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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

SCHEDULE 14A

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No.            )

Filed by the Registrantý

Filed by a Party other than the Registranto

Check the appropriate box:

o


Preliminary Proxy Statement

o


Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))

ý


Definitive Proxy Statement

o


Definitive Additional Materials

o


Soliciting Material under §240.14a-12

 

PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.

(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

 

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):

ý


No fee required.

o


Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.
 (1)Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
        
 (2)Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
        
 (3)Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):
        
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 (5)Total fee paid:
        

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Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.

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Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.

 


(1)


Amount Previously Paid:
        
 (2)Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
        
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 (4)Date Filed:
        

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PHOTOGRAPHIC

April 10, 2013Notice of 2016 Annual Meeting
of Shareholders and Proxy Statement


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Dear Shareholder:Fellow Shareholders:

You are cordially invited to attend the annual meeting of shareholders on Tuesday, May 21, 2013,17, 2016, at 9:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time, at 711 High750 Park Street, Des Moines, Iowa.

As you can see, we have some exciting news to share. We have a new look:


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is now
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We're the same company. Only with a bold new global identity to better represent who we are—a partner in financial progress, committed to helping people around the world live their best lives.

The notice of annual meeting and proxy statement provide an outline of the business to be conducted at the meeting. IWe will also report on the progress of the Company, duringshare an update on the past yearrollout of our new brand expression, and answer shareholder questions.

We had a significant change in leadership of the Company in 2015, with Larry Zimpleman transitioning to Chairman, and Daniel Houston taking on the role of Chief Executive Officer as a part of our planned leadership succession. More change will come following the annual meeting when Mr. Houston takes over as Chairman and Mr. Zimpleman leaves the Board having completed his last term.

We also went through an exciting initiative to redefine the Principal® brand. We continue to improve on providing a quality customer experience, simplifying our value proposition, and being a great place to do business and a successful global organization.

We encourage you to read this proxy statement and vote your shares. You do not need to attend the annual meeting to vote. You may complete, date and sign a proxy or voting instruction card and return it in the envelope provided (if these materials were received by mail) or vote by using the telephone or the Internet. Thank you for acting promptly.

Distribution of annual meeting materials

As we've done in the past, The Principal is taking advantage of the Securities and Exchange Commission's rule that allows companies to furnish proxy materials for the annual meeting via the Internet to registered shareholders. For each shareholder selecting to receive these materials electronically in the future, the Principal Financial Group and the Arbor Day Foundation will plant the same number of trees in a U.S. forest. In 2012, 1,8702015, 1,116 trees were planted.

Sincerely,

SIGNATURE

Larry D. Zimpleman
Chairman

Sincerely,

SIGNATURE

Daniel J. Houston
President and Chief Executive Officer

April 7, 2016


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Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders

Meeting Date:Sincerely,Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Time:



SIGNATURE9:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time
Location:LARRY D. ZIMPLEMAN
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer750 Park Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50392

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PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

May 21, 2013



The annual meeting of shareholders of Principal Financial Group, Inc. (the "Company"("Company" or "Principal") will be held at 711 High750 Park Street, Des Moines, Iowa, on Tuesday, May 21, 2013,17, 2016 at 9:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time. Matters to be voted on are:The agenda is:

              These items are fully described in the proxy statement, which is part of this notice. The Company has not received notice of other matters that may be properly presented at the annual meeting.

              ShareholdersYou can vote if you were a shareholder of record at the close of business on March 25, 2013, are entitled to vote at the meeting.22, 2016. It is important that your shares be represented and voted at the meeting. Whether or not you plan to attend the meeting, please vote in onevote:

Internet Telephone Mail
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Through the Internet:visit the website noted in the notice of Internet availability of proxy materials shareholders received by mail, on the proxy or voting instruction card, or in the instructions in the email message that notified you of the availability of the proxy materials.By telephone:call the toll free telephone number shown on the proxy or voting instruction card or the instructions in the email message that notified you of the availability of the proxy materials.Complete, sign and promptly return a proxy or voting instruction cardin the postage paid envelope provided.

If you attend the following ways:

              Shareholders will need to register at the meeting and present a valid, government issued photo identification to attend the meeting.identification. If your shares are not registered in your name (for example, you hold the shares through an account with your stockbroker), you will need to bring proof of your ownership of those shares to the meeting in order to register. You should ask the broker, bank or other institution that holds your shares to provide you with either a copy of an account statement or a letter that shows your ownership of Principal Financial Group, Inc. common stock on March 25, 2013.22, 2016. Please bring that documentation to the meeting to register.

By Order of the Board of Directors

SIGNATURE

Karen E. Shaff
Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

April 7, 2016

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING AVAILABILITY OF PROXY MATERIALS
FOR THE SHAREHOLDER MEETING TO BE HELD ON MAY 17, 2016:

The 2015 Annual Report, 2016 Proxy Statement and other proxy materials are available at
www.principal.com.

By Order of the Board of Directors




SIGNATURE
JOYCE N. HOFFMAN
Senior Vice President and Corporate Secretary
April 10, 2013
Important Notice Regarding Availability of Proxy Materials for the Shareholder Meeting to be held on May 21, 2013. The 2012 Annual Report, 2013 Proxy Statement and other proxy materials are available atwww.investorvote.com. Your vote is important! Please take a moment to vote by Internet, telephone or proxy card as explained in theHow Do I Vote sections of this document.

Your vote is important! Please take a moment to vote by Internet, telephone or proxy card as explained in the How Do I Vote sections of this document.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS Table of Contents

Questions and Answers About the

Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders

51
Proposal One — Election

Table of DirectorsContents

92

Director Qualifications, Director Tenure, Process for Identifying and Evaluating Director Candidates and Diversity of the Board

4

Proposal Two One Annual Election of Directors

156

Corporate Governance

1611

Board Leadership Structure

1611

Role of the Board of Directors in Risk Oversight

1612

Succession Planning and Talent Development  

12

Majority Voting

1712

Director Independence

1713

Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions

1813

Board Meetings

1814

Corporate Code of Business Conduct and Ethics

1914

Board Committees

1914

Audit Committee ReportDirectors Compensation

20

Director Qualifications, Process for Identifying and Evaluating Director Candidates and Diversity of the Board17

21
Directors Compensation23

Fees Earned by Directors in 20122015  

2418

Deferral of Cash Compensation

2418

Restricted Stock Unit Grants

24

Director Perquisite and Reimbursement of Expenses18

25

Directors' Stock Ownership Guidelines

2519

Audit Committee Report  

19

Executive Compensation

2621

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

2621

2015 Company Highlights  

22

2015 Compensation Highlights  

22

Compensation Program Philosophy and Policies  

23

Summary of Compensation Elements  

24

How we Make Compensation Decisions  

25

2015 Executive Compensation Decisions  

27

Base Salary  

28

Annual Incentive Pay  

28

Long Term Incentive Compensation  

31

Timing of Stock Option Awards and Other Equity Incentives  

32

Benefits  

33

Change of Control and Separation Pay  

33

Perquisites  

34

Stock Ownership Guidelines  

34

Claw Back Policy  

34

Trading Policy  

34

Succession Planning  

35

Human Resources Committee Report  

35

Risk Assessment of Employee Incentive Plans  

35

Summary Compensation Table

4236

Grants of Plan-BasedPlan Based Awards for Fiscal Year End December 31, 20122015  

4438

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Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End December 31, 20122015  

4539

Option Exercises and Stock Vesting

4640

Pension Plan Information

4741

Pension Distributions  

43

Pension Benefits

4943

Non-QualifiedNon Qualified Deferred Compensation

5044

Qualified 401(k) Plan and Excess Plan  

44

Payments Upon Termination

 52

Employment Agreement

5245

Severance Plans

5245

Change of Control Employment Agreements

5246

Potential Payments Upon a Termination Related to a Change of Control

5548

Proposal Three Two—Advisory Vote to Approve Named Executive Officer Compensation

5649

Proposal Four Three—Ratification of Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accountants

5850

Audit Fees

5850

Audit Related Fees

5850

Tax Fees

5850

All Other Fees

5850

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

6052

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

6154
Appendix A Proposed Amended Articles to Implement

Questions and Answers About the Annual Election of DirectorsMeeting

6255

Appendix B A Executive Compensation Benchmarking Study Participants

64A-1

Appendix B Non GAAP Financial Measures

B-1

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PROXY STATEMENT

PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.
711 HIGH STREET
DES MOINES, IOWA 50392-0100


QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE ANNUAL MEETING

GRAPHIC 2016 Proxy Statement3


Why didn't I receive a copy of the paper proxy materials?

              The Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") rules allow companies to deliver a notice of Internet availability of proxy materials to shareholders and provide Internet access to those proxy materials. Shareholders may obtain paper copies of the proxy materials free of charge by following the instructions provided in the notice of Internet availability of proxy materials.

Why did I receive notice of and access to this proxy statement?

              The Board of Directors ("Board") of Principal Financial Group, Inc. ("Company") is soliciting proxies to be voted at the annual meeting of shareholders to be held on May 21, 2013, at 9:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time, at 711 High Street, Des Moines, Iowa, and at any adjournment or postponement of the meeting ("Annual Meeting"). When the Board asks for your proxy, it must send or provide you access to proxy materials that contain information required by law. These materials were first made available, sent or given to shareholders on April 10, 2013.

What is a proxy?

              It is your legal designation of another person to vote the stock you own. The other person is called a proxy. When you designate someone as your proxy in a written document, that document is also called a proxy or a proxy card. The Company has designated three of the Company's officers to act as proxies for the 2013 Annual Meeting: Joyce N. Hoffman, Senior Vice President and Corporate Secretary; Terrance J. Lillis, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; and Karen E. Shaff, Executive Vice President and General Counsel.

What will the shareholders vote on at the Annual Meeting?

Will there be any other items of business on the agenda?

              The Company does not expect any other items of business because the deadline for shareholder proposals and nominations has passed. However, if any other matter should properly come before the meeting, the people authorized by proxy will vote according to their best judgment.

Who can vote at the Annual Meeting?

              Shareholders as of the close of business on March 25, 2013 ("Record Date") can vote at the Annual Meeting.

How many votes do I have?

              You will have one vote for every share of Company common stock ("Common Stock") you owned on the Record Date.

What constitutes a quorum?

              One-third of the outstanding shares of Common Stock as of the Record Date. On the Record Date, there were 293,496,776 shares of Common Stock outstanding. A quorum must be present, in person or by proxy, before any action can be taken at the Annual Meeting, except an action to adjourn the meeting.


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How many votes are required for the approval of each item?

What are Broker Non-votes?

              If your shares are held in a brokerage account, your broker will ask you how you want your shares to be voted. If you give your broker directions, your shares will be voted as you direct. If you do not give directions, the broker may vote your shares on routine items of business, but not on non-routine items. Proxies that are returned by brokers because they did not receive directions on how to vote on non-routine items are called "broker non-votes."

How do I vote by proxy?

              Shareholders of record may vote by mail, by telephone or through the Internet. Shareholders may vote "for," "against" or "abstain" from voting for each of the Director nominees, the proposal on the annual election of Directors, the advisory vote to approve executive compensation and the proposal to ratify the appointment of the independent auditors.

How do I vote shares that are held by my broker?

              If you own shares held by a broker, you may direct your broker or other nominee to vote your shares by following the instructions that your broker provides to you. Most brokers offer voting by mail, telephone and through the Internet.


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How do I vote in person?

              If you are going to attend the Annual Meeting, you may vote your shares in person. However, we encourage you to vote in advance of the meeting by mail, telephone or through the Internet even if you plan to attend the meeting.

How do I vote my shares held in the Company's 401(k) plan?

              The trustees of the plan will vote your shares in accordance with the directions you provide by voting on the voting instruction card or the instructions in the email message that notified you of the availability of the proxy materials. Shares for which voting instructions are not received are voted in the discretion of the trustees.

How are shares held in the Demutualization separate account voted?

              The Company became a public company on October 26, 2001, when Principal Mutual Holding Company converted from a mutual insurance holding company to a stock company (the "Demutualization") and the initial public offering of shares of the Company's Common Stock was completed. The Company issued Common Stock to Principal Life Insurance Company ("Principal Life"), and Principal Life allocated this Common Stock to a separate account that was established to fund policy credits received as Demutualization compensation by certain employee benefit plans that owned group annuity contracts. Although Principal Life will vote these shares, the plans give Principal Life voting directions. A plan may give voting directions by following the instructions on the voting instruction card or the instructions in the message that notified you of the availability of proxy materials. Principal Life will vote the shares as to which it received no direction in the same manner, proportionally, as the shares in the Demutualization separate account for which it has received instructions.

Who counts the votes?

              Votes will be counted by Computershare Trust Company, N.A.

What happens if I do not vote on an issue when returning my proxy?

              If no specific instructions are given, proxies that are signed and returned will be voted as the Board of Directors recommends: "For" the election of all Director nominees, "For" the proposal on the annual election of Directors, "For" approval of the Company's executive compensation and "For" the ratification of Ernst & Young LLP as independent auditors.

How do I revoke my proxy?

              If you hold your shares in street name, you must follow the instructions of your broker or bank to revoke your voting instructions. Otherwise, you can revoke your proxy or voting instructions by voting a new proxy or instruction card or by voting at the meeting.

What should I do if I want to attend the Annual Meeting?

              Please bring photo identification and, if your stock is held by a broker or bank, evidence of your ownership of Common Stock as of March 25, 2013. The notice of Internet availability of proxy materials you received in the mail, a letter from your broker or bank or a photocopy of a current account statement will be accepted as evidence of ownership.

How do I contact the Board?

              The Company has a process for shareholders and all other interested parties to send communications to the Board through the Presiding Director. You may contact the Presiding Director of the Board through the Investor Relations section of the Company's website atwww.principal.com, or by writing to:

              All emails and letters received will be categorized and processed by the Corporate Secretary and then sent to the Company's Presiding Director.


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How do I submit a shareholder proposal for the 2014 Annual Meeting?

              The Company's next annual meeting is scheduled for May 20, 2014. Proposals should be sent to the Corporate Secretary. Proposals to be considered for inclusion in next year's proxy statement must be received by December 11, 2013. In addition, the Company's By-Laws provide that any shareholder wishing to propose any other business at the annual meeting must give the Company written notice between January 21, 2014 and February 24, 2014. That notice must provide other information as described in the Company's By-Laws, which are on the Company's website,www.principal.com.

What is "householding?"

              We send shareholders of record at the same address one copy of the proxy materials unless we receive instructions from a shareholder requesting receipt of separate copies of these materials.

              If you share the same address as multiple shareholders and would like the Company to send only one copy of future proxy materials, please contact Computershare Trust Company, N.A. at 866-781-1368, or P.O. Box 43078, Providence, RI 02940-3078. You can also contact Computershare to receive individual copies of all documents.

Where can I receive more information about the Company?

              We file reports and other information with the SEC. This information is available on the Company's website atwww.principal.com and at the Internet site maintained by the SEC atwww.sec.gov. You may also contact the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The Audit, Finance, Human Resources and Nominating and Governance Committee charters, the Company's Corporate Governance Guidelines, and the Corporate Code of Business Conduct and Ethics are also available on the Company's website,www.principal.com.

The Board urges you to exercise your right to vote by using the Internet or telephone or by returning the proxy or voting instruction card.


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Director Qualifications, Director Tenure, Process for Identifying and Evaluating Director Candidates and Diversity of the Board

The Nominating and Governance Committee regularly assesses the expertise, skills, backgrounds, competencies and other characteristics of Directors and candidates for Board vacancies in light of the current Board makeup and the Company's strategic initiatives, risk factors, and other relevant circumstances, such as a candidate's current employment responsibilities. The Committee also assesses personal and professional ethics, integrity, values and ability to contribute to the Board. The Board values experience as a current or former CEO or other senior executive in financial services, in international business and with financial management or accounting responsibilities. The following competencies are also particularly valued: strategic orientation, results orientation and comprehensive decision making, risk management and an understanding of current technology issues. The Committee periodically uses an outside consultant to assist with this responsibility, and these assessments provide direction in searches for Board candidates and in the evaluation of current Directors for nomination. The Committee reviews the performance of Directors whose terms are expiring as part of the determination of whether to recommend their nomination for reelection to the Board. Input is also received from the other Directors and an outside consultant may be engaged to assist with these reviews. Director performance and capabilities are evaluated against the characteristics noted above. Following the Committee's discussion, the outside consultant (or the Committee Chair) provides feedback to the Directors who were evaluated. The Board annually conducts a self-evaluation regarding its effectiveness, and the Audit, Finance, Human Resources and Nominating and Governance Committees also annually evaluate their respective committee's performance.

All Board members have:

Experience which support the Company's core value of integrity;

Training or experience which is useful to Principal in light of its strategy, initiatives and risk factors; and

A demonstrated willingness and ability to prepare for, attend and participate effectively in Board and Committee meetings.

Several current independent Directors have led businesses or major business divisions as CEO or President (Ms. Bernard, Dr. Costley, Mr. Dan, Mr. Ferro, Dr. Gelatt, Mr. Hochschild, Mr. Pickerell and Ms. Tallett). The following chart shows areas central to the Company's strategy, initiatives and operations for which independent Directors have specific training and executive level experience that assists them in their responsibilities.

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Though the Board does not have a formal diversity policy, diversity of the Board is a valued objective. Therefore, the Nominating and Governance Committee reviews the Board's needs and diversity in terms of race, gender, national origin, backgrounds, experiences and areas of expertise when recruiting new Directors. Forty percent of the Company's independent Directors are women. The Board's diversity objective reflects the values of the Company as

42016 Proxy StatementGRAPHIC

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well. Principal has been recognized as one of the National Association of Female Executives' Top Companies for Executive Women for 13 consecutive years; received top marks from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's 2016 Corporate Equality Index; and was named one of the 25 most influential companies for veteran hiring by Diversity Journal in 2015. We also were named one of the Ethisphere Institute World's Most Ethical Companies, Forbes America's Best Employers, and Working Mother magazine's 100 Best Companies. The Board's effectiveness benefits from Directors who have the skills, backgrounds and qualifications needed by the Board and who also increase the Board's diversity.

The Board believes that its thorough Director performance reviews and healthy Board refreshment processes better serve Principal and its stakeholders than would mandatory term limits. Strict term limits would require that Principal lose the continuing contribution of Directors who have invaluable insight into Principal and its industry, strategies and operations as a result of their experience. Directors' terms must not extend past the annual meeting following their 72nd birthday. The tenure of the independent Directors is listed below. The average tenure of Principal's independent Directors is 13.2 years.

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Two new independent Directors were added to the Board in 2015: Roger C. Hochschild and Blair C. Pickerell. Mr. Hochschild has executive level experience in asset and investment management, retail consumer services, executive compensation, financial services, marketing, mergers & acquisitions, product development, risk management and strategic planning. Mr. Pickerell has extensive experience with the asset and investment management and financial services industries as well as considerable international expertise. Both additions were the result of a lengthy search that included consideration of numerous highly qualified director candidates. The search was led by the Nominating and Governance Committee, with the assistance of a search firm. Director candidates met with Betsy J. Bernard, Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee, Lead Director Elizabeth Tallett, Mr. Zimpleman (then Chairman and CEO) and other members of senior management. The Nominating and Governance Committee is in the process of identifying a replacement for Dr. Costley, who has reached the Board's retirement age. We anticipate that three additional tenured Directors will be replaced over the next six years, continuing our process of regularly refreshing the talents and perspectives reflected on our Board. The tenure of the Directors, as reflected in the chart above, balances deep knowledge of the Company, its industry and relevant issues, with fresh perspectives and additional expertise, while providing the oversight and independence needed to meet the interests of our shareholders.

Communicating with stakeholders including clients, customers, employees, and investors, has always been an important part of how Principal conducts its business. Principal has had in place for some time a formal engagement process with shareholders around matters of corporate governance. This past year, with the Board's Lead Director, we met in person with holders of a significant percentage of the Company's outstanding Common Stock and had robust discussions regarding our core corporate governance policies. These discussions provided us with helpful insight into shareholders' views on current governance topics, which were reported to the Nominating and Governance Committee and the full Board. This process, and past engagement efforts, regularly supplement relevant communications regarding corporate governance made through the Company's website and by the Investor Relations staff.

The Nominating and Governance Committee will consider shareholder recommendations for Director candidates sent to it c/o the Company Secretary. Director candidates nominated by shareholders are evaluated in the same manner as Director candidates identified by the Committee and search firms it retains.

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PROPOSAL ONE – ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

Proposal One—Election of Directors

The Board is divided into three classes, with each class having a three yearthree-year term. All of the nominees are currently Directors of Principal. We have no reason to believe that any of the Company.nominees will be unable or unwilling for good cause to serve if elected. However, if any nominee should become unable for any reason or unwilling for good cause to serve, proxies may be voted at the 2016 Annual Meeting for another person nominated as a substitute by the Board, or the Board may reduce the number of directors.

The Board of Directors recommends that shareholders vote "For" all of the nominees for election at the Annual Meeting.


Nominees for Class III Directors With Terms Expiring in 2016

2019

 

PHOTO


Michael T. Dan
PHOTO
Age: 6265
Director since:Since: 2006 2006

Committees: Human Resources (Chair)
, Nominating and Governance (since May 18, 2015)

Former Public Directorships/Past 5 YearsYears: The Brink's Company

Mr. Dan was Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Brink's Company, a global provider of secure transportation and cash management services, from 1999 - 2011.1999-2011. The Brink's Company had 70,000 employees worldwide, operations in over 100 countries and $3.8 billion in revenue in 2011. Prior to joining Brink's, Mr. Dan served as presidentPresident of Armored Vehicle Builder,  Inc.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: In addition to leading and being responsible for financial management of Brink's, Mr. Dan has executive-levelexecutive level experience in international operations, risk management, strategic planning, brand management, executive compensation, customer service, marketing and mergers and acquisitions.

He studied business and accounting at Morton College in Cicero, Illinois, and completed the advanced management program at Harvard Business School.


PHOTO


C. Daniel Gelatt
PHOTO
Age: 6568
Director since:Since: 1988 (Principal Life)Life Insurance Company ("Principal Life"), 2001 (the Company)

Committees: Audit, Human Resources, Strategic Issues (Chair)
Public Directorships/Past 5 Years None

Dr. Gelatt has been President of NMT Corporation since 1987. NMT is an industry leader in mobile mapping and workforce automation software and has been providing graphicanalog and digital imaging services to clients worldwide for more than 40 years. He was an Assistant Professor from 1975-1979 in the Physics Department at Harvard University, where he earned his Ph.D., and was a research manager at the IBM T.J. Watson Research Center before joining the Gelatt companies in 1982. He is a director of Advanced Marketing Concepts, Ltd., TPI Holdings, Inc., nPoint Inc., The Gelatt Corporation, Ginkgo LLC, MNT Corporation and Elmwood Corporation.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: In addition to leading and having financial responsibility for NMT and other Gelatt privately-ownedprivately owned companies, heDr. Gelatt has an extensive background in software and non-linearnonlinear optimization and executive-levelexecutive level experience in product development, marketing and strategic planning.

He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees at the University of Wisconsin and his MA and Ph.D. at Harvard University.


62016 Proxy StatementGRAPHIC

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PHOTO


Sandra L. Helton
PHOTO
Age: 6366
Director since:Since: 2001 2001

Committees: Audit (Chair), Finance, Executive

Public Directorships/Past 5 Years: Lexmark International, Inc

Former Public Directorships/Past 5 Years: Covance, Inc. (current), Lexmark International, Inc. (current)

Ms. Helton was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer — Officer—Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. ("TDS"), a diversified telecommunications organization that includes United States Cellular Corporation, from 1998 through 2006. As of December 31, 2006, TDS served 7 million customers/units in 36 states with annual revenues of $4.5 billion. In her role, Ms. Helton had responsibility for the Finance, Information Technology, Strategic Planning, Corporate Communications, and Corporate Secretaryother corporate functions. Prior to joining TDS, Ms. Helton spent 26 years with Corning Incorporated, where she held engineering, strategy and finance positions, including Senior Vice President and Treasurer from 1991 — 1997.1991-1997. She also served as Vice President and Corporate Controller of Compaq Computer Corporation from 1997-1998.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: Ms. Helton has global executive-levelexecutive level experience in corporate strategy, finance, accounting and control, treasury, investments, information technology and other corporate administrative functions, as well as extensive corporate governance experience.

Ms. Helton graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1971 with a B.S. degree in mathematics, summa cum laude, and earned an S.M. degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Sloan School in 1977 with double majors in Finance and Planning & Control.


Blair C. PickerellPHOTO
PHOTO
Age: 59
Director Since: August 17, 2015



Larry D. Zimpleman
Age: 61
Director since: 2006

Committees: Executive (Chair)
Finance, Nominating and Governance (each since August 17, 2015) and Strategic Issues (since September 23, 2015)

Public Directorships/Past 5 YearsYears: NoneDah Sing Financial Holdings (limited) (current).

Mr. ZimplemanPickerell served as Chairman, Asia, Nikko Asset Management from 2010-July 2015. From 2007-2010, he was CEO, Asia, at Morgan Stanley Investment Management. He has also served as Chief Executive, Asia Pacific, of HSBC Asset Management and as Chairman of Jardine Fleming Funds.

Mr. Pickerell's current international service includes memberships on the Supervisory Committee for the Tracker Fund of Hong Kong; on the International Advisory Board of the Securities and Exchange Board of India; on the Listing Committee of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong; and as Director of the Faculty of Business and Economics of The University of Hong Kong.

The Nominating and Governance Committee used a search firm to identify and recruit Mr. Pickerell.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: In addition to his extensive leadership record in the investment and asset management and financial services industries, Mr. Pickerell has executive level experience in the retail consumer, international, marketing, mergers & acquisitions, product development and strategic planning. He is fluent in Mandarin Chinese.

He earned a bachelor's degree from Stanford University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

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Continuing Class II Directors With Terms Expiring in 2018

Roger C. Hochschild
PHOTO
Age: 50
Director Since: March 18, 2015

Committees: Strategic Issues (since September 23, 2015) and Audit and Human Resources (effective May 18, 2015)

Mr. Hochschild has been Chairman,the President and Chief Operating Officer of Discover Financial Services since 2004. He served as the Chief Administrative Officer, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of Morgan Stanley from 2001 to 2004. He served as Chief Marketing Officer of Discover Financial Services from 1998 to 2001. He served as a Senior Executive Vice President of MBNA America Bank from 1994 to 1998. He has been a Director of Student Loan Corporation since December 31, 2010.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: Mr. Hochschild has executive level experience in asset and investment management, retail consumer services, executive compensation, financial services, marketing, mergers & acquisitions, product development, risk management and strategic planning. He holds a bachelor's degree in economics from Georgetown University and an M.B.A. from the Amos Tuck School at Dartmouth College.

Daniel J. Houston
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Age: 54
Director Since: 2014

Former Public Directorships/Past 5 Years: Catalyst Health Solutions, Inc.

Mr. Houston has been President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Principal Life since May 2009, and was President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Principal Life from May 2008 — May 2009.August 18, 2015. He wasserved as President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company and Principal Life from June 2006 to May 2008 and President, Retirement and Investor Services of the Company and Principal Life from December 2003 to June 2006.November 25, 2014-August 17, 2015. He joined Principal Life in 1971 as an actuarial intern.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: In addition to leading the Company1984, and Principal Life as Chiefwas President—Retirement, Insurance and Financial Services ("RIS") from 2009-2014, President, RIS from 2008-2009 and Executive Officer since 2008, Mr. ZimplemanVice President, RIS from 2006-2008. He is a member of the boards of directors of the American Council of Life Insurers, and the Financial Services Roundtable, and chairs the board of trustees of Drake University. He is Vice Chair of theBusiness Roundtable, Iowa Business Council, Greater Des Moines Partnership, Employee Benefits Research Institute, Iowa State University Business School Dean's Advisory Council, United Way of Central Iowa and formerly chaired the Principal Funds Board of Directors.Partnership for a Healthier America.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: Mr. Houston has operational expertise, global awareness, and deep talent leadership skills. During his career with the Company, he has worked in sales, managed numerous businesses and helped lead the transformation of the Company to a global investment management leader. He earnedhas extensive operational experience, as well as expertise in risk management, executive compensation, marketing and sales, and mergers and acquisitions.

Mr. Houston received a bachelor's of science degree and master's degree in business administration from DrakeIowa State University in Des Moines, Iowa.1984.


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Elizabeth E. Tallett
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Age: 67
Director Since: 1992 (Principal Life), 2001 (the Company)

Committees: Human Resources, Nominating and Governance, Executive

Public Directorships/Past 5 Years: Meredith Corporation, Qiagen, N. V., Anthem, Inc.

Former Public Directorships/Past 5 Years: Coventry Health Care, Inc., Immunicon, Inc., IntegraMed America, Inc., Varian, Inc. and Varian SemiConductor Equipment Associates, Inc.

Ms. Tallett has been Lead Director since 2007 and has also served as Alternate Lead Director. She was honored recently with a 2015 Outstanding Director award from the Financial Times.

Ms. Tallett was Principal of Hunter Partners, LLC, a management company for early to mid stage pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device companies, from July 2002 to Feb 2015. She continues to operate as a consultant to early stage pharmaceutical and healthcare companies. She has more than 30 years' experience in the biopharmaceutical and consumer industries.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: Ms. Tallett's senior management experience includes being President and Chief Executive Officer of Transcell Technologies, Inc., President of Centocor Pharmaceuticals, member of the Parke-Davis Executive Committee, and Director of Worldwide Strategic Planning for Warner-Lambert. In addition to her leadership and financial management in pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, she has executive level experience in multinational companies, international operations, economics, strategic planning, marketing, product development, technology, executive compensation and mergers and acquisitions.

She received a bachelor's degree with honors in mathematics and economics from the University of Nottingham in England.


Continuing Directors in Class I Directors With Terms Expiring in 2014

2017

 

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Betsy J. Bernard
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Age: 5760
Director since:Since: 1999 (Principal Life), 2001 (the Company)

Committees: Nominating and Governance (Chair), Human Resources (until May 18, 2015), Finance (effective May 18, 2015), Executive

Public Directorships/Past 5 YearsYears: Telular Corporation (Chair) (current), Zimmer Holdings, Inc. (current), BearingPoint, United Technologies Corporation, URS CorporationSITO Mobile, Inc. (Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee)

Ms. Bernard has been Alternate Lead Director since May 21, 2007.

Ms. Bernard was President of AT&T from October 2002 until December 2003 where she led more than 50,000 employees with AT&T Business, then a nearly $27 billion organization serving four million business customers. She was Chief Executive Officer of AT&T Consumer 2001-2002, which served about 40 million consumers and contributed $11.5 billion to AT&T's normalized revenue in 2002. She was head of the consumer and small-businesssmall business division as Executive Vice President — President—National Mass Markets at Qwest Communications from 2000-2001, and responsible for all retail markets at U S West as Executive Vice President — President—Retail from 1998 — 2000.1998-2000. Ms. Bernard was a 2015 NACD Directorship 100 Honoree, and is the Chair of the Advisory Board of the Center on Religion, Culture & Conflict at Drew University.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: In addition to leading and being responsible for financial management of AT&T, Ms. Bernard has executive-levelexecutive level experience in brand management, marketing to individuals and small businesses, sales, customer care, operations, product management, electronic commerce, executive compensation, strategic planning, technology and mergers and acquisitions.

She earned her bachelor's degree from St. Lawrence University, a master's degree in business administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and an MA from Stanford University in the Sloan Fellow Program.


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2016 Proxy Statement9

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Jocelyn Carter-Miller
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Age: 5558
Director since:Since: 1999 (Principal Life), 2001 (the Company)

Committees: Finance (Chair), Nominating and Governance

Public Directorships/Past 5 YearsYears: Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc. (current), Netgear, Inc. (current)

Ms. Carter-Miller has been President of TechEd Ventures since 2005, a communitywhich specializes in the development and marketing of high performance educational and personal empowerment firm that develops and markets educational and community-based programs.programming. She was Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Office Depot, Inc. from February 2002 until March 2004, with responsibility for the company's marketing for its 846 superstores, contract, catalog and e-commerce businesses in the United States and Canada and operations in 15 other countries. Before joining Office Depot, she was Corporate Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Motorola, Inc. with overall responsibility for marketing across its $30 billion revenue base and diverse businesses. She also had general management responsibility while at Motorola for network operations in Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Prior to joining Motorola, she was Vice President, Marketing and Product Development at Mattel, Inc. Ms. Carter-Miller was a 2013 NACD Directorship 100 Honoree.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: In addition to her marketing leadership background, Ms. Carter-Miller has executive-levelexecutive level experience in brand management, advertising, sales, multinational companies, international operations, mergers and acquisitions, product development, project management, strategic planning, technology and leadership development and training. She is also a certified public accountant.

She earned her B.S. in Accounting at the University of Illinois and an MBA in Finance and Marketing at the University of Chicago.


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Dennis H. FerroPHOTO
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Age: 70
Director Since: 2010



Gary E. Costley
Age: 69
Director since: 2002

Committees: Audit, Finance, Strategic Issues
(Chair)

Former Public Directorships/Past 5 Years Covance,  Inc. (current), Prestige Brand Holdings, Inc. (Lead Director) (current), Tiffany & Co. (current), Accelrys, Inc., Pharmacopeia Drug Discovery, Inc.

Dr. Costley was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of International Multifoods Corporation, a manufacturer and marketer of branded consumer food and food service products, from November 1997 until June 2004. Following his retirement from International Multifoods, which had just under $1 billion in sales in 2003, he was a co-founder and managing director of C & G Capital Management which provided capital and management to health, medical and nutritional products and services companies until May 2009. He was Dean of the Babcock Graduate School of Management at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, from 1995-1997 and taught business ethics during his tenure as a professor of management. Dr. Costley also had 24 years with Kellogg Company from 1970-1994 where he most recently was President of Kellogg North America.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: In addition to leading and being responsible for financial management of International Multifoods and Kellogg North America, Dr. Costley has executive-level experience in brand management, marketing, sales, distribution, international operations, public affairs, corporate development, strategic planning, technology, quality management, executive compensation and mergers and acquisitions, and has taught business ethics.

He attended Oregon State University where he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees and a Ph.D.


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Dennis H. Ferro
Age: 67
Director since: 2010
Committees: Audit, Finance, Strategic Issues
Public Directorships/Past 5 YearsYears: NYMAGIC, Inc.

Mr. Ferro served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Evergreen Investment Management Company, an asset management firm, from 2003 to 2008. Evergreen had assets under management of $175 billion on December 31, 2008, served more than four million individual and institutional investors through management of a broad range of investment products including institutional portfolios, mutual funds, variable annuities and other investments, and was led by 300 investment professionals. Mr. Ferro was the Chief Investment Officer of Evergreen from 1999 to 2003. From 1994-1999, he was Executive Vice President of Zurich Investment Management Ltd. and Head of International Equity Investments, and from 1991-1994 was Senior Managing Director of CIGNA International Investments. Prior to 1991, he held positions with Bankers Trust Company in Japan, as President and Managing Director, and in Florida and New York. Mr. Ferro is a member of the Investment Committee of the American Bankers Association. During 2009 - 2012,2009-2012, Mr. Ferro served as a corporate Director and Chairman of the Investment Committee of the New York Marine and General Insurance Company, a subsidiary of NYMAGIC, Inc.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: In addition to leading and being responsible for financial management of Evergreen Investment Management Company, Mr. Ferro has executive-levelexecutive level experience in asset management, investment portfolio management, financial services, international operations, product development, marketing and distribution, strategic planning, executive compensation, risk management and mergers and acquisitions.

He earned a bachelor's degree from Villanova University and an MBA in finance from St. John's University. Mr. Ferro is a Chartered Financial Analyst ("CFA").


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Continuing Class II Directors With Terms Expiring in 2015


   

102016 Proxy StatementPHOTOGRAPHIC


Richard L. Keyser
Age: 70
Director since: 2002
Committees: Human Resources, Nominating and Governance
Public Directorships/Past 5 Years Zebra Technologies Corporation (current), W.W. Grainger, Inc., Rohm and Haas Company

Mr. Keyser was Chairman Emeritus of W.W. Grainger, Inc., an international distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair and operate their facilities, from April 2009 — April 2010. He had been Chairman of the Board of Grainger since September 1997 and served as Grainger's Chief Executive Officer from March 1995 — May 2008. Previously he was President and Chief Executive Officer from March 1995 — September 1997, as well as President and Chief Operating Officer from March 1994 — March 1995. Mr. Keyser was honored as the National Association of Corporate Directors 2010 Public Company Director of the Year.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: In addition to leading and being responsible for financial management of Grainger, which had sales of $6.4 billion in 2007, Mr. Keyser gained executive-level experience at Grainger in international operations, notably China and Mexico, operational excellence, customer service, integrated distribution networks, marketing to individuals, businesses and institutions, electronic commerce, executive compensation, strategic planning, and mergers and acquisitions.

He earned his bachelor's degree in nuclear science at the U.S. Naval Academy and a master's degree in business administration at Harvard University.


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Luca Maestri
Age: 49
Director since: February 1, 2012
Committees: Audit, Finance
Public Directorships/Past 5 Years None

Mr. Maestri has been Corporate Controller of Apple Inc., which designs and markets mobile communication and media devices and personal computers, since March 2013.

He was Chief Financial Officer and an Executive Vice President of Xerox Corporation from February 2011 — February 2013 and Chief Financial Officer of Nokia Siemens Networks from 2008 — February 2011. Before joining Nokia, he held senior executive finance positions with General Motors Corporation. A 20-year employee of GM, he served as CFO of GM Europe and GM Brazil, and was executive-in-charge of the Fiat Alliance for GM Europe in Switzerland. Earlier in his career, Mr. Maestri was CFO of GM Thailand, director of operations analysis for GM Asia Pacific, and CFO of GM Ireland.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: Mr. Maestri has financial management experience, currently serving as the Corporate Controller of Apple, which had $156.5 billion in revenues for fiscal year 2012. He was the Chief Financial Officer of Xerox until February 28, 2013, which had $22.4 billion in revenues in 2012. He was responsible for all finance, treasury, investor relations, risk management, mergers and acquisitions, tax, and audit operations at Xerox. In addition to also serving as a chief financial officer at Nokia Siemens Networks and in various other financial management roles at General Motors, Mr. Maestri has extensive international and general management experience.

Mr. Maestri received a bachelor's degree in economics from LUISS University in Rome in 1988, and a master's degree in science of management from Boston University in 1991.


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Elizabeth E. Tallett
Age: 63
Director since: 1992 (Principal Life), 2001 (the Company)
Committees: Human Resources, Nominating and Governance, Executive
Public Directorships/Past 5 Years Coventry Health Care, Inc. (current), Meredith Corporation (current), Qiagen, N. V., (current), Immunicon, Inc., IntegraMed America, Inc., Varian, Inc. and Varian SemiConductor Equipment Associates, Inc.

Ms. Tallett has been Presiding Director since 2007 and has also served as Alternate Presiding Director.

Ms. Tallett has been a Principal of Hunter Partners, LLC, a management company for early to mid-stage pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device companies, since July 2002. She has more than 30 years' experience in the biopharmaceutical and consumer industries.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: Ms. Tallett's senior management experience includes President and Chief Executive Officer of Transcell Technologies, Inc., President of Centocor Pharmaceuticals, member of the Parke-Davis Executive Committee, and Director of Worldwide Strategic Planning for Warner-Lambert. In addition to her leadership and financial management in pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, she has executive-level experience in multinational companies, international operations, economics, strategic planning, marketing, product development, technology, executive compensation and mergers and acquisitions.

She received a bachelor's degree with honors in mathematics and economics from the University of Nottingham in England.

The Board of Directors recommends that shareholders vote "For" all of the nominees for election at the Annual Meeting.


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PROPOSAL TWO – ANNUAL ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

Corporate Governance

The Company's Board and management regularly review best practices for corporate governance and modify our policies and practices as warranted. Our current best practices include:

Majority of Directors is recommending that shareholders vote "For"independent Directors;

All independent key committees (Audit, Finance, Human Resources and Nominating and Governance);

Strong independent Lead Director role;

Director resignation policy in the proposal to implement the annual election of Directors, on a phased-in basis, as set forth below.

              The Certificate of Incorporation is the governing document that describes how the Company is organized under Delaware law. The Certificate of Incorporation requires that the Directors be divided into three classes of approximately equal size, and that the classes of Directors be elected to serve staggered three-year terms. This is commonly referred to as a "classified board" structure, with only a portion of the full board standing for election each year.

              The Company adopted a classified board structure as part of our Demutualization and initial public offering in 2001. The Board of Directors recognized the advantagesevent of a classified board structurelack of majority shareholder support;

Policy regarding the number of other public company boards on which Directors can serve;

Board and committee self assessments conducted annually;

Director assessment done prior to nomination for reelection;

Robust stock ownership guidelines for Directors;

Diverse Board membership in promoting continuityterms of background, experience, gender and stability in board membership. This continuitytenure;

Annual shareholder engagement program to obtain valuable feedback on our compensation and stability allowsgovernance programs;

Annual review of CEO succession plan by the Company to pursue its strategyindependent Directors with and without the CEO present; and

Annual Board to focus onreview of senior management long term growth for the benefit of all shareholders. If only a portion of the Directors can be replaced in a single year's election, the Board's negotiating leverage is increased when dealing with a potential acquirer of the Company that may have a short term focus.

              The Nominating and Governance Committee and the Board regularly look at the Company's corporate governance practices for continued effectiveness in the current environment. The Committee and the Board undertook a careful review of the classified board structure, including the often cited disadvantage that it does not afford shareholders the opportunity to evaluate and hold directors accountable on an annual basis. The Nominating and Governance Committee and the Board recognized that there are both advantages and disadvantages to a classified board structure, that corporate governance trends indicate companies are moving away from classified boards and that the Principal Financial Group is committed to good corporate governance.

              The Board of Directors submitted a proposal for the annual election of Directors to be voted on at the 2011 Annual Meeting. The proposal did not receive the required approval of at least three-fourths of the outstanding shares, as required by the Certificate of Incorporation, and was not adopted. The Board's 2011 proposal provided that all current Directors would serve one more three-year term, then all Directors would be elected annually thereafter. If it had been approved by shareholders, the 2011 proposal would have resulted in all Directors being elected annually by 2016. Now, the Board is submitting a new proposal for the annual election of Directors which, if approved by shareholders, would also result in the annual election of all Directors by 2016. In addition, if the proposal is approved, a majority of the positions on the Board of Directors would be subject to election to one year terms at the 2015 Annual Meeting.

              The Board of Directors recommends the amendments to the Company's Certificate of Incorporation set forth in Appendix A to fully implement the annual election of Directors by 2016. If these amendments are approved at the Annual Meeting, the declassified Board structure would be phased-in as follows: The Class III Directors elected at this Annual Meeting will be elected for three-year terms, the Class II Directors elected at the 2012 Annual Meeting will complete their current three-year terms, and the Class I Directors elected in 2014 and all Directors elected thereafter will be elected for one-year terms. This results in the annual election of all Directors by 2016. In addition, in accordance with Delaware law and once the annual election of Directors is fully implemented under the Board's proposal, Directors may be removed by the vote of shareholders with or without cause.

              Delaware law provides that the shareholders must approve this recommendation of the Board of Directors to amend the Certificate of Incorporation before the amendments and these changes can be effective. The Certificate of Incorporation requires that at least three-fourths of the outstanding shares entitled to vote on this proposal approve the proposal for it to be adopted. If approved by the shareholders, the amendments to the Certificate of Incorporation will be effective upon filing with the Delaware Secretary of State, the Board of Directors will make conforming changes to the Company's By-Laws and the annual election of Directors will be implemented on a phased-in basis as described in this proposal.

The Board of Directors recommends that the shareholders vote "For" this resolution: RESOLVED, that the Company's Certificate of Incorporation be amended as set forth in Appendix A.


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emergency succession plans.


CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Board Leadership Structure

              The Principal Financial Group® is a global investment management leader offering businesses, individuals and institutional clients a wide range of financial products and services, including retirement services, insurance solutions and asset management. The business of the Company is managed under the direction of the Board. The Board selects,believes it should have the flexibility to establish a leadership structure that works best for Principal at any given time and provides advice and counsel to,reviews that structure as appropriate. Historically, the Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and generally oversees management. The Board reviews and discusses the strategic direction of the Company, oversees risk and monitors the Company's performance against goals the Board and management establish.


Board Leadership Structure


              The Board currently has a combined positionpositions of Chairman of the Board and CEO have been separately held by two people or combined and held by one person, depending on prevailing circumstances. Currently, these roles are separate: Larry D. Zimpleman and a Presiding Director, Elizabeth E. Tallett. Betsy J. Bernard is the Alternate Presiding Director. The PresidingChairman of the Board, and Dan Houston is the CEO. Effective immediately following the annual meeting, Mr. Houston will be both Chairman of the Board and CEO. Since 1990, the Board has appointed a Lead Director because it is selected byimportant that the other independent Directors andhave a formally acknowledged leader in addition to the position does not automatically rotate. The Nominating and Governance Committee reviewsChairman of the assignments as Presiding Director and Alternate Presiding Director annually.Board who leads the Board generally. The Board regularly reviews its leadership model and is flexible aboutthe effectiveness of this shared leadership. The decision of whether the positions of CEO and Chairman should beto separate or combined. The decisioncombine the Chair and CEO positions is based on factors such as the tenure and experience of the CEO and the broader economic and operating environment of the Company. The Company hasAs was the case during the past year, Principal followed a pattern of separating the roles of Chairman of the Board and CEO during periods of management transition, with the prior Chairman retaining that position for a period of time as the newly-appointednewly appointed CEO assumes new responsibilities as the Company's chief executive. In the Company's experience, a flexible approach is preferable to an approach that either requires or disallows a combined Chairman/CEO.

Ms. Tallett is the Lead Director and Ms. Bernard is the Alternate Lead Director.

The PresidingLead Director and Alternative Lead Director are selected by the independent Directors. The Nominating and Governance Committee reviews the assignments of Lead Director and Alternate Lead Director annually.

The Lead Director and the Chairman jointly make the decisions on the Board's agenda for each regular quarterly meeting, and the PresidingLead Director seeks input from the other independent Directors. The PresidingLead Director and Chairman share the duties of presiding at each Board meeting. The Chairman presides when the Board is meeting as a full Board. The PresidingLead Director:

    Presides when the Chairman is not present and duringplans and leads executive sessions of independent Directors ("Executive Sessions"). Executive Sessions generally occur at the start and end of each regularregularly scheduled Board meeting, and were held in conjunction with each regularly scheduled Board meeting during 2012.2015.

    Plans andThe Lead Director also leads the Executive Sessions and provides feedback to the CEO based on these discussions.

    Leads the Board's annual self-evaluationself evaluation of its performance.

    Callsperformance, calls special Board meetings if the Chairman and CEO is unable to act for any reason.reason, and leads the Board's CEO succession planning discussions.
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Role of the Board in Risk Oversight


Risk management is an essential component of our culture and business model. Management within our business units and functional areas is primarily responsible for identifying, assessing, monitoring and managing risk exposures. The Company's Enterprise Risk Management program includes a Chief Risk Officer, whose team operates independently from the business units, and an Enterprise Risk Management Committee, comprised of members from the executive management team, that provides enterprise wide oversight for material risks. The Company also has a robust internal audit function.

The Board believes that risk oversight is a responsibility of the full Board. The Board weighs risk versus return in the context of the organization's key risksoversees management's execution and risk philosophy when approving corporate strategy and major business decisions, setting executive compensation and monitoring the Company's progress. Like all financial services companies, we are exposed to financial, accounting, operational and other business and industry risks. The Board uses its committees for someperformance of its risk oversight responsibilitiesmanagement responsibilities. The Board reviews strategic threats, opportunities, and the committees report torisks Principal and particular businesses or functions are managing. Oversight of other risks such as credit, market, liquidity, product, operational, cybersecurity and general business risk, is handled directly by the Board on these issues:or by Board Committees as discussed below:

The Audit Committee:

    Assists the Board in oversight of risksCommittee:    risk and mitigation related to accounting, financial controls, legal, regulatory, ethics, compliance, operations and operational risks includinggeneral business activities. The Audit Committee also oversees the Company's major risk exposures in these areas and the steps management has taken to monitor and control such exposures; and
    Reviews the Company's framework and policies with respect to enterprise risk assessment and management ("ERM Program").

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The Finance Committee:

    Assists the Board in its oversight ofCommittee:    risk and mitigation related to liquidity, credit, market, product and pricing activities. The Finance Committee also oversees capital management, capital structure and financing, investment policy, tax planning, and insurance risks;
    Reviews and provides guidance to the Board on the organization's capital adequacy and structure based on the organization's strategies, plans and risk exposures; and
    Assists the Board in overseeing the Company'skey risks associated with significant financial risk, investment and capital management policies.
transactions.

The Human Resources Committee reviews all incentive:    risk and mitigation related to the design and operation of employee compensation arrangements to confirm that they are consistent with business plans, do not encourage inappropriate risk-takingrisk taking and are appropriately designed to limit or mitigate risk. The Human Resources Committee also oversees succession planning and development for senior management.

              In selecting candidates forThe Nominating and Governance Committee:    risks and mitigation related to the Board,Company's environmental, sustainability and corporate social responsibilities as well as the Company's political contribution activities. The Nominating and Governance Committee takes into accountalso monitors the need for the Board and its committees to have the collective skills and experience necessary to monitor the risks facing the Company.Principal.

              Risk management has long been an essential component of the Company's culture and operations. The Company has had a Chief Risk Officer since 2005, who oversees and coordinates the ERM Program, serves on many key management committees and operates independently of the businesses. The Chief Risk Officer regularly attends Audit and Finance Committee meetings and regularly meets in executive session with the Audit Committee along with selected other members of management and without other members of management present at least once a year.

The Chief Risk Officer and other members of senior management make periodicprovide reports to and have discussions with the Board and its committees on the ERM Program,our risk profile and risk management activities. Discussions include reviews of ongoing adherence to policy, impacts of external events, and how strategy, initiatives, and operational initiativesoperations integrate with the Company'sour risk objectives. The Board also receives perspectives from external entities such as our independent auditor, regulators, and consultants. These reportspresentations and discussions provide the Board with a greater understanding of the material risks the organization faces, whether management is responding appropriately, how certain risks relate to other risks, and the level of risk in actions presented for Board approval.approval, how certain risks relate to other risks, and whether management is responding appropriately,

              Capital adequacyDuring 2015, the Board deepened its emphasis on cybersecurity risk and structure areour information security program. The Board views this risk as an important focus ofenterprise wide concern that involves people, process, and technology, and accordingly treats it as a Board level matter. It embodies a persistent and dynamic threat to our entire industry that is not limited to information technology. The Board will remain focused on this critical priority by continuing to receive regular reports from the ERM Program. For each regular Board meeting, management reports on sourcesChief Information Officer and uses of capital, satisfaction of regulatoryothers to ensure that it is monitoring cyber threat intelligence and rating agency capital requirements, excess capital position, capital managementtaking the steps necessary to implement the needed safeguards and liquidity.protocols to manage the risk.


Majority Voting

Succession Planning and Talent Development

The Board believes that succession planning for future leadership of the Company is one of its most important roles. The Board is actively engaged and involved in talent management and reviews succession at least annually. This includes a detailed discussion of our global leadership and succession plans with a focus on key positions at the levels of senior vice president and above. In addition, the Human Resources Committee regularly discusses the talent pipeline for critical roles at a variety of organizational levels. High potential leaders are given exposure and visibility to Board members through formal presentations and informal events and the Committee also receives regular updates on key talent indicators for the overall workforce, including diversity, recruiting and development programs.

Majority Voting

In uncontested Director elections, Directors are elected by the majority of votes cast in uncontested Director elections.cast. If an incumbent Director is not elected and no successor is elected, the Director must submit a resignation to the Board of Directors, which will

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decide whether to accept the resignation tendered by that incumbent Director.resignation. The Board's decision and reasons forin support of its decision will be publicly disclosed within 90 days of certification of the election results.


Director Independence


The Board determines at least annually whether each Director is independent, using its independence standards in these determinations. These independence standards include the New York Stock Exchange requirements for independence and are on the Company's website,www.principal.com. www.principal.com. The Board considers all commercial, banking, consulting, legal, accounting, charitable, family and other relationships (as(either individually or as a partner, shareholder or officer of an organization) a Director may have with the Company and its subsidiaries. The Board most recently made these determinations for each Director in February 2013,2016, based on:

    A review of relationships and transactions between Directors, their immediate family members or other organizations and the Company, its subsidiaries or executive officers;

    Questionnaires completed by each current Director regarding any relationships or transactions that could affect the Director's independence;

    The Company's review of its purchasing, investment, charitable giving and customerother records; and

    Recommendations of the Nominating and Governance Committee.

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The Board affirmatively determined that the following Directors (and Arjun Mathrani who served on the Board during 2012) have no material relationship with the Company and are independent: Ms. Bernard, Ms. Carter-Miller, Dr. Costley, Mr. Dan, Mr. Ferro, Dr. Gelatt, Ms. Helton, Mr. Keyser,Hochschild, Mr. MaestriPickerell and Ms. Tallett. The Board also determined that all current members (and Directors who were members in 2012) of the Audit, Finance, Human Resources and Nominating and Governance Committees are independent.

              In applying the Board's independence standards, the Nominating and Governance Committee and the Board considered the followingSome Directors have categorically immaterial relationships and transactions to be categorically immaterial to the determination of a Director's independence due to the nature of the transaction and the amount involved (in each of the transactions described below, the annual payments made or received by the Company did not exceed the greater of $1 million or 2 percent of the recipient's gross revenues):with Principal:

    Ms. Bernard, Ms. Carter-Miller, Dr. Gelatt, Ms. Helton, Mr. KeyserPickerell and Ms. Tallett are customers of the Company's subsidiaries. Directors who were in office beforePrior to the Demutualization (see page 57), Directors were required to personally own an insurance policy or annuity contract issued by Principal Life.Life Insurance Company ("Principal Life"). All insurance policies, annuity contracts and agreements for trust services and bank accounts held by Directors are on the same terms and conditions as those offered to the public.

    The Gelatt family companies (of which Dr. Gelatt is the CEO) and an affiliated trust own insurance and pension products issued by Principal Life. The Company purchases or leases document equipment, supplies and software from Xerox Corporation (of which Mr. Maestri was an executive officer until February 28, 2013) in ordinary commercial transactions, and Xerox made payments to Principal Life on a payout annuity covering five retirees.

    Ms. Bernard, Mr. FerroPickerell and Ms. Tallett are directors, and Mr. Hochschild is an executive officer, of for-profitfor profit entities with which the Company's subsidiaries conducted ordinary commercial transactions.


Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions


Nippon Life Insurance Company ("Nippon Life"), which held approximately 6%6.2% of the Company's Common Stock at the end of 2012,2015, is the parent company of Nippon Life Insurance Company of America ("NLICA"). Nippon Life, NLICA and Principal Life have had an ongoinga business relationship for more than 20 years. Principal Life assisted Nippon Life in the start up activities of NLICA, which began business in 1991.In 2015, Nippon Life and NLICA purchase retirement and financial services offered bypaid the following amounts to Principal Life or its subsidiaries and its subsidiaries.affiliates: $91,670.69 for pension services for defined contribution plans maintained by NLICA and an affiliate (mostly paid Principal Life approximately $10 millionby plan participants); $1,250 for third party administration services related to its group welfare benefit plans and approximately $3,242deferred compensation plan services; $757,246.30 for wellness services during 2012. Nippon Life and NLICA also paidinvestment services;. Principal Global Investors LLC ("PGI") and its subsidiaries approximately $920,597(Japan) Ltd. paid Nippon Life $2,607.00 for investment services in 2012, and paid Principal Life approximately $206,114 for service related to its retirement plans in 2012.401(k) plan administration. The Company owns approximately three percent of the common stock of NLICA and Principal Life purchased public bonds with a market value at the end of $52,814,1502015 of $62,700,000 during Nippon Life's $2 billion public issuance in October of 2012.

              The Company announced on April Since May 1, 2013, an agreement by its subsidiary, PGI, to sell a 20 percent stake inNLI US Investments, Inc. ("NLI"), has owned 20% of Post Advisory Group, LLC ("Post"), an affiliate of the Company. During 2015, Post paid NLI an aggregate of $2,724,846.71 in dividends.

During 2015, Principal Management Corporation, an affiliate of the Company ("PMC"), paid Wellington Management Company $3,990,303.76 for sub-advisory services furnished to Nippon Life and its affiliate fora registered investment company managed by PMC. As of the end of 2015 Wellington owned approximately $38 million. PGI acquired Post in 2003 and will retain an 80 percent ownership6.5% of the Company's Common Stock.

As of December 31, 2015, the Vanguard Group, Inc. managed funds holding in the business moving forward. Post is an investment manageraggregate 8.3% of high yield fixed income securities with approximately $11.8 billionthe Company's Common Stock. During 2015 Principal Shareholder Services, Inc. paid Vanguard $88,427.27 for sub-transfer agent services. Vanguard paid $1,059,786 in assets under management asrent for lease of March 27, 2013. The transaction is expectedspace to enhance Nippon Life's fixed income investment management offering to its clients and bring new distribution opportunities for Post. Post's management will continue to direct its day-to-day operations, with continued autonomya borrower of investment decisions. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarterPrincipal Life Insurance Company general account.

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The Nominating and Governance Committee or its Chair of the Committee must approve or ratify all transactions with Related Parties that are not pre-approvedpreapproved under the Company's Related Party Transaction Policy. At each quarterly meeting, the Committee reviews a report of any non-materialnonmaterial transactions with Directors or the firms of which they are an executive officer or director, and any other Related Party transactions, including those involving executive officers and shareholders who own more than five percent of the Company's Common Stock.Parties. The Committee ratifies these transactions if it determines they are appropriate. Transactions involving employment of a relative of an executive officer or Director must be approved by the Human Resources Committee. The Company's Related Party Transaction Policy may be found atwww.principal.com. www.principal.com.


Board Meetings


The Board held 1110 meetings in 2012,2015, five of which were two day, in person meetings. Each of the Directors then in office attended more than 75 percent75% in the aggregate of the meetings of the Board and the committees of which the Director was a member.member except Richard L. Keyser and Luca Maestri who left the board in May of 2015. All of the other Directors then in officeon the Board attended the 20122015 Annual Meeting, with the exception of Arjun Mathrani whose retirement from the Board was effective at the time of the Annual Meeting. The Company sets the date and place of Annual Meetings to coincide with a regular Board meeting so that all Directors can attend.


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Corporate Code of Business Conduct and Ethics


Each Director and officer of the Company has certified compliance with the CorporateGlobal Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.Ethics, which serves as the foundation for ethical behavior across the organization. The Code is available at www.principal.com.


Board Committees


Only independent Directors may serve on the Audit, Human Resources and Nominating and Governance Committees. Committee members and Committee chairs are recommended to the Board by the Nominating and Governance Committee. The Committees review their charters and evaluate their performance annually. Committee charters of the Audit, Finance, Human Resources and Nominating and Governance Committees are available on the Company's website, www.principal.com.

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www.principal.com.Table of Contents

The following table shows the currentCurrent membership and responsibilities of each of the Board Committees.Committees:


Committee
Responsibilities
Members
(*Committee Chair)

Meetings
Held in
2012 2015


Responsibilities

AuditGary E. Costley
Dennis H. Ferro
C. Daniel Gelatt
Sandra L. Helton*
Luca Maestri
10

Appointing, terminating, compensating and overseeing the Company's independent auditor; reviewingauditor and selecting the lead audit partner;

Reviewing and reporting to the Board on the independent auditor's activities; approving

Approving all audit engagement fees and pre-approvingpreapproving compensation of the independent auditor for non-auditnon audit engagements, consistent with the Company's Auditor Independence Policy; reviewing

Reviewing internal audit plans and results; reviewing

Reviewing and reporting to the Board on accounting policies and legal and regulatory compliance; and reviewing

Reviewing the Company's policies on risk assessment and management.

All members of the Audit Committee are financially literate and are independent, as defined in the New York Stock Exchange listing standards, and Ms. Helton is a financial expert, as defined by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

Gary E. Costley(9)
Dennis H. Ferro
C. Daniel Gelatt
Sandra L. Helton*
Roger C. Hochschild(1)




9
Human ResourcesBetsy J. Bernard
Michael T. Dan*
Richard L. Keyser
Elizabeth E. Tallett
5

Evaluating the performance of the CEO and determining his compensation in light of therelative to his goals and objectives approved by the Committee; reviewing and approvingobjectives;

Approving compensation for all other officers of the Company and Principal Life at the level of Senior Vice President and above officers ("Executives"); reviewing and approving any

Approving employment, severance or change of control agreements and perquisites for Executives; overseeing

Overseeing Executive development and succession planning; acting on management's recommendations for

Approving salary and employee compensation policies for all other employees; administering

Administering the Company's Annual Incentive Plan, Incentive Pay Plan ("PrinPay Plan"), Stock Incentive Plan,incentive and any other compensation plans that provide compensation toinclude Executives; acting

Acting on management's recommendations that require Director action for broad based employee pension and welfare benefit plans; and reviewing the Company's

Reviewing compensation programs to confirm that these programsthey encourage management to take appropriate risks; discourage inappropriate risks and to discourage inappropriate risk and behaviors that are inconsistentact consistently with the Company's business plan, policies and risk tolerance.

Betsy J. Bernard(2)
Gary E. Costley(1,9)
Michael T. Dan*
C. Daniel Gelatt
Roger C. Hochschild(1)
Elizabeth E. Tallett





6
Nominating
and
Governance

Recommends Board candidates, Board committee assignments and service as Lead and Alternate Lead Director;

Reviews and reports to the Board on Director independence, performance of individual Directors, process for the annual self evaluations of the Board and its performance and committee self evaluations, content of the Global Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, Director compensation, and the Corporate Governance Guidelines;

Reviews environmental and corporate social responsibility matters as well as the Company's political contribution activities.

Betsy J. Bernard*
Jocelyn Carter-Miller
Michael T. Dan(1)
Blair C. Pickerell(3)
Elizabeth E. Tallett




5

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Committee
Responsibilities
Members
(*Committee Chair)

Meetings
Held in
2012 2015


Responsibilities

Nominating
and
Governance
Betsy J. Bernard*
Jocelyn Carter-Miller
Richard L. Keyser
Elizabeth E. Tallett
5Recommends to the Board candidates for Director, Board Committee assignments and service as Presiding Director and Alternate Presiding Director; reviews and reports to the Board on Director independence, performance of individual Directors, process for the annual self-evaluations of the Board and its Committees, content of the Company's Corporate Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, Director compensation, and the Corporate Governance Guidelines; reviews environmental and corporate social responsibility matters of significance to the Company.
FinanceJocelyn Carter-Miller*
Gary E. Costley
Dennis H. Ferro
Sandra L. Helton
Luca Maestri
10

Assists the Board with the organization's financial, investment and capital management policies; reviews the organization's

Reviews capital structure and capital plan,plans, significant financial transactions, financial policies, credit ratings, matters of corporate finance, including issuance of debt and equity, shareholder dividends, and proposed mergers, acquisitions and divestitures; reviewsReviews and provides guidance to the Human Resources Committee and the Board on financial goals for the upcoming year; oversees the organization'sgoals;

Oversees investment policies, strategies and programs, and reviews theprograms; Reviews policies and procedures governing the use of financial instruments including derivatives; and assists the Board in overseeing and reviewing information regarding the organization's enterprise financial risk management, including the significant policies, procedures and practices used to manage liquidity, risk, credit risk, market, risk,product and pricing risks and tax planning and insurance risk.planning.

Strategic IssuesBetsy J. Bernard(1)
Jocelyn Carter-Miller*
Gary E. Costley(2)
Dennis H. Ferro
C. Daniel Gelatt*Sandra L. Helton
Blair Pickerell(3)





8
4Primarily responsible for planning
Strategic
Issues
Plans the Board of DirectorsBoard's annual strategic retreat.Gary E. Costley(8)
Dennis H. Ferro*(5)
C. Daniel Gelatt*(6)
Roger C. Hochschild(7)
Blair C. Pickerell(7)




4
ExecutiveBetsy J. Bernard
Sandra Helton
Elizabeth E. Tallett
Larry D. Zimpleman*
NoneGenerally acts onlyActs on matters delegated to it by the Board and any actionswhich must be approved by its independent members. Has all of the authority of the Board between Board meetings unless the Board has directed otherwise except it has no authority for certain matters set forthor as mandated by law and in the Company's By-Laws.By Laws.Betsy J. Bernard
Sandra L. Helton
Daniel J. Houston(4)
Elizabeth E. Tallett
Larry D. Zimpleman(9)*




None
(1)
As of May 18, 2015
(2)
Until May 18, 2015
(3)
As of August 17, 2015
(4)
As of August 18, 2015; Mr. Houston will serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors beginning after the conclusion of the annual meeting of shareholders
(5)
Chair as of September 23, 2015
(6)
Chair until September 23, 2015
(7)
As of September 23, 2015
(8)
Until September 23, 2015
(9)
Until May 17, 2016
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Directors' Compensation

Directors serve on the Boards of the Company, Principal Life and Principal Financial Services, Inc. Directors who are also employees do not receive any compensation for their service as Directors. The Company provides competitive compensation to attract and retain high quality Directors. A substantial proportion of Director compensation is provided in the form of equity to help align Directors' interests with the interests of shareholders.

The Director compensation program is reviewed annually. The Nominating and Governance Committee uses the Board's independent compensation consultant, Frederic W. Cook & Co., Inc. ("Cook") to conduct a comprehensive review and assessment of Director compensation. Cook last reviewed Director compensation in November of 2015. The Company targets Director compensation at approximately the median of the peer group used for Executive compensation comparisons ("Peer Group") (see page 26), which aligns with its Executive compensation philosophy. As a result of that review and the Committee's discussion, no changes were made to the Board compensation program, except with respect to the nonexecutive Chairman, as detailed below.

Effective Since
January 1, 2015
Annual Cash Retainers(1) 
-    Board$95,000
-    Audit Committee Chair$20,000
-    Human Resources Committee Chair$17,500
-    Finance Committee Chair$15,000
-    Nominating & Governance Committee Chair$15,000
-    Other Committee Chairs$5,000
-    Lead Director$25,000
Annual Restricted Stock Unit Retainer(2)
-    Board$130,000
Meeting Attendance Fees
-    Regularly Scheduled Board MeetingNo meeting fees
-    Non-regularly Scheduled Board Meetings (in person)$2,500 per day
-    Non-regularly Scheduled Board Meetings (Telephonic)$1,000
-    Committee Meeting$1,500
-    Telephonic Committee Meeting$1,000
(1)
Paid in two semiannual payments, in May and November, on a forward looking basis.

(2)
Grants are made at the time of the annual meeting.

Effective January 4, 2016, Mr. Zimpleman became a non executive Chairman of the Board, and he will be paid an annual retainer of $200,000 for this service, in addition to the normal compensation provided to non-employee members of the Board, both prorated for the period January 1 - May 17, 2016.

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Fees Earned by Directors in 2015

 
 
 
 
Name
Fees Earned or Paid in Cash
Stock Awards(1)
Total
Betsy J. Bernard$132,000$129,990$261,990
Jocelyn Carter-Miller$133,000$129,990$262,990
Gary E. Costley$119,000$129,990$248,990
Michael T. Dan$130,000$129,990$259,990
Dennis H. Ferro$127,500$129,990$257,490
C. Daniel Gelatt Jr.$123,500$129,990$253,490
Sandra L. Helton$142,000$129,990$271,990
Roger C. Hochschild$126,943$145,143$272,086
Richard L. Keyser$6,000$0$6,000
Luca Maestri$6,000$0$6,000
Blair C. Pickerell$83,189$97,866$181,055
Elizabeth E. Tallett$139,000$129,990$268,990
(1)
The amounts shown in this column reflect the grant date fair value of awards made in 2015, determined in accordance with FASB Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 718. These awards do not reflect actual amounts realized or that may be realized by the recipients.

Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan

Directors may defer the receipt of their cash compensation under the Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors of Principal Financial Group, Inc. This Plan has four investment options:

Phantom units tied to the Company's Common Stock;

The Principal LargeCap S&P 500 Institutional Index Fund;

The Principal Real Estate Securities Institutional Fund; and

The Principal Bond & Mortgage Securities Institutional Fund.

All of these funds are available to participants in Principal Life's Excess Plan. The returns realized on these funds during 2015 are listed in the table, "Qualified 401(k) Plan and Excess Plan," on pages 44-45.

Restricted Stock Unit Grants

Directors receive an annual grant of Restricted Stock Units ("RSUs"). The grant made in 2015 was made under the Principal Financial Group, Inc. 2014 Directors Stock Plan. RSUs are granted at the time of the annual meeting, vest at the next annual meeting and are deferred until at least the date the Director leaves the Board. At payout, the RSUs are converted to shares of Common Stock. Dividend equivalents become additional RSUs, which vest and are converted to Common Stock at the same time and to the same extent as the underlying RSU. The Nominating and Governance Committee has the discretion to make a prorated grant of RSUs to Directors who join the Board at a time other than at the annual meeting. While the 2014 Director Stock Plan (which was approved by shareholders) affords some discretion in determining the dollar value of RSUs that may annually be awarded to each non-employee Director, it imposes a maximum limit of $230,000 ($500,000 for an Independent Chairman) on the size of the annual award that may be made to any non-employee Directors.

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As of December 31, 2015, each Director had the following aggregate number of outstanding RSUs as a result of Director compensation in 2015 and prior years, including additional RSUs as the result of dividend equivalents:



Director Name
Total RSUs Outstanding
Fiscal Year End 2015
(Shares)

Betsy J. Bernard

34,373

Jocelyn Carter-Miller

36,345

Gary E. Costley

34,373

Michael T. Dan

31,913

Dennis H. Ferro

19,397

C. Daniel Gelatt

39,139

Sandra L. Helton

34,373

Roger C. Hochschild

2,839

Richard L. Keyser

0

Luca Maestri

0

Blair C. Pickerell

1,725

Elizabeth E. Tallett

38,651

Principal Life matches charitable gifts up to an annual amount of $16,000 per nonemployee Director. These matching contributions are available during a Director's term and the following three years. Principal Life receives the charitable contribution tax deductions for the matching gifts.

Directors are reimbursed for travel and other business expenses they incur while performing services for the Company. Directors' spouses/partners may accompany them to the annual Board strategic retreat. Principal pays for some of the travel expenses and amenities for Directors and their spouses/partners, such as meals and social events. Directors are also covered under the Company's Business Travel Accident Insurance Policy and Directors' and Officers' insurance coverage. In 2015 the total amount of perquisites provided to nonemployee Directors was less than $10,000 in all cases.

Directors' Stock Ownership Guidelines

To encourage Directors to accumulate a meaningful ownership level in the Company, the Board has had a "hold until retirement" stock ownership requirement since 2005. All RSU grants must be held through a Director's service on the Board, and may only be converted to Common Stock when the Director's Board service ends. The Board has a guideline that Directors own interests in Common Stock equal to five times the annual Board cash retainer within five years of joining the Board. Directors have been able to achieve this level of ownership through the RSU hold until retirement requirement. Once this guideline is met, Directors will not need to make additional share purchases if the guideline is no longer met due to a reduction in stock price, as long as the Director's ownership level is not reduced as a result of share sales.

Audit Committee Report


The Audit Committee oversees the Company's financial reporting process. Management has the primary responsibility for the financial statements and the reporting process, including the systems of internal controls. The Committee reviewed with management the audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, including a discussion of2015, and discussed the quality, not just the acceptability, of the accounting principles, the reasonableness of significant judgments and the clarity of disclosures in the financial statements.

The Committee discussed with Ernst & Young LLP, the Company's independent auditor, the matters required to be discussed by Statement on Auditing Standards ("SAS") 114,The Auditor's Communication with


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those Charged with Governance,, as adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB") in Rule 3200T. SAS 114 requires the independent auditor to communicate (i) the auditor's responsibility under standards of the PCAOB; (ii) an overview of the planned scope and timing of the audit; and (iii) significant findings from the audit, including the qualitative aspects of the entity's significant accounting practices;practices, significant difficulties, if any, encountered in performing the audit;audit, uncorrected misstatements identified during the audit,

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other than those the auditor believes are trivial, if any;any, any disagreements with management;management, and any other issues arising from the audit that are significant or relevant to those charged with governance.

The Committee received from Ernst & Young LLP the written disclosures and letter required by applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding the independent auditor's communications with the Committee concerning independence. The Committee has discussed with Ernst & Young LLP its independence and Ernst & Young LLP has confirmed in its letter that, in its professional judgment, it is independent of the Company within the meaning of the federal securities laws.

The Committee discussed with the Company's internal and independent auditors the overall scope and plans for their respective audits. The Committee meets with the internal and independent auditors, with and without management present, to discuss the results of their examinations, their evaluations of the Company's internal controls and the overall quality of the Company's financial reporting.

In reliance on the reviews and discussions referred to above, the Committee recommended to the Board (and the Board approved) that the audited financial statements be included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012,2015, for filing with the SEC. The Committee has also approved, subject to shareholder ratification, the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as the Company's independent auditors for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2013.2016.

The Committee does not have the responsibility to plan or conduct audits or to determine that the Company's financial statements are complete and accurate and in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. That is the responsibility of the Company's independent auditor and management. In giving our recommendation to the Board, the Committee has relied on (i) management's representation that such financial statements have been prepared with integrity and objectivity and in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, and (ii) the report of the Company's independent auditor with respect to such financial statements.

Sandra L. Helton, Chair
Gary E. Costley
Dennis H. Ferro
C. Daniel Gelatt
Luca MaestriRoger C. Hochschild

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Director Qualifications, Process for Identifying and Evaluating Director Candidates and Diversity of the Board


              The Committee regularly assesses the appropriate mix of skills and characteristics of Directors in light of the current make up of the Board and the Company's needs. The Committee periodically uses an outside consultant to help the Committee evaluate the expertise, backgrounds and competencies of the Directors in view of the current strategic initiatives and risk factors of the Company. The results of these assessments provide direction in searches for Board candidates.

              Individual performance reviews are conducted for Directors who are eligible for re-nomination at the next annual meeting. These reviews assess Directors' contributions, present occupation and other commitments. The Committee has used outside firms to assist the Committee with these Director evaluations.

              In Director and candidate evaluations, the Committee assesses personal and professional ethics, integrity, values, expertise and ability to contribute to the Board. The Board values experience as a current or former CEO or other senior executive, in financial services, in international business and with financial management or accounting responsibilities. The following competencies are also sought: strategic orientation,


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results-orientation and comprehensive decision-making. Directors' terms must end prior to the annual meeting following their 72nd birthday.

              All Board members have:

    Backgrounds and experiences which support the Company's core value of integrity;
    Training or experience which is useful to the Company in light of its strategy, initiatives and risk factors; and
    A demonstrated willingness to prepare for, attend and participate effectively in Board and Committee meetings.

              Several Directors have led businesses or major business divisions as CEO or President (Ms. Bernard, Dr. Costley, Mr. Dan, Mr. Ferro, Dr. Gelatt, Mr. Keyser, Mr. Maestri and Ms. Tallett). The following chart shows areas central to the Company's strategy, initiatives and operations for which Directors have specific training and executive-level experience that assists them in their responsibilities.

CHART

              Diversity of the Board is a valued objective. The Nominating and Governance Committee reviews the Board's needs and diversity in terms of race, gender, national origin, backgrounds, experiences and areas of expertise. The Board recognizes that diversity is an important factor in Board effectiveness, which is apparent by the Board's selection of Directors. The Board does not have a formal diversity policy. The Company's culture and commitment to diversity has been recognized by organizations such as the National Association of Female Executives, the Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index, 2020 Women on Boards campaign and LATINAStyle magazine. The Board's effectiveness benefits from Directors who have the skills, backgrounds and qualifications needed by the Board and who also increase the Board's diversity.

              The Committee will consider shareholder recommendations for Director candidates sent to the Nominating and Governance Committee, c/o the Corporate Secretary. Director candidates nominated by shareholders are evaluated in the same manner as Director candidates identified by the Committee and search firms it retains.


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DIRECTORS' COMPENSATION


              Directors serve on the Boards of the Company, Principal Life and Principal Financial Services, Inc. Directors who are also employees do not receive any compensation for their service as Directors. The Company provides competitive compensation to attract and retain high-quality Directors. A substantial proportion of Director compensation is provided in the form of equity to help align Directors' interests with the interests of shareholders.

              The Director compensation program is reviewed annually. The Nominating and Governance Committee uses the Board's independent compensation consultant, Frederic W. Cook & Co., Inc. ("Cook") to conduct a comprehensive review and assessment of Director compensation. Cook reviewed Director compensation in August of 2012. As a result of that review and the Committee's discussion, the Committee recommended to the Board that no changes be made to the program at that time. The Board last changed the Director compensation program in November of 2011. The Company targets Director compensation at approximately the median of the Peer Group (see page 33), which aligns with its Executive compensation philosophy.

              The following chart shows the Director fees effective January 1, 2012 which remain in effect:

Annual Cash Retainers (1)
-      Board$90,000
-      Audit Committee Chair$20,000
-      Human Resources Committee Chair$17,500
-      Finance Committee Chair$15,000
-      Nominating & Governance Committee Chair$15,000
-      Other Committee Chairs$5,000
-      Presiding Director$25,000
Annual Restricted Stock Unit Retainer (2)
-      Board$115,000
Meeting Attendance Fees
-      Regularly Scheduled Board MeetingNo Meeting fees
-      Non-regularly Scheduled Board Meetings (in person)$2,500 per day
-      Non-regularly Scheduled Board Meetings (Telephonic)$1,000
-      Committee Meeting$1,500
-      Telephonic Committee Meeting$1,000

(1)
Annual cash retainers are paid in two semi-annual payments, in May and November, on a forward-looking basis.
(2)
Annual RSU retainers are granted at the time of the annual meeting.

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Fees Earned by Directors in 2012


              The following table summarizes the compensation earned by Directors in 2012.

                 
 
 Director Name
  
 Fees Earned or
Paid in Cash

  
 Stock Awards
(1)

  
 Total
  
  Betsy J. Bernard   $126,000   $114,992   $240,992  
  Jocelyn Carter-Miller   $131,000   $114,992   $245,992  
  Gary E. Costley   $118,000   $114,992   $232,992  
  Michael T. Dan   $120,500   $114,992   $235,492  
  Dennis H. Ferro   $124,000   $114,992   $238,992  
  C. Daniel Gelatt   $113,500   $114,992   $228,492  
  Sandra L. Helton   $139,000   $114,992   $253,992  
  Richard L. Keyser   $108,000   $114,992   $222,992  
  Luca Maestri (2)   $145,000   $143,489   $288,489  
  Arjun Mathrani (3)   $6,000   $0   $6,000  
  Elizabeth E. Tallett   $134,000   $114,992   $248,992  

(1)
The amounts shown in this column reflect the grant date fair value of awards made in 2012, determined in accordance with FASB Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 718. These awards do not reflect actual amounts realized or that may be realized by the recipients.
(2)
Mr. Maestri joined the Board on February 1, 2012 and was awarded a pro-rated grant of restricted stock units and cash retainer for his service as a Board member during the period of 2/1/2012 - 5/21/2012, in addition to his other fees and stock award during the year.
(3)
Mr. Mathrani retired from the Board on May 22, 2012.


Deferral of Cash Compensation


       ��      Directors may defer the receipt of their cash compensation under the Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors of Principal Financial Group, Inc. This Plan has four investment options:

    Phantom units tied to the Company's Common Stock;
    The Principal LargeCap S&P 500 Institutional Index Fund;
    The Principal Real Estate Securities Institutional Fund; and
    The Principal Bond & Mortgage Securities Institutional Fund.

              All of these funds are available to participants in Principal Life's Excess Plan. The returns realized on these funds during 2012 are listed in the table, "Qualified 401(k) Plan and Excess Plan," on pages 50-51.


Restricted Stock Unit Grants


              Directors receive an annual grant of restricted stock units ("RSUs") pursuant to the Principal Financial Group, Inc. 2005 Directors Stock Plan. RSUs are granted at the time of the annual meeting, vest at the next annual meeting and are deferred until at least the date the Director leaves the Board. At payout, the RSUs are converted to shares of Common Stock. Dividend equivalents become additional RSUs, which vest and are converted to Common Stock at the same time and to the same extent as the underlying RSU. The Nominating and Governance Committee has the discretion to make a prorated grant of RSUs to Directors who join the Board other than at the annual meeting.


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              As of December 31, 2012, each Director had the following aggregate number of outstanding stock options and restricted stock units as a result of Director compensation in 2012 and prior years, including additional RSUs as the result of dividend equivalents:

             
 
 Director Name
  
 Total Stock Options Outstanding
Fiscal year End 2012
(shares)(1)

  
 Total RSUs outstanding
Fiscal Year End 2012
(shares)

  
  Betsy J. Bernard   3,820   23,944  
  Jocelyn Carter-Miller   3,820   25,765  
  Gary E. Costley   3,820   23,944  
  Michael T. Dan   0   21,673  
  Dennis H. Ferro   0   10,117  
  C. Daniel Gelatt   3,820   28,344  
  Sandra L. Helton   3,820   23,944  
  Richard L. Keyser   3,820   27,894  
  Luca Maestri   0   5,896  
  Arjun Mathrani   3,820   0  
  Elizabeth E. Tallett   3,820   27,894  

(1)
Prior to May 2005, Directors received grants of stock options rather than RSUs.


Director Perquisites and Reimbursement of Expenses


              Directors are reimbursed for travel and other business expenses they incur while performing services for the Company.

              Principal Life matches charitable gifts up to an annual amount of $6,000 per non-employee Director, and Directors' contributions to the United Way are also matched up to $10,000 per year. These matching contributions are available during a Director's term and the following three years. Principal Life receives the charitable contribution tax deductions for the matching gifts.

              Directors' spouses/partners may accompany them to the annual Board strategic retreat. The Company pays for some of the travel expenses and amenities for Directors and their spouses/partners, such as meals and social events. In 2012, the Company paid for one non-employee Director's hotel expense for attending the Principal Charity Classic, a golf tournament sponsored by the Company that donates to children's charities. The Company supplied iPads to some Directors as part of moving to electronic delivery of Board materials and the value was reported to those Directors as income. Directors are also covered under the Company's Business Travel Accident Insurance Policy and Directors' and Officers' insurance coverage.

              In 2012, the total amount of perquisites provided to non-employee Directors was less than $10,000 in all cases.


Directors' Stock Ownership Guidelines


              To encourage Directors to accumulate a meaningful ownership level of Company stock, the Board has had a "hold until retirement" stock ownership requirement since 2005. All RSU grants must be held through a Director's service on the Board, and may only be converted to common shares when the Director's Board service ends. The Board has a guideline that Directors own interests in Common Stock equal to five times the annual Board cash retainer within five years of joining the Board. Directors have been able to achieve this level of ownership through the RSU "hold until retirement" requirement. Once this guideline is met, Directors will not need to make additional share purchases if the guideline is no longer met due to a reduction in stock price, as long as the Director's ownership level is not reduced as a result of share sales.

              Current Directors have met the ownership requirement except Mr. Maestri who was elected to the Board in February of 2012.


Table of Contents


EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION


Contents:Page
Contents:Page
Compensation Discussion & Analysis (CD&A)("CD&A")2621

Our Performance in 20122015

27 

20122015 Compensation Highlights

2822

Compensation Program Philosophy and Policies

2823

Summary of Compensation Elements

3024

How we make compensationCompensation Decisions

3125

20122015 Executive Compensation Decisions

3327

Base Salary

3428

Annual Incentive Pay

3428

Long-termLong term Incentive Compensation

3731

Timing of Stock Option Awards and Other Equity Incentives

3832

Benefits

3933

Change of Control & Separation Pay

3933

Perquisites

4034

Stock Ownership Guidelines

4034

Claw Back Policy

4134

Trading Policy

4134

Succession Planning

4135

Human Resources Committee Report

4135

Risk Assessment

4235

Compensation Tables


 

Summary Compensation Table

4236

Grants of Plan Based Awards Table

4438

Outstanding Equity Awards Table

4539

Option Exercises and Stock Vesting Table

4640

Pension Benefits

4943

Potential Payments Upon Termination Related to Change of Control

5548


Compensation Discussion and Analysis (CD&A)


The CD&A describes Principal Financial Group's executiveGroup, Inc.'s Executive compensation objectives, and philosophy. It also describes our 20122015 compensation program and reviews the outcomes, including the Company's financial performance in 2012. Management prepared the CD&A on behalf2015. Our "Named Executive Officers" in 2015 are listed below. Talent and succession planning are a critical part of the Human Resources Committee ("Committee"). The Committee then reviewed itBoard's responsibilities. In 2015, Larry Zimpleman announced his retirement, and, provided its approval. Our Named Executive Officers in 2012 were:as part of the planned succession process, Daniel J. Houston was promoted to the position of CEO. Effective May 17, 2016, Mr. Houston will also be Chairman of the Board.

    Larry D. Zimpleman, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer.Chairman.    Mr. Zimpleman isleads the Board of Directors. In his role as Chairman and CEO (2009 to August 18, 2015), he had overall responsibility for all of the Company's businesses, was responsible for the overallgrowth strategy, capital management ofand deployment and corporate functions. Mr. Zimpleman's term on the Company. He has been an employee of the Company since 1971, and has held his current title sinceBoard expires May 2009. He was17, 2016.

    Daniel J. Houston, President and Chief Executive Officer ("CEO").    Mr. Houston was appointed President and CEO on August 18, 2015. He has overall responsibility for all business of the Company from May 2008organization, and is responsible for the Company's growth strategy, capital management and deployment and corporate functions. From November 2014 to May 2009. Previously, he wasAugust 18, 2015, Mr. Houston served as President and Chief Operating Officer, ofwhere he oversaw all global businesses, including Principal Global Investors, LLC. and Principal International, Inc, as well as the Company from 2006 to May 2008 and President, Retirement and Investor Services and U.S. Insurance Solutions segments of the Company from December 2003 through May 2006.our operations.

    Terrance J. Lillis, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.    Mr. Lillis joined the Company in 1982 and has been SeniorExecutive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company and Principal Life since August 2008 and was Senior Vice PresidentMarch of the Company and Principal Life from May — August 2008. Prior to that time, he was Chief Financial Officer — Retirement and Investor Services division of Principal Life since December 2001.2014.

    Daniel J. Houston,Timothy M. Dunbar, Executive Vice President — Retirement, Insurance and Financial Services.Chief Investment Officer.    Mr. Houston joined the Company in 1984 and currently heads the Retirement and Investor Services and U.S. Insurance Solutions segments of our operations. He has heldDunbar assumed his current title since January 1, 2010.position in 2014. He is also responsible for the Company's capital markets and corporate real estate operations.

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      He was President, Retirement and Investor Services from February 2008 until January 2010, and was Executive Vice President, Retirement and Investor Services of the Company from June 2006 to February 2008.

    James P. McCaughan, President — President—Global Asset Management.    Mr. McCaughan joined the Company in 2002 and heads the Principal Global Investors segment of our operations. He overseesoperations, overseeing all global asset management activities, including developing global strategies and identifying and analyzing market opportunities. He served as Executive Vice President and global head of asset management for the Company since April 2002. From 2000 to 2002, he was Chief Executive Officer of the Americas division of Credit Suisse Asset Management in New York, New York.

    Luis Valdes, President — Valdés, President—International Asset Management & Accumulation.    Mr. ValdesValdés has been the head of the Principal International segment of our operations since March 2012 and2012. He is responsible for managing the Company's business operations outside of the United States in the Company'sour international asset management and accumulation segment. He joined the

    2015 Company in 1995, and has been President, Principal International since March 2011. Prior to his current position, he was Senior Vice President and President — Principal Financial Group Latin America since March 2010, and was Vice President — Principal International of Principal Life from 2000 until March 2010.


Our performance in 2012


Highlights:

Corporate highlights include:

    Record AUMDespite external challenges in 2015, such as the volatile equity market conditions and foreign currency translation, we had strong results, with operating earnings(1) of $403$1.27 billion up 20%in 2015 compared to $1.32 billion in 2014. The Company continued to have strong fundamentals, solid momentum and good underlying growth.

    In 2015, 93% of our investment options were above median for five-year performance at year-end, 2011

    Reported total Company operating earningsand 76 of $808 million (which were negatively impacted by a $90.7 million chargeour rated funds had 4 or 5 stars from the third quarter actuarial assumption review, predominantly due to loweringMorningstar. This strong investment performance, responsive service, and an expanding array of offerings, resulted in our long term interest rate assumption by 50 basis points). This is an increasesecond best year of 4% compared to 2011. Adjusted 2012 operating earnings of $899 million are up 7% compared to 2011.
    Net income available to shareholders of $772.9 million, an increase of 25% over 2011.
    Record total company net cash flow of $29.8 billion.
    Record book value per share excluding AOCI was $29.20, up 7% over 2011 despite the write-downs due to the change in actuarial assumptions in the third quarter.
    Four quarterly dividends to common stockholders in 2012 totaling $0.78 cents per share, up 11% over 2011.

Divisional highlights include:

    Retirement and Investor Services achieved record assets under management of $212 billion, an increase of 18% from 2011. This is a reflection of asset appreciation and strong netcustomer cash flows from Full Service Accumulation and Principal Funds.
    Principal Global Investors reachedon record unaffiliated assets under management of $98.2 billion as a result$23 billion.

    We also saw the growth potential (and diversification benefits) of strong net cash flows and strong investment performance.

    Principal International also achieved record assets under management of $69.3 billion, up 17% from 2011. This includes a record $9.3 billion net cash flow in 2012.
    USour U.S. Insurance Solutions had businesses, which delivered a 20 percent increase in pre-tax operating revenues of $779.7 million, an increase of 6% from 2011.
earnings.

              The Company maintains a strong capital position and finished 2012 with $2.5 billion of excess capital ($1.5 billion was earmarked for Cuprum which closed in February 2013). In 2012, the Company allocated more than $2 billion to common stock dividends, strategic acquisitions, and share repurchase. As evidence of further implementing our strategy, we announced two significant acquisitions in Latin America (Claritas and Cuprum), solidifying our position as a retirement leader in the fast-growing emerging markets in this region.


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              In 2012,2015, the Company's total shareholder return was lower thanslightly above the average of our peer groupPeer Group used for compensation purposes (19%(–10.5% vs. 28%–16.6%). However, our 3-yearOur three year total shareholder return also continues to be higher, with a 3-yearthree year total shareholder return of 27%71%, compared to an average total shareholder return of 14%42% for companies in the peer group.Peer Group.

CHART


GRAPHIC

*Excludes The Hartford Financial, StanCorp, and Janus as they were removed from our Peer Group in 2015.


2012 2015 Compensation Highlights


    In 2012,2015, the Company's shareholders voted to approve the Company's executiveExecutive compensation program. Of the votes cast, 94%over 95% supported the Executive compensation program. The Company considered the shareholders' approval of the compensation program to be approval of the Company's compensation philosophy, which has not changed since that vote. The compensation program design and structure has also not changed in the past year, and anyall changes to compensation levels have been consistent with the Company's compensation philosophy.

    2012Based on our 2015 annual performance achievements, many of which are outlined above, 2015 Annual incentive payout 95%averaged 80% of targettarget.


    (1)
    See Appendix B for Non GAAP Financial Measures.
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    The 2010-2012 PSU'sBased on the Company's three-year average return on equity and three-year average book value per share performance, the 2013-2015 performance based RSU's ("PSU's") vested on December 31, 20122015 and 103% of the target number of shares were paid out at 109% in February 2013,2016, according to the established performance scale, and approvedapproval by the Human Resources Committee.


Compensation Program Philosophy and Policies


Compensation Philosophy – our compensation programs are designed to:

    Attract and retain talented Executives and motivate them to perform at the highest level and contribute significantly to the Company's long term success;

    Align the interests of Executives and other stakeholders, including shareholders, customers and employees, by having a significant portion of the Executives' compensation in stock and requiring Executives to hold stock;

    Reinforce the Company's pay for performance culture by making a significant portion of total compensation variable and by differentiating awards based on Company and individual performance in achieving short and long term financial and strategic objectives;

    Cause a greater percentage of compensation to be at risk for Executives who bear higher levels of responsibility for the Company's performance; and

    Support important corporate governance principles and established best practices.

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Compensation Policies – Principal's executiveExecutive compensation program incorporates the following best practices:

    The Human Resources Committee's independent compensation consultant is retained by the Committee to advise on Executive and Director compensation. compensation and does no other work for the Company.

    The Human Resources Committee regularly reviews an analysis of the Company's incentive compensation plans to ensure they are designed to create and maintain shareholder value, the long term performance of the Company and do not encourage excessive risk.

    MuchThe majority of our Executive compensation is variable and linked to meeting our short term and long term financial and strategic goals and to the performance of the Company's stock price over time. 87%Eighty nine percent of our CEO's 20122015 target compensation and an average of 81%78% of our other namedNamed Executive Officer's target total compensation wasare variable and tied to Company performance.

    Executives receive a significant portion of their compensation in stock as noted in the chart on page 28, and are required to own a meaningful amount of stock in the Company.

    The CompanyPrincipal prohibits all employees, including Named Executive Officers, from purchasing any CompanyPrincipal securities on margin (except for the exercise of stock options), engaging in short sales or trading in any put or call options.options; and purchasing, directly or through a designee, any financial instrument (including prepaid variable forward contracts, equity swaps, collars and exchange funds) that is designed to hedge or offset any decrease in the market value of Principal securities.

    The CompanyPrincipal has a claw back policy to recover incentive compensation paid to Executive OfficersExecutives if the compensation was based on achieving financial results that were subsequently restated, if the Committee decides that the Executive Officer engaged in fraud or intentional misconduct that caused the restatement, and that the amount of the Executive Officer'sExecutive's incentive compensation would have been lower had the financial results been properly reported.

    Our change of control agreements with Executives provide market based severance protection and do not containprovide excise tax gross ups.

    We do not provide perquisites to Executives that are not offered to all employees, except one physical examination per year.year, business spousal travel, and gifts of nominal value given to all sales conference attendees.

    We have not repriced options that are underwater and we would not do so without shareholder approval.

    Our programs are designed to be financially efficient from tax, accounting, cash flow and share dilution perspectives. We make efforts to ensure that Principal benefits from the tax deductibility of all compensation to the extent practicable. The Committee may provide compensation that is not tax deductible if it determines such action is appropriate.

    Executives do not receive any income tax gross ups.

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Summary of Compensation Elements:


 
Compensation
Component

 
Objective
 
Description and 20122015 Highlights
 



Base Salary


 


Provides fixed income based on the size, scope and complexity of the Executive's role, Executive's historical performance and relative position compared to market pay information


 


Base salaries are generally targeted at market median, but may vary from median based on the Executive's performance, work experience, role and the difficulty of replacing the Executive.

In 2012,2015, the Committee increased the Executives' base salaries, as detailed on page 34.28.


 



Annual Incentive Compensation


 


Motivates and rewards annual corporate performance as well as the Executive's contribution to achieving our annual objectives.


 


A range of earnings opportunity, expressed as percentages of base salary and corresponding to three levels of performance (threshold, target and maximum), is established for each executive.Executive. Actual bonuses depend on achievement relative to the several key financial measures, corporate and divisional goals, as outlined on pages 34-37.28-30.

Based on the Committee's assessment of performance, actual bonuses for 2012 were slightly below2015 averaged 80% of target as detailed on page 37.31.


 






Long Term Incentive Compensation




 




Motivates and rewards long-termlong term corporate performance as well as the Executive's contribution to achieving our long term objectives. Reinforces the link between the interests of the Executives and shareholders. Encourages retention.




 




Each year, the Committee establishes the long-termlong term award opportunity for each Named Executive Officer. One-halfOne half of the award is granted in stock options and one-halfthe other half in performance based RSUs ("PSUs"). Having halfPSUs. Using equal amounts of the award in PSUs and half in options creates a balance between achieving operating performance objectives and increases in shareholder value.

The PSUs vest based on both continued service and meeting financial objectives over a three-yearthree year period (with each three-yearthree year period treated as a "Performance Cycle").

The PSUs granted in 20122015 for the 2012-20142015-2017 Performance Cycle will vest if the Company attains anbased on performance scales for three-year average returnReturn on equityEquity ("ROE") of 5% or cumulative operating income ("OI") of $1 billion for the three calendar years during the performance period. If neither the ROE nor the OI objective is met, no performance based PSUs will be earned or paid out. If either the ROE or OI objective is met or exceeded, the number of units earned is determined using performance scales based on average ROE and three-year average Book Value per Share ("BV/Share") over the performance period. Seeperiod, as outlined on pages 37-38.31-32.

The PSUs granted in 20102013 and 20112014 for the 2010-20122013-2015 and 2011-20132014-2016 Performance Cycles followed the same design as described above for 2012-2014.2015-2017. For the 2010 - 20122013-2015 Performance Cycle, the awards vested and paid out at 109%103% of the target number of PSUs based on our ROE performance of 11.9%15.2% and book value per shareBV/Share of $29.98.1$32.66.




242016 Proxy StatementGRAPHIC


1 Adjusted for the third quarter assumption review and costs related to the Cuprum transaction.


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Compensation
Component

 
Objective
 
Description and 20122015 Highlights
 
Benefits BenefitsProtectProtects against catastrophic expenses and provideprovides retirement savings opportunities. Named Executive Officers participate in most of the same benefit plans as the Company's other U. S.U.S. based employees. These include:employees, including health, life, disability income, vision and dental insurance, an employee stock purchase plan, 401(k) plan and pension plan. Executives (except investment professionals) also participate in non-qualifiednon qualified retirement plans (defined benefit and defined contribution). Investment professionals, including Mr. McCaughan, do not participate in the pension or non qualified retirement plans. 
Perquisites PerquisitesModest amount of additional benefits to help attract and retain Executive talent and enable Executives to focus on Company business with minimal disruption. Executives are eligible for one physical examination per year.year, business spousal travel and gifts of nominal value given to all sales conference attendees. 
Termination Benefits ProvideProvides temporary income following an Executive's involuntary termination of employment, and, in the case of a change of control, to helpcontrol; helps ensure the continuity of management through the transition. In 2010, we reduced the benefits payable underRefer to pages 33-34 for a discussion of our change of control agreements and eliminatedseparation benefits. These benefits do not include excise tax gross ups.


How We Make Compensation Decisions


              We use a formal decision-making and review process that incorporates proper oversight, benchmarking against peers, independent advice, an annual decision-making cycle and the use of board discretion when appropriate.

Human Resources Committee Involvement

The Human Resources Committee oversees the development and administration of the Company's compensation and benefits policies and programs, approves of all aspects of the compensation program and compensation for Executives, and makes the compensation decisions for the CEO. In addition, the Human Resources Committee:

    Reviews and approves corporate incentive goals and objectives relevant to compensation;

    Evaluates Executives' performance results;

    Evaluates the competitiveness of each Executive's total compensation; and

    Approves changes to the Executive's total compensation package.

              Each yearCook advises the CEO, with input from the Human Resources Department and Cook, recommends the amount of base salary increase (if any), annual incentive award and the long term incentive award for Executives (other than himself). These recommendations are basedCommittee on the Executive's performance, the performance of the business areas for which the Executive is responsible (if applicable) and considerations such as retention. The Human Resources Committee reviews these recommendations and approves compensation decisions.

              The CEO takes no part in determining his own compensation. The Human Resources Committee consults with the other independent Directors regarding the CEO's performance and then determines the compensation earned by the CEO for the current year and the CEO's compensation opportunity for the following year.


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The role of the Independent Compensation Consultant & Interaction with Management

              The Committee has the sole authority to hire, approve the compensation and terminate the engagement of the compensation consultant.

              The Committee engaged the consulting firm of Frederic W. Cook & Co., Inc. ("Cook") to advise it on the Company's Executive compensation program. Cook also advises the Nominating and Governance Committee on compensation for non-employee Directors.nonemployee Directors (see pages 17-19). Cook receives compensation from the Company only for its work in advising these Committees. Cook does not and would not be allowed to perform services for management. The Committee assessed the independence factors in applicable SEC rules and NYSE Listing Standards and other facts and circumstances and concluded that the services performed by Cook did not raise any conflictsconflict of interest.

Each year the CEO, with input from the Human Resources Department and Cook, recommends the amount of base salary increase (if any), annual incentive award and the long term incentive award for Executives other than himself. These recommendations are based on the Executive's performance, performance of the business areas for which the Executive is responsible (if applicable) and other considerations such as retention. The Human Resources Committee reviews these recommendations and approves compensation decisions for Executives.

No member of management, including the CEO, has a role in determining his or her own compensation. The Human Resources Committee consults with the other independent Directors regarding the CEO's performance and then determines the compensation earned by the CEO for the current year and the CEO's compensation opportunity for the following year.

The role of the Independent Compensation Consultant & Interaction with Management

The Committee has the sole authority to hire, approve the compensation of and terminate the engagement of the compensation consultant.

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Cook conducts a comprehensive review of the Company's Executive compensation program every other year. In the years in which Cook does not conduct a compensation study, the Committee makes compensation decisions, based, in part, on survey data provided by the Human Resources Department and input provided by Cook.

A comprehensive study was undertaken by Cook in 20112015 which influenced the Committee's decisions for the 2012 Executive2016 executive compensation program. The study reviewed all aspects of the design and structure of the Company's total Executive compensation program, including:and included:

    Base pay;
    Annual incentive design and targets;
    Long term incentive design and targets;
    Non-qualified benefits;
    Perquisites;
    Stock ownership guidelines;
    Severance; and
    Change of control policies.

              The most recent review process included:

    Interviews with Executives and Committee membersall Directors to discuss business strategy and the implications for human resources and compensation policy;

    Recommendations for changes to the design and structure of the Executive compensation program to better support the Company's strategic and human resources objectives;

    A competitive review of compensation opportunities for each of the Named Executive Officers compared to the pay opportunities of similarly-situatedsimilarly situated executives at the Peer Group companies (see page 33)below);

    An analysis to ensure that total share dilution and the economic costs of long term incentives are reasonable and affordable for the Company; and

    A review of Executive compensation plans against potential risks. Cook determined that the Company's Executive compensation programs are well designed, support the Company's business strategy, and do not provide incentives to Executives to take inappropriate risks.

              The goals of the review are to assist the Committee in:Cook also:

    Determining whether the Company's Executive compensation program is appropriately designed to support the Company's strategic and human resources objectives;
    Determining whether the target Executive compensation levels are competitive with the market and whether actual compensation levels are reasonable given the Company's performance relative to peers;
    Designing changes to Executive compensation plans or programs, as appropriate; and
    Setting pay opportunities, benefits and perquisites.

              Cook also:

    Attended threefour meetings of the Committee in 2012,2015, as requested by the Committee Chair; and

    Reviewed and commented on drafts of the Compensation Discussion & Analysis and related compensation tables for the proxy statement.

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Use of Compensation Data

The Committee reviews the groupPeer Group of companies it uses to compare Executive compensation (the "Peer Group") every other year as part of Cook's biennial study. Cook recommends an appropriate Peer Group of public, similarly-sized,similarly sized, diversified financial services, insurance and asset management companies. Cook's recommendations takecompanies, taking into account the Company's and the competitors' strategy, mix of business and size, as measured primarily by annual revenues, market capitalization and total assets. These companies are the major competitors in one or more of the Company's businesses, but none represent the exact business mix of the Company. Some of these companies have higher or lower market capitalization and revenue than the Company. The CompanyPrincipal. Principal targets compensation for the Named Executive Officers at the median of the compensation of the named executive officers at the Peer Group companies. As a result of the most recent review, a decision was made to omit Hartford Financial Services due to its business mix and Janus Capital Group and StanCorp Financial as they are much smaller than Principal. Voya Financial was added, as it is similar in size and has a similar business mix as Principal. The companies in the Peer Group used in Cook's 20112015 analyses to assist in decisions on 20122016 compensation were:

Affiliated Managers Group

Invesco

MetLife

Ameriprise Financial

Janus Capital GroupLegg Mason

Prudential Financial

Eaton Vance

Legg Mason

StanCorp Financial

Franklin Resources

Lincoln National

Sun Life Financial

Hartford Financial ServicesFranklin Resources

ManuLife

T. Rowe Price

Voya Financial

The Committee also uses annual data from third party industry surveys for additional context for its compensation decisionsdecisions.2(2). Further, every two to three years, the Company's non-cashnon cash benefit programs are compared with those of more than 100 diversified financial services companies. This is a larger group than the Peer Group because the information is used in designing and evaluating our broad-basedbroad based employee benefit programs. Benefit programs are also compared against those of local employers in Des Moines, Iowa due to the Company's significant employee population there.

   Each year, the Committee reviews the total compensation paid to the Executives by reviewing tally sheets, which include:


    (2)
    The dollar value of base salary;
    Annual and long term incentive awards earned;
    Deferred compensation:
    Outstanding equity awards;
    Benefits;
    Perquisites: and
    Potential payments for termination scenarios.

              The Committee uses this information to analyze the value of compensation actually delivered versus the compensation opportunities established by the Committee, and it is also used in making compensation and compensation plan design decisions. The Committee made no compensation adjustments as a result of the analysis in 2012 because the program continues to meet the Company's objectives.


2012 Executive Compensation Decisions


              The Committee made compensation decisions for the Named Executive Officers based on the following factors:

    The Company's strategic and human resources objectives;
    Competitive data for the Peer Group (discussed above) and for a broader group of diversified financial services companies (see Appendix B for a list of companies participating in these surveys);
    Corporate and individual performance on key initiatives;
    Economic conditions;
    The CEO's compensation recommendations for other Executives;
    Advice of the Committee's consultant; and
    How the elements of compensation contribute to and interrelate to total compensation.


2The surveys used were the McLagan Investment Management survey, Towers Watson U.S. Financial Services Studies Executive Database, the Towers Watson Diversified Insurance Study of Executive Compensation. The names of the companies participating in these surveys are included in Appendix B.A.
262016 Proxy StatementGRAPHIC



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Each year, the Committee reviews the total compensation paid to the Executives by reviewing tally sheets, which include:

Base salaries;

Annual and long term incentive awards earned;

Deferred compensation;

Outstanding equity awards;

Benefits;

Perquisites; and

Potential payments under various termination scenarios.

The Committee uses this information to analyze the value of compensation actually delivered versus the compensation opportunities established by the Committee, and it is also used in making compensation and compensation plan design decisions. The Committee did not make any changes to the Executive compensation program in 2015 because it continues to meet the Company's objectives.

2015 Executive Compensation Decisions

The Committee made compensation decisions for the Named Executive Officers based on:

The Company's strategic and human resources objectives;

Competitive data for the Peer Group and for a broader group of diversified financial services companies (see Appendix A for a complete list of these companies);

Corporate and individual performance on key initiatives;

Economic conditions;

The CEO's compensation recommendations for other Executives;

Advice of the Committee's consultant; and

How the elements of compensation contribute to and interrelate to total compensation.

The Committee also considers the tax and accounting consequences of each element of compensation, and tries to maximize the tax deductibility to Principal of compensation under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code ("Tax Code"). This Tax Code section limits the CompanyPrincipal from deducting annual compensation exceeding $1,000,000 for our CEO and the three other most highly paid Named Executive Officers (other than our CFO) who are in office on the last day of the fiscal year ("Covered Employees"). There is an exception to this rule for performance-basedperformance based compensation. The Committee may provide compensation to Covered Employees that is not deductible if it determines, in its discretion, that it is appropriate to do so. For 2012,2015, Messrs. Zimpleman, Houston, Dunbar, McCaughan, and Valdés were Covered Employees.

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The chart below shows the 2012 pay mix2015 target total compensation for our Named Executive Officers as well as the proportion of their compensation tied to the Common Share price.Company performance. The majority of compensation paid to our Named Executive Officer's is variable and at risk as reflected in the chart below.

CHARTGRAPHIC


Base Salary


When determining base salary for each Executive, the Committee considers the Peer Group median for comparable executive positions as well as the survey data referenced above, the Executive's performance, work experience, the importance of the position to the Company and how difficult it would be to replace the Executive. The table below provides the historical base salaries1(1) of the Named Executive Officers.

                     
 
 Named Executive Officer
  
 2010
  
 2011
  
 2012
  
 Percent Increase
2011 to 2012

  
  Zimpleman   $800,000   $900,000   $900,000   0.0%  
  Lillis   $400,000   $436,000   $475,000   8.9%  
  Houston   $400,000   $525,000   $550,000   4.8%  
  McCaughan   $548,500   $570,500   $600,000   5.2%  
  Valdés         $525,000     

 
Named Executive Officer
 
2013(1)
 
2014
 
2015
 
Percent Increase
2014 to 2015

 
Zimpleman$925,000$1,000,000$1,000,0000% 
 Houston $572,000 $675,000 $775,000 14.8%(2) 
Dunbar$473,0005.4% 
 Lillis $500,000 $530,000 $551,000 3.9%  
McCaughan$615,000$634,000$653,0003.0% 
 Valdés $546,000 $563,000 $580,000 3.0%  
(1)
Salaries displayed in the table are as of December 31 of the year noted. This information differs from salary information in the Summary Compensation Table as the table includes salary earned and paid in the year noted. Changes in base salary are effective in March of each year.

(2)
The 18% base salary increase for Mr. Houston includes a March 2015 merit increase as well as a 13.4% promotional increase in August 2015 due to his increased responsibilities as President and CEO.


Annual Incentive Pay

Compensation

The Named Executive Officers may earn annual cash bonuses under the Principal Financial Group, Inc. Annual Incentive Plan. This plan was approved by shareholders in 2004, and complies with Section162(m) of the Tax Code so that these incentives to Named Executive Officers are considered performance based and are therefore fully tax deductible.deductible to the Company.


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The maximum aggregate bonus amount for the Named Executive Officers is 2% of annual operating income ("Bonus Pool"). For 2012,2015, the maximum bonuses were:

 
Named Executive Officer
 
Maximum Award as
Percentage of the
Annual Incentive Pool

 
Maximum
Potential Award
Payment

 
CEO (Zimpleman)(Houston)35%$5.610.4 million
 Second highest Paid Covered Employee (McCaughan) 30%25% $4.87.4 million 
Third highest Paid Covered Employee (Houston)(Valdés)15%20%$2.45.9 million
 Fourth highest Paid Covered Employee (Valdés)(Dunbar) 10% 10%$1.63.0 million 
CFO (Lillis)10%$1.63.0 million

The Committee sets the target and maximum annual incentive awards for each Named Executive Officer. The Committee then usesmay use its negative discretion to reduce the awards actually payable. After this reduction, maximum annual incentive opportunities are generally 200% of the target annual incentive opportunity. The Committee approved the following target awards for Named Executive Officers in each of the past three years:


Annual Incentive Targets (as a percentage of base salary)

                 
 
 Named Executive Officer
  
 2010
  
 2011
  
 2012
  
  Zimpleman   150%   150%   150%  
  McCaughan   250%   250%   300%  
  Houston   125%   125%   125%  
  Valdés         75%  
  Lillis   75%   75%   100%  
 
Named Executive Officer
 
2013
 
2014
 
2015
 
Zimpleman175%200%200% 
 Houston 125% 200% 350%(1) 
McCaughan300%300%300% 
 Dunbar   70%  
Valdés75%75%75% 
 Lillis 100% 100% 100%  
(1)
As of August 18, 2015. In his role as President and Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Houston's annual incentive target was 200%.

              Mr. Zimpleman'sThe CEO's target award opportunity is greater than that of the other Named Executive Officers (except Mr. McCaughan's) because Mr. ZimplemanHouston (and previously Mr. Zimpleman) has overall responsibility for the Company and greater responsibilities than the other Named Executive Officers. The CEO's target award opportunity has increased over time to better align his compensation with CEOs in the Peer Group. The target award opportunity for Mr. McCaughan was established by the Committee to be competitive with award opportunities of senior executives within asset management firms.firms, which tend to be higher than target annual incentive opportunities in other industry segments. In establishing the target bonusaward opportunity for Messrs. Houston,Dunbar, Valdés and Lillis, the Committee considered the median incentive targets for comparable executive positions in the Peer Group companies, as well as the survey data referenced above.

Performance Goal Setting and Measurement Process

The Board meets each September to review the Company's long-termlong term strategy. In November, the CEO, CFO and Division Presidents recommend preliminary financial goals for the Company and business units and strategic initiatives for the next year. The Finance Committee reviews the proposed goals, underlying assumptions of the goals and initiatives, key drivers of financial performance, trends and business opportunities and advises the Board and Human Resources Committee on the appropriateness of the financial goals. The Human Resources Committee reviews and approves the final goals for the Company, the CEO and the other Executives with input from the Finance Committee and Board based on year-endprior year end financial results. All employees develop individual performance goals with their leaders that support the Company's goals.

              TheFollowing the completion of fiscal 2015, the Committee reviewed 2015 performance on several key financial measures and on corporate and divisional goals to determine the 2015 annual bonus for Named Executive Officers. The Committee does not use any particular weighting for these goals; these measures are used as guideposts when the Committee exercises its discretion in its subjective evaluation of these factors.


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In determining corporate performance for 2012,2015, the Committee reviewed Company achievements on these key financial goals:

                           
  
 Goal
  
 2012 Assessment
  
  
  1. Achieve appropriate operating earnings and earnings per share.   One of management's responsibilities is to lead the Company in achieving its goals for operating earnings and earnings per diluted share. For 2012, the target for operating earnings was $925 million and the target for earnings per diluted share was $3.07. For incentive compensation purposes, operating earnings were adjusted to $905 million and EPS to $3.01. In addition, Messrs. Houston, McCaughan and Valdés had operating earnings goals specific to the business units they oversee:  
                           
                
            Named Executive Officer   Operating
Earnings Goal
   Operating
Earnings Result
      
                
            Houston              
            • Retirement & Investor Services   $570 million   $575 million      
            • US Insurance Solutions   $225 million   $138.2 million      
                
            McCaughan – Principal Global Investors   $90 million   $81.2 million      
                
            Valdés- Principal International   $170 million   $153 million      
                
                              
  2. Capital – maintain a targeted National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC") risk based capital ratio above 350%.   At year-end, the NAIC risk based capital ratio was 415%.  
  3. Minimize credit loss   A metric was established to measure whether the Company's invested assets (Principal Life's General Account) are appropriately managed. Ranges were established for after-tax credit losses for bond credit losses (20 – 30 basis points) and commercial mortgage loans (5 – 15 basis points). Actual 2012 after-tax credit losses for bond credit losses were 19 basis points and for mortgage loans, 9 basis points.  
  4. Achieve identified sales growth targets                      
                           
                
            Business Unit   Target   Result      
                
            Houston              
            • Retirement & Investor Services Sales   $23.4 billion   $27.8 billion      
            • Life Sales   $233.0 million   $227.1 million      
            • Specialty Benefits premium and fees   $1.48 billion   $1.44 billion      
                
            McCaughan              
            • Principal Global Investors % growth in non-affiliated management fees   15%   15%      
                
            Valdés              
            • Principal International net cash flow   $8.46 billion   $13.5 billion      
                
                              
 Goal 2015 Assessment  
 1.Achieve appropriate operating earnings and earnings per share ("EPS"). One of management's responsibilities is to lead the Company in achieving its goals for operating earnings and earnings per diluted share. For 2015, the target for operating earnings was $1,350M and the target for earnings per diluted share was $4.50. Actual 2015 operating earnings were $1,270.5M and EPS was $4.26.

In addition, Messrs. McCaughan and Valdés had operating earnings goals specific to the business units they oversee:

 
              
​  
      Named Executive Officer Operating
Earnings Goal
 Operating
Earnings Result
   
​  
      McCaughan—Principal Global Investors $130M $128M   
​  
      Valdés—Principal International $265M $220M   
​  
              
 2.Capital—maintain a targeted National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC") risk based capital ratio in the range of 415%-425% At year end, the NAIC risk based capital ratio was maintained within the target range. 
 3.Minimize credit loss. A metric was established to measure whether the Company's invested assets (Principal Life's General Account) was appropriately managed. Ranges were established for after-tax bond credit losses and losses on commercial mortgage loans. 
              
​  
      Measure Goal Actual Result   
​  
      Bond credit losses 7-10 basis points 5 basis points   
​  
      Commercial mortgage loan losses 3-5 basis points 2 basis points   
​  
              
 4.Achieve identified sales targets which require appropriate growth. The Company had 2015 sales growth goals as outlined below, by business area: 
              
​  
      Business Unit Target Result   
​  
      Houston       
      

Retirement & Investor Services sales

 $11,700M $8,774.2M   
      

Life sales

 $205M $170.7M   
      

Specialty Benefits premium and fees

 $320M $314.2M   
​  
      McCaughan       
      

Principal Global Investors % growth in non-affiliated management fees

 9.0% 4.1%   
      

Mutual fund asset sales

 $21,550M $22,356.5M   
​  
      Valdés       
      

Principal International net cash flow

 $13,001.3M $9,342.7M   
​  
              

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Final Annual Incentive Pay Award Determination

The following table shows the annual incentive award for each of the Named Executive Officers.Officers whose annual incentive opportunities are determined under the Annual Incentive Plan. The column "Reduction from Maximum Award" shows the amount by which the Committee reduced the maximum bonuses to the awards paid.

                         
 
 Named Executive
Officer

  
 2012 Salary
Earned

  
 2012
Target

  
 Final
Award

  
 % of
Target

  
 Reduction from
Maximum Award

  
  Zimpleman   $900,000   150%   $1,282,500   95%   $4,317,500  
  Lillis   $466,000   100%   $443,000   95%   $1,157,000  
  Houston   $544,231   125%   $612,000   90%   $1,788,000  
  McCaughan   $593,192   300%   $1,602,000   90%   $3,198,000  
  Valdés   $519,231   75%   $370,000   95%   $1,230,000  
Name
2015
Salary

2015
Target

Final
Award

% of
Target

Reduction From
Maximum Award

Houston

$775,000350%(1)$1,482,00080%$8,891,300

Lillis

$551,000100%$440,00080%$2,523,800

Dunbar

$473,00070%$278,00084%$2,685,800

McCaughan

$653,000300%$1,563,00080%$5,846,500

Valdés

$580,00075%$329,00076%$5,598,600
(1)
Mr. Houston's annual incentive target was 200% from January 1—August 17, 2015, and 350% for the remainder of 2015.

Executives may defer annual awards into a nonqualified supplemental savings plan ("Excess Plan"), as illustrated in the footnote to the Non Equity Incentive Compensation column of the Summary Compensation Table, on pages 42-43.36-38.


Long-term Long term Incentive Compensation


The long term incentive compensation program is designed to align the interests of Executives and shareholders. The compensation the Executives receive reflects the degree to which multi-yearmultiyear financial objectives are achieved and shareholder value is increased. The long term focus of the compensation programs supports the Company's businesses in which long term performance is critical, such as retirement products, life insurance and asset management. The long term incentive compensation program also encourages collaboration among Executives in pursuing corporate-widecorporate wide goals.

The Committee establishes a target long term incentive award opportunity for each Named Executive Officer stated as a percentage of each Executive'sNamed Executive Officer's base salary based on Peer Group and survey data, and on the advice of its independent compensation consultant. The Committee uses the following factors to adjust the target award and determine the actual award to be awardedgranted to each Named Executive Officer ("Award Granted"):

    Current competitive market data;
    The Executive'sNamed Executive Officer's past performance;
    The Executive'sNamed Executive Officer's current compensation;
    Retention concerns;
    The importance of the Named Executive Officer to the Company over the long term;
    The potential impact the Named Executive Officer could have on the Company's results; and
    The Executive's performance relative to the Executive'sNamed Executive Officer's peers within the Company.

The compensation ultimately received by ExecutivesNamed Executive Officers may vary considerably from the grant-dategrant date fair value of the Award Granted, due to the Company's performance and changes in share price that occur after the grant.

Long-Term Incentive Target & Grant (as % of base salary)
             
 
 Named Executive Officer
  
 Target %
  
 Award Granted
  
  Zimpleman   500%   500%  
  Lillis   275%   275%  
  McCaughan   350%   325%  
  Houston   350%   375%  
  Valdés   225%   200%  
2015 Long Term Incentive Target & Grant (as % of base salary)
Named Executive Officer
Target %
Award Granted

Zimpleman

600%600%

Houston

425%425%

Lillis

275%300%

Dunbar

175%225%

McCaughan

350%325%

Valdés

225%250%
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The long term incentive targets were established by the Committee to be market competitive with award opportunities for comparable positions in Peer Group companies. Mr. Zimpleman's award opportunity is greater than those of the other Named Executive Officers because at the time of the 2015 annual equity grant he haswas CEO and had overall responsibility for the Company.


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Executives' long term compensation is awarded in the form of non-qualified stock options and performance based restricted stock units ("PSUs"),PSUs, which each represent 50% of the total long-term incentive award.grant date fair value. PSUs entitle the executiveExecutive to earn shares of Principal Financial Group, Inc. Common Stock if certain levels of performance are achieved. The Committee uses stock options as part of the long-termlong term incentive program because options are an effective way to link an Executive's compensation to changes in shareholder value. The weighting is not based on a specific formula or algorithm, but rather is intended to create a balance between the achievement of specific operating objectives and changes in shareholder value based on the Committee's judgment, which may change from time to time.

Stock options have a ten-yearten year term and an exercise price equal to the closing price on the date of grant. Stock options vest in three equal annual installments starting on the first anniversary of the grant date.

PSUs vest based on continued service and achieving financial objectives over a three-yearthree year period (with each three-yearthree year period treated as a "Performance Cycle"). Executives may defer the receipt of PSUs.

For the 20122015 PSUs, the performance threshold is met if either of the following goals is met:

    Three year average pre-taxpretax operating income ROE of 5%7.5%, or
    $12 billion cumulative pre-taxpretax operating income ("OI")

If either the ROE or OI objectivesobjective is met or exceeded, the number of units earned is determined using two performance measures, each weighted at 50%, to determine the funding level.percentage of target PSUs actually earned.

    Average pre-taxpretax operating ROE:  this measure was selected because it reflects the efficient use of Company capital in generating profits.
    Average Book Value per Value/Share ("BV/Share"): this measure was selected because it focuses on long term growth in equity needed to support the Company's growth.

In combination, the two measures selected provide an appropriate balancea healthy tension in creating incentives to maintain a sufficient level of equity over the long term while also making sure that capital is being used effectively.

2012-2014 PSU Performance Scale
                 
 
 Performance Level
  
 Threshold
Award

  
 Target
Award

  
 Maximum Award
(150% of Target)

  
  Payout (% of Target) (1)   50%   100%   150%  
  Average ROE   7.5%   15%   19.5%  
  Average BV/Share   $24.65   $29.00   $37.70  
2015-2017 PSU Performance Scale
Performance Level
Threshold
Award

Target
Award

Maximum Award
(150% of
Target)

 
Payout (% of Target)(1)50%100%150% 
Average ROE7.8%15.5%20.2% 
Average BV/Share$31.66$37.25$48.43 




If neither the ROE nor the OI
objective is met, 
no PSUs will
be earned or paid out.


If neither the ROE nor the OI
threshold performance
objective is met, 
no PSUs will
be earned or paid out.



(1)
Straight line interpolation is used to determine awards for performance between threshold and target and between target and maximum.


Timing of Stock Option Awards and Other Equity Incentives


Annual grants of stock options and PSUs for the Company'sPrincipal Executives are determined by the Committee at its February meeting which occurs following the release of the prior year firm results and during an open-window period.year's results. The Committee formalized its long-standinglong standing practices by adopting a policy in 2006 regarding granting stock options and other equity awards. Under this policy, the grant date for all stock options and other stock-basedstock based awards shall never be the earlier than the date of approval, and shall be:

    For all annual awards to Executives, the date of approval by the Committee;
    For new employees and promotions, the later of the date of approval or the employee's hire/promotion date;
    In the event of an award connected with an established stock program for non-Executives,non Executives, the later of the date of approval or the grant date established by the stock program; and
    For any other awards, the date of approval.

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Authority of the Chairman, President & CEO to Grant Equity Awards:

Under the 20102014 Stock Incentive Plan, the Committee has delegated authority to the Chairman, President & CEO to make certain equity awards to sales agents and non-Executivenon Executive employees for new hires, promotions, retention and recognizing superior

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performance. The Committee receives a report on these grants at the next regular Committee meeting. The total awards granted by the Chairman, President & CEO may not exceed 250,000 shares per year.


Benefits

Benefits

The Named Executive Officers participate in Principal Life's broad-basedbroad based employee benefits program, including:

    A qualified pension plan (except Mr. McCaughan3(3));
    A 401(k) plan;
    Group health, dental, vision and disability coverage and life insurance;
    A discounted employee stock purchase plan.plan;
    Paid time off; and
    Flexible spending account plans.

Principal Life also offers all Named Executive Officers (except Mr. McCaughan) a non-qualified defined contribution plan ("Excess plan") and a defined benefit and defined contribution non-qualified retirement plans (the "NQDB" and the "Excess Plan"plan ("NQDB"). These benefits are offered to attract and retain talent and provide long term financial security to employees. The NQDB helps the Company attract mid-careermidcareer Executives and retain Executives by providing competitive retirement benefits. The NQDB is coordinated with the qualified pension plan and is designed to restore benefits that otherwise would accrue to Executives in the absence of Tax Code limitations on the qualified pension plan. The narrative to the Pension Benefits Table on pages 47-4941-43 provides additional information about the NQDB and the qualified pension plan. Principal Life maintains the Excess Plan to help attract and retain Executives by allowing Executives to save for retirement and to provide matching contributions on those savings, without regard to the limitations imposed by the Tax Code on 401(k) plans. The narrative to the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Table on pages 50-5144-45 provides additional information about the Excess Plan.

The value of the retirement and savings plans for NonGrandfathered Participants (see page 42) is targeted to be, in the aggregate, slightly above the median of diversified financial services companies because a large portion of the Company's business centers on the sale of retirement products. The traditionaldefined benefit pension plan benefit for Grandfathered Choice Participants (see page 47)41) has a market value above the median and the 401(k) plan match for Grandfathered Choice Participants is below market median. These benefits were also originally designed to be slightly above market median to attract and retain employees. As retirement plans evolved in the marketplace, their valuethe Company has changed, leadingbalanced realigning benefits to the realignmentmarketplace with current market in 2006.practice while not adversely impacting more tenured employees.

All other benefits are targeted at market median in the aggregate, which supports the Company's benefit strategy and aids in attracting and retaining talent.


Change of Control and Separation Pay


The Committee believes it is in the best interests of the CompanyPrincipal and its shareholders to:

    Assure that the CompanyPrincipal will have the continued service of its Executives;
    Reduce the distraction of these Executives that would result from the personal uncertainties caused by a pending or threatened Change of Control;
    Encourage the Executives' full attention and dedication to the Company;Principal; and


Effective January 1, 2010, Mr. McCaughan no longer participates in the qualified pension plan, NQDB Plan or Excess Plan. This change was the result of a compensation and benefit review of asset management companies that showed that these are not common benefits for executives in the asset management industry. This change also applied to other investment professionals who work with Principal Global Investors.


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    Provide the Executives with compensation and benefits upon a termination related to Change of Control that are competitive with those of similar businesses.

For these reasons, the CompanyPrincipal has entered into "Change of Control" employment agreementsEmployment Agreements with each of the Executives. These agreements would help the Executives more fairly evaluate a potential acquisition of the Company,Principal, particularly when the acquisition would result in termination of the Executive's employment. These Change of Control employment agreementsEmployment Agreements are based on market practice and do not affect other components of the Named Executive Officers'Executives' compensation. When entering into these agreements, the Committee reviewed survey data and practices of other public insurance and financial services companies. The Committee continues to review market practices in this area for potential changes in these agreements.

All benefits provided to the Executives upon a Change of Control are paid after both a Change of Control and qualifying termination of employment have occurred (sometimes referred to as a "double-trigger""double trigger"), except that the


(3)
Mr. McCaughan has not participated in the qualified pension plan, NQDB Plan or Excess Plan since January 1, 2010, due to a compensation and benefit review of asset management companies that showed that these are not common benefits for executives in that industry. This change also applied to other investment professionals.
GRAPHIC 2016 Proxy Statement33

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then current value of the Executive's Excess Plan and NQDB will be paid upon a Change of Control to ensure that the value of those plans is not reduced if the Company is sold. The Company entered into new Change of Control Employment Agreements with Executives in 2010 that generally reduced severance amounts as multiples of cash compensation and eliminatedThese agreements do not provide excise tax gross-ups.gross ups. See pages 52-5546-48 for details.

The Company has a severance plan to provide benefits to employees whose employment is terminated by the Company due to a reorganization or reduction in the workforce. Additional payments may be permitted in some circumstances as a result of negotiations with Executives, particularly when the CompanyPrincipal requests additional covenants from the Executives. The Company has an employment agreement with Mr. Zimpleman for his services as the Company's CEO. See page 52 for details.


Perquisites

Perquisites

              The only perquisite for Executives that is notare offered to all employees is one physical examination per year. We provide this perquisiteyear to protect the health of our Executives and the Company's investment in its leadership. Executives also receive gifts of nominal value provided to all sale conference attendees and spousal business travel.


Stock Ownership Guidelines


Executives are required to own stock in the CompanyPrincipal to ensure their interests are aligned with the shareholders' interests and with the long term performance of the Company.Principal. Once the Executive achieves the required stock ownership level based on market value, the ownership requirement remains at the number of shares owned at that time, regardless of subsequent changes in stock price or salary.value. Upon promotion, the Executive is required to meet the next level of stock ownership.

Until the ownership guideline is met, Executives are required to retain a portion of the "net profit shares" resulting from equity based long term incentive plan grants. Net profit shares are the shares remaining after payment of the option exercise price and taxes owed at time of exercise, vesting of restricted stock unitsRSUs or earn out of performance shares. The percentage of net profit shares that must be retained until the multiple of salary guidelines are met are shown below:


Executive Level

Retention

RatioRetention Ratio

Multiple of
Base Salary


CEO

Chairman (Zimpleman)

75%5 times

President and CEO (Houston)

75%5 times

Division Presidents & Executive Vice Presidents (Houston,(Lillis, Dunbar, McCaughan & Valdés)

50%3 times
Senior Vice Presidents (Lillis)50%2 times

All Named Executive Officers comply with these guidelines.


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Claw Back Policy


The Committee has also adopted a compensation recovery policy that applies to Executive Officers. The CompanyExecutives. Principal can recover incentive compensation if the amount of the compensation was based on achievement of financial results that were subsequently restated if the Committee decides that the Executive Officer engaged in fraud or intentional misconduct that caused the restatement of the Company's financial statements, and that the amount of the Executive Officer'sExecutive's incentive compensation or equity award would have been lower had the financial results been properly reported.


Trading Policy


              The CompanyPrincipal prohibits Directors and employees, including Executive Officers,Executives, from:

Purchasing Principal securities "on margin" (i.e., with the proceeds of a loan from purchasing any Company securities on margin (except toa brokerage firm when the extent incident toloan is secured by Principal securities), except for the exercise of employee stock options), engagingoptions.
Short sales;
Trading in short sales or trading in any put or call options.options; and
Purchasing, directly or through a designee, any financial instrument (including prepaid variable forward contracts, equity swaps, collars and exchange funds) that is designed to hedge or offset any decrease in the market value of Principal securities.
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Succession Planning


The Human Resources Committee, the CEO and the Senior Vice President —head of Human Resources maintainhave an ongoing focus on executive development and succession planning to prepare the CompanyPrincipal for future success. In addition to preparing for CEO succession, the succession planning process has includedincludes all key executive positions. A comprehensive review of executive talent, including assessments by an independent consulting firm, has determined participants' readiness to take on additional leadership roles and identified the developmental and coaching opportunities needed to prepare them for greater responsibilities. The CEO makes a formal succession planning presentation to the Board of Directors annually. SuccessionCEO succession planning is a responsibility of the entire Board and all members participate. In addition, the Company has an emergency succession plan for the CEO that is reviewed by the Board annually. In 2015, the Company's succession plan was used when Daniel J. Houston was named CEO in conjunction with Larry D. Zimpleman's retirement. Other changes were made in the senior executive team, and all of the members of the new team are internal candidates, which speaks highly of the strength of the Board's succession planning process.


Human Resources Committee Report


The Human Resources Committee of the Company has reviewed and discussed the foregoing Compensation Discussion and Analysis required by Item 402(b) of Regulation S-K with management, and based on such review and discussion, the Committee recommended to the Board that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this Proxy Statement.

Michael T. Dan, Chair
Betsy J. BernardGary E. Costley
Richard L. KeyserC. Daniel Gelatt
Roger C. Hochschild
Elizabeth E. Tallett


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Risk Assessment

of Employee Incentive Plans

              Members of theThe Human Resources Compensation Department reviewed alland the chief risk officers in the business units conducted a review and analysis of the Company's employee incentive compensation plans for employees to determine whether any compensation policies or practicesthe plans are reasonably likely to have a materiallymaterial adverse effect on the Company, and reviewed itstheir processes and conclusions with the Chief Risk Officer. The following factors, among others, were reviewed:assessed:

    Plan design;
    Performance metrics and quality of goal setting;
    Administrative procedures, including governance practices and plan compliance;
    Plan communications and disclosures;
    Potential risks created by the plans;
    Risk mitigationcontrols factors within plans;
    The mix of pay received by the participating employees (fixed vs. variable, cash vs. equity, short term vs. long term);
    Whether historical payments were in line with the intended results;and their effectiveness; and
    Governance practices regarding plan designInherent and revisions.residual risk ratings.

              OtherSome key factors that mitigate risks of the Company's incentive plans are the Company's stock ownership guidelines for Executives, and the compensation recovery policy. The Company alsopolicy and the Human Resources Committee's ability to exercise its judgment in evaluating the quality of performance achievements when determining earned compensation. Principal prohibits all employees from purchasing any CompanyPrincipal securities on margin (except for the exercise of stock options), engaging in short sales or trading in any put or call options. options; and purchasing, directly or through a designee, any financial instrument (including prepaid variable forward contracts, equity swaps, collars and exchange funds) designed to hedge or offset any decrease in the market value of Company securities.

A summary of this informationthe assessment process and conclusions was reviewed with the Human Resources Committee. Based on this analysis, the CompanyPrincipal has determined that the Company's employee incentive compensation plans are designed to encourage behaviors that create and maintain shareholder value, do not encourage excessive risk, and are not reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company.Principal.

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Summary Compensation Table


The following table sets forth the compensation paid to the Named Executive Officers for services provided to the Company and its subsidiaries during 2010, 20112013, 2014 and 2012.2015.

                                         
 
 Name
  
 Year
  
 Salary
(1)

  
 Bonus
  
 Stock
Awards
(2)(3)

  
 Option
Awards
(2)

  
 Non Equity
Incentive
Compensation
(4)

  
 Change in
Pension Value
and
Non-qualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings (5)

  
 All Other
Compensation
(6)

  
 Total
(7)

  
  Zimpleman   2012   $900,000   $0   $2,249,990   $2,491,679   $1,282,500   $3,605,227   $80,329   $10,609,725  
  Chairman,   2011   $876,923   $0   $1,799,986   $1,993,320   $1,302,000   $3,160,566   $72,732   $9,205,527  
  President & CEO   2010   $781,538   $0   $1,999,988   $1,661,156   $1,547,446   $2,200,038   $56,816   $8,246,982  
  Lillis   2012   $466,000   $0   $653,136   $723,308   $443,000   $1,412,152   $24,571   $3,722,167  
  Senior Vice   2011   $427,692   $0   $435,993   $482,827   $276,000   $974,268   $22,927   $2,619,707  
  President & CFO   2010   $373,946   $0   $415,016   $387,622   $336,552   $599,034   $17,428   $2,129,598  
  Houston   2012   $544,231   $0   $1,031,260   $1,142,017   $612,000   $846,704   $88,603   $4,264,815  
  Pres. Retirement,   2011   $519,231   $0   $853,108   $944,764   $526,000   $507,677   $74,386   $3,425,166  
  Ins. & Financial Svs   2010   $480,362   $0   $750,009   $830,578   $720,542   $307,042   $54,460   $3,142,993  
  McCaughan   2012   $593,192   $0   $974,995   $1,079,730   $1,602,000   $76,897   $13,673   $4,340,487  
  Pres. Global   2011   $565,423   $0   $855,746   $947,681   $1,272,000   $73,235   $6,329   $3,720,414  
  Asset Management   2010   $539,269   $0   $1,076,741   $911,110   $1,617,807   $69,748   $5,867   $4,220,542  
  Valdés                                      
  Pres. - Int'l Asset   2012   $519,231   $0   $525,008   $581,366   $370,000   $35,446   $67,530   $2,098,581  
  Mgmt & Accum                                      

Name

  Year  Salary(1)(2)  Bonus  Stock
Awards(3)(4)
  Option
Awards(3)
  Non Equity
Incentive
Compensation(5)
  Change in
Pension
Value
and Non-
Qualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings(6)(7)
  All Other
Compensation(8)
  Total(9) 

Zimpleman

 2015 $1,038,462 $0 $2,999,982 $3,000,043 $1,596,000 $1,517,176 $119,887 $10,271,549 

  2014 $982,692 $0 $3,000,004 $3,000,015 $2,280,000 $7,549,888 $106,789 $16,919,388 

 2013 $919,231 $0 $2,428,124 $2,428,121 $2,137,000 $1,041,951 $80,474 $9,034,901 

Houston

  2015 $735,577 $0 $1,434,366 $1,434,390 $1,482,000 $0 $118,193 $5,204,526 

 2014 $592,769 $0 $1,115,627 $1,115,643 $962,000 $1,579,560 $106,984 $5,472,583 

  2013 $566,923 $0 $1,072,505 $1,072,513 $858,000 $0 $79,460 $3,649,400 

Lillis

 2015 $567,346 $0 $826,516 $826,496 $440,000 $0 $51,482 $2,711,840 

  2014 $523,077 $0 $795,004 $794,986 $604,000 $2,921,717 $47,410 $5,686,194 

 2013 $494,231 $0 $750,001 $749,982 $630,000 $811,848 $42,651 $3,478,713 

McCaughan

  2015 $673,731 $0 $1,061,145 $1,061,134 $1,563,000 $46,816 $13,702 $4,419,528 

 2014 $629,616 $0 $3,030,265 $1,030,261 $2,060,000 $123,802 $13,221 $6,887,165 

  2013 $611,539 $0 $999,377 $999,379 $2,325,000 $80,742 $13,290 $5,029,326 

Valdés

 2015 $598,385 $0 $724,984 $724,959 $329,000 $113,838 $68,003 $2,559,169 

  2014 $559,077 $0 $1,703,763 $703,747 $481,000 $143,136 $75,211 $3,665,934 

 2013 $541,154 $0 $641,538 $641,536 $467,000 $90,767 $63,008 $2,445,003 

Dunbar

  2015 $483,577 $0 $532,138 $532,099 $278,000 $0 $54,824 $1,880,638 
(1)
There were 27 pay periods in 2015, rather than the standard 26 pay periods.

(2)
Includes 20122015 salary deferred into the qualified 401(k) planPlan and the Excess Plan, as shown below (information detailingon deferrals for 20112014 was included in last year's proxy statement):

                 
 
 Named Executive
Officer

  
 401(k) Employee
Contribution

  
 Excess Plan Employee
Contributions

  
 Total Employee
Contributions

  
  Zimpleman   $19,346   $72,692   $92,038  
  Lillis   $13,885   $22,929   $36,814  
  Houston   $20,644   $35,462   $56,106  
  McCaughan   $17,000   $0   $17,000  
  Valdés   $8,791   $24,561   $33,352  
 
 
 
 
Named Executive Officer
401(k) Employee
Contribution

Excess Plan Employee
Contributions

Total Employee
Contributions

Zimpleman

$24,000$85,154$109,154

Houston

$18,462$58,846$77,308

Lillis

$18,231$34,041$52,272

Dunbar

$22,586$24,179$46,765

McCaughan

$18,000$0$18,000

Valdés

$24,000$29,674$53,674

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(2)(3)
Amounts represent the aggregate grant date fair value amounts for awards and options granted in the year noted. The assumptions for the valuation of stock and option awards under the ASC Topic 718 for awards are included in the Summary Compensation Table are as follows:

                         
 
 Grant Date
  
 Exercise
Price

  
 Volatility
  
 Expected
Term

  
 Dividend
Yield

  
 Risk-Free
Interest Rate

  
  February 23, 2010   $22.21   66.60%   6 years   2.251%   2.75%  
  February 28, 2011   $34.26   67.88%   6 years   1.605%   2.48%  
  February 27, 2012   $27.46   70.03%   6 years   2.550%   1.10%  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grant Date
Exercise
Price

Volatility
Expected
Term

Dividend
Yield

Risk Free
Interest Rate

February 25, 2013$30.7053.30%6.5 years2.997%1.13%
February 24, 2014$44.8853.21%6.5 years2.496%2.04%
February 23, 2015$51.3352.21%6.5 years2.805%1.80%

The grant date fair value per share of each RSU or PSU granted on the same date as an option listed in the above table was equal to the exercise price reported for options granted on such date.


(4)
PSUs will be earned and paid in shares of Common Stock only if performance requirements are met or exceeded. The PSUs are eligible for dividend equivalents, and the dividend equivalents are subject to the same performance requirements as the corresponding PSUs and are only earned if the performance measures are met or exceeded. The maximum payout for the 2010, 2011,2013, 2014, and 20122015 PSUs is 150% of the target number of PSUs. If the
362016 Proxy StatementGRAPHIC

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    PSUs granted in 20122015 are earned at the maximum payout, the grant date value of such PSUs would be as shown in the following table, and the amounts reported in the Stock Awards column, above, would be increased by the amount shown in the column to the far right of the following table.

             
 
 Named Executive
Officer

  
 Grant Date Value
of 2012 PSUs
at Maximum Payout

  
 Amount by Which
Aggregate Grant Date
Values Reported
Would be Increased

  
  Zimpleman   $3,374,985   $1,124,995  
  Lillis   $979,704   $326,568  
  Houston   $1,546,890   $515,630  
  McCaughan   $1,462,492   $487,497  
  Valdés   $787,512   $262,504  
 
 
Named Executive Officer
Amount by Which
Aggregate Grant Date
Values Reported
Would be Increased

Zimpleman$1,499,991
Houston$530,573
Lillis$717,183
Dunbar$266,069
McCaughan$362,492
Valdés$413,258
(4)(5)
The amounts shown represent annual incentive compensation awards earned in 20122015 and paid in 20132016 and include the following amounts deferred into the qualified 401(k) Plan and Excess Plan:


Named Executive Officer

Employee Contributions
on Incentive Pay


Zimpleman$127,552
Lillis$30,226
Houston$53,678
McCaughan$0
Valdés$24,771
 
 
Named Executive Officer
Employee Contributions
on Incentive Pay

Zimpleman$0
Houston$125,137
Lillis$34,104
Dunbar$0
McCaughan$0
Valdés$26,545
(5)(6)
Assumptions underlying the determination of the amount of increase in actuarial value for both the qualified and non-qualifiednonqualified pension plans are illustrateddisclosed on page 50.43. Changes in these assumptions and compensation changes will impact this value annually. There are no above market earnings on deferred compensation.

(6)
In past proxies, the same actuarial assumptions have been used regardless of whether a Named Executive Officer has elected to receive their nonqualified defined benefit (NQDB) plan distribution in the form of an annuity or as a lump sum payment. Because a different discount rate is used for determining lump sum payments, the company has changed the assumptions used to value the NQDB reflected in the Summary Compensation Table to reflect the Named Executive Officer's elected form of distribution. This is a better reflection of the value of the benefit that will ultimately be paid to the Named Executive Officer.

(7)
For Messrs. Houston, Lillis and Dunbar, the 2015 Change in Pension Values are ($306,688), ($1,160,093) and ($378,794) respectively. For Mr. Houston, the 2013 Change in Pension Value is ($50,354). Pursuant to SEC reporting rules, a negative Change in Pension Value is reported in the Summary Compensation Table as a zero.

(8)
All Other Compensation for the Named Executive Officers consists of the following:

                 
 
 Named Executive
Officer

  
 Perquisites and Other
Personal Benefits
(a)

  
 Principal Life Contributions to
Defined Contribution Plans
(b)

  
 Total
  
  Zimpleman   $14,269   $66,060   $80,329  
  Lillis   $2,311   $22,260   $24,571  
  Houston   $24,389   $64,214   $88,603  
  McCaughan   $923   $12,750   $13,673  
  Valdés   $36,359   $31,171   $67,530  
Name
Perquisites &
Other Personal
Benefits(a)

Principal Life
Contributions
to Defined
Contribution
Plans(b)

Total
Zimpleman$20,333$99,554$119,887
Lillis$16,342$35,140$51,482
Houston$16,339$101,854$118,193
McCaughan$202$13,500$13,702
Valdés$4,033$63,970$68,003
Dunbar$6,479$48,345$54,824
      (a)
      Represents the incremental aggregate cost to the CompanyPrincipal for all perquisites provided during the year. Amounts include the value of an annual physical examination, business spousal travel, and additionally, for Mr. Valdes, relocation benefits paid in 2012 in connection with his relocation from Chilegifts given to the United States.all sales conference attendees.
GRAPHIC 2016 Proxy Statement37

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    (b)
    The amounts shown below are Principal Life's matching contributions to the 401(k) Plan and the Excess Plan. The Excess Plan's matching contributions are also included in Principal Life's Contributions in the Non-QualifiedNonQualified Deferred Compensation table on page 50.44.

                 
 
 Named Executive Officer
  
 401(k) Matching
Contribution Made by
Principal Life

  
 Excess Plan Matching
Contribution Made by
Principal Life

  
 Total
  
  Zimpleman   $6,375   $59,685   $66,060  
  Lillis   $5,100   $17,160   $22,260  
  Houston   $6,800   $57,414   $64,214  
  McCaughan   $12,750   $0   $12,750  
  Valdés   $12,750   $18,421   $31,171  
 
 
 
 
Named Executive Officer
401(k) Matching
Contribution Made by
Principal Life

Excess Plan Matching
Contribution Made
by Principal Life

Total
Zimpleman$7,950$91,604$99,554
Houston$13,500$88,354$101,854
Lillis$6,554$28,586$35,140
Dunbar$13,500$34,845$48,345
McCaughan$13,500$0$13,500
Valdés$13,500$50,470$63,970
(7)(9)
Sum of the total dollar value of the other columns in this table.

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Grants of Plan Based Awards for Fiscal Year End December 31, 2012

2015

                                                 
          Estimated Future Payouts
Under Non Equity
Incentive Plan Awards
   Estimated Future Payouts
Under Equity
Incentive Plan Awards
(2)
   All Other
Stock
Awards:
Number
of
Shares
   All Other
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
   Exercise
or Base
Price of
   Grant
Date Fair
Value of
Stock and
  
                          
  

Name
   
Grant
Date
   
Threshold
 
   
Target
 
   
Maximum
(1)
   
Threshold
 
   
Target
 
   
Maximum
 
   of Stock
or Units
(3)
   Underlying
Options
(4)
   Option
Awards
(5)
   Option
Awards
(6)
  
  Zimpleman       N/A   $1,282,500   $5,600,000                              
      2/27/2012               40,969   81,937   122,906               $2,249,990  
      2/27/2012                               178,615   $27.46   $2,491,679  
  Lillis       N/A   $442,700   $1,600,000                              
      2/27/2012               11,893   23,785   35,678               $653,136  
      2/27/2012                               51,850   $27.46   $723,308  
  Houston       N/A   $646,274   $2,400,000                              
      2/27/2012               18,778   37,555   56,333               $1,031,260  
      2/27/2012                               81,865   $27.46   $1,142,017  
  McCaughan       N/A   $1,690,598   $4,800,000                              
      2/27/2012               17,753   35,506   53,259               $974,995  
      2/27/2012                               77,400   $27.46   $1,079,730  
  Valdés       N/A   $369,952   $1,600,000                              
      2/27/2012               9,560   19,119   28,679               $525,008  
      2/27/2012                               41,675   $27.46   $581,366  

  Grant Estimated Future Payouts
Under Non Equity Incentive
Plan Awards
 Estimated Future Payouts
Under Equity Incentive
Plan Awards(2)
 Other
Stock
 Other
Option
  Exercise  Fair 

Name

  Date Threshold  Target  Maximum(1) Threshold Target Maximum Awards Awards(3)  Price(4)  Value(5) 

Zimpleman

  N/A $2,000,000 NA        

  02/23/2015         14,611 58,445 87,668        $2,999,982 

 02/23/2015        146,845 $51.33 $3,000,043 

Lillis

    N/A $551,000 $3,000,000                 

 02/23/2015    4,026 16,102 24,153    $826,516 

  02/23/2015                 40,455 $51.33 $826,496 
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ �� ​ ​ ​ ​ 

Houston

  N/A $1,858,212 $10,400,000        

  02/23/2015         6,986 27,944 41,916        $1,434,366 

 02/23/2015        70,210 $51.33 $1,434,390 

McCaughan

    N/A $1,959,000 $7,400,000                 

 02/23/2015    5,168 20,673 31,010    $1,061,145 

  02/23/2015                 51,940 $51.33 $1,061,134 
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 

Valdés

  N/A $435,000 $5,930,000        

  02/23/2015         3,531 14,124 21,186        $724,985 

 02/23/2015        35,485 $51.33 $724,959 

Dunbar

    N/A $331,100 $3,000,000                 

 02/23/2015    2,592 10,367 15,551    $532,138 

  02/23/2015                 26,045 $51.33 $532,099 
(1)
The maximum award shown is the maximum aggregate award payable under the Annual Incentive Pay Plan for the Named Executive Officers, based on the Bonus Pool. In determining the actual annual incentive award payable, the Human Resources Committee exercises negative discretion to reduce the amount payable from the maximum award determined under the Annual Incentive Pay Plan as described on pages 34-37.28-31.

(2)
These columns reflect PSUs granted on February 27, 2012.23, 2015. These PSUs will vest, if at all, according to the 2012 – 20142015-2017 PSU performance scale outlined on page 38.32. The maximum payout for the 20122015 PSUs is 150% of the target number of PSUs.

(3)
There were no other stock awards granted in 2012.
(4)
The options vest in three equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the grant date. The options are not eligible for dividend equivalents. The number of stock options awarded to each Named Executive Officer in a given year is calculated by dividing the grant date fair value of one option into the portion of the Adjusted Target Award Opportunity (50%) to be delivered in options, using the Black-Scholes model (but adjusting for the possibility that some options may be forfeited because Executives may terminate their employment prior to the options vesting).model.

(5)(4)
The per-share option exercise price is the closing price of the Common Stock on the date of grant.

(6)(5)
Represents the grant date fair value of the award at target.

382016 Proxy StatementGRAPHIC

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Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End December 31, 2012

2015

                                     
      Option Awards   Stock Awards  
      
  Name   Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Exercisable
(1)
   Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Unexercisable
   Option
Exercise
Price
   Option
Expiration
Date
   Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock that
Have Not
Vested
(2)
   Market
Value of
Shares or
Units of
Stock
that Have
Not
Vested
   Equity Incentive
Plan Awards:
Number of
Unearned
Shares, Units or
Other Rights that
Have Not Vested
(3)
   Equity Incentive
Plan Awards:
Market or
Payout Value of
Unearned
Shares, Units or
Other Rights
that Have Not
Vested (4)
  
  Zimpleman (5)   48,353   0   $27.57   02/25/2013                  
      77,790   0   $36.30   02/24/2014                  
      108,185   0   $39.02   02/28/2015                  
      82,885   0   $49.25   02/27/2016                  
      1,120   0   $54.45   06/01/2016                  
      74,935   0   $62.63   02/26/2017                  
      142,985   0   $60.10   02/26/2018                  
      368,615   0   $11.07   02/24/2019                  
      96,466   48,234   $22.21   02/23/2020   24,263   $691,976   80,068   $2,283,553  
      35,305   70,610   $34.26   02/28/2021           55,595   $1,585,566  
      0   178,615   $27.46   02/27/2022           84,275   $2,403,526  
  Lillis (6)   7,380   0   $60.10   02/26/2018                  
      13,505   0   $56.42   05/19/2018                  
      22,510   11,255   $22.21   02/23/2020   3,155   $89,970   18,683   $532,841  
      8,551   17,104   $34.26   02/28/2021           13,466   $384,056  
      0   51,850   $27.46   02/27/2022           24,464   $697,705  
  Houston   37,080   0   $60.10   02/26/2018                  
      129,810   0   $11.07   02/24/2019                  
      48,233   24,117   $22.21   02/23/2020           40,035   $1,141,794  
      16,733   33,467   $34.26   02/28/2021           26,349   $751,483  
      0   81,865   $27.46   02/27/2022           38,627   $1,101,632  
  McCaughan   40,475   0   $27.57   02/25/2013                  
      74,960   0   $36.30   02/24/2014                  
      91,955   0   $39.02   02/28/2015                  
      63,760   0   $49.25   02/27/2016                  
      48,990   0   $62.63   02/26/2017                  
      60,590   0   $60.10   02/26/2018                  
      173,555   0   $11.07   02/24/2019                  
      52,910   26,455   $22.21   02/23/2020   12,325   $351,521   43,918   $1,252,527  
      16,785   33,570   $34.26   02/28/2021           26,431   $753,807  
      0   77,400   $27.46   02/27/2022           36,519   $1,041,527  
  Valdés   0   41,675   $27.46   02/27/2022           19,665   $560,833  

      Stock Awards
  Option Awards MarketEquity
Incentive Plan
Awards:
Equity
Incentive Plan
Awards:
Market or
NameNumber of
Securities
Underlying
     Unexercised
Options
Exercisable(1)
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Unexercisable
Option
Exercise
Price
Option
Expiration
Date
Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock that
Have Not
Vested(2)
Value of
Shares or
Units of
Stock that
Have Not
Vested
Number of
Unearned Shares,
Units, or Other
Rights that
have not
vested(3)
payout value of
Unearned Shares,
Units, or Other
Rights that
have not
vested(4)
Zimpleman82,8850$49.2502/27/2016
 1,1200$54.4506/01/2016    
 74,9350$62.6302/26/2017
 142,9850$60.1002/26/2018    
 368,6150$11.0702/24/2019
 144,7000$22.2102/23/2020    
 105,9150$34.2602/28/2021
 178,6150$27.4602/27/2022    
 135,46067,730$30.7002/25/202388,231$3,968,630
 52,938105,877$44.8802/24/2024  70,672$3,178,827
 0146,845$51.3302/23/202560,255$2,710,270
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Houston24,8700$62.6302/26/2017    
 37,0800$60.1002/26/2018
 72,3500$22.2102/23/2020    
 50,2000$34.2602/28/2021
 81,8650$27.4602/27/2022    
 59,83329,917$30.7002/25/202338,971$1,752,916
 19,68639,374$44.8802/24/2024  26,281$1,182,119
 070,210$51.3302/23/202528,809$1,295,829
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Lillis5,5250$62.6302/26/2017    
 7,3800$60.1002/26/2018
 13,5050$56.4205/19/2018    
 25,6550$34.2602/28/2021
 41,84020,920$30.7002/25/2023  27,252$1,225,795
 14,02828,057$44.8802/24/202418,728$842,385
 040,455$51.3302/23/2025  16,600$746,668
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
McCaughan15,9400$49.2502/27/2016
 48,9900$62.6302/26/2017    
 60,5900$60.1002/26/2018
 27,5550$11.0702/24/2019    
 79,3650$22.2102/23/2020
 50,3550$34.2602/28/2021    
 77,4000$27.4602/27/2022
 55,75327,877$30.7002/25/2023  36,314$1,633,404
 18,18036,360$44.8802/24/202424,270$1,091,665
     38,486$1,731,100  
 051,940$51.3302/23/202521,313$958,659
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Valdés7,4800$62.6302/26/2017    
 10,3750$60.1002/26/2018
 18,3900$34.2602/28/2021    
 35,79017,895$30.7002/25/202323,311$1,048,529
 12,41824,837$44.8802/24/2024  16,578$745,678
 19,243$865,550
 035,485$51.3302/23/2025  14,561$654,954
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Dunbar026,045$51.3302/23/202510,688$480,746
(1)
All options vest in three equal installments on the first, second and third anniversaries of the grant date. Each of these options is also subject to accelerated vesting in certain events, such as the Executive'sNamed Executive Officer's death, disability or retirement, or upon the occurrence of a Change of Control.

(2)
All RSUs vest on the third anniversary of the grant date.

(3)
The PSUs granted in 20102013 vested on December 31, 20122015 and are disclosed at 110%103% of target in accordance with ASC Topic 718. The PSUs granted in 20112014 will vest on December 31, 20132016 and will pay out based on performance against certain ROE and BV/Share performance goals, but only if either
GRAPHIC 2016 Proxy Statement39

Table of Contents

    the ROE or operating income threshold performance measure is met as approved by the Human Resources Committee. PSUs granted in 20122015 will vest on December 31, 20142017 and will pay out based on performance against certain ROE and BV/Share performance goals, but only if either the ROE or operating income threshold is met as approved by the Human Resources Committee.

(4)
Assumes a stock price of $28.52$44.98 per share, the closing price of a share of Common Stock on the last trading day of the year, December 31, 2012,2015, reported for the New York Stock Exchange-Composite Transactions.
(5)
Mr. Zimpleman received additional options on June 1, 2006, when he was promoted to President and Chief Operating Officer.
(6)
Mr. Lillis received additional options on May 19, 2008, in connection with his promotion to CFO.

              ExecutivesNamed Executive Officers may defer PSUs that are earned and would otherwise be paid shortly after the performance period. Annual cash incentive awards, as shown in the Non-EquityNonEquity Incentive Compensation column of the Summary Compensation Table, may also be deferred into the Excess Plan.


Table of Contents


Option Exercises and Stock Vesting


The following table provides information concerning the exercise of stock options and the vesting of RSUs and PSUs during calendar year 20122015 for each Named Executive Officer on an aggregated basis.

                     
 
  
  
 OPTION AWARDS
  
 STOCK AWARDS
  
  Named
Executive
Officer
 
   Number of Shares
Acquired on
Exercise
   Value Realized
on Exercise
(1)
   Number of Shares
Acquired on
Vesting
   Value Realized
on Vesting
(2)
  
  Zimpleman   41,095   $100,683   79,340   $2,435,745  
  Lillis (3)   44,895   $693,268   18,513   $568,326  
  Houston (4)   13,515   $5,811   84,214   $2,458,419  
  McCaughan (4)   66,817   $20,186   98,111   $2,856,409  
  Valdés   0   $0   10,049   $308,509  

  Option Awards Stock Awards
Named Executive OfficerNumber of Shares
Acquired on
Exercise
Value
Realized on
Exercise(1)
Number of Shares
Acquired on
Vesting
Value
Realized on
Vesting(2)
Zimpleman0$088,232$3,298,098
Houston1,610$4,50838,972$1,456,766
Lillis55,085$1,371,20227,253$1,018,720
Dunbar8,275$47,8517,849$293,394
McCaughan96,958$1,606,16436,315$1,357,457
Valdés20,162$364,42223,312$871,396
(1)
Represents the difference between the market price of the underlying shares of Common Stock on the date of exercise and the exercise price of the exercised option.

(2)
Represents the market value of PSUs granted in 20102013 that settled on February 25, 201322, 2016, at $30.70$37.38 upon Committee approval of the final performance modifier of 109%103%. The actual payout was determined applying negative discretion, which took into account various factors including changes in accounting guidance and extraordinary items. As described in the 10k, these extraordinary items include a 3Q12 actuarial assumption review and Principal Financial Group Foundation contributions arising from Catalyst Health Solutions gains.
(3)
Although vested, Mr. Lillis elected to defer settlement of his PSUs to the earlier of January 3, 2017 or termination of his employment.
(4)
In addition to the PSUs, Mr. Houston and Mr. McCaughan had RSUs granted in 2009 that settled on February 24, 2012 at $27.85.discretion.

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Pension Plan Information


                           
  
 Participant Group
  
 Pension Benefit Formula
  
  
  GRANDFATHERED CHOICE
 
Grandfathered Choice Employees are employees who were age 47 or older with at least ten years of service on December 31, 2005, and elected to retain the prior benefit provisions under the DB Plan and the NQDB Plan and to forego receipt of the additional matching contributions offered under the 401(k) and Excess Plans.
   Defined Benefit Plan (Traditional Formula)
39.2% of Average Compensation (The highest five consecutive years' total Pay out of the past ten years of Pay. "Pay" is the Named Executive Officer's base salary and annual incentive bonus up to the Tax Code limits) below the Integration Level (1) plus 61.25% of Average Compensation above the Integration Level.
 
Cash Balance Plan - The Annual Pay Credits are calculated using the table below
  
                           
                
            Age + Service   Annual Pay Credit      
                    
            Years
(Points)
   Contribution on
all Pay
   Contribution on Pay above
Taxable Wage Base(2)
      
                
            < 40   4.00%   2.00%      
                
            40 – 49   5.50%   2.75%      
                
            50 – 59   7.00%   3.50%      
                
            60 – 69   9.00%   4.50%      
                
            70 – 79   11.50%   5.75%      
                
            80 or more   14.00%   7.00%      
                
                              
  Messrs. Zimpleman and Lillis are Grandfathered Choice participants and their benefit at retirement will be the greater of the benefit provided under the Traditional or Cash Balance Formulas.   NQ Defined Benefit
The NQDB benefit formula for employees hired before January 1, 2002, who are also Grandfathered Choice Participants is the greater of:
• 65% of the employee's Average Compensation, offset by Social Security and DB Plan benefits; or
• The traditional or cash balance DB Plan benefit for Grandfathered Choice Participants (whichever is greater) without regard to Tax Code limits, offset by the benefit that can be provided under the DB Plan.
  
            
      Reduction if payments start earlier than Normal Retirement Age (Traditional Benefit Formula only):  
      • The Company subsidizes early retirement if the Executive remains employed until Early Retirement Age (age 57 with 10 years of service), which is the earliest date an employee may begin receiving retirement benefits.
• If the Executive retires after Early Retirement Age but before Normal Retirement Age (age 65), those benefits received by the Executive prior to age 62 are reduced to reflect payments are beginning at an earlier age. The early retirement benefits range from 75% at age 57 to 95% at age 61.
• If the Executive terminates employment before reaching Early Retirement Age, Principal Life does not subsidize early retirement. The early retirement benefits range from 58.6% at age 57 to 92.8% at age 64.
• Benefits receive a Cost of Living(3) adjustment after retirement benefits commence.
  
      



(1)    The Covered Compensation Table in the Tax Code.
(2)    The Social Security Taxable Wage Base.
(3)    Seventy-five percent of increase in the Consumer Price Index. An average is taken for October through September and applied to the following year.
  
                           
 Participant Group Pension Benefit Formula 
 Grandfathered
Participants

Grandfathered Participants were age 47 or older with at least ten years of service on December 31, 2005, and elected to retain the prior benefit provisions under the DB Plan and the NQDB Plan and to forego receipt of the additional matching contributions offered under the 401(k) and Excess Plans.

 Defined Benefit Plan ("DB") (Traditional Formula)

39.2% of Average Compensation (the highest five consecutive years' total Pay out of the past ten years of Pay. "Pay" is the Named Executive Officer's base salary and annual incentive bonus up to the Tax Code limits) below the Integration Level (1) plus 61.25% of Average Compensation above the Integration Level.

Cash Balance Plan—The Annual Pay Credits are calculated using the table below
 

 
​  
     Annual Pay Credit 
   Age+
Service Years
(Points)
Contribution on
All Pay
Contribution on Pay
Above Taxable
Wage Base(2)
 
​  
   < 404.00%2.00% 
​  
   40 – 495.50%2.75% 
​  
   50 – 597.00%3.50% 
​  
   60 – 699.00%4.50% 
​  
   70 – 7911.50%5.75% 
​  
   80 or more14.00%7.00% 
​  
 Messrs. Zimpleman and Lillis' benefit at retirement will be the greater of the benefit under the Traditional or Cash Balance Formulas. NQ Defined Benefit

The NQDB benefit formula for Grandfathered Participants hired before January 1, 2002 is the greater of:

65% of Average Compensation, offset by Social Security and DB Plan benefits; or

The greater of the traditional or cash balance DB Plan benefit for Grandfathered Participants without regard to Tax Code limits, offset by the benefit that can be provided under the DB Plan.


(1)   The Covered Compensation Table in the Tax Code.

(2)   The Social Security Taxable Wage Base.

 
​  

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 Participant Group
  
 Pension Benefit Formula
  
  
  NON-GRANDFATHERED CHOICE
 
Non-Grandfathered Choice Employees are employees who were eligible for the plan prior to January 1, 2006 and will receive the greater of the benefit provided under the Traditional Benefit Formula or the Cash Balance Formula. Any employees hired or that reenter the plan after December 31, 2001 are only eligible for the Cash balance Formula.
   Defined Benefit Plan (Traditional Formula)
35% of Average Compensation below the Integration Level plus 55% of Average Compensation above the Integration Level.
 
Cash Balance Plan - The Annual Pay Credits are calculated using the table below
  
                           
                
            Age + Service   Annual Pay Credit      
                    
            Years
(Points)
   Contribution on
all Pay
   Contribution on Pay above
Taxable Wage Base
      
                
            < 40   3.00%   1.50%      
                
            40 – 59   4.00%   2.00%      
                
            60 – 79   5.50%   2.75%      
                
            80 or more   7.00%   3.5%      
                
                           
  • Mr. Houston's retirement benefit will be thegreater of the Traditional or Cash Balance Formulas.
• 
Mr. Valdés's retirement benefit will be - the Cash Balance Formula. Mr. Valdés will also have a small benefit under the Traditional Formula due to service prior to January 1, 2006.
• 
Mr. McCaughan's retirement befit will be determined under the - Cash Balance Formula. As of January 1, 2010, he no longer accrues benefits under this plan.
   NQ Defined Benefit
The NQDB benefit formula for employees hired before January 1, 2002, who are Non-Grandfathered Choice Participants is:
 
• The traditional or cash balance pension plan benefit for Non-Grandfathered Choice Participants (whichever is greater) without regard to Tax Code limits, offset by the benefit that can be provided under the DB Plan.
 
A different benefit formula was in effect until January 1, 2006, for the DB Plan and NQDB. For employees that were active participants of the plan on December 31, 2005, their accrued benefit on any date will not be less than their accrued benefit determined as of December 31, 2005.
 
Reduction if payments start earlier than Normal Retirement Age (Traditional Benefit Formula only):
• The Company subsidizes early retirement if the Executive remains employed until Early Retirement Age (age 57 with 10 years of service), which is the earliest date an employee may begin receiving retirement benefits.
• The subsidy is less for benefits accrued after December 31, 2005. If the Executive retires after Early Retirement Age but before Normal Retirement Age (age 65), those benefits received by the Executive prior to age 62 are reduced to reflect payments are beginning at an earlier age. The early retirement benefits range from 75% at age 57 to 95% at age 61 (and 97% at age 64 for benefits earned after December 31, 2005).
• If the Executive terminates employment before reaching Early Retirement Age, Principal Life does not subsidize early retirement. The early retirement benefits range from 58.6% at age 57 to 92.8% at age 64.
• Benefits accrued as of December 31, 2005 receive a Cost of Living adjustment after retirement benefits commence.
  
                           
 Participant Group Pension Benefit Formula 
 Non Grandfathered
Participants

Non Grandfathered Participants will receive the greater of the benefit provided under the Traditional Benefit Formula or the Cash Balance Formula.

 Defined Benefit Plan ("DB") (Traditional Formula)

35% of Average Compensation below the Integration Level plus 55% of Average Compensation above the Integration Level.

Cash Balance Plan—The Annual Pay Credits are calculated using the table below
 

 
​  
     Annual Pay Credit 
   Age+ Service Years (Points)Contribution on All PayContribution on Pay above Taxable Wage Base(2) 
​  
   < 403.00%1.50% 
​  
   40 – 594.00%2.00% 
​  
   60 – 795.50%2.75% 
​  
   80 or more7.00%3.5% 
​  
 

Mr. Houston's retirement benefit will be thegreater of the Traditional or Cash Balance Formulas.

Mr. Valdés retirement benefit will be the Cash Balance Formula. Mr. Valdés will also have a small benefit under the Traditional Formula due to service prior to January 1, 2006.

Mr. McCaughan's retirement benefit will be the Cash Balance Formula. He has not accrued any benefits under this plan since January 1, 2010.

Mr. Dunbar's retirement benefit will be the Cash Balance Formula. Mr. Dunbar will also have a benefit under the Traditional Formula due to service prior to January 1, 2011.

 NQ Defined Benefit

The NQDB benefit formula for Non Grandfathered Participants hired before January 1, 2002 is:

The traditional or cash balance pension plan benefit for Non Grandfathered Choice Participants (whichever is greater) without regard to Tax Code limits, offset by the benefit that can be provided under the DB Plan.

For employees who were active participants in the plan on December 31, 2005, their accrued benefit will not be less than their accrued benefit determined as of that date.

For both groups, there is a reduction if payments start earlier than Normal Retirement Age (Traditional Benefit Formula only):

Principal subsidizes early retirement if the Named Executive Officer remains employed until Early Retirement Age (age 57 with 10 years of service), which is the earliest date an employee may begin receiving retirement benefits.

The early retirement benefits for Grandfathered Choice Participants (and Non Grandfathered Choice Participants for benefits accrued prior to January 1, 2006) range from 75% at age 57 to 100% at age 62. The early retirement benefits for Non Grandfathered Choice Participants for benefits accrued after December 31, 2005 range from 75% at age 57 to 97% at age 64.

If the Named Executive Officer terminates employment before reaching Early Retirement Age, Principal Life does not subsidize early retirement. The early retirement benefits range from 58.6% at age 57 to 92.8% at age 64.

Benefits under the Traditional Formula are eligible for a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) after retirement benefits begin. For Non Grandfathered Participants only benefits accrued as of December 31, 2005 receive this adjustment. The COLA is based on the Consumer Price Index.

 
​  

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Pension Distributions


Participants receive an annuity under the traditional benefit formula in the DB Plan. The earliest this benefit may be received is at age 57 with ten years of service. The qualified cash balance benefit formula in the DB Plan allows for benefits in the form ofas an annuity or as a lump sum (payable immediately upon termination/retirement or deferred to a later date).sum.

NQDB benefits may be paid as a lump sum at termination/retirement, or as an annuity at the later of age 57 or termination/retirement. All benefit payments for specified employees, including the Named Executive Officers, will be made no earlier than six months after termination, as required by Section 409A of the Tax Code.annuity. Distributions may also be allowed at death or a change of control. For participants in the plan prior to January 1, 2010, a mandatory payment occurs at age 65, and these participants couldthey may elect for benefits to be paid to thempayments on a specified date they specified between age 60 and 65.


Pension Benefits



Named Executive
Officer


Plan Name

Number of
Years Credited
Service
(1)


Present Value of
Accumulated Benefit at
Normal Retirement Age
(2)


Payments
During Last
Fiscal Year


ZimplemanQualified Pension
NQDB
39$1,963,080
$14,519,969
$0
$0
LillisQualified Pension
NQDB
30$1,748,751
$2,783,060
$0
$0
HoustonQualified Pension
NQDB
28$635,589
$1,901,586
$0
$0
McCaughanQualified pension
NQDB
7$174,338
$1,440,493
$0
$0
ValdésQualified pension
NQDB
2$49,683
$28,174
$0
$0

Named Executive
Officer

Plan Name
Number of
Years
Credited
Service(1)

Present
Value of
Accumulated
Benefit at
Normal
Retirement
Age(2)

Payments
During Last
Fiscal Year

Zimpleman

Qualified Pension42$2,169,802$0

NQDB$24,422,262$0

Houston

Qualified Pension31$799,735$0

NQDB $2,959,958$0

Lillis

Qualified Pension33$2,112,923$0

NQDB$4,992,360$0

Dunbar

Qualified Pension29$988,056$0

NQDB $1,602,358$0

McCaughan

Qualified Pension7$205,699$0

NQDB$1,699,619$0

Valdés

Qualified Pension5$139,421$0

NQDB $289,164$0
(1)
As of December 31, 2012.2015.

(2)
Benefit calculations have been made using the following assumptions:

Annuity Basis Discount Rate: 5.15%4.0% for December 31, 20112014 and 4%4.5% for December 31, 20122015 benefits;

Mortality: 2011 IRS Prescribed Mortality — Static Annuitant, Male & FemaleLump Sum Basis Discount Rate: for December 31, 20112015 benefits, and 2012 IRS Prescribed Mortality – Static Annuitant, Male & Female6.45% for December 31, 2012 benefits;expected lump sums in 2017 or later; 7.20% for lump sum payments expected to be made in 2016.

Mortality: Total mortality rates (annuitant and non-annuitant) from RP 2006, updated for historical data to 2009. Mortality Improvement: RPEC_2014_v2011 model, reflecting actual historical data to 2009, with the following assumptions:

Convergence period of 7 years

Long-term mortality improvement is the sex-distinct and the age-based assumption calibrated to the annual improvement averages, for the period 2010-2088 published in the Social Security Administration Trustees Report 2014.;

Cost of living increase: 1.875% for December 31, 2011 benefits and 1.6875% for December 31, 20122014 benefits and December 31, 2015 benefits;

No disability;

Retirement age of 6263 for Messrs. Zimpleman and Lillis (early retirement eligible) who could retire at that age andwould then receive unreduced benefits under the terms of the plans.benefits. Retirement age of 65 for Mr. Houston, as hewho will not have unreduced benefits prior to that point. Retirement age of 65 for ValdesMessrs. Valdés and Dunbar frozen traditional benefit plus current cash balance account. Current cash balance account for Mr. McCaughan;

A spouse 3 years younger; and

Cash balance interest crediting rate of 5.5% for December 31, 20112014 and for December 31, 2012.2015.

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Non-Qualified Non Qualified Deferred Compensation


                         
 
 Named Executive
Officer

  
 Executive
Contributions in
Last Fiscal year
(1)

  
 Principal Life
Contributions in
Last Fiscal Year
(2)

  
 Aggregate
Earnings in Last
Fiscal Year

  
 Aggregate
Withdrawals /
Distributions

  
 Aggregate Balance
at Last
Fiscal Year End
(3)

  
  Zimpleman   $198,950   $59,685   $296,295   $0   $2,386,118  
  Lillis   $34,320   $17,160   $49,977   $0   $365,845  
  Houston   $76,552   $57,414   $156,985   $0   $1,193,513  
  McCaughan   $0   $0   $330,299   $0   $2,106,907  
  Valdés   $24,561   $18,421   1,955   $0   $44,937  

Named Executive
Officer

Executive
Contributions
in Last
Fiscal year(1)

Principal Life
Contributions
in Last
Fiscal Year(2)

Aggregate
Earnings
in Last
Fiscal Year

Aggregate
Withdrawals /
Distributions

Aggregate
Balance
at Last
Fiscal Year
End(3)

Zimpleman

$313,154$91,604$–117,418$0$4,137,245

Houston

$135,806$88,354$–28,416$0$2,158,240

Lillis

$70,281$28,586$–8,294$0$780,348

Dunbar

$51,876$34,845$–31,685$0$401,333

McCaughan

$0$0$–201,994$0$2,470,085

Valdés

$68,154$50,470$–5,743$0$384,436
(1)
The amounts shown as "Executive Contributions" have either been included in the Salary column of the Summary Compensation Table on page 4236 or represent annual incentive payment deferrals earned in 20112014 and credited to the Executives'Named Executive Officers' accounts during 2012.2015.

(2)
The amounts shown as "Principal Life Contributions" are included in the "All Other Compensation Column" of the Summary Compensation table on page 42.36.

(3)
The end of year 20122015 aggregate balances includes the following deferrals and matching contributions from years prior to 2012:2015:

                 
 
 Named Executive Officer
  
 Employee Deferral
Prior to 1/1/2012

  
 Principal Life Match
Prior to 1/1/2012

  
 Total
  
  Zimpleman   $1,417,002   $351,349   $1,768,351  
  Lillis   $147,066   $68,899   $215,965  
  Houston   $477,030   $276,603   $753,633  
  McCaughan   $998,343   $581,568   $1,579,911  
  Valdés   $0   $0   $0  
Named Executive Officer
Employee
Deferral
Prior to
1/1/2015

Principal
Life Match
Prior to
1/1/2015

Total

Zimpleman

$2,109,171$556,314$2,665,485

Houston

$750,676$468,712$1,219,388

Lillis

$296,305$136,691$432,996

Dunbar

$159,250$100,594$259, 844

McCaughan

$998,343$581,568$1,579,911

Valdés

$141,929$101,757$243,686


Qualified 401(k) Plan and Excess Plan


              The qualified 401(k) plan allows employees to defer one to 15% of base salary (one to 100% if not contributing to the Excess Plan) and one to 100% of awards under the Annual Incentive Plan or PrinPay Plan up to the limits imposed by the Tax Code. Principal Life provides matching cash contributions of (i) 50% of deferrals, up to a maximum deferral of six percent of the employee's pay (base salary and annual bonus) for Grandfathered Choice Participants and (ii) 75% of deferrals, up to a maximum of eight percent of the employee's pay (base salary and annual bonus) for all other participants.

              The qualified 401(k) plan offers 20 investment options (including the Company's Common Stock) and investment return is based on the participant's investment direction. Distributions from the plan are allowed at various times including at termination of employment, death and disability. Vesting in the qualified plan is a three-year cliff schedule.

              The Excess Plan allows for deferral of one to 15% of base salary and deferral of one to 100% of awards under the Annual Incentive Plan or PrinPay Plan. Principal Life provides matching cash contributions identical to those in the 401(k) Plan, without regard to the limitations on such contributions imposed under the Tax Code. Plan participants can direct their investments and the participants' investment returns are based on their investment selections. Deferrals and matching contributions in the Excess Plan are immediately vested. Distributions from the Excess Plan are allowed at various times, including termination of employment, death, specified date, change of control, mandatory distribution at age 65 and in the event of an unforeseeable emergency.


Plan FeatureQualified 401(k) PlanExcess Plan
Deferrals1-15% of base salary and up to 100% of annual incentive compensation awards (1-100% of base pay if not contributing to the Excess Plan) up to the limits imposed by the Tax Code.1-15% of base salary and up to 100% of annual incentive compensation awards.
Investment OptionsThere are 20 investment options and investment and investment return is based on the participant's investment direction.The investment options are listed on page 45 and investment return is based on the participant's investment direction.
DistributionsAllowed at various times including termination, death and disability.Allowed at various times including termination, death, specified date, change of control, unforeseen emergency and mandatory payment at age 65.
Vesting3 year cliffImmediate
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The following funds are the investment options available to all participants in the Excess Plan:

 

Investment Option

1 Year Rate Of Return
(12/31/2012)2015)


 Principal Equity Income Institutional Fund–3.88%12.95%
 Principal LargeCap Value Institutional Fund–0.93%18.82% 
 Principal LargeCap S&P 500 Index Institutional Fund1.22%15.73%
 Principal LargeCap Growth Institutional Fund4.91%16.48% 
 Principal LargeCap Growth I Institutional Fund8.17%
 16.52%Principal MidCap Institutional Fund1.47% 
 Principal MidCap Blend Institutional Fund19.15%
Principal MidCap Growth III Institutional Fund9.40%
Principal SmallCap Value II Institutional Fund–4.01%17.70%
 Principal SmallCap S&P 600 Index Institutional Fund–2.22%16.10% 
 Principal Small Cap Growth I Institutional Fund1.19%14.63%
 Principal Real Estate Securities Institutional Fund4.22%17.15% 
 Principal International Emerging Markets Institutional Fund–13.63%20.80%
 Principal Diversified International Institutional Fund–0.36%18.19% 
 Principal LifeTime Strategic Income Institutional Fund–0.87%9.46%
 Principal LifeTime 2010 Institutional Fund–1.06%12.04% 
 Principal LifeTime 2020 Institutional Fund–1.17%14.71%
 Principal LifeTime 2030 Institutional Fund–0.95%15.66% 
 Principal LifeTime 2040 Institutional Fund–0.79%16.66%
 Principal LifeTime 2050 Institutional Fund–0.74%17.42% 
 Principal LifeTime 2060 Institutional Fund–0.80%
Principal Money Market Institutional Fund0.00%0% 
 Principal Core Plus Bond & Mortgage Securities Institutional Fund–0.30%7.35%
 Principal Inflation Protection Institutional Fund–2.15%7.07% 
 Principal Government & High Quality Bond Institutional Fund0.90%4.37%
 Principal Financial Group, Inc. Employer Stock Fund–10.51%19.11% 
​  Principal Diversified Real Asset Institutional Fund–12.40%

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PAYMENTS UPON TERMINATION

Employment Agreement


Employment Agreement


              The Company hasPrincipal had an employment agreement dated May 1, 2008, with Mr. Zimpleman for his service as the Company's CEO. The employment agreement hadwith an initial term through May 1, 2011, and the term of the agreement automatically extendsextended to create a new one-yearone year term unless either Mr. Zimpleman or the Company notifies the otherparty provided notice of thean intention not to extend the agreement. This agreement terminated on January 4, 2016, upon Mr. Zimpleman's retirement. Mr. Zimpleman iswas entitled to benefits, including a lump sum severance payment equal to two times the sum of his annual base salary and target annual bonus, if his employment involuntarily terminatesterminated under certain circumstances other than upon a Change of Control. The severance provisions were based on market practice and did not impactaffect the decisions made regarding other components of his compensation. Mr. Houston does not have an employment contract.


Severance Plans


Messrs. Houston, Dunbar, Lillis and Valdés are eligible for severance under the Company's severance plan if they are terminated as a result of lay-offs,layoffs, position elimination or similar reasons. Executives do not receive severance benefits if they take a comparable job with Principal Life, fail to sign a release of claims against Principal Life, and/or other specified reasons. The benefit payable under the severance plan is the greater of one week of base salary for each year of service with Principal Life or two weeks of base salary for each $10,000 of annual base salary (rounded to the nearest $10,000). Each of the Named Executive Officers would be eligible for 52 weeks of severance under this plan. The severance plan has a minimum benefit of six weeks and a maximum benefit of 52 weeks of base pay, and also provides for three months of reimbursement of premium for continuation of medical, dental and vision insurance under the Retiree plan if the Executive is eligible to retire or COBRA if the Executive is not eligible to

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retire. In circumstances in which the severance plan does not apply, the Human Resources Committee would determine whether any severance benefits would be paid to Messrs. Houston, Lillis and Valdés.

An agreement made with Mr. McCaughan when he was hired provides that if he is terminated without "Cause", as that term is defined in the Change of Control Employment Agreements (see below), he will be paid (i) one year's base compensation and one year's annual bonus at target, and (ii) all other accrued entitlements, in accordance with the terms of the relevant plan.

              Pursuant to Mr. Zimpleman's employment agreement, the lump sum severance amount is two times the sum of his annual base salary and target annual bonus.

The following table illustrates the severance or contractual benefits that the Named Executive Officers would have received had they qualified for such benefits on December 31, 2012.2015:

                     
 
 Named Executive
Officer

  
 Severance
  
 Outplacement
Services

  
 COBRA
Reimbursement

  
 Total
  
  Zimpleman   $4,500,000   $10,000   $3,038   $4,513,038  
  Lillis   $475,000   $10,500   $1,691   $487,191  
  Houston   $550,000   $10,500   $4,389   $564,889  
  McCaughan   $2,400,000   $10,500   $5,122   $2,415,622  
  Valdés   $525,000   $10,500   $4,240   $539,740  
Named Executive
Officer

Severance
Outplacement Services
COBRA Reimbursement
Total
Zimpleman$6,000,000$10,000$0$6,010,000
Houston$775,000$10,500$5,243$790,743
Lillis$551,000$10,500$2,058$563,558
Dunbar$473,000$10,500$5,101$488,601
McCaughan$2,612,000$0$0$2,612,000
Valdés$580,000$10,500$7,791$598,291


Change of Control Employment Agreements


              The Company entered intoPrincipal has Change of Control Employment Agreements in 2010 with each of the Named Executive Officers which replaced prior agreements.except Mr. Zimpleman, whose agreement terminated upon his retirement on January 4, 2016. These Agreements have a term of two years and will automatically renew for successive one-yearone year periods unless the CompanyPrincipal provides a notice electing not to extend the term. If during the term of these agreements a "Pre-Change of Control Event" or a "Change of Control"


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occurs, the term of the agreements will extend until the second anniversary of a Change of Control. These agreements provide that if payments upon termination of employment related to a Change of Control would be subjected to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code, and if reducing the amount of the payments would result in greater benefits to the Named Executive Officer (after taking into consideration the payment of all income and excise taxes that would be owed as a result of the Change of Control payments), the CompanyPrincipal will reduce the Change inof Control payments by the amount necessary to maximize the benefits received, by the Executive Officer, determined on an after tax basis. In addition to the benefit of having to make fewer payments, if the benefits payable to any of the Named Executive Officers are reduced, all of the payments will be eligible to be deducted by the Company for federal income tax purposes.

The severance and other benefits provided under these agreements will be available to covered ExecutivesNamed Executive Officers upon a Change of Control if their employment is terminated following or in connection with a Pre-Change of Control Event, or if any third party ends or adversely changes the terms and conditions of the Executive'stheir employment. For an Executivea termination prior to a Change of Control, such termination or change in employment is deemed to have occurred immediately following the date on which a Change of Control occurs, rather than at the time the termination or change in employment actually occurs.

Under these Agreements, a "Pre-Change of Control Event" means:

    An offer that would result in a third party owning 40% or more of the Company's voting securities;

    A proxy solicitation or contest for the election of one or more members of the Company's Board; or

    An agreement that would result in a Change of Control.

Under these Agreements, a Change of Control means:

    Any person becoming an owner of 40% or more of the Company's Common Stock;

    Directors on the Board on the date of the Agreements (or those thereafter nominated for election, or elected to replace such Directors by certain incumbent Directors) are no longer a majority of the Board;

    A merger, reorganization, consolidation or similar transaction in which the shareholders of the CompanyPrincipal do not continue to own more than 60% of the voting securities of the surviving corporation or its ultimate parent corporation; or

    Approval by the shareholders of the CompanyPrincipal of a sale of its assets or a plan of liquidation.
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These Agreements also provide:

    That the ExecutivesNamed Executive Officers receive specified salary, annual incentive compensation and benefits for two years following a Change of Control if the Executive'stheir employment continues after the Change of Control;

    That if the successor to the CompanyPrincipal agrees to issue equity to replace the equity awards the Executivesthey received from Principal, the Company, the Executive's outstanding equity awards will continue or will become equity related to the common stock of the successor company ("Successor"). Any outstanding performance-basedperformance based equity awards will be converted into time-vestingtime vesting restricted stock or RSUs for CompanyPrincipal stock (or the stock of the Successor). If the Successor does not or cannot agree to such substitution, then any such awards that are not converted will become fully vested, exercisable and/or distributable upon the Change of Control. In addition, the Agreements and equity award agreements specify that the Human Resources Committee (as made up immediately prior to the Change of Control) determines whether awards will be settled in cash;

    For severance and other benefits if the Executive'stheir employment is terminated without "Cause" or by the Named Executive Officer voluntarily for "Good Reason." Termination without cause or by the Named Executive Officer for good reason is referred to as a "qualifying termination;" and

    That the Executivethey will vest in all benefits previously accrued under the NQDB and Excess Plans, and these benefits will be paid in accordance with these plans.

The benefits the Executive receivesreceived upon a Change of Control without termination of employment include the current vested account balance in the Excess Plan and the current vested benefit in the NQDB, according to change of control distribution elections on file for these plans.


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For purposes of the Agreements, "Good Reason" means negative changes in the terms and conditions of the Executive'sNamed Executive Officer's employment, consisting of:

    Failure to pay base salary or any required increase in salary;

    Failure to pay the annual bonus or a reduction in annual bonus opportunity;

    Material adverse change in position, authority or duties;

    Material reduction in the aggregate compensation and benefits;

    Relocation to any office or location othermore than 50 miles from where the Named Executive Officer worked immediately before the Change of Control;

    Any material breach of the Change of Control Employment Agreement;

    Any purported termination the Company claims is for Cause, but fails to satisfy the requirements for a Cause termination; or

    The failure of the successorSuccessor to be bound by the Agreements.

              "Cause""Cause" means any one or more of the following:

    Commission of certain crimes;

    The Executive's misconductMisconduct or habitual neglect of duties; or

    The Executive's willfulWillful or intentional breach of the Executive's Change of Control Agreement.

The benefits to be paid or provided under the Agreements if termination occurs for Good Reason or without Cause consist of:

    Lump-sumLump sum severance benefits equal to two times the sum of the annual base salary and target annual bonus;

    Immediate vesting of all stock options, stock appreciation rights, shares of restricted stock, PSAs, PSUs, performance units, RSUs and deferred stock units;

    A pro-ratedprorated annual bonus for the year of termination minus the amount paid for the bonus at the time of the Change of Control; and

    The reimbursement for legal fees and other related expenses to enforce the Agreements.

In addition, until the third anniversary of the date of the Executive'sNamed Executive Officer's termination, (the second anniversary for Mr. Lillis), the Executivehe and his eligible family members will receive medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, group term life insurance, and accidental death and dismemberment coverages comparable to those received by Executives whose employment continues.

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Pursuant to these Agreements, Mr. Zimpleman has agreed that for 18 months, and the other Named Executive Officers agreed that for one year following a termination of employment that results in the Named Executive Officer receiving the severance benefits described above, the Executivehe will not work for a competing business, solicit employees or customers, or interfere with the relationships of the Company, its affiliates and subsidiaries with their employees or customers.


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Potential Payments Upon Termination Related to a Change of Control


The following table describes the potential payments upon involuntary termination without Cause or voluntary termination for Good Reason following a Change of Control. The calculations provided in the table assume:

    termination occurred on December 31, 2012;2015;

    per share price of the Company's Common Stock was $28.52,$44.98, the closing price as of December 31, 2012,2015, the last trading day of the year.

                             
 
 Named
Executive
Officer

  
 Cash
Severance
(1)

  
 Spread on
Previously
Unvested
Options

  
 Value of Previously
Unvested
Restricted Stock &
Performance
Shares (2)

  
 Benefits
Continuation
(3)

  
 Accelerated
Pension
Benefit
(4)

  
 Total
Termination
Benefits
(before
taxes)

  
  Zimpleman   $4,500,000   $493,688   $4,477,298   $41,446   $0   $9,512,432  
  Lillis   $1,900,000   $125,980   $1,124,772   $24,386   $0   $3,175,138  
  Houston   $2,475,000   $238,955   $1,781,245   $55,921   $0   $4,551,121  
  McCaughan   $4,800,000   $248,975   $2,051,158   $51,042   $0   $7,151,175  
  Valdés   $1,837,500   $102,000   $856,769   $55,921   $0   $2,852,190  

Named
Executive
Officer

Cash
Severance(1)

Spread on
Previously
Unvested
Options

Value of
Previously
Unvested
Restricted
Stock &
Performance
Shares(2)

Benefits
Continuation(3)

Accelerated
Pension
Benefit(4)

Total
Termination
Benefits
(before
taxes)

Zimpleman$6,000,000$977,772$9,857,727$46,109$0$16,881,608
Lillis$2,204,000$301,543$2,814,848$31,334$0$5,351,725
Houston$6,975,000$431,152$4,230,864$61,050$0$11,698,066
McCaughan$5,224,000$401,720$5,414,827$48,668$0$11,089,215
Valdés$2,030,000$258,024$3,314,711$61,050$0$5,663,785
Dunbar$1,608,200$130,436$1,241,700$61,050$0$3,041,386
(1)
Cash severance equals two times the sum of base salary and target annual bonus. In addition, the ExecutivesNamed Executive Officers would be entitled to a pro-ratapro rata bonus for the year of termination.

(2)
Equals the full value of unvested restricted shares and unearned performance shares as of December 31, 2012,2015, where vesting would be accelerated, at a stock price of $28.52.$44.98. Performance shares granted in 20112014 and 20122015 are valued at target, based on our performance-to-dateperformance to date as of December 31, 2012.2015.

(3)
Includes the estimated cost of continued medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage for three years after the Executive'sNamed Executive Officer's termination and outplacement services, except for Mr. Lillis, who would receive these benefits for two years.services.

(4)
Represents the lump-sumlump sum present value of the accelerated vesting of unvested retirement benefits. All of the Named Executive Officers are fully vested in their pension benefit.

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PROPOSAL THREE – ADVISORY VOTE TO APPROVE EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Proposal Two—Advisory Vote to Approve Executive Compensation

Say on pay votes will be held annually until the next vote on the frequency of this advisory vote is conducted in 2017, or until the Board determines that a different frequency would be in the best interests of the Company's shareholders.

The Company's Executive compensation program is designed to reward Executives who contribute to the achievement of the Company's business objectives and to attract, retain and motivate talented Executives to perform at the highest level and contribute significantly to the Company's success. The program is designed to tie the delivery of Executive compensation to the achievement of the Company's long and short term financial and strategic goals and to align the interests of Executives and shareholders. The purposes and objectives of, and the rationale behind, the Company's compensation program are described in significant detail in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, starting on page 26.21. Of particular note are the following policies and practices aligned with recognized corporate governance best practice:

    Our executiveExecutive compensation is, in large measure, highly variable and directly linked to our short term and long term financial and strategic goals and the performance of the Company's stock price over time.

    Executives receive a significant portion of total compensation opportunity in the form of equity based long term incentives and are required to own stock in the CompanyPrincipal to ensure their interests are aligned with the shareholders' interests and long term performance of the Company.Principal.

    The CompanyPrincipal prohibits all employees, including Executive Officers, fromExecutives, from: purchasing any Company securities on margin, (exceptexcept for the exercise of employee stock options), engaging inoptions; short sales orsales; trading in any put or call options.options; and purchasing, directly or through a designee, any financial instrument (including prepaid variable forward contracts, equity swaps, collars and exchange funds) that is designed to hedge or offset any decrease in the market value of Company securities.

    The CompanyPrincipal has a compensation recovery policy to recover incentive compensation paid to Executive OfficersExecutives if the amount of the compensation was based on achievement of financial results that were subsequently restated, if, in the opinion of the Committee, the Executive Officer engaged in fraud or intentional misconduct that caused the restatement of the Company's financial statements, and that the amount of the Executive Officer'sExecutive's incentive compensation or equity award would have been lower had the financial results been properly reported.

    In 2010, we entered into newOur Executive Change of Control Employment Agreements with Executives, with reduced benefits, including elimination ofprovide market-based service protection and do not contain excise tax gross ups.

    We do not provide limited perquisites to Executives that are not offered to all employees, with the exception of Executives—one physical examination per year.year, business spousal travel, and gifts of nominal value given to all sales conference attendees.

    Our programs are designed to be financially efficient from tax, accounting, cash flow and share dilution perspectives. We make efforts to ensure tax deductibility to Principal of all compensation to the extent practicable.

Shareholders are being asked to vote on the Company's compensation policies and procedures for the Named Executive Officers, as described in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis and the compensation tables and the accompanying narratives in this Proxy Statement.

This vote is not intended to address any specific item of compensation, but the Company's overall compensation related to our Named Executive Officers. Because your vote is advisory, it will not be binding on the Board and will not overrule any decision by the Board or require the Board to take any action. However, the Human Resources Committee, which is responsible for designing and administering the Company's executiveExecutive compensation program, values shareholder opinions and will consider the outcome of the vote when making future compensation decisions for the Named Executive Officers.


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This proposal, commonly known as a "say on pay" proposal, gives shareholders the opportunity to vote on an advisory, non-bindingnonbinding basis to approve the compensation of our Named Executive Officers as disclosed in this proxy statement pursuant to SEC rules through the following resolution:

RESOLVED, that the compensation paid to the Company's Named Executive Officers, as disclosed pursuant to Item 402 of Regulation S-K, including the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, compensation tables and narrative discussion, is hereby approved.

The Board of Directors recommends that shareholders vote "For" this resolution.


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PROPOSAL FOUR – RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT Proposal Three—Ratification of Appointment of
PUBLIC REGISTERED ACCOUNTANTS

Independent Registered Public Accountants

Subject to shareholder ratification, the Audit Committee has appointed the firm of Ernst & Young LLP to audit the consolidated financial statements of the Company for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2013 The Company or2016. In order to assure continuing auditor independence, the Audit Committee periodically considers the advisability and potential impact of selecting a different independent external audit firm. Ernst & Young LLP has served as the Company's independent registered public accountant since it became a publicly traded company in 2001, and Principal Life has used Ernst & Young LLP as its independent registered public accountantsaccountant for several years.many years prior thereto. The Audit Committee and the Board of Directors believe that the continued retention of Ernst & Young LLP is in the best interest of the Company and its shareholders. Ratification of the appointment of the independent registered public accountants requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares represented at the meeting and voting on the matter. If the shareholders do not ratify this appointment, the Audit Committee will consider the matter of the appointment of the independent registered public accountants.

RESOLVED, that the appointment of Ernst & Young, LLP to audit the consolidated financial statements of the Company for the fiscal year ending December 31, 20132016 be ratified.

The Board of Directors recommends that shareholders vote "For" this resolution.

Representatives of Ernst & Young LLP will be present at the Annual Meeting, will be given an opportunity to make a statement if they so desire and will be available to respond to appropriate questions relating to the audit of the Company's 20122015 consolidated financial statements.


Audit Fees


The aggregate fees billed by the Company's independent registered public accounting firm in 20122015 and 20112014 for professional services rendered in connection with regulatory audits in accordance with US GAAP, statutory, or foreign accounting principles; consultation on matters addressed during these audits; review of documents filed with regulators including the SEC; other engagements required by statute; or engagements that generally only the Company's independent registered public accounting firm can reasonably provide, such as comfort letters or consents, were approximately $7,464,000$10,352,000 in 20122015 and $7,362,000$8,984,000 in 2011.2014.


Audit-Related Fees

Audit Related Fees

The aggregate fees billed by the Company's independent registered public accounting firm in 20122015 and 20112014 for professional services rendered in connection with audit-relatedaudit related services such as financial statement audits of employee benefit plans, financial statement audits not required by statute or regulation, accounting consultations in connection with proposed transactions or emerging accounting standards, and other attest and related advisory services not required by statute or regulation weretotaled approximately $1,083,000$1,397,000 in 20122015 and $1,185,000$1,530,000 in 2011.2014


Tax Fees


The aggregate fees billed by the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for professional services rendered in connection with tax services consisting primarily of tax consultations related to the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act and other compliance totaled approximately $1,911,000$88,000 in 20122015 and $409,000$223,000 in 2011.2014. Tax compliance generally involves preparation, assistance or attestation related to tax filings in various domestic and non-domestic jurisdictions. Tax consultation generally involves assistance in connection with tax audits, filing appeals, and compliance with new tax-relatedtax related regulations.


All Other Fees


The aggregate fees billed by the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for professional services rendered in connection with other services consisting primarily consisted of a construction cost evaluation,


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software licensing and an enterprise risk management evaluation (only in 2011), totaled approximately $27,500$27,000 in 20122015 and $275,800$3,000 in 2011.2014.

The Audit Committee has adopted a policy on auditor independence that calls for the Committee to preapprove any service the Company's independent registered public accountant proposes to provide to the Company, its majority-ownedmajority owned subsidiaries, employee benefit plans or affiliates. The policy also calls for the Committee to preapprove any audit service any independent auditor proposes to provide to these entities. The purpose of the policy is to assure that the provision of such services does not impair any auditor's independence. The policy provides for the general preapproval of specific types of Audit and Audit-RelatedAudit Related services and fees up to an established individual

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engagement and annual threshold. The policy requires specific preapproval of all other services. Pursuant to the policy, each quarter CompanyPrincipal management presents to the Committee a detailed description of each particular service that meets the definition of services that have been generally approved and each service for which specific preapproval is sought, and an estimate of fees for each service. The policy accords the Audit Committee Chair authority to preapprove services and fees for those services that arise between regularly scheduled meetings of the Audit Committee. In considering whether to preapprove the provision of non-auditnon audit services by the independent registered public accountant, the Audit Committee will consider whether the services are compatible with the maintenance of the independent registered public accountant's independence. The Audit Committee does not delegate its responsibilities to preapprove services performed by an independent auditor to management.

The Audit Committee did not approve the services described above under the captions "Audit-Related"Audit Related Fees," "Tax Fees" and "All Other Fees" by utilizing thede minimis exception of SEC Rule 2-01(c)(7)(i)(C).


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SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

Except as otherwise indicated below, the following table shows, as of March 18, 2013,14, 2016, beneficial ownership of shares of Common Stock by (i) the only shareholdershareholders known to the Company to beneficially own more than 5% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock, (ii) each Director, (iii) each Named Executive Officer and (iv) all current Directors and executive officersExecutive Officers as a group. Except as otherwise indicated below, each of the individuals named in the table has sole voting and investment power, or shares such powers with his or her spouse, for the shares set forth opposite his or her name.

               
 
 Name
  
 Number of Shares
Beneficially Owned(1)

  
 Percent of
Common Stock
Outstanding

  
  The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation (2)
    One Wall Street, 31st Floor
    New York, New York 10286
    18,742,133    6.38  
               
  Nippon Life Insurance Company(3)
    3-5-12 Imabashi
    Chuo-ku
    Osaka, 541-8501, Japan
    18,137,000    6.18  
               
  Capital Research Global Investors (4)
    333 South Hope Street
    Los Angeles, California 90071
    17,405,962    5.93  
               
  The Vanguard Group (5)
    100 Vanguard Boulevard
    Malvern, Pennsylvania 19355
    16,960,533    5.77  
  Betsy J. Bernard    22,638    *  
  Jocelyn Carter-Miller    22,974    *  
  Gary E. Costley    30,290    *  
  Michael T. Dan    26,827    *  
  Dennis H. Ferro    6,271       
  C. Daniel Gelatt (6)    326,891    *  
  Sandra L. Helton    30,237    *  
  Richard L. Keyser    25,959    *  
  Luca Maestri    1,050    *  
  Arjun K. Mathrani    1,885    *  
  Elizabeth E. Tallett    26,567    *  
  Daniel J. Houston (7)    421,754    *  
  Terrance J. Lillis (7)    166,830    *  
  James P. McCaughan    783,114    *  
  Luis Valdes    135,255       
  Larry D. Zimpleman    1,298,610    *  
  All Directors and Executive Officers as a group (23 persons)    4,912,208    1.67  

Name
Number of Shares
Beneficially Owned(1)

Percent of
Common Stock
Outstanding

The Vanguard Group(2)

24,297,0728.29

    100 Vanguard Boulevard
Malvern, Pennsylvania 19355


  

Wellington Management Group LLP(3)

19,825,8986.77

    c/o Wellington Management Company LLP
280 Congress Street
Boston, MA 02210

  

Nippon Life Insurance Company(4)

18,137,0006.17

    3-5-12 Imabashi
Chuo-ku
Osaka, 541-8501, Japan



  

BlackRock Inc.(5)

15,747,5695.40

    55 East 52nd Street
New York, NY 10055

  

Capital Research Global Investors(6)

9,000,6003.10

    333 South Hope Street
Los Angeles, California 90071


  

Betsy J. Bernard

33,493*

Jocelyn Carter-Miller

34,080*

Gary E. Costley

35,970*

Michael T. Dan

39,378*

Dennis H. Ferro

17,862*

C. Daniel Gelatt(7)

368,111*

Sandra L. Helton

41,092*

Roger C. Hochschild

304

Richard L. Keyser

0*

Luca Maestri

0*

Blair C. Pickerell

0*

Elizabeth E. Tallett

38,750*

Timothy M. Dunbar

148,682*

Daniel J. Houston

551,799*

Terrance J. Lillis

254,808*

James P. McCaughan

590,875*

Luis Valdés

207,916*

Larry D. Zimpleman

1,782,143*

All Directors and Executive Officers as a group (24 persons)

5,170,5341.78
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*
The number of shares represents less than one percent of the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding.

(1)
Includes beneficial ownership of shares which each person named in this table has the right to acquire on or before May 17, 201313, 2016 pursuant to previously awarded stock options, RSUs, and performance units that, although scheduled to be paid in shares in more than 60 days, would be paid immediately upon termination of service, as follows: Ms. Bernard, 20,983;31,838; Ms. Carter-Miller, 22,804;Carter Miller, 33,810; Dr. Costley, 20,983;31,838; Mr. Dan, 16,827;29,378; Mr. Ferro, 5,271; Dr.16,862; Mr. Gelatt, 25,384;36,604; Ms. Helton, 20,983;31,838; Mr. Hochschild, 304; Mr. Keyser, 24,934;0; Mr. Maestri, 1,050;9,340; Mr. Mathrani, 1,885;Pickerell, 0; Ms. Tallett, 24,934;36,111; Mr. Dunbar, 122,126; Mr. Houston, 379,784;418,891; Mr. Lillis, 131,244;177,294; Mr. McCaughan, 652,545;439,558; Mr. Valdes, 100,067;Valdés, 126,594; Mr. Zimpleman, 1,160,534;1,525,735; and all other executive officers as a group, 1,219,315.705,258.

(2)
The information regarding beneficial ownership by The BankVanguard Group is based solely on an amended Schedule 13G filed by it with the SEC on February 10, 2016, which provided information as of New York Mellon CorporationDecember 31, 2015. According to the Schedule 13G, Vanguard has sole voting power with respect to 513,087 shares; shared voting power with respect to 29,300 shares; sole investment power with respect to 23,748,912 shares; and shared investment power with respect to 548,160 shares.

(3)
The information regarding beneficial ownership by Wellington Management Group LLP is based solely on a Schedule 13G filed by it with the SEC on February 4, 2013,11, 2016, which provided information as of December 31, 2012.2015. According to the Schedule 13G,

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Bank of New York Mellon Wellington has sole voting power with respect to 14,711,2970 shares; shared voting power with respect to 571,56811,526,961 shares; sole investment power with respect to 18,636,0130 shares; and shared investment power with respect to 2,24519,825,898 shares.

(3)(4)
The information regarding beneficial ownership by Nippon Life Insurance Company is based solely on a Schedule 13G filed by it with the SEC on February 28, 2008, which provided information as of February 21, 2008. According to the Schedule 13G, Nippon Life has sole voting power with respect to 18,137,000 shares; shared voting power with respect to 0 shares; sole investment power with respect to 18,137,000 shares; and shared investment power with respect to 0 shares.

(4)(5)
The information regarding beneficial ownership by BlackRock Inc.is based solely on a Schedule 13G filed by it with the SEC on February 10, 2016, which provided information as of December 31, 2015. According to the Schedule 13G, BlackRock has sole voting power with respect to 13,332,266 shares; shared voting power with respect to 0 shares; sole investment power with respect to 15,747,569 shares; and shared investment power with respect to 0 shares.

(6)
The information regarding beneficial ownership by Capital Research Global Investors is based solely on aan amended Schedule 13G filed by it with the SEC on February 13, 2013,16, 2016, which provided information as of December 31, 2012.2015. According to the Schedule 13G, Capital Research Global Investors has sole voting power with respect to 17,405,9629,000,600 shares; shared voting power with respect to 0 shares; sole investment power with respect to 17,405,9629,000,600 shares; and shared investment power with respect to 0 shares.

(5)(7)
The information regarding beneficial ownership by The Vanguard Group is based solely on a Schedule 13G filed by it with the SEC on February 13, 2013, which provided information as of December 31, 2012. According to the Schedule 13G, Vanguard has sole voting power with respect to 493,238 shares; shared voting power with respect to 0 shares; sole investment power with respect to 16,497,754 shares; and shared investment power with respect to 462,779 shares.
(6)
Includes 301,506331,506 shares held by Gingko LLC of which Dr. Gelatt is a controlling shareholder, director and executive officer.
(7)
Includes the following shares held in the Demutualization separate account for the benefit of each person indicated, as to which none of such persons has voting power: Mr. Houston, 397; and Mr. Lillis, 39.

In addition to beneficial ownership of Common Stock, the Company's Directors and executive officersExecutive Officers also hold different forms of "stock units" that are not reported in the security ownership table but represent additional financial interests that are subject to the same market risk as Common Stock. These units include shares that may be acquired after May 17, 201313, 2016, pursuant to previously awarded stock options, RSUs, performance share units and non-transferable accounting-entrynontransferable accounting entry units such as phantom stock units issued pursuant to Company stock-basedstock based compensation and benefit plans. The value of such units is the same as the value of the corresponding number of shares of Common Stock.

See "Directors' Compensation" on pages 23-2517-19 for a discussion of the options and RSUs granted to Directors under the Principal Financial Group, Inc. 20052014 Directors Stock Plan and the phantom stock units credited to Directors who participate in the Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-EmployeeNon Employee Directors of Principal Financial Group, Inc. See "Compensation Discussion and Analysis" beginning on page 2621 for a discussion of the performance units credited to officers who defer receipt of awards under a long term performance plan, the options and RSUs granted under the 20102014 Stock Incentive Plan, and phantom stock units credited to officers that defer salary into an employer stock fund available under the Excess Plan.

As of March 18, 2013,14, 2016, the Directors and Executive Officers named in the security ownership table hold a pecuniary interest in the following number of units: Ms. Bernard, 4,846;2,535; Ms. Carter-Miller, 4,846;Carter Miller, 2,535; Dr. Costley, 11,584;9,832; Mr. Dan, 11,323;15,133; Mr. Ferro, 16,221;18,966; Dr. Gelatt, 4,846;2,535; Ms. Helton, 4,846;2,535; Mr. Hochschild, 5,404; Mr. Keyser, 4,846;0; Mr. Maestri, 4,846;2,582; Mr. Mathrani, 10,588;Pickerell, 1,725; Ms. Tallett, 9,714;8,523; Mr. Dunbar, 98,992; Mr. Houston, 162,292;292,292; Mr. Lillis, 106,025;136,697; Mr. McCaughan, 169,696;231,909; Mr. Valdes, 87,599;Valdés, 138,304; and Mr. Zimpleman, 377,545.14,232.

GRAPHIC 2016 Proxy Statement53

Table of Contents


Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance


Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires the Company's Directors, Executive Officers and persons who own more than ten percent of a registered class of the Company's equity securities to file with the SEC and the New York Stock Exchange reports of ownership of the Company's securities and changes in reported ownership. Directors, Executive Officers and greater than ten percent shareholders are required by SEC rules to furnish the Company with copies of all Section 16(a) reports they file.

Based solely on a review of the reports furnished to the Company, or written representations from reporting persons that all reportable transactions were reported, the Company believes that during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012,2015, the Company's Directors, Executive Officers and greater than ten percent owners timely filed all reports they were required to file under Section 16(a), except for one report for each of two Directors. The Companyone Director. Principal discovered that aone report for each of two DirectorsRoger C. Hochschild was inadvertently not timely filed to disclose fee deferrals into an account that tracksrestricted stock units granted by the performance of the Company's Common Stock in the Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors. The Directors involved were Dennis H. Ferro and Elizabeth E. Tallett.Company as director compensation.

              Mr. Ferro and Ms. Tallett regularly defer fees into the Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors. The CompanyPrincpal undertakes to prepare Section 16(a) reportsrepors on behalf of its Directors and Executive Officers. A transition of duties and associated lack of communication within the Company caused the reportsreport to be inadvertently filed two business days after the two-day filing requirement for Section 16(a) reports.


542016 Proxy StatementGRAPHIC

Table of Contents


APPENDIX A

Questions and Answers About the
Annual Meeting


PROPOSED AMENDED ARTICLE V OF THE COMPANY'S AMENDED AND RESTATED
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO IMPLEMENT THE ANNUAL ELECTION OF
DIRECTORS, AS EXPLAINED IN PROPOSAL TWO

Why didn't I receive a copy of the paper proxy materials?


(new language is underlined; languageThe Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") rules allow companies to be deleted is stricken)deliver a notice of Internet availability of proxy materials to shareholders and provide Internet access to those proxy materials. Shareholders may obtain paper copies of the proxy materials free of charge by following the instructions provided in the notice of Internet availability of proxy materials.


ARTICLE V

BOARD OF DIRECTORS;
MANAGEMENT OF THE CORPORATION

Why did I receive notice of and access to this proxy statement?

              Section 1.    Classified Board.    The Directors of the Corporation, subject to the rights of the holders of shares of any class or series of Preferred Stock, shall be classified with respect to the time for which they severally hold office, into three classes, as nearly equal in number as possible, as shall be provided in the By-laws of the Corporation, one class ("Class I") whose initial term expires at the 2002 annual meeting of stockholders, another class ("Class II") whose initial term expires at the 2003 annual meeting of stockholders, and another class ("Class III") whose initial term expires at the 2004 annual meeting of stockholders, with each class to hold office until its successors are elected and qualified. At each annual meeting of stockholders of the Corporation, the date of which will be fixed pursuant to the By-Laws of the Corporation, and subject to the rights of the holders of shares of any class or series of Preferred Stock, the successors of the classBoard of Directors whose term expires at that meeting shall("Board") is soliciting proxies to be elected to hold office for a term expiringvoted at the annual meeting of stockholdersshareholders to be held on May 17, 2016, at 9:00 a.m., Central Daylight Savings Time, at 750 Park Street, Des Moines, Iowa, and at any adjournment or postponement of the meeting ("Annual Meeting"). When the Board asks for your proxy, it must send or provide you access to proxy materials that contain information required by law. These materials were first made available, sent or given to shareholders on April 7, 2016.

What is a proxy?

It is your legal designation of another person to vote the stock you own. The other person is called a proxy. When you designate someone as your proxy in a written document, that document is also called a proxy or a proxy card. Principal has designated three of the thirdCompany's officers to act as proxies for the 2016 Annual Meeting: Timothy M. Dunbar, Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer; Terrance J. Lillis, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; and Karen E. Shaff, Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary.

What will the shareholders vote on at the Annual Meeting?

Election of four Directors for three year followingterms;
An advisory vote to approve named executive officer compensation; and
Ratification of the yearappointment of independent auditors.

Will there be any other items of business on the agenda?

Principal does not expect any other items of business because the deadline for shareholder proposals and nominations has passed. However, if any other matter should properly come before the meeting, the people authorized by proxy will vote according to their election.Directors elected to succeed those whose terms expiredbest judgment.

Who can vote at the Annual Meeting?

Shareholders as of the close of business on March 22, 2016 ("Record Date") can vote at the annual meetingsAnnual Meeting.

How many votes do I have?

You will have one vote for every share of Company common stock ("Common Stock") you owned on the Corporation's stockholders held in 2012 and 2013 shall hold office for a term expiring at the third annual meeting of stockholders following their respective elections. Directors elected at the annual meetings of the Corporation's stockholders in 2014 and 2015 shall each be elected at such meetings for one-year terms expiring at the respective next annual meeting of stockholders following their election.Record Date.

GRAPHIC 2016 Proxy Statement55

Section 2.Elimination of Classified Board.Commencing with the annual meeting of the Corporation's stockholders in 2016, the classification of the Board of Directors, as set forth in Article V, Section 1 of this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, shall cease. At the annual meeting of the Corporation's stockholders in 2016 and at each annual meeting of the Corporation's stockholders thereafter, each nominee for Director shall stand for election to a one-year term expiring at the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their respective successors shall have been duly elected and qualified, subject to prior death, resignation, retirement, disqualification or removal from office.

              Section 23.    Director Discretion.    In determining what he or she reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the Corporation in the performance of his or her duties as a director, a Director may consider, to the extent permitted by law, both in the consideration of tender and exchange offers, mergers, consolidations and sales of all or substantially all of the Corporation's assets and otherwise, such factors as the Board of Directors determines to be relevant, including without limitation:

      (a)
      the interests of the policyholders of the Corporation's subsidiaries;

      (b)
      the long term and short-term interests of the Corporation and its stockholders, including the possibility that the interests may be best served by the continued independence of the Corporation;

      (c)
      whether the proposed transaction might violate state or federal laws;

      (d)
      if applicable, not only the consideration being offered in a proposed transaction, in relation to the then current market price for the outstanding capital stock of the Corporation over a period of years, the estimated price that might be achieved in a negotiated sale of the Corporation as a

Table of Contents

        whole

        What constitutes a quorum?

        One third of the outstanding shares of Common Stock as of the Record Date. On the Record Date, there were 290,583,227 shares of Common Stock outstanding. A quorum must be present, in person or in part through orderly liquidation,by proxy, before any action can be taken at the premiums over market priceAnnual Meeting, except an action to adjourn the meeting.

        How many votes are required for the approval of each item?

        Each nominee for Director will be elected if there are more votes for the securitiesnominee than votes against the nominee. Directors are elected by the majority of other corporationsvotes cast in similar transactions, current political, economicuncontested Director elections.

        The advisory vote to approve the Company's Named Executive Officer compensation will be approved if there are more votes for the proposal than against the proposal.

        The appointment of the independent auditors will be ratified if there are more votes for the proposal than votes against the proposal.

        Abstentions and other factors bearingbroker non votes will be treated as being present at the meeting for the purpose of determining a quorum but will not be counted as votes for the proposals. They have no impact on securities pricesthe Director nominees, the advisory vote to approve named executive officer compensation or ratification of independent auditors.

        What are Broker Non votes?

        If your shares are held in a brokerage account, your broker will ask you how you want your shares to be voted. If you give your broker directions, your shares will be voted as you direct. If you do not give directions, the broker may vote your shares on routine items of business, but not on non routine items. Proxies that are returned by brokers because they did not receive directions on how to vote on non routine items are called "broker non votes."

        How do I vote by proxy?

        Shareholders of record may vote by mail, by telephone or through the Internet. Shareholders may vote "for," "against" or "abstain" from voting for each of the Director nominees, the advisory vote to approve named executive officer compensation, and the Corporation's financial condition and future prospects; and

      (e)
      proposal to ratify the interestsappointment of the Corporation's employees, suppliers, creditorsindependent auditors.

      By Mail.  Sign and customers,date each proxy or voting instruction card you receive and return it in the economyprepaid envelope. Sign your name exactly as it appears on the proxy. If you are signing as a representative (for example, as an attorney in fact, executor, administrator, guardian, trustee or an officer or agent of a corporation or partnership), indicate your name and your title or capacity. If the stock is held in custody for a minor, the custodian should sign, not the minor. If the stock is held in joint ownership, one owner may sign on behalf of all owners.

      By Telephone.  Follow the instructions on the proxy or voting instruction card or the instructions in the email message that notified you of the state, regionavailability of the proxy materials. If you vote by telephone, do not return your proxy or voting instruction card. Telephone voting for proxy cards will be available until 1:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time, on May 17, 2016 and nation,until 1:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time, on May 13, 2016, for voting instruction cards.

      Through the Internet.  You may vote on line at www.investorvote.com. Follow the instructions provided in the notice of Internet availability of proxy materials or on the proxy or voting instruction card. If you vote through the Internet, do not return your proxy or voting instruction card. Internet voting for proxy cards will be available until 1:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time, on May 17 2016, and communityuntil 1:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time, on May 13, 2016, for voting instruction cards.

      How do I vote shares that are held by my broker?

      If you own shares held by a broker, you may direct your broker or other nominee to vote your shares by following the instructions that your broker provides to you. Most brokers offer voting by mail, telephone and societal considerations.

through the Internet.

562016 Proxy StatementGRAPHIC

In connection

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How do I vote in person?

If you are going to attend the Annual Meeting, you may vote your shares in person. However, we encourage you to vote in advance of the meeting by mail, telephone or through the Internet even if you plan to attend the meeting.

How do I vote my shares held in the Company's 401(k) plan?

The trustees of the plan will vote your shares in accordance with any such evaluation, the Boarddirections you provide by voting on the voting instruction card or the instructions in the email message that notified you of Directors is authorizedthe availability of the proxy materials. Shares for which voting instructions are not received are voted in the discretion of the trustees.

How are shares held in the Demutualization separate account voted?

Principal became a public company on October 26, 2001, when Principal Mutual Holding Company converted from a mutual insurance holding company to conduct such investigationsa stock company (the "Demutualization") and the initial public offering of shares of the Company's Common Stock was completed. Principal issued Common Stock to engagePrincipal Life, and Principal Life allocated this Common Stock to a separate account that was established to fund policy credits received as Demutualization compensation by certain employee benefit plans that owned group annuity contracts. Although Principal Life will vote these shares, the plans may give Principal Life voting directions. A plan may give voting directions by following the instructions on the voting instruction card or the instructions in such legal proceedingsthe message that notified you of the availability of proxy materials. Principal Life will vote the shares as to which it received no direction in the same manner, proportionally, as the shares in the Demutualization separate account for which it has received directions.

Who counts the votes?

Votes will be counted by Computershare Trust Company, N.A.

What happens if I do not vote on an issue when returning my proxy?

If no specific instructions are given, proxies that are signed and returned will be voted as the Board of Directors may determine.recommends:

              Section 34.    Management of Business.    The following provisions are inserted for the management of the business and for the conduct of the affairs of the Corporation and for the purpose of creating, defining, limiting and regulating the powers of the Corporation and its Directors and stockholders:

      (a)
      Subject to the rights of any holders of any series of Preferred Stock, if any, to elect additional Directors under specified circumstances, the holders of a majority of the combined voting power of the then outstanding stock of the Corporation entitled to vote generally in"For" the election of Directors may remove anyall Director or the entire Board of Directors, but only for cause;provided that Directors elected at annual meetingsnominees;
      "For" approval of the Corporation's stockholdersCompany's named executive officer compensation and
      "For" the ratification of Ernst & Young LLP as independent auditors.

      How do I revoke my proxy?

      If you hold your shares in 2016street name, you must follow the instructions of your broker or bank to revoke your voting instructions. Otherwise, you can revoke your proxy or voting instructions by voting a new proxy or instruction card or by voting at the meeting.

      What should I do if I want to attend the Annual Meeting?

      Please bring photo identification and, later may be so removed withif your stock is held by a broker or without cause.

      (b)
      Vacanciesbank, evidence of your ownership of Common Stock as of March 22, 2016. The notice of Internet availability of proxy materials you received in the mail, a letter from your broker or bank or a photocopy of a current account statement will be accepted as evidence of ownership.

      GRAPHIC 2016 Proxy Statement57

      Table of Contents

      How do I contact the Board?

      Principal has a process for shareholders and all other interested parties to send communications to the Board through the Lead Director. You may contact the Lead Director of Directors resulting from death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, removal from officethe Board through the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.principal.com, or by writing to:

        Lead Director, c/o Karen E. Shaff
        Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
        Principal Financial Group, Inc.
        Des Moines, Iowa 50392-0300

      All emails and letters received will be categorized and processed by the Company's Secretary and then sent to the Company's Lead Director.

      How do I submit a shareholder proposal for the 2017 Annual Meeting?

      The Company's next annual meeting is scheduled for May 16, 2017. Proposals should be sent to the Company's Secretary. Proposals to be considered for inclusion in next year's proxy statement must be received by December 8, 2016. In addition, the Company's By-Laws provide that any shareholder wishing to propose any other causebusiness at the annual meeting must give Principal written notice between January 17, 2017 and newly created Directorships resulting from any increaseFebruary 21, 2017. That notice must provide other information as described in the authorized numberCompany's By-Laws, which are on the Company's website, www.principal.com.

      What is "householding?"

      We send shareholders of Directors shall be filled inrecord at the manner provided in the By-Lawssame address one copy of the Corporation.

      (c)
      Advance noticeproxy materials unless we receive instructions from a shareholder requesting receipt of nominations forseparate copies of these materials.

      If you share the electionsame address as multiple shareholders and would like Principal to send only one copy of Directors shall be given infuture proxy materials, please contact Computershare Trust Company, N.A. at 866-781-1368, or P.O. Box 43078, Providence, RI 02940-3078. You can also contact Computershare to receive individual copies of all documents.

      Where can I receive more information about the Company?

      We file reports and other information with the mannerSEC. This information is available on the Company's website at www.principal.com and toat the extent provided in the By-Laws of the Corporation.

      (d)
      The election of Directors may be conducted in any manner approvedInternet site maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. You may also contact the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The Audit, Finance, Human Resources and Nominating and Governance Committee charters, the Company's Corporate Governance Guidelines, and the Corporate Code of Business Conduct and Ethics are also available on the Company's website, www.principal.com.

      The Board of Directors aturges you to exercise your right to vote by using the time when the election is held and need not be by written ballot.

      (e)
      All corporate powers and authority of the Corporation (except as at the time otherwise provided by law, by this Amended and Restated Certificate of IncorporationInternet or telephone or by returning the By-Laws) shall be vested in and exercised by the Board of Directors.

      (f)
      proxy orThe Board of Directors shall have the power without the assent or vote of the stockholders to adopt, amend, alter or repeal the By-Laws of the Corporation, except to the extent that the By-Laws or this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation otherwise provide. In addition to any requirements of law and any other provision of this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, the stockholders of the Corporation may adopt, amend, alter or repeal any provision of the By-Laws upon the affirmative vote of the holders of three-fourths (3/4) or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding stock of the Corporation entitled to vote generally in the election of Directors.instruction card.

    582016 Proxy StatementGRAPHIC

    Table of Contents

    APPENDIX B

    Mclagan Investment Management Survey Participants

    AllianceBernstein L.P.Fidelity InvestmentsNeuberger Berman Group

    Allianz Asset Management of America L.P.


    Franklin Templeton Investments


    Nuveen Investments

    American Century Investments


    GE Asset Management Inc.


    Old Mutual Asset Management

    Babson Capital Management LLC


    Goldman Sachs Asset Management


    Oppenheimer Funds, Inc.

    BlackRock


    Guggenheim Investments


    Pacific Investment Management Company

    BNY Mellon Cash Investment Strategies


    Invesco


    Principal Global Investors

    Bridgewater Associates


    Janus Capital Group


    Putnam Investments

    Capital Group Companies, Inc., The


    Jennison Associates


    Pyramis Global Advisors

    Charles Schwab Investment Management, Inc.


    JPMorgan Asset Management


    Russell Investments

    Columbia Management Investment Advisors


    Legg Mason & Co.


    State Street Global Advisors

    Credit Suisse Asset Management


    Loomis, Sayles & Company, L.P.


    T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc.

    Delaware Investments


    Lord, Abbett & Co.


    Trust Company of the West

    Deutsche Asset Management


    Mellon Capital Management


    UBS Global Asset Management

    Dimensional Fund Advisors Inc.


    MFS Investment Management


    Vanguard Group, Inc., The

    Eaton Vance Investment Managers


    Morgan Stanley Investment Management


    Wellington Management Co.

    Federated Investors, Inc.


    Natixis Global Asset Management


    Western Asset Management Company


    Towers Watson Diversified Insurance Study of Executive Compensation Participants Appendix A

    Towers Watson
    2015 Financial Services Executive Compensation Survey Participants

    AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah


    CSAA Insurance Group
    ACE LimitedCullen Frost Bankers
    AFLACJohn HancockPhoenix CompaniesDelta Dental of California

    AIGAgriBank, FCB


    Lincoln Financial


    Principal FinancialDelta Dental Plan of Michigan

    AllstateAgStar Financial Services


    Massachusetts Mutual


    Prudential FinancialDollar Bank

    AXA GroupAIG


    MetLife


    Securian FinancialEastern Bank

    CIGNAAlliant Credit Union


    Nationwide


    Sun Life FinancialEast West Bank

    CNO FinancialAllianz Life Insurance


    New York Life


    Thrivent FinancialElement Fleet Management

    Genworth FinancialAllstate


    Northwestern Mutual


    TIAA-CREFEmblem Health

    Guardian LifeAlly Financial


    One America Financial


    TransamericaEmployers Mutual Casualty Company

    Hartford FinancialAmerican Express


    Pacific Life


    Unum GroupErie Insurance

    Ameritas Life
    Ernst & Young
    Arthur J Gallagher & CompanyEventide Asset Management, LLC
    Aspen SpecialtyEverBank
    Associated Banc-CorpFarm Credit Bank of Texas
    AssurantFarmers Group
    AtheneFederal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta
    Auto Club GroupFederal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco
    AXA GroupFederal Reserve Bank of Atlanta
    Bank of MontrealFederal Reserve Bank of Cleveland
    Bank of the WestFederal Reserve Bank of San Francisco
    BarclaysFederal Reserve Bank of St. Louis
    BB&TFederal Reserve Board
    BBVAFidelity Investments (FMR)
    BECUFifth Third Bancorp
    BehringerFINRA
    Blue Cross Blue Shield of ArizonaFirst Data
    Blue Cross Blue Shield of FloridaFirst Financial Bancorp
    Blue Cross Blue Shield of LouisianaFirst Horizon National
    Blue Shield of CaliforniaFirst Interstate Bank
    BOK FinancialFirst Midwest Bancorp
    Bremer FinancialFirst National of Nebraska
    Cadence BankFranklin Resources
    Capital One FinancialFreddie Mac
    Caterpillar Financial ServicesGATX
    CBRE Global InvestorsGE Capital
    CenteneGenpact
    Charles SchwabGenworth Financial
    ChubbGray Insurance Company
    CignaGreat American Insurance
    Citizens Property InsuranceGreat-West Financial
    City National BankGuardian Life
    CLSHartford Financial Services Group
    CME GroupHealth Net
    CNA InsuranceHitachi Capital America
    CNO FinancialHorizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
    ComericaH&R Block
    Commerce BancsharesHSBC Bank
    INGGRAPHIC



    USAA 2016 Proxy StatementA-1


    Table of Contents


    Towers Watson Financial Services Executive Compensation Participants

    HumanaPrincipal Financial Group
    1st SourceHuntington BancsharesProgressive
    Iberia BankProtective Life
    Indiana Farm Bureau InsurancePrudential Financial
    Inland BancorpRadian Group
    Jackson National LifeRealogy
    JJB Hilliard, WL Lyons, LLCRegions Financial
    John HancockReinsurance Group of America
    Johnson Financial GroupRLI
    KeyCorpRockland Trust Company
    Knights of ColumbusSallie Mae
    Liberty MutualSantander Bank
    Lincoln FinancialSBLI of Massachusetts
    LoewsSecurian Financial Group
    LPL FinancialSociety Insurance
    Manulife FinancialSpringleaf Financial Services
    MAPFRE USAStanCorp Financial Group
    MarkelState Farm Insurance
    Marsh & McLennanState Street
    Massachusetts MutualSun Life Financial
    MB FinancialSunTrust Banks
    McGraw-Hill FinancialSVB Financial
    Mercedes-Benz Financial ServicesSynchrony Financial
    MetLifeSynovus Financial Corporation
    Moody'sTD Ameritrade
    M&T BankTD Bank Financial Group
    Munich Re GroupThrivent Financial for Lutherans
    Mutual of OmahaTIAA-CREF
    NasdaqTigerRisk Partners
    NationwideTinker Federal Credit Bank of TexasUnion
    Navy Federal Credit UnionTransamerica
    NCCI HoldingsTravelers
    NC State Employees' Credit UnionUnited Federal Credit Union
    New York LifeUniversal Insurance North America
    Northwestern Mutual

    AAA Insurance Exchange Northern California, Utah & Nevada


    Farm Credit Foundations


    NRUCFCUniversity FCU

    AAA Northern California, Utah & Nevada


    Farmers Group


    Ohio National Financial Services
    Unum

    ACE LimitedOneAmerica Financial Partners


    Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta


    Old Second National BankUSAA

    AcuityOneBeacon Insurance


    Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco


    One America Financial PartnersU.S. Bancorp

    AEGIS Insurance ServicesPacific Life


    Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta


    OneBeacon InsuranceVisa

    AFLACPayPal


    Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland


    Pacific LifeVoya Financial Services

    AIG


    Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas


    Penn Mutual Life
    Webster Bank

    AllianzPentagon Federal Credit Union


    Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco


    People's BankWellpoint

    AllstatePeople's Bank


    Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis


    Phoenix CompaniesWells Fargo

    Ally FinancialPhoenix Companies


    Fidelity Investments


    PlainsCapitalWestern Union

    American First Credit UnionPlainsCapital


    Fifth Third BancorpWillis North America


    Plymouth Rock Assurance
    World Bank

    AMERIGROUP


    FINRA


    PMI Group

    Ameriprise Financial


    First Citizens Bank


    Popular

    Ameritas Life


    First Commonwealth Financial


    Portfolio Recovery Associates
    Zurich North America

    AmeritradePreferred Mutual Insurance Company


    First Horizon National


    Premera Blue Cross

    Anchor Bank N.A.


    First Midwest Bancorp


    Presidential Life

    Arthur J. Gallagher & Company


    First National Bank in Sioux Falls


    Principal Financial Group

    Associated Banc-Corp


    First National of Nebraska


    PrivateBancorp

    Auto Club Group


    First Niagara Financial Group


    Progressive

    Aviva


    Franklin Resources


    Protective Life

    AXA Group


    Freddie Mac


    Provident Bank

    Bank of America


    Fulton Financial


    Prudential Financial

    Bank of Blue Valley


    Genworth Financial


    QTI Human Resources

    Bank of Montreal


    Great-West Life Annuity


    RaboBank

    Bank of Tampa


    Guardian Life


    Regions Financial

    Bank of the West


    Hancock Holding


    RLI

    Bankers Bank


    Hartford Financial Services


    Rockland Trust Company

    BB&T


    Health Net


    Royal Bank of Canada

    BBVA


    Highmark, Inc.


    SBLI of Massachusetts

    Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida


    Horizon BlueCross BlueShield of New Jersey


    Securian Financial Group

    A-22016 Proxy StatementGRAPHIC

    Table of Contents

    Towers Watson
    2015 Diversified Insurance Compensation Survey Participants

    AFLAC


    Northwestern Mutual
    AIGOneAmerica Financial Partners
    AllstatePacific Life
    AXA GroupPhoenix Companies
    CignaPrincipal Financial Group
    CNO FinancialPrudential Financial
    Genworth FinancialSecurian Financial Group
    Guardian LifeSun Life Financial
    Hartford Financial Services GroupThrivent Financial for Lutherans
    John HancockTIAA-CREF
    Lincoln FinancialTransamerica
    Massachusetts MutualUnum Group
    MetLifeUSAA
    NationwideVoya Financial Services
    New York Life

    Blue Cross Blue Shield of LouisianaHumanaSecurity National Bank
    McLagan
    Blue Shield of California


    Huntington Bancshares


    SLM2015 Investment Management Survey Participants

    Boeing Employees Credit UnionAB (formerly AllianceBernstein L.P.)


    Iberia Bank


    Springleaf Financial ServicesDenver Investments

    BOK FinancialAberdeen Asset Management


    Independence Blue Cross


    Star Financial BankDeutsche Asset & Wealth Management

    BrandywineAcadian Asset Management, LLC
    Diamond Hill Investment Group Inc.
    Adams FundsDimensional Fund Advisors Inc.
    Advisory Research, Inc. (Piper Jaffray)Driehaus Capital Management LLC
    AEW Capital ManagementDuPont Capital Management
    Allianz Global InvestorsDuff & Phelps Investment Management Co.
    Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLCEaton Vance Management
    American Beacon AdvisorsEpoch Investment Partners, Inc.
    American Century InvestmentsF-Squared Investments
    AMG Funds LLCFederated Investors, Inc.
    AMP Capital Investors LimitedFidelity Investments
    Amundi Smith Breeden LLCFiera Capital Corporation
    Analytic Investors, LLCFirst Quadrant, L.P.
    AQR Capital Management, LLCFirst Eagle Investment Management, LLC
    Arrowstreet Capital, L.P.Franklin Templeton Investments
    Artisan Partners Limited PartnershipFred Alger & Company, Incorporated
    Ashmore Equities Investment Management (US) LLCFund Evaluation Group, LLC
    AXA Investment ManagersGE Asset Management
    Babson Capital Management LLCGeode Capital Management, LLC
    Baring Asset Management, Inc.Glenmede Trust Company

    ING


    State Farm Insurance

    Bremer FinancialBarrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss


    Inland Bancorp


    State StreetGMO LLC

    Capital City Bank GroupBehringer


    INTRUST Bank NA


    Sun Life FinancialGoldman Sachs Asset Management

    Capital One FinancialBlackRock, Inc.


    Jackson National Life


    SunTrust BanksGuggenheim Investments

    CapStar BankBNP Paribas Investment Partners


    John Hancock


    SVB FinancialHarding Loevner Management L.P.

    BNY Mellon Cash Investment Strategies
    Harris Associates
    Boston Company Asset Management, LLC, TheHeartland Advisors, Inc.
    Brandes Investment Partners, L.P.Heitman
    Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLCHenderson Global Investors
    Bridgewater Associates, Inc.Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
    Bridgeway Capital Management, Inc.Institutional Capital LLC (ICAP)
    Brown AdvisoryINTECH
    Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.Intermediate Capital Group
    CaterpillarGRAPHIC 2016 Proxy StatementA-3

    Table of Contents

    Calamos InvestmentsInvesco Plc
    Capital GroupInvestment Counselors of Maryland, LLC
    Causeway Capital Management LLCJacobs Levy Equity Management, Inc.
    CBRE Global InvestorsJanus Capital Group
    Charles Schwab Investment Management, Inc.Jennison Associates, LLC
    ClearBridge InvestmentsJensen Investment Management, Inc.
    Cohen & Steers, Inc.JPMorgan Global Investment Management
    Columbia Threadneedle InvestmentsKayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management, LLC
    CommonFundLazard Asset Management LLC
    Conning Holdings Corp.Logan Circle Partners, L.P.
    Copper Rock Capital Partners, LLCLoomis, Sayles & Company, L.P.
    Cornerstone Capital ManagementLord, Abbett & Co., LLC
    Cornerstone Investment Partners, LLCLuther King Capital Management
    Delaware InvestmentsMacKay Shields LLC
    Matthews International Capital ManagementVaughan Nelson Investment Management, L.P.
    McDonnell Investment Management, LLCVirtus Investment Partners, Inc.
    Mellon Capital ManagementVontobel Asset Management, Inc.
    Mercer Global InvestmentsWaddell & Reed Investment Management Co.
    MFS Investment ManagementWellington Management Company, LLP
    Morgan Stanley Investment ManagementWestern Asset Management Company
    Neuberger Berman GroupWestwood Holdings Group, Inc.
    Newfleet Asset Management, LLCWhy Investment Management, Inc.
    Nikko Asset Management Americas, IncWilliam Blair & Company, L.L.C.
    Numerifc Investors LLCWisdom Tree Investments, Inc.
    Nuveen Investments
    NWQ Investment Management Company, LLC
    Oaktree Capital Management, LLC
    Oppenheimer Funds
    Orbis Investment Management Limited
    O'Shaughnessy Asset Management, LLC
    Pacific Investment Management Company LLC
    PanAgora Asset Management, Inc.
    PineBridge Investments
    Pioneer Investment Management
    Principal Global Investors
    ProShare Advisors LLC
    Putnam Investments
    Pyramis Global Advisors
    Pzena Investment Management LLC
    Rafferty Asset Management LLC (Direxion)
    Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.

    KeyCorp


    Synovus Financial Corporation

    CenteneResearch Affiliates LLC


    Liberty Mutual


    TD Bank Financial Group

    Chicago Mercantile ExchangeRidgeWorth Capital Management LLC


    Loews


    Thrivent Financial for Lutherans

    ChubbRiver Road Asset Management, LLC


    LPL Financial


    TIAA-CREF

    CIGNARMB Capital Management, LLC


    MAPFRE U.S.A.


    Torus Insurance

    Citi North American OperationsRockefeller & TechnologyCo., Inc.


    MARKEL


    Towers Federal Credit Union

    Citizens Property InsuranceRussell Investments


    Marsh & McLennan


    Transamerica

    Citizens Republic BankSands Capital Management, LLC


    Massachusetts Mutual


    Travelers

    City National BankSanta Barbara Asset Management, LLC


    MasterCard


    U.S. Bancorp

    City National Bank of West ViginiaSchroder Investment Management NA Inc.


    Mauch Chunk Trust Company


    Union Bank N.A.

    CLSSit Investment Associates, Inc.


    MB Financial


    United Bankshares

    CNAStandish Mellon Asset Management Company LLC


    Mechanics Bank


    UnitedHealth

    CNO FinancialState Street Global Advisors


    Mercedes-Benz Financial Services


    University FCU

    ComericaSymphony Asset Management LLC


    MetLife


    Unum Group

    Cullen Frost BankersT. Rowe Price Associates, Inc.


    MoneyGram International


    USAA

    Third Avenue Management LLC
    CUNA MutualA-42016 Proxy Statement

    Moody's CorporationGRAPHIC


    Table of Contents


    Utica National Insurance

    East West BankThompson, Siegel & Walmsley, LLC


    Munich re Group


    Visa

    Eastern BankThornburg Investment Management, Inc.


    Mutual of Omaha


    W.J. Bradley Mortgage Capital

    eBayTradewinds Global Investors, LLC


    NASDAQ


    Webster Bank

    Edward JonesTrilogy Global Advisors, LLC


    Nationwide


    Wellpoint

    Employers Mutual CasualtyTrust Company of the West


    Navy Federal Credit Union


    Wells Fargo

    EquifaxUBS Global Asset Management


    NCCI Holdings


    Western Union

    Equity Office PropertiesVan Eck Associates Corporation


    New York Life


    Willis North America

    Vanguard Group, Inc., The
    Erie InsuranceGRAPHIC

    Northern Trust 2016 Proxy Statement


    WSFS Bank

    ESL Federal Credit Union


    Northwest Bancorp Inc.


    Zion's BancorporationA-5


    Table of Contents

    APPENDIX B

    EE-9039-11 Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Operating earnings versus U.S. GAAP (GAAP) net income available to common stockholders

    Management uses operating earnings, which excludes the effect of net realized capital gains and losses, as adjusted, and other after-tax adjustments the company believes are not indicative of overall operating trends, for goal setting, as a basis for determining employee compensation, and evaluating performance on a basis comparable to that used by investors and securities analysts. Note: it is possible these adjusting items have occurred in the past and could recur in future reporting periods. While these items may be significant components in understanding and assessing our consolidated financial performance, management believes the presentation of operating earnings enhances the understanding of results of operations by highlighting earnings attributable to the normal, ongoing operations of the company's businesses.

     
    Years Ended Dec. 31,
    (In millions, except as noted)
    2015
    2014
    2013
    2012
    2011

    Net income available to common stockholders per diluted share

         

    Operating earnings per diluted share

    $4.26$4.41$3.55$2.69$2.61

    Net realized capital gains (losses)

    (0.44)(0.34)(0.60)0.14(0.44)

    Other after-tax adjustments

    0.24(0.36)(0.25)(0.26)

    Adjustment for redeemable noncontrolling interest

    (0.06)

    Net income available to common stockholders per diluted share

    $4.06$3.65$2.95$2.58$1.91

    Net income available to common stockholders

         

    Operating earnings

    $1,270.5$1,317.9$1,059.9$808.8$829.3

    Net realized capital gains (losses)

    (133.8)(100.5)(179.1)39.0(141.7)

    Other after-tax adjustments

    72.6(106.3)(1.1)(74.2)(82.3)

    Net income available to common stockholders

    $1,209.3$1,111.1$879.7$773.6$605.3

    Net income ROE available to common stockholders (including AOCI)

         

    Operating earnings ROE (x-AOCI, other than foreign currency translation adjustment)

    14.2%15.1%12.5%9.8%10.2%

    Net realized capital gains (losses)

    (1.5)%(1.2)%(2.1)%0.5%(1.8)%

    Other after-tax adjustments

    0.8%(1.2)%0.0%(0.9)%(1.0)%

    Net income ROE available to common stockholders (x-AOCI, other than for currency translation adjustment)

    13.5%12.7%10.4%9.4%7.4%

    Net unrealized capital gains (losses)

    (1.3)%(1.2)%(1.2)%(1.0)%(0.5)%

    Net unrecognized postretirement benefit obligation

    0.6%0.3%0.4%0.4%0.2%

    Net income ROE available to common stockholders (including AOCI)

    12.8%11.8%9.6%8.8%7.1%
    GRAPHIC 2016 Proxy StatementB-1

    Table of Contents

    GRAPHIC

    EE-9039-14


    001CS40138 www.investorvote.com Step 1: Go to www.investorvote.com. Step 2: Follow the instructions on the screen to log in. Annual Meeting Notice 01LMOA + + . IMPORTANT ANNUAL MEETING INFORMATION Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Principal Financial Group, Inc. Annual Meeting to be Held on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 Under Securities and Exchange Commission rules, you are receiving this notice that the proxy materials for the annual meeting are available on the Internet. Follow the instructions below to view the materials and vote online or request a copy. The items to be voted on and location of the annual meeting are on the reverse side. Your vote is important! If you want to receive a paper copy or an e-mail of these materials, you must request one. There is no charge to you for requesting a copy. Please make your request for a copy as instructed on the reverse side on or before May 10, 2013 to facilitate timely delivery. This communication presents only an overview of the more complete proxy materials that are available to you on the Internet. We encourage you to access and review all of the important information contained in the proxy materials before voting. The proxy statement and annual report are available at: : Easy Online Access — A Convenient Way to View Proxy Materials and Vote Step 3: Click on the icon on the right to view the current meeting materials. Step 4: Return to the investorvote.com window and make your selection as instructed on each screen to select delivery preferences and vote. When you go online, you can also help the environment by consenting to receive electronic delivery of future materials. 1234 5678 9012 345 C 1234567890 P F G 000004 MR A SAMPLE DESIGNATION (IF ANY) ADD 1 ADD 2 ADD 3 ADD 4 ADD 5 ADD 6 ENDORSEMENT_LINE SACKPACK

    IMPORTANT ANNUAL MEETING INFORMATION 000004 ENDORSEMENT LINE SACKPACK MR A SAMPLE DESIGNATION (IF ANY) ADD 1 ADD 2 ADD 3 ADD 4 ADD 5 ADD 6 C 1234567890 Annual Meeting Notice 1234 5678 9012 345 Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Principal Financial Group, Inc. Annual Meeting to be Held on Tuesday, May 17, 2016 Under Securities and Exchange Commission rules, you are receiving this notice that the proxy materials for the annual meeting are available on the Internet. Follow the instructions below to view the materials and vote online or request a copy. The items to be voted on and location of the annual meeting are on the reverse side. Your vote is important! If you want to receive a paper copy or an e-mail of these materials, you must request one. There is no charge to you for this request. Please make your request as instructed on the reverse side on or before May 6, 2016 to facilitate timely delivery. This communication presents only an overview of the more complete proxy materials that are available to you on the Internet. We encourage you to access and review all of the important information contained in the proxy materials before voting. The proxy statement and annual report are available at: www.investorvote.com Easy Online Access — A Convenient Way to View Proxy Materials and Vote Step 1: Go to www.investorvote.com. Step 2: Follow the instructions on the screen to log in. Step 3: Click on the icon on the right to view the current meeting materials. Step 4: Return to the investorvote.com window and make your selection as instructed on each screen to select delivery preferences and vote. When you go online, you can also help the environment by consenting to receive electronic delivery of future materials. 001CSP00B7 02B0UB P F G

     


    Annual Meeting Notice Principal Financial Group, Inc.’s Annual Meeting will be held on May 17, 2016 at 750 Park Street, Des Moines, Iowa, at 9:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time. The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR proposals 1, 2 and 3: 1. Election of Directors 2. Advisory vote to approve executive compensation 3. Ratification of independent auditors PLEASE NOTE: YOU CANNOT VOTE BY RETURNING THIS NOTICE. To vote your shares you must go to www.investorvote.com, or you can request a set of proxy materials by following the instructions at the bottom of this page. If you wish to attend the Annual Meeting, please bring proof of share ownership and photo identification with you. Directions to the Principal Financial Group, Inc. 2016 Annual Meeting 2016 Annual Meeting of Principal Financial Group, Inc. Shareholders Tuesday, May 17, 2016, 9:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time 750 Park Street, Des Moines, Iowa Upon arrival, please present proof of share ownership and photo identification at the registration desk. You do not need to attend the Annual Meeting to vote. Here’s how to order a copy of the proxy materials and select a future delivery preference: Paper copies: Current and future paper delivery requests can be submitted via the telephone, Internet or e-mail options below. E-mail copies: Current and future e-mail delivery requests must be submitted via the Internet following the instructions below. If you request an e-mail copy of current materials you will receive an e-mail with a link to the materials. P LEASE NOTE: You must use the number in the shaded bar on the reverse side when requesting a set of proxy materials. Telephone — Call us free of charge at 1-866-641-4276 in the USA, US territories & Canada using a touch-tone phone. Internet — Go to www.investorvote.com. E-mail — Send an e-mail to investorvote@computershare.com with “Proxy Materials PFG” in the subject line. Include in the message your full name and address, plus the number located in the shaded bar on the reverse, and state in the e-mail that you want a paper copy of current meeting materials. You can also state your preference to receive a paper copy for future meetings. To facilitate timely delivery, all requests for a paper copy of the proxy materials must be received by May 6, 2016. 02B0UB

    . Annual Meeting Notice Principal Financial Group, Inc.’s Annual Meeting will be held on May 21, 2013 at 711 High Street, Des Moines, Iowa, at 9:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time. The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR proposals 1, 2, 3 and 4: 1. Election of 4 Directors 2. Annual election of directors 3. Advisory vote to approve executive compensation 4. Ratification of independent auditors PLEASE NOTE: YOU CANNOT VOTE BY RETURNING THIS NOTICE. To vote your shares you must go to www.investorvote.com, or you can request a set of proxy materials by following the instructions at the bottom of this page. If you wish to attend the Annual Meeting, please bring proof of share ownership and photo identification with you. 01LMOA Directions to the Principal Financial Group, Inc. 2013 Annual Meeting Here's how to order a copy of the proxy materials and select a future delivery preference: Paper copies: Current and future paper delivery requests can be submitted via the telephone, Internet or e-mail options below. E-mail copies: Current and future e-mail delivery requests must be submitted via the Internet following the instructions below. If you request an e-mail copy of current materials you will receive an e-mail with a link to the materials. P LEASE NOTE: You must use the number in the shaded bar on the reverse side when requesting a set of proxy materials. Telephone – Call us free of charge at 1-866-641-4276 in the USA, US territories & Canada using a touch-tone phone. Internet – Go to www.investorvote.com. E-mail – Send an e-mail to investorvote@computershare.com with “Proxy Materials PFG” in the subject line. Include in the message your full name and address, plus the number located in the shaded bar on the reverse, and state in the e-mail that you want a paper copy of current meeting materials. You can also state your preference to receive a paper copy for future meetings. To facilitate timely delivery, all requests for a paper copy of the proxy materials must be received by May 10, 2013. 2013 Annual Meeting of Principal Financial Group, Inc. Shareholders Tuesday, May 21, 2013, 9:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time Auditorium 711 High Street, Des Moines, Iowa Upon arrival, please present proof of share ownership and photo identification at the registration desk. You do not need to attend the Annual Meeting to vote.

     

    + 2013 Annual Meeting Proxy Card IMPORTANT ANNUAL MEETING INFORMATION Electronic Voting Instructions Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Instead of mailing your card, you may choose one of the voting methods outlined below to vote your proxy. VALIDATION DETAILS ARE LOCATED BELOW IN THE TITLE BAR. Proxies submitted by the Internet or telephone must be received by 1:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time, on May 21, 2013. Vote by Internet • Log on to the Internet and go to www.investorvote.com • Follow the steps outlined on the secured website. Vote by telephone • Call toll free 1-800-652-VOTE (8683) within the USA, US territories & Canada on a touch tone telephone Using a black ink pen, mark your votes with an X as shown in this example. Please do not write outside the designated areas. Annual Meeting Proxy Card • Follow the instructions provided by the recorded message X IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. A Election of Directors 1. The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR the listed nominees. For Against Abstain 01 - Michael T. Dan B Proposals The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR Proposals 2, 3 and 4. For Against Abstain 2. Annual election of Directors 02 - C. Daniel Gelatt 03 - Sandra L. Helton 04 - Larry D. Zimpleman C Change of Address Change of Address — Please print new address below. 3. Advisory vote to approve executive compensation 4. Ratification of independent auditors D Authorized Signatures — This section must be completed for your vote to be counted. — Date and Sign Below Please sign exactly as name(s) appears hereon. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, corporate officer, trustee, guardian, or custodian, please give full title. Date (mm/dd/yyyy) — Please print date below. Signature 1 — Please keep signature within the box. Signature 2 — Please keep signature within the box. +

    MMMMMMMMMMMM . 2016 Annual Meeting Proxy Card MMMMMMMMMMMMMMM C123456789 000004 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext ENDORSEMENT_LINE______________ SACKPACK_____________ Electronic Voting Instructions Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Instead of mailing your card, you may choose one of the voting methods outlined below to vote your proxy. VALIDATION DETAILS ARE LOCATED BELOW IN THE TITLE BAR. Proxies submitted by the Internet or telephone must be received by 1:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time, on May 17, 2016. MR A SAMPLE DESIGNATION (IF ANY) ADD 1 ADD 2 ADD 3 ADD 4 ADD 5 ADD 6 Vote by Internet • Log on to the Internet and go to www.investorvote.com • Follow the steps outlined on the secured website. Vote by telephone • Call toll free 1-800-652-VOTE (8683) within the USA, US territories & Canada on a touch tone telephone • Follow the instructions provided by the recorded message Using a black ink pen, mark your votes with an X as shown in this example. Please do not write outside the designated areas. Annual Meeting Proxy Card 1234 5678 9012 345 q IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. q Election of Directors Proposals 1. The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR the listed nominees. The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR Proposals 2 and 3. ForAgainst Abstain + For Against Abstain 2. Advisory vote to approve executive compensation 3. Ratification of independent auditors 01 - Michael T. Dan 02 - C. Daniel Gelatt 03 - Sandra L. Helton 04 – Blair C. Pickerell Change of Address Change of Address — Please print new address below. Authorized Signatures — This section must be completed for your vote to be counted. — Date and Sign Below Please sign exactly as name(s) appears hereon. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, corporate officer, trustee, guardian, or custodian, please give full title. Date (mm/dd/yyyy) — Please print date below. Signature 1 — Please keep signature within the box. Signature 2 — Please keep signature within the box. MMMMMMMC 1234567890 J N T MR A SAMPLE (THIS AREA IS SET UP TO ACCOMMODATE 140 CHARACTERS) MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND + 1 U P X2 7 0 0 4 1 1 <STOCK#> 02B0SB MMMMMMMMM D C B A X IMPORTANT ANNUAL MEETING INFORMATION

     


    2013 Annual Meeting 2013 Annual Meeting of Principal Financial Group, Inc. Shareholders Tuesday, May 21, 2013, 9:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time Auditorium 711 High Street, Des Moines, Iowa Upon arrival, please show proof of share ownership and photo identification at the registration desk. You do not need to attend the Annual Meeting to vote. IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. Proxy — Principal Financial Group, Inc. This proxy is solicited on behalf of the Board of Directors of Principal Financial Group, Inc. for the annual meeting of shareholders to be held at 9:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time, May 21, 2013, in the auditorium at the corporate headquarters. The shareholder signator(s) on this form hereby appoints Joyce N. Hoffman, Terrance J. Lillis and Karen E. Shaff, and each of them, proxies with full power of substitution, to vote all shares of Principal Financial Group, Inc. common stock held in the name of the shareholder(s) at the 2013 annual meeting of shareholders and at any adjournment thereof, upon all subjects that may properly come before the meeting, including the matters described in the Proxy Statement, subject to any directions indicated on the reverse side. If no directions are given, the proxies will vote for the election of all listed nominees and in accordance with the Board of Directors recommendations on the other matters listed on the reverse side, and at their discretion, on any other matter that may properly come before the meeting. This proxy will be voted as directed, or if no direction is indicated, will be voted in accordance with the Board of Directors recommendations. SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT VOTING BY INTERNET OR TELEPHONE.

    . 2016 Annual Meeting 2016 Annual Meeting of Principal Financial Group, Inc. Shareholders Tuesday, May 17, 2016, 9:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time 750 Park Street, Des Moines, Iowa Upon arrival, please show proof of share ownership and photo identification at the registration desk. You do not need to attend the Annual Meeting to vote. q IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. q Proxy — Principal Financial Group, Inc. This proxy is solicited on behalf of the Board of Directors of Principal Financial Group, Inc. for the annual meeting of shareholders to be held at 9:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time, May 17, 2016, at 750 Park Street. The shareholder signator(s) on this form hereby appoints Timothy M. Dunbar, Terrance J. Lillis and Karen E. Shaff, and each of them, proxies with full power of substitution, to vote all shares of Principal Financial Group, Inc. common stock held in the name of the shareholder(s) at the 2016 annual meeting of shareholders and at any adjournment thereof, upon all subjects that may properly come before the meeting, including the matters described in the Proxy Statement, subject to any directions indicated on the reverse side. If no directions are given, the proxies will vote for the election of all listed nominees and in accordance with the Board of Directors recommendations on the other matters listed on the reverse side, and at their discretion, on any other matter that may properly come before the meeting. This proxy will be voted as directed, or if no direction is indicated, will be voted in accordance with the Board of Directors recommendations. SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT VOTING BY INTERNET OR TELEPHONE.

     

    MMMMMMMMMMMM . MMMMMMMMMMMMMMM C123456789 000004 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext ENDORSEMENT_LINE______________ SACKPACK_____________ Electronic Voting Instructions Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Instead of mailing your card, you may choose one of the voting methods outlined below. VALIDATION DETAILS ARE LOCATED BELOW IN THE TITLE BAR. Votes submitted by the Internet or telephone must be received by 1:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time, on May 13, 2016. MR A SAMPLE DESIGNATION (IF ANY) ADD 1 ADD 2 ADD 3 ADD 4 ADD 5 ADD 6 Vote by Internet • Log on to the Internet and go to www.investorvote.com • Follow the steps outlined on the secured website. Vote by telephone • Call toll free 1-800-652-VOTE (8683) within the USA, US territories & Canada on a touch tone telephone • Follow the instructions provided by the recorded message Using a black ink pen, mark your votes with an X as shown in this example. Please do not write outside the designated areas. Annual Meeting Voting Instruction Card 1234 5678 9012 345 q IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. q Election of Directors Proposals 1. The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR the listed nominees. The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR Proposals 2 and 3. ForAgainst Abstain + For Against Abstain 2. Advisory vote to approve executive compensation 3. Ratification of independent auditors 01 - Michael T. Dan 02 - C. Daniel Gelatt 03 - Sandra L. Helton 04 – Blair C. Pickerell Change of Address Change of Address — Please print new address below. Authorized Signatures — This section must be completed for your vote to be counted. — Date and Sign Below Please sign exactly as name(s) appears hereon. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, corporate officer, trustee, guardian, or custodian, please give full title. Date (mm/dd/yyyy) — Please print date below. Signature 1 — Please keep signature within the box. Signature 2 — Please keep signature within the box. MMMMMMMC 1234567890 J N T MR A SAMPLE (THIS AREA IS SET UP TO ACCOMMODATE 140 CHARACTERS) MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND + 1 U P X2 7 0 0 4 1 3 <STOCK#> 02B0VB MMMMMMMMM D C B A X IMPORTANT ANNUAL MEETING INFORMATION

     


    . q IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. q Voting Instruction Card — Principal Financial Group, Inc. By signing this voting instruction card, you hereby authorize Bankers Trust Company, NA of Des Moines, Iowa, the Trustee for The Principal Select Savings Plan for Employees and The Principal Select Savings Plan for Individual Field (“401(k)”), as holder of plan assets invested in Principal Financial Group, Inc. common stock, to vote in person or by proxy all shares credited to your account as of March 22, 2016, the record date, at the 2016 annual meeting of shareholders to be held on May 17, 2016 or at any adjournment or postponement thereof. Indicate how the underlying Principal Financial Group, Inc. shares allocated to your plan account are to be voted by the trustee by marking the boxes on the reverse side. If you sign the voting instruction card but give no directions, the trustee will vote your shares for the election of all listed nominees and in accordance with the Board of Directors recommendations on the other matters listed on the reverse side. If you do not complete the voting instruction card, the trustee will vote your shares as the trustee determines in its discretion. SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT VOTING BY INTERNET OR TELEPHONE.

    MMMMMMMMMMMM . MMMMMMMMMMMMMMM C123456789 000004 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext 000000000.000000 ext ENDORSEMENT_LINE______________ SACKPACK_____________ Electronic Voting Instructions Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Instead of mailing your card, you may choose one of the voting methods outlined below. VALIDATION DETAILS ARE LOCATED BELOW IN THE TITLE BAR. Votes submitted by the Internet or telephone must be received by 1:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time, on May 13, 2016. MR A SAMPLE DESIGNATION (IF ANY) ADD 1 ADD 2 ADD 3 ADD 4 ADD 5 ADD 6 Vote by Internet • Log on to the Internet and go to www.investorvote.com • Follow the steps outlined on the secured website. Vote by telephone • Call toll free 1-800-652-VOTE (8683) within the USA, US territories & Canada on a touch tone telephone • Follow the instructions provided by the recorded message Using a black ink pen, mark your votes with an X as shown in this example. Please do not write outside the designated areas. Annual Meeting Voting Instruction Card 1234 5678 9012 345 q IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. q Election of Directors Proposals 1. The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR the listed nominees. The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR Proposals 2 and 3. ForAgainst Abstain + For Against Abstain 2. Advisory vote to approve executive compensation 3. Ratification of independent auditors 01 - Michael T. Dan 02 - C. Daniel Gelatt 03 - Sandra L. Helton 04 – Blair C. Pickerell Change of Address Change of Address — Please print new address below. Authorized Signatures — This section must be completed for your vote to be counted. — Date and Sign Below Please sign exactly as name(s) appears hereon. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, corporate officer, trustee, guardian, or custodian, please give full title. Date (mm/dd/yyyy) — Please print date below. Signature 1 — Please keep signature within the box. Signature 2 — Please keep signature within the box. MMMMMMMC 1234567890 J N T MR A SAMPLE (THIS AREA IS SET UP TO ACCOMMODATE 140 CHARACTERS) MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND MR A SAMPLE AND + 1 U P X2 7 0 0 4 1 4 <STOCK#> 02B0WB MMMMMMMMM D C B A X IMPORTANT ANNUAL MEETING INFORMATION


    . q IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. q Voting Instruction Card — Principal Financial Group, Inc. By signing this voting instruction card, you hereby authorize Northern Trust Investments, Inc., Portfolio Manager of The Principal Financial Group, Inc. Stock Separate Account, to vote as agent for Principal Life Insurance Company, in person or by proxy, all shares attributable to units credited to your plan account as of March 22, 2016, the record date, at the 2016 annual meeting of shareholders to be held on May 17, 2016 or at any adjournment or postponement thereof. Indicate how your interests are to be voted by the Portfolio Manager by marking the boxes on the reverse side. If you sign the voting instruction card but give no directions, Northern Trust will vote your interests in accordance with the Board of Directors recommendations. If you do not complete the voting instruction card, Northern Trust will vote your interests in the same proportion as the shares held in the Separate Account as to which Northern Trust has received voting instructions. SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT VOTING BY INTERNET OR TELEPHONE.