 ) $ (9,159 ) 287.2 % $ (14,977 ) $ (2,127 ) $ (12,850 ) 604.1 %

Net loss ratio 125.3% 77.5% 47.8
pts 89.7% 64.1% 25.6
pts
Underwriting expense ratio 41.2% 42.9% (1.7 ) pts 43.6% 41.1% 2.5
pts

We normally report results from our ~~Syndicate 1729~~ involvement in Lloyd's Syndicates on a quarter ~~delay,~~lag, except when information is available that is material to the current period (see discussion that follows under the heading "Property and Natural Catastrophe Losses"). Furthermore, the investment results associated with our FAL investments and certain U.S. paid administrative expenses are reported concurrently as that information is available on an earlier time frame. ~~However,~~

Lloyd's Syndicate 1729. We are the majority capital provider to Syndicate 1729, which covers a range of property and casualty insurance and reinsurance lines. For the 2019 underwriting year, we slightly decreased our participation in the operating results of Syndicate 1729 from 62% to 61% which, due to the quarter lag, was not reflected in our Lloyd's Syndicates segment results until the second quarter of 2019. The remaining capital for Syndicate 1729 is provided by unrelated third parties, including private names and other corporate members. Syndicate 1729 has a maximum underwriting capacity of £128 million for the 2019 underwriting year, of which £78 million (approximately $96 million based on September 30, 2019 exchange rates) is our allocated underwriting capacity.

Lloyd's Syndicate 6131. We are the sole (100%) capital provider to an SPA, Syndicate 6131, which focuses on contingency and specialty property business. As an SPA, Syndicate 6131 is only allowed to underwrite one quota share reinsurance contract with Syndicate 1729. Due to the quarter lag, our participation in Syndicate 6131 was not reflected in our Lloyd's Syndicates segment results until the second quarter of 2018 as Syndicate 6131 began writing business effective January 1, 2018. For the 2019 underwriting year, Syndicate 6131 has a maximum underwriting capacity of £12 million (approximately $15 million based on September 30, 2019 exchange rates).

In addition to the results of our participation in Lloyd's Syndicates, as discussed above, our Lloyd's Syndicates segment also includes 100% of the operating results of our wholly owned subsidiaries that support our operations at Lloyd's. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, the results of our Lloyd's Syndicates segment were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019			2018			Change					2019			2018			Change
Gross premiums written	$	30,427		$	26,387		$	4,040		15.3	%	$	83,247		$	62,949		$	20,298		32.2	%
Ceded premiums written	(8,599		)	(1,756		)	(6,843		)	389.7	%	(21,660		)	(16,610		)	(5,050		)	30.4	%
Net premiums written	$	21,828		$	24,631		$	(2,803	)	(11.4	%)	$	61,587		$	46,339		$	15,248		32.9	%

Net premiums earned	$	21,295		$	19,022		$	2,273		11.9	%	$	57,215		$	48,987		$	8,228		16.8	%
Net investment income	1,077			783			294			37.5	%	3,282			2,370			912			38.5	%
Net realized gains (losses)	285			(98		)	383			390.8	%	725			(404		)	1,129			279.5	%
Other income (loss)	(165		)	352			(517		)	(146.9	%)	(278		)	247			(525		)	(212.6	%)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	(11,907		)	(10,032		)	(1,875		)	18.7	%	(34,640		)	(31,023		)	(3,617		)	11.7	%
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses	(9,411		)	(8,439		)	(972		)	11.5	%	(25,445		)	(23,745		)	(1,700		)	7.2	%
Income tax benefit (expense)	161			361			(200		)	(55.4	%)	161			355			(194		)	(54.6	%)
Segment operating results	$	1,335		$	1,949		$	(614	)	(31.5	%)	$	1,020		$	(3,213	)	$	4,233		131.7	%

Net loss ratio	55.9%			52.7%			3.2			pts		60.5%			63.3%			(2.8		)	pts
Underwriting expense ratio	44.2%			44.4%			(0.2		)	pts		44.5%			48.5%			(4.0		)	pts

Property and Natural Catastrophe Losses

As previously mentioned, we normally report results from our involvement in Lloyd's Syndicates on a quarter lag; however, during the ~~third~~fourth quarter of ~~2017, Syndicate 1729 reported preliminary loss estimates~~2018, we accelerated our reporting of approximately $6.8 million, net of reinsurance and reinstatement premiums, of storm-related losses in connection with ~~Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria,~~Hurricane Michael, which affected ~~Texas, several states~~the northwest portion of Florida during October 2018. These losses would have normally been reported in the ~~southeastern United States and islands in~~first quarter of 2019 due to the ~~Caribbean. Due~~aforementioned quarter lag. However, due to the availability and significance of these estimates, we ~~have~~ accelerated our reporting of these storm-related losses into the ~~third~~fourth quarter of ~~2017. We estimate~~2018, which is consistent with our ~~share (58%)~~policy of reporting significant losses in the ~~net pre-tax losses from these storms~~period in which they become known to ~~be approximately $7.5 million net of reinsurance and reinstatement premiums, which are written and earned~~us. No such adjustments were made during the ~~period. The pre-tax impact~~three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 or 2018.

Gross Premiums Written

Changes in our premium volume within our Lloyd's Syndicates segment are driven by four primary factors: (1) the amount of new business and the ~~recognition~~channels in which the business is written, (2) our retention of ~~these losses on~~existing business, (3) the ~~segment's operating results above~~premium charged for business that is renewed, which is affected by rates charged and by the ~~2017 three-~~amount and ~~nine-month periods was as follows:~~

(In thousands) Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Gross premiums written $ 1,391
Net premiums written $ 1,391
Net premiums earned $ 1,391
Gross losses (36,492 )
Reinsurance recoveries 27,626
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses (8,866 )
Segment operating results, before tax $ (7,475 )

~~Premiums Written~~type of coverage an insured chooses to purchase and (4) the timing of premium written through multi-period policies.

Gross premiums written ~~in 2017~~during the nine months ended September 30, 2019 consisted of ~~casualty~~property insurance coverages ~~(40%~~(45% of total gross ~~written premium)~~premiums written), ~~property insurance~~casualty coverages ~~(35%~~(30%), catastrophe reinsurance coverages ~~(19%~~(15%), specialty property coverages (7%) and property reinsurance coverages ~~(6%~~(3%). ~~For the 2017 three- and nine-month periods, net~~Gross premiums written increased ~~primarily due~~during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods as compared to ~~new business written and~~the same respective periods of 2018 driven by volume increases on renewal ~~business. In addition, the increase in the 2017 three-~~business and nine-month periods reflected the effect of reinstatement premiums recorded during the third quarter of 2017 which represents the additional premium payable to the Syndicate to restore coverage limits that have been exhaustedrenewal pricing increases, as ~~a result of reinsured storm-related losses under certain excess of loss reinsurance treaties. The increase in net premiums~~well as new business written, in both periods was partially offset by revisions to contract terms related to the quota share agreement with our Specialty P&C segment, as discussed below, and, for the 2017 nine-month period, the effect of revised terms on our reinsurance arrangements.primarily property insurance coverages.

As discussed in our Specialty P&C segment operating results, prior to January 1, 2018 Syndicate 1729 ~~serves~~served as a reinsurer on a quota share basis for a wholly owned insurance subsidiary in our Specialty P&C segment. ~~For premium~~Premiums assumed we include in written premium an estimate of all premiums to be earned over the entire period covered by the reinsurance agreement, generally one year, in the quarter in which the reinsurance agreement becomes effective. The quota share agreement withfrom our Specialty P&C segment ~~renewed effective January 1,~~were approximately $1.2 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2018. The 2017 and reflected revised contract terms which reduced premium assumed by Syndicate 1729 by essentially half. Currently, there are no plans to renew the quota share agreement on the next renewal date on January 1, 2018. Results from this ceding arrangement are reported in the Specialty P&C segment on the same quarter delay in order to be consistent with the Lloyd's Syndicate segment as the effect of doing so is not material and thus gross premiums written for the 2017 three- and nine-month periods reflected the change to the reinsurance terms described above.

~~The 2015 and 2014~~2016 calendar year quota share arrangements with our Specialty P&C segment were commuted in December ~~2016~~2018 and ~~2015,~~2017, respectively. Due to the ~~reporting delay,~~quarter lag, the ~~effect~~effects of the ~~2015~~2017 and ~~2014 commutation was~~2016 commutations were reported byin both ~~segments in~~segments' results during the first quarters of ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016,~~2018, respectively, and isare reflected in the Lloyd's Syndicates segment results for the nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016,~~2018, respectively. The commutations did not differ significantly from previously recorded amounts.

Ceded Premiums Written

Syndicate 1729 utilizes reinsurance to provide the capacity to write larger limits of liability on individual risks, to provide protection against catastrophic loss and to provide protection against losses in excess of policy limits. Ceded premiums written increased for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 primarily due to the increased utilization and cost associated with reinsurance on property and catastrophe business. For the 2019 three-month period, the increase in ceded premiums written also reflected the timing of and revised contract terms related to the renewal of a catastrophe reinsurance agreement that renewed during the third quarter of 2019 instead of during the second quarter, which has been the typical renewal period.

Net Premiums Earned

Net premiums earned consist of gross premiums earned less the portion of earned premiums that we cede to our reinsurers for their assumption of a portion of our losses. ~~Policies~~Premiums written ~~to date primarily carry a term of one year. Because premiums~~through open-market channels are generally earned pro rata over the entire policy period, which is predominately twelve months; whereas premiums written through delegated underwriting authority arrangements are earned over twenty-four months. Therefore, net premiums earned is affected by shifts in the mix of policies written between the open-market and delegated underwriting authority arrangements. Additionally, fluctuations in premiums earned tend to lag those of premiums written. ~~Additionally, premiums~~Premiums for certain policies and assumed reinsurance contracts are reported subsequent to the coverage period and/or may be subject to adjustment based on loss experience. These premium adjustments are earned when reported, which can result in further fluctuation in earned premium. ~~Net~~

Gross, ceded and net premiums earned ~~for~~were as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30								Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018		Change				2019		2018		Change
Gross premiums earned	$	26,399	$	23,050	$	3,349	14.5	%	$	72,225	$	60,289	$	11,936	19.8	%
Less: Ceded premiums earned	5,104		4,028		1,076		26.7	%	15,010		11,302		3,708		32.8	%
Net premiums earned	$	21,295	$	19,022	$	2,273	11.9	%	$	57,215	$	48,987	$	8,228	16.8	%

The increase in gross premiums earned during the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 as compared to the same respective periods of 2018 was driven by the pro rata effect of higher premiums written during the preceding twelve months, primarily property insurance coverages, and, to a greater extent for the 2019 nine-month period, the pro rata effect of shifts in the mix of premiums written during the preceding twelve months; a larger proportion of premiums were written through the open-market, as compared to previous years, which are predominately earned over twelve months. For the 2019 nine-month period, the increase in gross premiums earned also reflected the increase in our participation in Syndicate 1729 and Syndicate 6131 at the beginning of 2018 which was not reflected in our Lloyd's Syndicates segment results until the second quarter of 2018.

The increase in ceded premiums earned during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods was driven by the pro rata effect of an increase in premiums ceded under reinsurance arrangements during the preceding twelve months.

Gross and net premiums earned included a nominal amount of premium assumed from our Specialty P&C segment ofduring the 2019 nine-month period as compared to approximately ~~$2.9~~$1.2 million and ~~$9.5~~$4.5 million ~~respectively, and approximately $3.4 million and $10.4 million for~~during the ~~same respective periods of 2016. In addition, net premiums earned in the 2017~~2018 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods, ~~included reinstatement premiums associated with the storm-related losses, as previously discussed.~~respectively.

Net Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

Losses for the period were primarily recorded using the loss assumptions by risk category incorporated into the business plan submitted to Lloyd's for Syndicate 1729 with consideration given to loss experience incurred to date. The assumptions used in the business plan were consistent with loss results reflected in Lloyd's historical data for similar risks. Syndicate 6131 follows a process similar to Syndicate 1729 for the establishment of initial reserves. We expect loss ratios to fluctuate from quarter to quarter as Syndicate 1729 writes more business and the book begins to mature. We also expect loss ratios of Syndicate 6131 to fluctuate from quarter to quarter as Syndicate 6131 assumes more business from Syndicate 1729. The loss ratios will also fluctuate due to the timing of earned premium adjustments (see discussion in this section under the heading "Net Premiums Earned"). Premium and exposure for some of Syndicate 1729's insurance policies and reinsurance contracts are initially estimated and subsequently adjusted over an extended period of time as underlying premium reports are received ~~under binding authority programs.~~from cedants and insureds. When reports are received, the premium, exposure and corresponding loss estimates are revised accordingly. Changes in loss estimates due to premium or exposure fluctuations are incurred in the accident year in which the premium is earned.

The following table summarizes calendar year net loss ratios by separating losses between the current accident year and all prior accident years. Net loss ratios for the period were as follows:



	Net Loss Ratios
	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019		2018		Change		2019		2018		Change
Calendar year net loss ratio	55.9	%	52.7	%	3.2	pts	60.5	%	63.3	%	(2.8	)	pts
Less impact of prior accident years on the net loss ratio	(2.4	%)	(3.4	%)	1.0	pts	—	%	0.6	%	(0.6	)	pts
Current accident year net loss ratio	58.3	%	56.1	%	2.2	pts	60.5	%	62.7	%	(2.2	)	pts

The current accident year net loss ratio increased during the three months ended September 30, 2019 as compared to the same period of 2018 driven by ~~47.8%~~a decrease in estimated reinsurance recoveries related to property and ~~25.6%~~catastrophe related losses as compared to the same period of 2018 and, to a lesser extent, the effect of the increase in ceded premiums earned, as previously discussed. A larger portion of property and catastrophe related losses during the 2018 three-month period exceeded the reinsurance retention limits whereas Syndicate 1729 retained more of these losses during the 2019 three-month period due to certain excess of loss reinsurance agreement terms. The decrease in the current accident year net loss ratio during the nine months ended September 30, 2019 as compared to the same period of 2018 was driven by an increase in estimated reinsurance recoveries related to property and catastrophe related losses as compared to the prior year period, partially offset by the increase in ceded premiums earned.

We recognized $0.5 million of favorable prior year development and a nominal amount of unfavorable prior year development for the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017,~~2019, respectively, ~~driven by the estimated storm-related losses and reinstatement premiums recognized during the third quarter of 2017,~~ as previously discussed, which increased the net loss ratio by approximately 47.7% and 17.3%, respectively. The net loss ratio in the 2016 three-month period was lower than in prior periods and reflected the reversal of approximately $2.8compared to $0.6 million of ~~net~~ favorable prior year development ~~during the third quarter~~and $0.3 million of ~~2016 which was a result of a change in methodology related to recording~~unfavorable prior year ~~development. Additionally, the net loss ratio~~development for the ~~first nine months~~same respective periods of 2016 was lower than in prior periods and reflected reductions attributable to shifts in the mix of business as well as increased reliance on the actual loss experience on the book of business written by Syndicate 1729.2018.

Underwriting, Policy Acquisition and Operating Expenses

Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses increased by ~~$0.5~~$1.0 million and ~~$3.1~~$1.7 million for the ~~three~~2019 three- and ~~nine months ended September 30, 2017,~~nine- month periods, respectively, as compared to the same periods in ~~2016~~2018. The increase during the 2019 three- and primarily reflected the anticipated growth in Syndicate 1729 operations. As operations have matured, the total amount of underwriting salaries has increased along with the number of policies successfully written. Underwriting compensation is capitalized as DPAC only when efforts are successful. The decrease in the expense ratio for the 2017 three-month periodnine- month periods was primarily due to the growth in Syndicate 1729 operations and an increase in DPAC amortization primarily due to an increase in net premiums earned, partially offset by the effect of higher operational expenses incurred during the 2018 three- and nine- month periods associated with establishing Syndicate 6131.

The underwriting expense ratio decreased during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods as compared to the same periods in 2018 primarily due to the increased volume of earned premium ~~driven by reinstatement premiums recorded and earned~~ as a result of the ~~storm-related losses~~growth of the Syndicates. In addition, the decrease in the ~~third quarter of 2017, as previously discussed. The increase in the~~underwriting expense ratio ~~for the 2017 nine-month period was primarily due~~in both periods as compared to the ~~timing~~same periods in 2018 reflected the effect of ~~certain~~higher operational expenses ~~relative to~~incurred during the ~~increase in earned premiums.~~2018 three- and nine- month periods associated with the establishment of Syndicate 6131.

~~Net Investment Income~~Investments

Net investment income for the ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016~~2018 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods was primarily attributable to interest earned on ~~the FAL investments. Our~~our FAL investments, ~~are~~which primarily ~~short-term investments and~~includes investment-grade corporate debt securities. Syndicate 1729's fixed maturities portfolio includes certain debt securities classified as trading securities. Investment results associated with these fixed maturity trading securities are reported on the same quarter lag.

Taxes

Operating results of this segment are subject to U.K. income tax law. ~~Tax expense incurred in 2016 reflected the use of prior year Syndicate 1729 operating losses to offset current period Syndicate 1729 operating results.~~

Segment Operating Results - Corporate

Our Corporate segment includes investment operations, other than those reported in our Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance and Lloyd's Syndicates segments, interest expense and U.S. income taxes ~~all of which are managed at the corporate level with the exception of investment assets solely allocated to Syndicate 1729~~ as discussed in Note 1114 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Our Corporate segment ~~operating results~~ also ~~reflect~~includes non-premium revenues generated outside of our insurance entities and corporate expenses. Segment operating results for our Corporate segment were net earnings of $22.4 million and $79.7 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively, as compared to $30.3 million and $58.7 million for the same respective periods of 2018 and included the following:


	Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30											Three Months Ended September 30										Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017			2016			Change					2017			2016			Change					2019			2018		Change					2019			2018			Change
Net investment income	$	23,317		$	24,910		$	(1,593	)	(6.4	%)	$	68,398		$	74,280		$	(5,882	)	(7.9	%)	$	22,159		$	22,112	$	47		0.2	%	$	65,495		$	64,207		$	1,288		2.0	%
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries	4,164			(3,349		)	7,513			224.3	%	8,489			(6,607		)	15,096			228.5	%	$	(1,277	)	$	5,228	$	(6,505	)	(124.4	%)	$	(7,240	)	$	12,247		$	(19,487	)	(159.1	%)
Net realized gains (losses)	7,718			15,687			(7,969		)	(50.8	%)	18,705			18,255			450			2.5	%	$	947		$	11,074	$	(10,127	)	(91.4	%)	$	44,390		$	2,588		$	41,802		1,615.2	%
Other income	1,023			15			1,008			6,720.0	%	1,974			758			1,216			160.4	%	$	963		$	699	$	264		37.8	%	$	2,701		$	2,737		$	(36	)	(1.3	%)
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses	(4,989		)	(5,086		)	97			(1.9	%)	(21,062		)	(20,748		)	(314		)	1.5	%
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income ⁽¹⁾	(1,234		)	(1,653		)	419			(25.3	%)	(3,457		)	(2,361		)	(1,096		)	46.4	%
Operating expense																							$	2,682		$	5,053	$	(2,371	)	(46.9	%)	$	12,676		$	15,351		$	(2,675	)	(17.4	%)
Interest expense	(4,124		)	(3,748		)	(376		)	10.0	%	(12,402		)	(11,285		)	(1,117		)	9.9	%	$	4,274		$	3,645	$	629		17.3	%	$	12,850		$	11,308		$	1,542		13.6	%
Income tax benefit (expense)	(5,963		)	(8,328		)	2,365			(28.4	%)	(4,962		)	(14,209		)	9,247			(65.1	%)
Segment operating results	$	19,912		$	18,448		$	1,464		7.9	%	$	55,683		$	38,083		$	17,600		46.2	%
⁽¹⁾ Represents the investment results attributable to the SPCs at Eastern Re
Income tax expense (benefit)																							$	(6,528	)	$	155	$	(6,683	)	(4,311.6	%)	$	157		$	(3,584	)	$	3,741		104.4	%

Net Investment Income, Equity in Earnings (Loss) of Unconsolidated Subsidiaries, Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)

Net Investment Income

Net investment income is primarily derived from the income earned by our fixed maturity securities and also includes dividend income from equity securities, income from our short-term and cash equivalent investments, earnings from other investments and increases in the cash surrender value of BOLI contracts. Investment fees and expenses are deducted from net investment income.

Net investment income by investment category was as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30											Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017			2016			Change					2017			2016			Change					2019			2018			Change					2019			2018			Change
Fixed maturities	$	18,503		$	20,660		$	(2,157	)	(10.4	%)	$	56,655		$	63,759		$	(7,104	)	(11.1	%)	$	17,020		$	16,038		$	982		6.1	%	$	49,852		$	48,244		$	1,608		3.3	%
Equities	4,495			3,779			716			18.9	%	12,437			10,983			1,454			13.2	%	3,943			5,687			(1,744		)	(30.7	%)	13,756			15,553			(1,797		)	(11.6	%)
Short-term and Other investments	1,131			1,456			(325		)	(22.3	%)	2,867			2,524			343			13.6	%
Short-term investments, including Other																							1,758			1,276			482			37.8	%	4,874			3,795			1,079			28.4	%
BOLI	620			639			(19		)	(3.0	%)	1,517			1,537			(20		)	(1.3	%)	645			621			24			3.9	%	1,557			1,525			32			2.1	%
Investment fees and expenses	(1,432		)	(1,624		)	192			(11.8	%)	(5,078		)	(4,523		)	(555		)	12.3	%	(1,207		)	(1,510		)	303			(20.1	%)	(4,544		)	(4,910		)	366			(7.5	%)
Net investment income	$	23,317		$	24,910		$	(1,593	)	(6.4	%)	$	68,398		$	74,280		$	(5,882	)	(7.9	%)	$	22,159		$	22,112		$	47		0.2	%	$	65,495		$	64,207		$	1,288		2.0	%

Fixed Maturities

The ~~decrease~~increase in income from our fixed maturities during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods was primarily due to higher yields from certain asset classes in our ~~income from~~ fixed maturity securities for the 2017 three- and nine-month periods was due to lower yields and lower average investment balances. We reduced the size of our fixed portfolio over the last year in order to pay dividends and invest in other asset classes. Onportfolio. In addition, on an overall basis, our average investment in fixed maturity securities was approximately 8%5% and 6% ~~lower~~1% higher for the ~~2017~~2019 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods, respectively, as compared to the same respective periods of ~~2016.~~2018.

Average yields for our fixed maturity portfolio were as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30		Nine Months Ended September 30		Three Months Ended September 30		Nine Months Ended September 30
	2017	2016	2017	2016	2019	2018	2019	2018
Average income yield	3.1%	3.3%	3.1%	3.3%	3.4%	3.3%	3.4%	3.3%
Average tax equivalent income yield	3.5%	3.7%	3.5%	3.8%	3.4%	3.4%	3.4%	3.4%

Equities

Income from our equity portfolio ~~increased~~decreased during the ~~2017~~2019 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods as compared to the same respective periods ~~in 2016~~of 2018 which reflected ~~an increase to~~a decrease in our allocation to this asset category as well as a different mix of equities owned.

~~Investment Fees~~Other Investments and ~~Expenses~~Short-term Investments

~~Investment fees~~Short-term investments, which have a maturity at purchase of one year or less are carried at fair value, which approximates their cost basis, and ~~expenses decreased~~are primarily composed of investments in U.S. treasury obligations, commercial paper and money market funds. Income from our other investments and short-term investments increased during the ~~2017 three-month period~~2019 three- and nine- month periods primarily attributable to higher yields as compared to the same period in 2016 primarily due to a decrease in subsequent interest expense on our LP subscriptions. Investment fees and expenses increased during the 2017 nine-month period as compared to the same period in 2016 primarily due to an increase in subsequent interest expense on our LP subscriptions and incentive fees on our convertible bond portfolio. Subsequent interest expense on somerespective periods of our LPs is paid on subscriptions that occur later in the fund-raising process and incentive fees for returns that exceed a high water mark on our convertible bond portfolio reflected an increase in the fair value of the portfolio.2018.

Equity in Earnings (Loss) of Unconsolidated Subsidiaries

Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries ~~is derived from our investment interests accounted for under the equity method. Results were~~was as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30										Nine Months Ended September 30										Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017			2016			Change				2017			2016			Change				2019			2018			Change					2019			2018			Change
Investment LPs/LLCs	$	8,227		$	4,998		$	3,229	64.6	%	$	22,590		$	10,341		$	12,249	118.5	%
All other investments, primarily investment fund LPs/LLCs																					$	4,495		$	11,283		$	(6,788	)	(60.2	%)	$	8,621		$	31,396		$	(22,775	)	(72.5	%)
Tax credit partnerships	(4,063		)	(8,347		)	4,284		(51.3	%)	(14,101		)	(16,948		)	2,847		(16.8	%)	(5,772		)	(6,055		)	283			(4.7	%)	(15,861		)	(19,149		)	3,288			(17.2	%)
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries	$	4,164		$	(3,349	)	$	7,513	224.3	%	$	8,489		$	(6,607	)	$	15,096	228.5	%	$	(1,277	)	$	5,228		$	(6,505	)	(124.4	%)	$	(7,240	)	$	12,247		$	(19,487	)	(159.1	%)

We hold interests in certain LPs/LLCs that generate earnings from trading portfolios, secured debt, debt securities, multi-strategy funds and private equity investments. The performance of the ~~LPs~~LPs/LLCs is affected by the volatility of equity and credit markets. For our investments in LPs/LLCs, we record our allocable portion of the partnership operating income or loss as the results of the LPs/LLCs become available. Our investment results from our portfolio of investments in LPs/LLCs ~~results~~decreased for the ~~2017~~2019 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods ~~were affected primarily~~driven by ~~higher~~lower reported earnings from ~~several LPs.~~

two LP investments which accounted for $6.2 million and $17.7 million, respectively, of the decrease as compared to the 2018 three- and nine- month periods.

Our tax credit partnership investments are designed to generate returns in the form of tax credits and tax-deductible project operating losses and are comprised of qualified affordable housing project tax credit ~~partnership interests~~partnerships and historic tax credit ~~interests.~~partnerships. We account for our tax credit partnership investments under the equity method and record our allocable portion of the operating losses of the underlying properties based on estimates provided by the partnerships. For our qualified affordable housing project tax credit ~~partnership interests~~partnerships, we adjust our estimates of our allocable portion of operating losses periodically as actual operating results of the underlying properties become available. Our historic tax credit ~~investments~~partnerships are short-term in nature and remaining operating losses are expected to be recognized primarily ~~during 2017. Based~~in 2019. The results from our tax credit partnership investments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 reflected lower partnership operating losses as compared to the same respective periods of 2018. In addition, based on operating results received, we increased our estimate of partnership operating losses by ~~$0.1~~$1.5 million and ~~$2.2~~$3.0 million in the ~~2017 three-~~three and ~~nine-month periods~~nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively, as compared to ~~$5.1~~$0.4 million and ~~$8.1~~$3.1 million infor the same respective periods ~~in 2016, predominantly related to our qualified affordable housing tax credit partnership interests.~~of 2018.

The tax benefits received from our tax credit partnerships, which are not reflected in our investment results above, reduced our tax ~~expenses~~expense in ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016~~2018 as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30				Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30
(In millions)	2017		2016		2017		2016		2019		2018		2019		2018
Tax credits recognized during the period	$	6.0	$	7.3	$	17.8	$	20.8	$	4.6	$	5.2	$	13.9	$	15.8
Tax benefit of tax credit partnership operating losses	$	1.4	$	2.9	$	4.9	$	5.9	$	1.2	$	1.3	$	3.3	$	4.0

Tax credits provided by the underlying projects of the historic tax credit partnerships are typically available in the tax year in which the project is put into active service, whereas the tax credits provided by qualified affordable housing project tax credit partnerships are provided over approximately a ten year period. The decrease in tax credits recognized for the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019 was primarily attributable to our historic tax credit partnership investments.

Non-GAAP Financial Measure – Tax Equivalent Investment Result

We believe that to fully understand our investment returns it is important to consider the current tax benefits associated with certain investments as the tax benefit received represents a portion of the return provided by our tax-exempt bonds, BOLI, common and preferred stocks, and tax credit partnership investments ~~(our~~(collectively, our tax-preferred investments). We impute a pro forma tax-equivalent result by estimating the amount of fully-taxable income needed to achieve the same after-tax result as is currently provided by our tax-preferred investments. We believe this better reflects the economics behind our decision to invest in certain asset classes that are either taxed at lower rates and/or result in reductions to our current federal income tax expense. Our pro forma tax-equivalent investment result is shown in the table that follows as iswell as a reconciliation of our GAAP net investment result to our tax equivalent result.


	Three Months Ended September 30					Nine Months Ended September 30					Three Months Ended September 30					Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2017		2016			2017		2016			2019			2018		2019			2018
GAAP net investment result:
Net investment income	$	23,317	$	24,910		$	68,398	$	74,280		$	22,159		$	22,112	$	65,495		$	64,207
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries	4,164		(3,349		)	8,489		(6,607		)	(1,277		)	5,228		(7,240		)	12,247
GAAP net investment result	$	27,481	$	21,561		$	76,887	$	67,673		$	20,882		$	27,340	$	58,255		$	76,454

Pro forma tax-equivalent investment result	$	39,644	$	36,215		$	113,824	$	110,784		$	27,209		$	34,554	$	77,306		$	98,524

Reconciliation of pro forma and GAAP tax-equivalent investment result:
GAAP net investment result	$	27,481	$	21,561		$	76,887	$	67,673		$	20,882		$	27,340	$	58,255		$	76,454
Taxable equivalent adjustments, calculated using the 35% federal statutory tax rate:
Taxable equivalent adjustments, calculated using the 21% federal statutory tax rate
State and municipal bonds	2,219		2,855			7,080		8,959			191			332		659			1,082
BOLI	334		344			817		828			171			165		414			405
Dividends received	441		338			1,642		1,396			99			150		379			608
Tax credit partnerships	9,169		11,117			27,398		31,928			5,866			6,567		17,599			19,975
Pro forma tax-equivalent investment result	$	39,644	$	36,215		$	113,824	$	110,784		$	27,209		$	34,554	$	77,306		$	98,524

Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)

The following table provides detailed information regarding our ~~Net~~net realized investment gains (losses).


	Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30						Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2017			2016			2017			2016			2019			2018			2019			2018
OTTI losses, total:
State and municipal bonds	$	—		$	(100	)	$	—		$	(100	)
Corporate debt	—			—			(419		)	(7,604		)	$	(66	)	$	(86	)	$	(202	)	$	(490	)
Other investments	—			—			—			(3,130		)
Portion of OTTI losses recognized in other comprehensive income before taxes:
Corporate debt	—			—			248			1,068			36			—			124			—
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings	—			(100		)	(171		)	(9,766		)	(30		)	(86		)	(78		)	(490		)
Gross realized gains, available-for-sale securities	1,721			3,853			4,294			8,920
Gross realized (losses), available-for-sale securities	(260		)	(369		)	(1,726		)	(5,620		)
Net realized gains (losses), trading securities	3,602			1,277			10,957			5,243
Gross realized gains, available-for-sale fixed maturities													651			690			1,877			5,589
Gross realized (losses), available-for-sale fixed maturities													(125		)	(1,371		)	(453		)	(5,099		)
Net realized gains (losses), equity investments													1,935			4,689			12,902			17,208
Net realized gains (losses), other investments	478			335			2,197			833			397			561			974			1,652
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses), trading securities	2,152			9,809			2,526			17,646
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses), convertible securities, carried at fair value as a part of Other investments	23			880			621			976
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses), equity investments													(1,427		)	6,599			26,504			(15,411		)
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses), convertible securities, carried at fair value as a part of other investments													(519		)	(260		)	2,597			(1,126		)
Other	2			2			7			23			65			252			67			265
Net realized investment gains (losses)	$	7,718		$	15,687		$	18,705		$	18,255		$	947		$	11,074		$	44,390		$	2,588

We did not recognize any OTTI during the 2017 three-month period. During the 2017 nine-month period, we recognized OTTI in earnings of $0.2 million and $0.2 million in non-credit impairments in OCI, both of which related to corporate bonds.

We recognized a nominal amount of OTTI in earnings during the 2016 three-month period. During the 2016 nine-month period, we recognized OTTI in earnings of $6.5 million related to corporate bonds, including credit-related OTTI of $5.5 million related to debt instruments from ten issuers in the energy sector. The fair value of these bonds declined in the first quarter of 2016 as did the credit quality of the issuers and we recognized credit-related OTTI to reduce the amortized cost basis of the bonds to the present value of future cash flows we expected to receive from the bonds. During the 2016 nine-month period, we also recognized non-credit impairments of $0.9 million in OCI relative to the bonds of these issuers, as the fair value of the bonds was less than the present value of the expected future cash flows from the securities.

We also recognized a $3.1 million OTTI in earnings during the 2016 nine-month period related to an investment fund that is accounted for using the cost method (classified as Other investments). The fund is focused on the energy sector and securities held by the fund declined in value during 2016. An OTTI was recognized to reduce our carrying value of the investment to the NAV reported by the fund.

~~Operating Expenses~~

~~Corporate segment operating expenses for~~For the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017~~2019, we recognized a nominal amount of both credit related OTTI in earnings and ~~2016,~~non-credit OTTI in OCI, both of which related to a corporate bond. We recognized OTTI in earnings of $0.1 million and $0.5 million during the 2018 three- and nine- month periods, respectively, related to debt instruments from two issuers in the energy sector.

We recognized $0.9 million and $44.4 million of net realized investment gains during the 2019 three- and nine- month periods, respectively. Net realized investment gains for the 2019 three-month period were driven by realized gains from the sale of equity investments, partially offset by unrealized holding losses on our equity portfolio during the period. For the 2019 nine-month period, net realized investment gains were driven by unrealized holding gains on our equity portfolio and realized gains from the sale of equity investments during the period. The primary driver of the unrealized holding gains during the 2019 nine-month period was the improvement in the market since December 31, 2018, which caused our equity securities to increase in value. The most significant sectors that benefited were the financial and energy sectors.

Operating Expenses

Corporate segment operating expenses were comprised as follows:


	Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30											Three Months Ended September 30											Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2017			2016			Change					2017			2016			Change					2019			2018			Change					2019			2018			Change
Operating expenses	$	9,333		$	9,086		$	247		2.7	%	$	32,546		$	31,713		$	833		2.6	%	$	7,056		$	9,461		$	(2,405	)	(25.4	%)	$	25,083		$	27,702		$	(2,619	)	(9.5	%)
Management fee offset	(4,344		)	(4,000		)	(344		)	8.6	%	(11,484		)	(10,965		)	(519		)	4.7	%	(4,374		)	(4,408		)	34			(0.8	%)	(12,407		)	(12,351		)	(56		)	0.5	%
Segment Total	$	4,989		$	5,086		$	(97	)	(1.9	%)	$	21,062		$	20,748		$	314		1.5	%	$	2,682		$	5,053		$	(2,371	)	(46.9	%)	$	12,676		$	15,351		$	(2,675	)	(17.4	%)

The ~~increase~~decrease in operating expenses for the ~~three months ended September 30, 2017~~2019 three- and nine- month periods was primarily driven by a decrease in share-based compensation expenses and other compensation related costs, primarily as a result of lower bonuses. The decrease in share-based compensation expenses in the 2019 three- and nine- month periods was attributable to a decrease in the value of the projected awards based upon the decline of one of the associated performance metrics as well as fewer awards outstanding as compared to the same periods of 2018. In addition, the 2019 three- and nine- month periods reflected a decrease in technology expenses due to an increase in ~~staffing costs. The increase in~~the allocation of technology costs to the operating ~~expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 was primarily driven by an increase in compensation related costs~~subsidiaries within our Specialty P&C and ~~professional fees, partially offset by the effect of costs incurred during the first three quarters of 2016 related to a pre-acquisition liability~~Workers' Compensation Insurance segments from ~~a discontinued operation.~~

our Corporate segment.

Operating subsidiaries within our Specialty P&C and Workers' Compensation Insurance segments are charged a management fee by the Corporate segment for services provided to these subsidiaries. The management fee is based on the extent to which services are provided to the subsidiary and the amount of gross premium written by the subsidiary. Under the arrangement, the expenses associated with such services are reported as expenses of the Corporate segment, and the management fees charged are reported as an offset to Corporate operating expenses. While the terms of the ~~management~~ arrangement were consistent between ~~2016~~2018 and ~~2017,~~2019, fluctuations in the amount of gross premium written by each subsidiary can result in corresponding variations in the management fee charged to each subsidiary during a particular period.

~~Segregated Portfolio Cell Dividend~~

Interest Expense ~~(Income)~~

During the first quarter of 2017, we began reporting in the Corporate segment the portion of the SPC dividend expense (income) that is attributable to the investment results of the SPCs, all of which are reported in the Corporate segment, to better align the expense with the related investment results of the SPCs. For comparative purposes, we have reflected the SPC dividendConsolidated interest expense for the ~~prior periods in~~three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018 was comprised as follows:



	Three Months Ended September 30										Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands)	2019		2018			Change					2019		2018			Change
Senior Notes due 2023	$	3,357	$	3,357		$	—		—	%	$	10,071	$	10,071		$	—		—	%
Revolving Credit Agreement (including fees and amortization)	156		131			25			19.1	%	474		1,255			(781		)	(62.2	%)
Mortgage Loans (including amortization)*	351		375			(24		)	(6.4	%)	1,096		1,038			58			5.6	%
(Gain)/loss on interest rate cap	410		(264		)	674			(255.3	%)	1,209		(1,121		)	2,330			(207.9	%)
Other	—		—			—			nm		—		19			(19		)	nm
Interest expense	$	4,274	$	3,599		$	675		18.8	%	$	12,850	$	11,262		$	1,588		14.1	%
* During each of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, we received a nominal cash payment associated with our interest rate cap which was recorded as a reduction to interest expense associated with our Mortgage Loans.

Consolidated interest expense increased during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 as compared to the same ~~manner. SPC dividend~~respective periods of 2018 driven by the change in fair value of our interest rate cap. The interest rate cap is designated as an economic hedge of interest rate risk associated with our variable rate Mortgage Loans. Excluding the impact of the change in fair value of our interest rate cap, consolidated interest expense remained relatively unchanged for the 2019 three-month period and decreased for the 2019 nine-month period as compared to the same respective periods of 2018. The decrease during the nine months ended September 30, 2019 was ~~$1.2~~due to lower interest expense on our Revolving Credit Agreement as we did not have any outstanding borrowings during the 2019 nine-month period compared to weighted average outstanding borrowings of $55 million ~~and $3.5 million~~during the 2018 nine-month period. Interest expense on our Revolving Credit Agreement for the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017, respectively, as compared to $1.7 million~~2019 and ~~$2.4 million~~ for the ~~same respective periods of 2016. See the Underwriting, Policy Acquisition and Operating Expense section in our Workers' Compensation segment results for more information on our SPCs.~~

~~Interest Expense~~

~~Interest expense increased during the~~ three ~~and nine~~ months endedSeptember 30, ~~2017~~ ~~driven~~2018 primarily ~~by an increase in~~reflected unused commitment fees as there were no outstanding borrowings during those periods. See further discussion of our ~~weighted average~~ outstanding debt ~~which was $408 million~~in Note 9 and ~~$432 million for the~~ ~~three and nine months ended~~ ~~September 30, 2017, respectively, as compared to $350 million for the same respective periods~~further discussion of ~~2016, and, to a lesser extent, an increase in the average~~our interest rate oncap agreement in Note 10 of the ~~outstanding borrowings under our Revolving Credit Agreement.~~

~~Interest expense for~~ ~~three and nine months ended~~ ~~September 30, 2017 and 2016 is provided in the following table:~~

Three Months Ended September 30 Nine Months Ended September 30
($ in thousands) 2017 2016 Change 2017 2016 Change
Senior notes due 2023 $ 3,357
$ 3,357
$ —
— % $ 10,071
$ 10,071
$ —
— %
Revolving credit agreement (including fees and amortization) 757
381
376
98.7 % 2,302
1,185
1,117
94.3 %
Other 10
10
—
— % 29
29
—
— %
$ 4,124
$ 3,748
$ 376
10.0 % $ 12,402
$ 11,285
$ 1,117
9.9 %
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Taxes

Tax expense allocated to our Corporate segment includes U.S. tax only, which would include U.S. tax expense incurred from our corporate membership in Lloyd's of ~~London.~~London and tax expense incurred from SPCs at Inova Re, one of our Cayman Islands reinsurance subsidiaries, which intend to elect to be taxed as U.S. taxpayers. The U.K. tax expense incurred by the U.K. based subsidiaries of our Lloyd's ~~Syndicate~~Syndicates segment is allocated to that segment. Consolidated tax expense (benefit) reflects the tax expense (benefit) of both segments, as shown in the table below:


	Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30					Three Months Ended September 30						Nine Months Ended September 30
(In thousands)	2017		2016		2017			2016		2019			2018			2019			2018
Corporate segment income tax expense (benefit)	$	5,963	$	8,328	$	4,962		$	14,209	$	(6,528	)	$	155		$	157		$	(3,584	)
Lloyd's Syndicate segment income tax expense (benefit)	61		1,352		(495		)	2,248
Lloyd's Syndicates segment income tax expense (benefit)										(161		)	(361		)	(161		)	(355		)
Consolidated income tax expense (benefit)	$	6,024	$	9,680	$	4,467		$	16,457	$	(6,689	)	$	(206	)	$	(4	)	$	(3,939	)

Factors affecting our consolidated effective tax rate include the following:

Three Months Ended
September 30 Nine Months Ended
September 30
2017 2016 2017 2016
Statutory rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 %
Tax-exempt income* (5.6 %) (3.8 %) (6.8 %) (5.7 %)
Tax credits (17.0 %) (13.1 %) (18.9 %) (16.9 %)
U.K. operating results 15.3 % 0.5 % 6.1 % 0.1 %
Excess tax benefit on share-based compensation — % — % (2.8 %) — %
Other (10.5 %) 3.6 % (7.9 %) 2.1 %
Effective tax rate 17.2 % 22.2 % 4.7 % 14.6 %
* Includes tax-exempt interest, dividends received deduction and change in cash surrender value of BOLI.

Our effective tax rates for the 2017 three- and nine-month periods were 17.2% and 4.7%, respectively, and differ from the projected effective tax rate due to certain discrete items. These discrete items increased our projected effective tax rate by 7.4% and reduced our projected effective tax rate by 5.1% for the 2017 three- and nine-month periods, respectively. Our effective tax rates for the 2016 three- and nine-month periods were 22.2% and 14.6%, respectively, and differ from the projected effective tax rate due to certain discrete items. These discrete items increased our projected effective tax rate by 10.5% and 2.9% for the 2016 three- and nine-month periods, respectively. The effect of these discrete items on the 2017 and 2016 three- and nine-month periods resulted in our effective tax rates as shown in the table above.



	Three Months Ended September 30				Nine Months Ended September 30
	2019		2018		2019		2018
Statutory rate	21.0	%	21.0	%	21.0	%	21.0	%
Tax-exempt income*	(3.7	%)	(1.7	%)	(2.0	%)	(3.0	%)
Tax credits	(44.1	%)	(16.7	%)	(23.1	%)	(23.3	%)
Non-U.S. operating results	(2.4	%)	(1.1	%)	(0.3	%)	1.1	%
Tax deficiency (excess tax benefit) on share-based compensation	(0.6	%)	(0.1	%)	—	%	(0.1	%)
Other	(33.9	%)	(2.1	%)	4.4	%	(1.5	%)
Total effective tax rate	(63.7	%)	(0.7	%)	—	%	(5.8	%)
*Includes tax-exempt interest, dividends received deduction and change in cash surrender value of BOLI.

The provision (benefit) for income taxes and the effective tax rate for the ~~2017~~2019 and 2018 three- and ~~nine-month~~nine- month periods are determined based upon our current estimate of anour annual effective tax rate at the end of each quarterly reporting period (the projected annual effective tax rate) plus the impact of certain discrete items that are not included in the projected annual effective tax rate. Our projected annual effective tax rates for ~~the 2017~~2019 and ~~2016 nine-month periods~~2018 were ~~9.8%~~benefits of 54.4% and ~~11.7%,~~3.0% at September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, before ~~those certain~~consideration of discrete ~~items were considered.~~items. Our projected annual effective tax rates for both the ~~2017~~2019 and ~~2016~~2018 nine-month periods were different from the statutory federal income tax rate primarily due to ~~a portion of our investment income being tax-exempt and~~ the utilization of tax credits transferred to us from our tax credit partnership ~~investments. While projected tax credits for 2017 are less than 2016, they continue to have~~investments and a ~~reducing effect on the effective tax rate for the 2017 three- and nine-month periods.~~portion of our investment income being tax-exempt. Tax credits ~~were $6.0 million and $17.8 million for~~recognized during the three and nine months ended September 30, ~~2017,~~2019 were $4.6 million and $13.9 million, respectively, as compared to ~~$7.3~~$5.2 million and ~~$20.8~~$15.8 million for the same respective periods of 2018. While projected tax credits for 2019 are less than 2018, they continue to have a significant impact on the effective tax rate for the 2019 three- and nine- month periods.

Our projected annual effective tax rate was a benefit of 54.4% as of September 30, 2019, which was entirely offset by the impact of discrete items of 54.4% resulting in ~~2016.~~an effective tax rate for the 2019 nine-month period of 0.0%. Our projected annual effective tax rate was a benefit of 3.0% as of September 30, 2018, which was reduced by the impact of discrete items of 2.8% resulting in an effective tax rate for the 2018 nine-month period of a benefit of 5.8%.

For the ~~2017~~2019 and 2018 nine-month ~~period, one notable~~periods, the most significant discrete item that ~~decreased~~affected our effective tax rate was the ~~excess tax benefit on share-based compensation that resulted from the application~~treatment of revised accounting guidance, which was effective January 1, 2017. Under the revised guidance, the difference between the deduction for tax purposes, which is based upon the fair market value of share-based awardsnet realized investment gains and ~~the time of vesting,~~losses. Net realized investment gains and ~~the compensation cost recognized for financial reporting purposes, which is based upon the fair market value of the share-based awards on the date of grant, is to be recognized~~losses are treated as ~~income tax expense (benefit)~~discrete items and reflected in the current period rather than an adjustment to OCI as was required under prior guidance. See Note 1 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion on the adoption of the guidance. Another discrete item that increased our effective tax rate ~~was~~in the ~~exclusion~~period in which they are included in income. This treatment of ~~a tax benefit for U.K. losses~~net realized investment gains of $44.4 million and $2.6 million in our ~~Lloyd's Syndicate~~Corporate segment ~~that resulted from~~for the ~~application~~nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, accounted for an increase of ~~accounting guidance related to interim period taxes for entities subject to multiple tax jurisdictions. Under this accounting guidance, an entity anticipating an ordinary loss~~55.4% and 0.9% in ~~a jurisdiction for which no tax benefit can be recognized must exclude~~ the ~~loss and related tax benefit from the overall calculations of the estimated annual~~ effective tax rate ~~and interim period tax.~~in the same respective periods.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.

We believe that we are principally exposed to three types of market risk related to our investment operations. These risks are interest rate risk, credit risk and equity price risk. We are also exposed to interest rate risk related to our variable rate Mortgage Loans and Revolving Credit Agreement. We have limited exposure to foreign currency risk as we issue few insurance contracts denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar and we have few monetary assets or obligations denominated in foreign currencies.

Interest Rate Risk

Investments

Our fixed ~~maturity~~maturities portfolio is exposed to interest rate risk. Fluctuations in interest rates have a direct impact on the market valuation of these securities. As interest rates rise, market values of fixed income portfolios fall and vice versa. Certain of the securities are held in an unrealized loss position; we do not intend to sell and believe we will not be required to sell any ~~of the~~ debt ~~securities~~security held in an unrealized loss position before its anticipated recovery.

The following ~~table summarizes~~tables summarize estimated changes in the fair value of our available-for-sale fixed maturity securities for specific hypothetical changes in interest rates by asset class at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and December 31, ~~2016~~2018. There are principally two factors that determine interest rates on a given security: ~~market interest rates~~changes in the level of yield curves and credit spreads. As different asset classes can be affected in different ways by movements in those two factors, we have ~~broken out~~separated our portfolio by asset class in the following ~~table.~~tables.


	Interest Rate Shift in Basis Points										Interest Rate Shift in Basis Points
	September 30, 2017										September 30, 2019
($ in millions)	(200)		(100)		Current		100		200		(200)		(100)		Current		100		200
Fair Value:
Fixed maturities, available for sale:
U.S. Treasury obligations	$	157	$	153	$	148	$	144	$	140	$	128	$	125	$	121	$	117	$	114
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	20		19		19		18		17		23		23		22		22		21
State and municipal bonds	748		720		693		667		642		316		304		293		283		272
Corporate debt	1,362		1,316		1,273		1,230		1,189		1,437		1,392		1,349		1,307		1,267
Asset-backed securities	349		344		335		323		310		539		528		516		504		491
All fixed maturity securities	$	2,636	$	2,552	$	2,468	$	2,382	$	2,298
Total fixed maturities, available for sale											$	2,443	$	2,372	$	2,301	$	2,233	$	2,165

Duration:
Fixed maturities, available for sale:
U.S. Treasury obligations	3.03		2.95		2.86		2.78		2.71		3.04		2.96		2.89		2.81		2.74
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	1.70		1.67		3.36		4.54		4.81		0.77		0.72		1.26		3.04		4.07
State and municipal bonds	3.77		3.74		3.75		3.79		3.82		3.66		3.61		3.61		3.67		3.75
Corporate debt	3.36		3.33		3.36		3.36		3.32		3.18		3.12		3.10		3.09		3.06
Asset-backed securities	1.77		2.12		3.10		3.85		4.17		2.03		2.07		2.27		2.57		2.74
All fixed maturity securities	3.23		3.24		3.41		3.52		3.55
($ in millions)	December 31, 2016
Fair Value:
U.S. Treasury obligations	$	155	$	151	$	147	$	142	$	138
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	31		31		30		29		29
State and municipal bonds	865		832		800		770		740
Corporate debt	1,365		1,321		1,279		1,238		1,198
Asset-backed securities	373		368		357		344		331
All fixed maturity securities	$	2,789	$	2,703	$	2,613	$	2,523	$	2,436

Duration:
U.S. Treasury obligations	3.00		2.93		2.85		2.78		2.72
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	1.55		1.70		2.39		2.67		2.70
State and municipal bonds	3.85		3.82		3.83		3.87		3.91
Corporate debt	3.21		3.20		3.22		3.22		3.18
Asset-backed securities	1.75		2.48		3.38		3.86		4.10
All fixed maturity securities	3.18		3.26		3.40		3.47		3.49
Total fixed maturities, available for sale											2.96		2.92		2.95		3.03		3.07



	Interest Rate Shift in Basis Points
	December 31, 2018
($ in millions)	(200)		(100)		Current		100		200
Fair Value:
Fixed maturities, available for sale:
U.S. Treasury obligations	$	127	$	124	$	120	$	117	$	114
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	36		36		35		34		33
State and municipal bonds	316		305		294		283		273
Corporate debt	1,300		1,261		1,224		1,187		1,153
Asset-backed securities	443		432		421		409		396
Total fixed maturities, available for sale	$	2,222	$	2,158	$	2,094	$	2,030	$	1,969

Duration:
Fixed maturities, available for sale:
U.S. Treasury obligations	2.77		2.70		2.63		2.57		2.50
U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise obligations	0.66		0.98		2.65		3.77		4.18
State and municipal bonds	3.61		3.58		3.59		3.64		3.73
Corporate debt	2.98		2.97		2.93		2.89		2.83
Asset-backed securities	2.18		2.46		2.86		3.11		3.23
Total fixed maturities, available for sale	2.86		2.91		2.99		3.04		3.04

Computations of prospective effects of hypothetical interest rate changes are based on numerous assumptions, including the maintenance of the existing level and composition of fixed income security assets, and should not be relied on as indicative of future results.

Certain shortcomings are inherent in the method of analysis presented in the computation of the fair value of fixed rate instruments. Actual values may differ from the projections presented should market conditions vary from assumptions used in the calculation of the fair value of individual securities, including non-parallel shifts in the term structure of interest rates and changing individual issuer credit spreads.

At September 30, 2019, our fixed maturities portfolio includes fixed maturities classified as trading securities which do not have a significant amount of exposure to market interest rates or credit spreads.

Our cash and short-term ~~investment portfolio~~investments at September 30, ~~2017~~ ~~was~~2019 were carried ~~on a~~at fair value which approximates their cost basis ~~which approximates its fair value.~~due to their short-term nature. Our ~~portfolio lacks~~cash and short-term investments lack significant interest rate sensitivity due to ~~its~~their short duration.

Debt

Our variable interest rate Mortgage Loans are exposed to interest rate risk. However, a 1% change in LIBOR will not materially impact our annualized interest expense. Additionally, we have economically hedged the risk of a change in interest rates in excess of 1% on the Mortgage Loans through the purchase of an interest rate cap derivative instrument, which effectively caps our annual interest rate on the Mortgage Loans at a maximum of 3.675% (see Note 10 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information). The fair value of the interest rate cap is not materially impacted by a 1% change in LIBOR; however, the carrying value of the interest rate cap is impacted by future expectations for LIBOR as well as estimations of volatility in the future yield curve.

Our Revolving Credit Agreement is exposed to interest rate risk as it is LIBOR based and a 1% change in LIBOR will impact annual interest expense only to the extent that there is an outstanding balance. For every $100 million drawn on our Revolving Credit Agreement, a 1% change in interest rates will change our annual interest expense by $1 million. Any outstanding balances on the Revolving Credit Agreement can be repaid on each maturity date, which has typically ranged from one to three months. As of September 30, 2019, no borrowings were outstanding under our Revolving Credit Agreement.

Credit Risk

We have exposure to credit risk primarily as a holder of fixed income securities. We control this exposure by emphasizing investment grade credit quality in the fixed income securities we purchase.

As of September 30, ~~2017~~2019, 94% of our fixed maturity securities were rated investment grade as determined by NRSROs, such as Fitch, Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s. We believe that this concentration in investment grade securities reduces our exposure to credit risk on our fixed income investments to an acceptable level. However, investment grade securities, in spite of their rating, can rapidly deteriorate and result in significant losses. Ratings published by the NRSROs are one of the tools used to evaluate the creditworthiness of our securities. The ratings reflect the subjective opinion of the rating agencies as to the creditworthiness of the ~~securities, and~~securities; therefore, we may be subject to additional credit exposure should the ~~rating~~ratings prove to be unreliable.

We also have exposure to credit risk related to our receivables from reinsurers. Our receivables from reinsurers (with regard to both paid and unpaid losses) approximated $~~321~~373 million at September 30, ~~2017~~2019 and $~~279~~355 million at December 31, ~~2016~~2018. We monitor the credit risk associated with our reinsurers using publicly available financial and rating agency data. We have not historically experienced material credit losses due to the financial condition of a reinsurer.

Equity Price Risk

At September 30, ~~2017~~,2019, the fair value of our equity investments, excluding our equity investments in bond investment funds as discussed in the following paragraph, was $~~293~~223 million. These equity securities are subject to equity price risk, which is defined as the potential for loss in fair value due to a decline in equity prices. The weighted average beta of this group of securities was 10.91. Beta measures the price sensitivity of an equity security or group of equity securities to a change in the broader equity market, in this case the S&P 500 Index. If the value of the S&P 500 Index increased by 10%, the fair value of these securities would be expected to increase by ~~10.0%~~9.1% to $~~322~~243 million. Conversely, a 10% decrease in the S&P 500 Index would imply a decrease of ~~10.0%~~9.1% in the fair value of these securities to $~~264~~203 million. The selected hypothetical changes of plus or minus 10% do not reflect what could be considered the best or worst case scenarios and are used for illustrative purposes only.

Our equity investments include equity investments in certain bond investment funds which are not ~~significantly~~ subject to significant equity price risk, and thus we have excluded these investments from the above analysis.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.

The ~~Chief Executive Officer~~principal executive officer and ~~Chief Financial Officer~~principal financial officer of the Company participated in management’s evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in SEC Rule 13a-15(e)) as of September 30, ~~2017~~2019. ProAssurance’s disclosure controls and procedures are designed to reasonably assure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure and is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Based on that evaluation, the ~~Chief Executive Officer~~principal executive officer and ~~Chief Financial Officer~~principal financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There have been no significant changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, those controls during the quarter.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

See Note 67 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS.

There are no changes to the "Risk Factors" in Part 1, Item 1A of the ~~2016~~December 31, 2018 report on Form 10-K.

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


(a)	Not applicable.


(b)	Not applicable.


(c)	Information required by Item 703 of Regulation S-K.



Period	Total Number of Shares Purchased	Average Price Paid per Share	Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs	Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs* (In thousands)
July 1 - 31, ~~2017~~2019	—	N/A	—	$109,643
August 1 - 31, ~~2017~~2019	—	N/A	—	$109,643
September 1 - 30, ~~2017~~2019	—	N/A	—	$109,643
Total	—	$—	—


*	Under its current plan begun in November 2010, the ~~ProAssurance~~ Board ~~of Directors~~ has authorized $600 million for the repurchase of common shares or the retirement of outstanding debt. This is ProAssurance’s only plan for the repurchase of common shares, and the plan has no expiration date.

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS



Exhibit Number		Description


10.1		Employment Agreement between ProAssurance and Edward L. Rand, Jr. dated as of July 1, 2019.

31.1		Certification of Principal Executive Officer of ProAssurance as required under SEC rule 13a-14(a).

31.2		Certification of Principal Financial and Accounting Officer of ProAssurance as required under SEC rule 13a-14(a).

32.1		Certification of Principal Executive Officer of ProAssurance as required under SEC Rule 13a-14(b) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, as amended (18 U.S.C. 1350).

32.2		Certification of Principal Financial and Accounting Officer of ProAssurance as required under SEC Rule 13a-14(b) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, as amended (18 U.S.C. 1350).

101.INS		XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.DEF		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

101.LAB		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase Document

101.PRE		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

SIGNATURE

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.

PROASSURANCE CORPORATION

November ~~6, 2017~~5, 2019

/s/ ~~Edward L. Rand, Jr.~~Dana S. Hendricks

~~Edward L. Rand, Jr.~~Dana S. Hendricks

Chief Financial Officer

(Duly authorized officer and principal financial officer)

90108



(In thousands)	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017			Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016			Year Ended December 31, 2016
Balance, beginning of year	$	1,993,428		$	2,005,326		$	2,005,326
Less reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses	273,475			249,350			249,350
Net balance, beginning of year	1,719,953			1,755,976			1,755,976
Net losses:
Current year	454,121			430,422			587,007
Favorable development of reserves established in prior years, net	(90,063		)	(94,486		)	(143,778		)
Total	364,058			335,936			443,229
Paid related to:
Current year	(63,667		)	(55,349		)	(96,190		)
Prior years	(293,522		)	(293,321		)	(383,062		)
Total paid	(357,189		)	(348,670		)	(479,252		)
Net balance, end of period	1,726,822			1,743,242			1,719,953
Plus reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses	313,876			254,777			273,475
Balance, end of period	$	2,040,698		$	1,998,019		$	1,993,428



	Three Months Ended September 30, 2017
(In thousands)	Specialty P&C			Workers' Compensation			Lloyd's Syndicate			Corporate			Inter-segment Eliminations			Consolidated
Net premiums earned	$	118,331		$	57,654		$	16,318		$	—		$	—		$	192,303
Net investment income	—			—			412			23,317			—			23,729
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries	—			—			—			4,164			—			4,164
Net realized gains (losses)	—			—			31			7,718			—			7,749
Other income (expense)	1,276			164			(1,881		)	1,023			(72		)	510
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	(73,831		)	(35,081		)	(20,444		)	—			—			(129,356		)
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses	(27,037		)	(18,434		)	(6,723		)	(4,989		)	72			(57,111		)
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income ⁽¹⁾	65			(1,722		)	—			(1,234		)	—			(2,891		)
Interest expense	—			—			—			(4,124		)	—			(4,124		)
Income tax benefit (expense)	—			—			(61		)	(5,963		)	—			(6,024		)
Segment operating results	$	18,804		$	2,581		$	(12,348	)	$	19,912		$	—		$	28,949
Significant non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion	$	1,933		$	848		$	(6	)	$	4,300		$	—		$	7,075



	Three Months Ended September 30, 2016
(In thousands)	Specialty P&C			Workers' Compensation			Lloyd's Syndicate			Corporate			Inter-segment Eliminations			Consolidated
Net premiums earned	$	116,199		$	54,498		$	14,578		$	—		$	—		$	185,275
Net investment income	—			—			351			24,910			—			25,261
Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated subsidiaries	—			—			—			(3,349		)	—			(3,349		)
Net realized gains (losses)	—			—			50			15,687			—			15,737
Other income (expense)	1,012			86			734			15			(419		)	1,428
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	(72,311		)	(34,472		)	(11,299		)	—			—			(118,082		)
Underwriting, policy acquisition and operating expenses	(26,563		)	(18,331		)	(6,251		)	(5,086		)	419			(55,812		)
Segregated portfolio cells dividend (expense) income ⁽¹⁾	(94		)	(1,449		)	—			(1,653		)	—			(3,196		)
Interest expense	—			—			—			(3,748		)	—			(3,748		)
Income tax benefit (expense)	—			—			(1,352		)	(8,328		)	—			(9,680		)
Segment operating results	$	18,243		$	332		$	(3,189	)	$	18,448		$	—		$	33,834
Significant non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization, net of accretion	$	1,979		$	1,396		$	23		$	5,140		$	—		$	8,538



	Book Value Per Share
Book Value Per Share at December 31, 2016	$	33.78
Increase (decrease) to book value per share during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 attributable to:
Dividends declared	(0.93		)
Net income	1.68
Increase in AOCI	0.15
Other	(0.03		)
Book Value Per Share at September 30, 2017	$	34.65



(In thousands)	Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Gross premiums written	$	1,391
Net premiums written	$	1,391
Net premiums earned	$	1,391
Gross losses	(36,492		)
Reinsurance recoveries	27,626
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses	(8,866		)
Segment operating results, before tax	$	(7,475	)

Nine Months Ended September 30

(In thousands)

Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:

Operating cash flows from operating leases